Brunch and dinner recommendations

[laurelmcg]

I'll be in Chicago for a weekend in April and need some recommendations. We're staying downtown but are willing to travel (within reason). Both of us are very adventurous food wise, but would prefer something not in the Alinea range. Is Purple Pig worth trying to get into? Avec? Blackbird? Anything off the beaten path?

Also, any suggestions for our Saturday brunch?

Thanks all!