Places for groups to eat at on the South or West Sides

I have a somewhat odd request. I am trying to plan a couple of lunches for a group of 15-20 British folks visiting Chicago for a conference of community develoment financial institutions. They will be touring the South and West Sides. On the South Side they would go down to perhaps 87th St. On the West Side, they would go out to possibly North Lawndale. Lunch could be anywhere from just outside the Loop to those geographic limits. Can anyone recommend a few moderately-priced restaurants that could handle a group of 15-20? They are looking for more "neighborhood" restaurants than chains, but I realize that finding a neighborhood place that can handle a large group could be challenging. Also, they will be eating at B.J.'s Market at 87th and Stoney Island for one meal that has already been planned. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks.

On the west side, I would think a lot of places in Greektown would accommodate you with pleasure (and to the pleasure of your guests). I bet some of the places in the old Heart of Italy neighborhood on Oakley might try as well, depending on the day of the week and the time of day. Here's a list of them and a recent GWiv post on Bruna's

http://www.littleitalychicago.com/cgi-b ... of%20Italy

http://www.littleitalychicago.com/cgi-b ... of%20Italy

For a uniquely Chicago experience that can easily handle large groups (depending on how formal a setting you need) I would recommend Manny's for the second time today. (See the cafeteria thread).

Are you saying that since you are going to BJ's, you do not want another sould food place? 'Cause MacArthur's on W. Madison would be fine for a group--the carpeted side room always seems oddly empty.

Another place I like a lot is Tufano's in Little Italy, and they should be able to handle your group fine. Order family style.

Rob

Army & Lou's is an institution on the South Side, and they do have a private room (unless some alderman has reserved it for the day). Good soul food, and reputably Harold Washington's favorite restaurant.

Army & Lou's
422 E. 75th St.
773-483-3100