Steaks and Chops = Kinzie Street Chop House, next door to Merchandise Mart.

Italian = Mia Francesca, couple of locations

Don't know if it's still around, but there used to be a place called the Mashed Potato Club, almost unlimited number of ways to have your spuds with every conceivable condiment to mix into them.

There was a Mashed Potato Club on Erie, where Coyote Ugly is now located. Also one that used to be on North Clark, near Wrigley, which I used to love, but it's been several years since I've seen anything about it.

Just returned from a visit to Chicago last month. Two places we especially enjoyed were Cafe Iberico for Tapas. We got into the city late, and this place was great for a 10pm dinner. Cheap prices too.
Mon Ami Gabi across from Lincoln Park was very good with nice atmosphere. I know it is owned by the Lettuce Entertain You group, but the food was very good and the service was excellent.

Many great suggestions:
If you are willing to go a little out of the loop area, Spring in the Bucktown area is great. It is a fairly new restaurant, and definitely worth the trip.
I am also a fan of One sixtyblue.

For price is of minimal object: hard to beat Arun's and Everest IMHO. (Haven't ever been to Charlie Trotter's or Trio, because, well for me price is of some mild object!)

You found my favorite Cajun joint...make sure to try the original diner on Wabash, it is the best of the 3 in the city (I believe there are 2 in burbs now). If you are looking to add some heat, ask for a side of "angry sauce"...this stuff is so hot, they literally make you try it before you can place an order for the angry pasta b/c so many people send it back saying it's too hot! Also try the jumbalaya with a side of the angry sauce....like they say...I met some people that went to heaven, and they all say the same thing....TRY THE GUMBO!

Yoshi's! Great fusion food in a very casual setting.

Definitely agree on the original location on Wabash -- I haven't tried the locations in the 'burbs, but the one on Rush just doesn't compare IMO.

Stopped by 1492 for lunch the end of last week. After a very trying morning, tapas & a glass (or two) of sangria was just what I needed. Still my favorite place for tapas in the city. Quiet & intimate setting -- very different from Iberico (which I also like). FYI....Chef John Borras no longer has his name on the sign as he is moving to Michigan and will no longer be cooking (but I understand that he is keeping an ownership portion).

If Mexicans can make sushi, http://www.chicagoreporter.com/2001/...sushigraph.htm

Why shouldn't the Chinese make burritos?

Willie, you are right about alot of things. This isn't one of them. ;) Mr. Beef, all the way! Maybe we need to borrow/rent a van sometime and have a progressive Italian Beef do and settle this once and for all! :D

In response to some of the comments above, I too enjoy Mon Ami Gabi (and never miss it in LAS) and Yoshi's. MY favorite to pig out is Fogo de Chao - not just the meat, but the most amazing salad bar anywhere. Lou's for pizza (although I wouldn't turn down Uno or Due). I also enjoy the Flat Top Grills for good fresh food (and Idine!). For a deli, I'll take Ada's on Wabash or Perry's (NO CELL PHONES) over Manny's any time. For upscale dining, I prefer Ambria.

I also enjoy Adobo Grill for the gaucamole made at tableside.

Is Yoshi's open on Sunday? I have been wanting to try it for a long time, but if I am in town for the weekend I am usually going to some kind of performance on Friday or Saturday evening. Never have the chance to eat there.

Yes, open for brunch at 10:30 a.m. - and open late (10:30 p.m.) for dinner. Closed on Mondays.

Went to Gibson's the other night. Excellent Filet Mignon - although I ordered and 8 oz. and it was the size of a softball.

About to try Nomi - will let you know how it was

my weekend of eating
 

so I was a Northwestern grad and visited tons after I graduated, but then lots of friends moved, my BF is in DC and I'm not, so haven't been back for a while, BUT finally my cravings for all the AMAZING food has finally got me booked for a trip....here are my plans with a couple of friends and local favorites:

Fri night: Giordano's Stuffed Spinich with some beer
Sat brunch: La Creperie on 2845 N Clark 773-528-9050
Sat dinner: Something light then Chocolate at the Pen (dessert buffet Peninsula Hotel Chocolate 109 E Superior St 312-337-2888/573-6760)
Sun brunch: Dim Sum at the Pheonix in Chinatown (2131 S Archer Ave Ste 2 (312) 328-0848) with "bubble tea" for a light "dessert" at a place down the street (sorry for being so non-specific)

Don't forget Iggy's for a late night snack & martini(s) 1840 W North Ave
Cross Street: Wolcott Avenue and Honore Street (312) 829-4449

Enjoy! :cool: