Frontera timing question

[camp1980]

After reading all the wonderful posts on Frontera on chowhound, I feel it is one of those places that I must check out on my weekend in Chicago. Visiting on labour day weekend, so it is too late to try to get reservations but have a question about their walk in times.

We don't want to eat until late on the Saturday night say anywhere from 9 - 11pm, what is the best way to get a table? Would it be better to show up later in the evening and get put on the wait list then? Do they cut off walk-ins at a certain time? Or can you show up, put your name on the list and they give you a call on your cell phone when a table is ready, so that you don't have to stand around there waiting?
I have no issues waiting for a table, but would prefer to not have to stand around at Frontera for 2 hours.

Also any recommendations for a place on Sunday night? Looking for up scale $150 - $200 all in. for 2 people. We are staying at the Hyatt Regency (E. Wacker), but I have no issues with travelling for good food.

[kathryn]

They definitely cut off walk-ins at a certain time. A friend tried to go at 9pm on a Wednesday and was told that the list was too long and they couldn't accommodate him (this may be for tables only though, and not the bar).

[lbs]

You can put your name on the list and give them your cell and they will call you. Several bars in walking distance that you can have a drink at while you wait. Also, if it will only be 2 people, try and get a seat at the bar if you don't mind that. That way you can order off both menus (Topo and Frontera)