Large group coming in June

[curedman]

We are going to be in Chicago June 16-18 to celebrate my son's engagement. There are about 24 of us looking for a place to have dinner on Saturday night.
We would like to find a restaurant with a private room so we can have an intimate atmosphere. We are looking for something casual but interesting.
Something like Hopleaf would be great but we are unsure if they can accommodate a group our size.
Any suggestions?

[ferret]

Fork is a spot that's currently on my radar. Fairly similar to Hopleaf in many respects (great food, huge beer menu). They can accommodate a party of 24, the only question is timing.

http://forkchicago.net/

[gordeaux]

Just a thought: Reza's.

http://www.rezasrestaurant.com/

[chicgail]

Reza's can accomodate you, it is casul, the food is interesting in that it is middle eastern. Just don't expect "great" food.
Along those same lines, Maggianos does a lot of private parties like that. Italian. Family style. Also not "great" but fits your other criteria.
I don't imagine that Hopleaf can begin to accomodate you, but I would certainly give them a call.

[danimalarkey]

Yeah, as far as Hopleaf, the upstairs area usually isn't available for private parties on Saturday nights. However! I think they are days away from completing their expansion which might about double the space available. This might allow them a little more flexibility with dealing with private parties so like chicgail said, a call directly to them couldn't hurt.

[camusman]

Do you prefer the north side of the city or are the northern suburbs okay?

[curedman]

We are going to be staying downtown, so probably the north side - wouldn't you agree?