Originally Posted by
TWA884
Thanks, unfortunately, Lake Bluff is just too far of a schlep from West Loop to go for dinner when I'm in Chicago.
I'm probably closer in age to your in-laws than to you; however, I love G&TG, both in West Loop and the Arts District in Los Angeles; the Chicago location is walking distance from my daughter's place.
Other favorite Chicago restaurants, in no particular order, are Monteverde, Kasama, Sepia, Gaijin, Alla Vita, Purple Pig, Parachute, Elske, Lula Cafe and Galit. To the best of my recollection, Sepia and Kasama are the only two of those that exclusively serve tasting menus, at least at dinner time. We've had great tasting menus at Smith and Oriole, however, those are considerably more expensive than the rest. Alinea was a disappointment and, in my opinion, is way overrated.
I've been to about half of those, and agree no way I'd have driven to Lake Bluff when I lived in the city! Even if it were awesome, there are many more options in the West Loop. Galit opened just before we moved out to the burbs. Couldn't ever get a reservation, and then we moved. Have to remember it's there next time I'm in the area. The place that might be worth a drive though is George Trois, in Winnetka. It's a small dining room off to the side of Aboyer, same chef and owner. I can't remember, but maybe fewer than 10 tables? Very intimate and personal experience, but it's a special occasion place, where you make an evening of it.