Anniversary Dinner Suggestions for Foodie & Non-Foodie

I feel like this should be called Foodie and the Feast...

The SO and I are coming up on our fifth anniversary (and technically our 11th together) in the second week of April, and we apparently miss Chicago Chef Week. For the occasion I would like to set up reservations somewhere nicer, though without a $200/person price tag. Anywhere in Chicagoland is a possibility for a good site, though we live in the western suburbs and he works downtown in the Loop. Therefore our striking distance is large.

Now here's the particular challenge: I am definitely something of a foodie with few opportunities thus far to be one, whereas my dearest SO is just as happy tucking into a hamburger and may not be quite so comfortable or impressed with a swirl of flavoured mousse. (My lifelong ambitions to get into Per Se or Masa no doubt will happen one day with a friend...) He enjoys most cuisines except heavily spiced (Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, and Chinese are not high on his list of preferences); fresh seafood and sushi, steak, Italian and American all go a long way.

I've read through many, many reviews and I'm overwhelmed by the diversity. Could we get a few nice recommendations for a lovely anniversary-worthy dining experience, and a good taste of some of Chicago's finer culinary talents?

This is where I'd recommend the Gage, also Sweets & Savories, both of which have things like hambergers and fries done quite nicely, but where you can also get things to satisfy your foodie desires. Both are also in easy striking distance of downtown, though not so far out into the suburbs.

There are other places clustered in the downtown and Near-northside area that should meet your criterion, but I haven't experienced them personally so you might want to wait and see what other folks come up with.

Mhays wrote:This is where I'd recommend the Gage, also Sweets & Savories, both of which have things like hambergers and fries done quite nicely, but where you can also get things to satisfy your foodie desires. Both are also in easy striking distance of downtown, though not so far out into the suburbs.

There are other places clustered in the downtown and Near-northside area that should meet your criterion, but I haven't experienced them personally so you might want to wait and see what other folks come up with.

I've not been to the Gage but my 1st thought was Sweets & Savories. Closely followed by Lula & Nightwood.

I recommend Vie in Western Springs. The location is probably convenient to your home as well as his work, but that's only one reason. It offers outstanding contemporary American food, in a casual environment where he will feel comfortable. Paul Virant is one of our very best chefs and has been building his reputation locally and nationally. Check out the sample menu on their website and I'm sure your DH will find food that excites him. It's also a wonderful place where you'll have a great experience suitable for your special occasion.

Vie
vierestaurant.com

Another vote for Sweets and Savories - delicious and very easy to get to off of the highway

I think Vie and Sweets & Savories are both good ideas. You might also want to think about C-House. I always think of it as being a good place for a mix of different eaters. Good stuff for both the "foodie" and those looking for something a bit more basic.

C-House
312.523.0923
http://www.c-houserestaurant.com
166 East Superior Street
Chicago, IL 60610