Suggestions for group dinner--help!

I'm moving back to Chicago after several years, and am planning to get together with friends for dinner and drinks my first weekend back. The only problem is that I know nothing about the Chicago restaurant scene now. I'm looking for a place where 6-7 twentysomethings can get together for a casual dinner and drinks, on the inexpensive side. Outdoor seating would be a plus. We will be coming from Lincoln Park, Hyde Park and the Gold Coast, so easy public transportation is a must. Anyone have any favorite places that they want to share?
Thanks!

Sure. Look here.

Sounds like Greektown might work well. It's centrally located, inexpensive and most people wind up liking the food as well as the ambiance. I would consider Santorini , Greek Islands or Venus. Costas is good too and has outdoor seating.

In Greektown also consider Pegasus which has a rooftop patio with a view of the skyline.

Pegasus
130 S. Halsted Street
Chicago
312-226-3377

A place that meets the criteria of location and outdoor dining is Melvin B's (known as Cafe du Melvin to some). Just bar food, variable service - the draw is people-watching and location (at the intersection of State, Rush and Cedar).

It's been many years since I've been to Melvin's so perhaps someone who has been there recently can update on the food and the vibe.

Melvin B's
1114 N State Street
Chicago
312-751-9897

I could be dead wrong -- it's been a few years since I've been to Melvin B's as well -- but I've always thought of it more as a bar than as a place to eat. I agree that the location and people-watching, etc., are top-notch -- it's a great place to drink outside on a nice summer day. However, I've always been under the impression that the food (to the extent that they serve food) is mediocre and the service is usually subpar.

Welcome back to Chicago! I'm in my late 20s and often dine in large groups with friends (all with varying paychecks...some students, some professionals and everything in between). While it would be helpful to know some more of your preferences (i.e. cusine, price point, quiet v. convivial, upscale or not, etc), I would recommend Quartino for a group. It's small plates Italian. While its nothing completely earth shattering, its fun for a group and certainly tasty. Those more inclined to label themselves "foodies" won't gag, but the less adventuresome diners won't be turned off either. You can order wine by the carafe. I've been there with both my girlfriends (nibblers) and my boyfriend (a big-ish eater) and both were happy with their experience Its also a fun atmosphere. It's located near a plethora of transportation options - the red line, the #22, #36, #156, the Michigan Ave busses - and there is an outdoor dining area out on State. I hope this helps and if you weren't looking for Italian or this price point, let us know and I'm sure there's tons of more options.

Quartino
626 N. State Street
Chicago, IL
312-698-5000
www.quartinochicago.com