New Years Eve Dinner near the Aragon (10-12 people)

My fellow lth friends:

I am looking for ideas for dinner on New Years eve. (I know, who isn't) Myself, and about 10-12 friends are going to the Black Keys concert at the Aragon. The show starts at 9. Typically Im pretty good at coming up with ideas for events like this, but with it be NYE and with this many people, I am looking for as much help as I can find. If any one has some ideas, it would be greatly appreciated. We will be taking the train, so anything by a train stop would be ideal, if not by venue. Small room would work out as well (but not necessary). Price range not really a problem, just nothing through the roof.

Thanks!

Sun Wah is a red line stop away off of Argyle. I believe it is open on NYE?

If you want something a bit more upscale than Sun Wah -- you might consider the Magnolia Cafe on Wilson. I have no idea if they're open on NYE but I'd give them a call and find out. It's within walking distance of the Wilson el stop, which is one stop down from Lawrence, where the Aragon Ballroom is. It's a charming, small, American restaurant that focuses on good food with italian and french twists and I've had two meals there that were lovely. it's a pretty room, it's not horribly expensive and it's actually quite romantic and dark if you're there with a loved one. You could also do something in Andersonville if you don't mind more walking -- god knows what weather this NYE will bring! But there are several nice places in my hood -- Anteprima, the new Acre, Big Jones (which I do hear is getting better than I remember it being) and JinJu, if you fancy upscale Korean. Also HopLeaf is out there for Belgian pub food and great beers.

But honestly, I think Magnolia Cafe is a bit of a gem. And I think it would be lovely to bring in the NY there before a concert.

1224 West Wilson Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640-5517
(773) 728-8785

Demera (ethiopian) would be fun for a large group--and it's certainly geographically desireable (it's a half block away at the corner of B'way and Lawrence).

You could probably arrange for a nice banquet table at Silver Seafood, right up the street from Demera. (I actually prefer Sun Wah -- particularly if I'm looking for pork/duck rather than seafood -- but SS is walking distance.)

http://www.silverseafoodrestaurant.com/