118527 Fri Sep 30 15:52:02 -0700 2005 2 7 Chicago Area 0 646914 Hello all, I have three nights in Chicago (coming from SF). For two of those nights, I will be alone. I am planning on going to Meiji for dinner on one of those night. Any other recommendations for solo dining? Now, more importantly, my friend is joining me in Chicago for a fun weekend away. I want to treat her with a special dining experience as a reward for flying out. So, I am trying to get reservations at Alinea. Failing that, are there other recommendations of restaurants with amazing food? I have looked on this board and seen the following: 1. Matsumoto (if I can get in) 2. Avenue (open, but is it worth the money) 3. Blackbird 4. North Pond 5. Trio Atelier Thanks in advance for your help! Fri Sep 30 15:52:02 -0700 2005 0 rkent 1 646945 Matsumoto is outstanding and totally worth every penny. Maybe it was atypical, but I had a very flawed meal at Avenues: tough, stringy "Kobe" beef; gorgeous bluefin tuna that was ruined by serious overcooking; ridiculously small savory courses and a too-huge and over-rich chocolate dessert (so you won't leave hungry?). Some courses were delicious and creative (one of best foie gras ever had), but at this level perfection is expected. Great sommelier/waiters. But at over $400/couple, there are better options. Blackbird serves great food in a cramped and very noisy space. Not fine dining, but definitely fine food. North Pond is lovely and well-respected. Trio Atelier is quite good and Evanston is a nice place to walk around. Other choice $$$$ spots: Tru (flawless service, beautiful space, good to great food). Les Nomades (super romantic, very European feel, traditional). Moto (fun, ultra-experimental, "future" cuisine, must have an open mind). $$$ places: Chilpancingo (haute Mexican), Spring (my favorite place; outstanding seafood). In fact, Spring would also be a good solo spot. The bar area is nice for solo dining. Sun Oct 02 09:31:06 -0700 2005 646914 0 Timbo 1 647074 Here's a recommendation for Sunday morning during your weekend visit: Go to the Maxwell street market (despite the name, it's found on the corner of Roosevelt Road and Canal street) for some of the best Mexican street food north of the Rio Grande. It's truly amazing -- everything from perfectly done fresh corn tamales to goat head tacos (if that's your sort of thing) -- a wide range of delicious authentic mexican food not often found in restaurants. Fri Oct 07 10:08:18 -0700 2005 646914 0 Doug Mose