The Chicago Traveler

Romance shouldn’t be reserved for just Valentine’s Day. As the temperatures begin to cool down, you can keep your relationship hot by visiting one or more of the ten best romantic date spots (courtesy of Citysearch and Yelp).

10. Shanghai Terrace. With elegant art and a beautiful view, this Asian restaurant offers delicious sophistication.
9. Cyrano’s Bistrot and Wine Bar. The River North eatery serves French basics amidst casual, rustic surroundings.
8. Le Bouchon. Authentic and delicious French dishes at remarkable prices make this bistro one of Bucktown’s best.
7. Angelina Ristorante. In Lakeview, the popular date spot provides authentic Italian in a comfortable …read more

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As we watch the hundreds of countries compete in the Summer Olympics this week, I’m reminded of all the different cultures and cuisines we have right here in Chicago. French, Italian, Chinese, Mexican, Thai, German… the list goes on and on. Another cuisine that has steadily become more popular is that of Brazil, as exemplified by Zed 451.
This “contemporary steakhouse” (just a few doors south of Le Lan) is furnished with wood floors, black steel, and stone, giving the restaurant a rustic, natural feel. A double-sided fireplace surrounded by leather seating graces the lounge area, and stairwells lead from the …read more

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On more than one occasion, I have heard Chicago compared to Paris, France. And why not? Paris is one of Chicago’s international sister cities. With much respect for “the City of Light,” Le Bouchon offers authentic and delicious French dishes in Bucktown.
With white curtains, tile flooring, and a beautiful mural over the bar, the charm of Paris comes alive in this small room (north of Grace). The tables are arranged close together, so be prepared for a bit of bustling. Also, a word of warning: the tables next to the front window might seem ideal, but they are near some …read more

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Like everyone else, you’ve probably been more conscious about where and how you spend your dollar. You’ve scrimped and saved, pinched every penny, and clipped every coupon. But every once in a while, you need to spoil yourself and splurge a bit. Here are just a couple places with incredible libations for jaw-dropping prices.
One of the most exquisite spots to eat in Chicago is Tru in the Streeterville neighborhood. This stylish example of haute cuisine features a progressive French menu. Items on the tasting menu in the past have included various dishes of white truffles ($250), rare vintage Clos des …read more

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To all you moms out there, Happy Mother’s Day! Here’s hoping you all get exactly what you want and deserve… more sleep!
(Yes, that is a picture of my mother and me, about 25 years ago.)
• The Music Box Theatre hosts a Joan Crawford look-alike contest before a special Mother’s Day screening of Mommie Dearest. Tickets are available at ticketweb.com.
• To celebrate Mother’s Day Rock & Roll, DJ Kelsey spins chick rock songs in honor of Mom at Delilah’s. Arrive early (6:00 p.m.) for a screening of Count Dracula and His Vampire Brides.
• Moms get a complimentary signature maki, dessert, and …read more

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“Foodies” can be pretty particular about their eating-out choices, as they look for that “something extra” in restaurants. Bonsoirée in Logan Square offers just that with an exclusive dining experience.
This subtle café and catering company serves up French and American delicacies. While it’s open to the public most of the week, every Saturday night they offer an invitation-only prix-fixe dinner, perfect for the true foodie with a sophisticated taste. They call it their “underground” restaurant. The menu changes weekly, and anyone can sign up on the website. However, only a limited number of people are chosen at random and e-mailed …read more

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Many Chicagoans flinch at the mere mention of going outside city limits. However, Papillon’s warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious French fare are worth the trek.
The word “exquisite” doesn’t even begin to describe the created by Chef Kljajic, or “Chef Danny” as he is referred to by friendly locals. Chef Danny enjoys being very hands-on with his restaurant: answering the phones, greeting customers, taking orders, pouring drinks, etc. Of course, some may argue that he wears his chef’s hat best, as he provides incredible polenta and fantastic salads (with spring vegetables and goat cheese). Among the entrees, try the filet …read more

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Whether you’re lovesick or sick of love, there’s something in town for you.
• All three locations of Adobo Grill in the Chicagoland area will be putting out a menu made for love. Dishes include empanadas con pétalos de rosa (empanadas stuffed with Oaxacan cheese, fresh corn, and chipotle-rose-petal salsa), parrillada de corazón (adobo-marinated lobster tail, grilled lamb chops, sea scallops, beef tenderloin, and homemade chorizo), and corazón de chocolate (Mexican chocolate cake filled with chocolate mousse and raspberry-corazón tequila sauce). (6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., menu prices) (map) (link)
• You may not …read more

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Whether you’re lovesick or sick of love, there’s something in town for you.
• There are three little words that every woman wants to hear: “wine, cheese, chocolate.” Go all out, and buy your beloved a $96 glass of bubbly. Eno will be serving Dom Perignon Rose 1996 by the glass. If your date is not beloved but “beliked,” try the glasses of 1997 Terra Valentine Cabernet for $25 each. (4:00 p.m. – 12 midnight, menu prices) (map) (link)
• What could be more romantic than a Valentine’s Day cruise? Odyssey Cruises will provide you …read more

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Whether you’re lovesick or sick of love, there’s something in town for you.
• Your date’s a little crabby, but you love him/her nonetheless. Why not go out for a little crabbiness you can both handle? Sam Houston’s Charhouse is offering four celebrated entrées, including a full serving of Alaskan king crab legs. Another option is the Mixed Grill with a 6-oz prime top sirloin, rotisserie chicken breast, and grilled shrimp scampi. (4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., menu prices) (map) (link)
• Oysters are widely known for their aphrodisiac qualities. Shaw’s Crab House has a …read more

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