Need a romantic spot tonight!!

I haven't had a chance to take out my girlfriend for a few weeks due to conflicting schedules, and I'd really like to take her somewhere nice/romantic tonight. I'd like to keep the bill around $35 per person, and I'd like anywhere within 3 miles of the Belmont red line (proximity to EL isn't a big deal since we have a car). We're usually pretty flexible in terms of cuisine, but I'm thinking of something a bit more conservative tonight (French, American, Seafood, etc...). I really wanted to take advantage of Bonsoiree's 3-course tasting menu, but they are completely full. I also don't want to have to worry about getting a table, so reservations are a must. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Geja's?

Geja's Cafe
340 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago
(773) 281-9101

It looks a little expensive, and I'm not really into fondue. But thanks for the recommendation! Anyone been to any of the following:

Erwin, and American Cafe
Bistro Campagne
Café Bernard

Does that include three courses and drinks?

If you skip the alcohol, or do only two courses, you may be able to have Le Bouchon work. Same with Socca. Or Erwin. Erwin was always my go-to when I needed a nicer, but not crazy, meal out.

I've never been to La Tavernetta, but a friend holds her Italian club dinners there and enjoys it.

Le Bouchon
1958 N. Damen
773-862-6600
http://www.lebouchonofchicago.com

Socca
3301 N. Clark
773-248-1155
http://www.soccachicago.com

La Tavernetta
3023 N. Broadway
773-929-8787
http://www.latavernettachicago.com

Erwin
2925 N. Halsted
773-528-7200
http://www.erwincafe.com

You must have posted that as I was writing my post - I think Erwin would be a good spot. Split the Peanut Butter Pie for dessert. Doesn't get more romantic than that.

I love erwin. My boyfriend and I went there to celebrate Valentines Day a few days early. Intimate and cozy with good food!

thomasec wrote:It looks a little expensive, and I'm not really into fondue. But thanks for the recommendation! Anyone been to any of the following:

Erwin, and American Cafe
Bistro Campagne
Café Bernard

I'm in the minority, because I've always been underwhelmed by Erwin, but I do see they have a coupon on their website for $25 off of dinner (with few restrictions).
http://www.erwincafe.com/pdf/Erwin_Postcard_2007.pdf

Erwins and La Tavernetta both look like great options. I'll call and see what each has available for tonight. I'm sure whichever one I don't go to tonight will be added to my ever expanding list of restaurants to eat at. Thanks for the recs.

If you're thinking about Café Bernard, how about its more casual sister around the corner, the Red Rooster?

http://www.cafebernard.com/Redrooster/

(The website offers a $25 coupon for Sun - Wed)

Not to dampen your plans, but I don't find La Tavernetta to be the least bit romantic. It's loud and hurried, and the food swims in too much red sauce which will stain that new dress she's sure to wear for the occasion. Erwin's nice, but if you drink at all there's little chance you'll get out for less than 35 dollars per person, even with the coupon. Forget Bistro Campagne - it's definitely beyond your price point.

My suggestion would be Katerina's, which serves very fine, reasonably-priced Greek food in a sophisticated setting, accompanied by what is usually excellent, dinner-conversation-friendly live music.
A publication I'm embarrassed to admit I read once wrote something like "Katerina's is the kind of place you wish existed. Thankfully, it does." I agree wholeheartedly.

Katerina's
1920 W Irving Park Road,
773 348-7592

Wow, good find, Kennyz. Driving by I never realized that wasn't just a bar, but actually had food. I will check it out soon.

Went to Erwins, and it was great! The food could have been better, but the place was perfect. It was really quiet and intimate, and the service was very friendly without being overbearing. The crab-cakes we got were.....well, probably not the best choice. They were loaded with filling, and had about two pounds of pepper on them. But the grilled salmon, and especially the veal fettuccine were great, and much lighter than I expected at a "New-American" restaurant. Total tab with tip came out to $81, which included an appetizer, bottle of wine, two meals, and desert. Would certainly go back there on a date if food wasn't my MAIN concern. Thanks for the recommendations guys! Off to La Tavernetta tonight...

It's a a little late as you've already gone, but consider supporting public radio so you can get the Member Card. It includes an eclectic mix of dining, theatre and museum discounts. It makes it easier to try places that would otherwise stretch your wallet too much. And, you don't look like a cheapskate for using it because it's all in support of Public Radio. Brilliant!

In the area you mentioned not too far from the Belmont Red line, A la Turka has been good when we have been there and is dark and romantic (though much louder when they have belly dancing), erwin and Jack's on Halsted are both on the card, too. Of course, many other places that are good but not as expensive such as Tre Kronor and Ras Dashen are on there, too. And, even Nookies for a late night breakfast after a night of dancing, lol.