Log In / Sign Up
HOME > Chowhound > Chicago Area >
k
katbri May 15, 2012 12:51 PM

Help me choose a restaurant for dinner.

Wildfire, Hub 51 or The Gage.

Good food obviously but would like something with a bit of a scene (fun, good music and people watching).

  1. k
    katbri May 16, 2012 12:07 PM

    Thanks for the info. Looks like I am now interested in Hub 51, Tavernita & Sunda.

    What would be the price point for a couple including several cocktails? Does one have better food then the other? Also do these places have patios?

    2 Replies
    1. re: katbri
      p
      PHXeater May 16, 2012 01:28 PM

      I like Hub 51 but it's not something I would go out of my way for. I went with some girlfriends recently, we had a few drinks each (mix of beer/wine/cocktails for the group) and dinner and I got out for under $50 including tax and tip. If you're doing several specialty cocktails I would budget a little more. Hub has a small patio out front.

      1. re: katbri
        j
        jbontario May 16, 2012 03:28 PM

        My personal favorite is Tavernita. None of them have great outsides as they are on main streets so while there are tables outside and Tavernita has a small (and separate from the restaurant) bar that opens to the street, not great outdoor dining. You could get out of Tavernita for two for $100 but may go a little over.

      2. m
        ms. mika May 16, 2012 10:50 AM

        I would also pick Hub 51 if you want a bit of a scene. Other spots in the area that are popular and have a bit of a scene- Sunda, GT Fish & Oyster, RPM and as mentioned Tavernita. Since they are popular they are also spots I would make reservations in advance for as they can be difficult to get into on the wknds.

        1. f
          ferret May 15, 2012 12:58 PM

          If you are:

          Under 30 - Hub 51

          30-50 - The Gage

          50+ - Wildfire

          Not an absolute rule but a good starting point.

          1 Reply
          1. re: ferret
            j
            jbontario May 15, 2012 07:48 PM

            i'm mid 30s and live downtown and would recommend Hub 51 which does get lively as the night goes on if you don't mind 50/50 mix of tourists and locals (we probably go there once a month). if i were to go more local, currently on top is Tavernita. Really good Spanish influence small plates, but NOT standard tapas and a solid drink list.

          Share with your friendsX