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Old School Italian
If you're hungry and want some old school classics served in a somewhat stylish atmosphere, Calo is the place. Great pastas, ribs, pizzas and decent affordable wine list and bar. Lots of gay men, yet far from a "gay" place. Just a neighborhood classic that doesn't let you leave hungry. -
Get to know your neighbor
The atmosphere is somewhat like being in someone's home and while this neighborhood gem will have you practically sitting with the table next to you, you won't care. A "pretty" crowd and awesome food make for a warm, comfortable place to enjoy great Italian food. -
Country Club Dining
If you want a private club atmosphere, but don't want to join one, RL is it. Delicious food, impeccable service, but real treat is feeling like the landed gentry who just dropped off your Bentley to grab a bite to eat! -
Classic, fun, good
A lively atmosphere and a classic French menu that always delivers makes this a reliable place for a great evening. It's a mix of older Lincoln Park'ers, younger prep couples and a smattering of "the gays," but people are just focused on good food and wine, not who is who. -
Cozy and cool
Good food and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere make this place great for brunch, lunch or dinner. -
Upscale comfort food
Located in an historic building, this restaurant has consistently good food with a traditional, comfort food twist. -
I Don't Get the Hype
So many people seem to love this place, but frankly, I don't understand why. As the previous reviewer said, I really want to love it, but after 4 or more times there, I remain unimpressed. Pricey for food that seems to lack personality and you'd better like the people at the surrounding tables because you are practically dining with them. Cozy is an understatement. Chicago has many great options and to me, this is consistently only so-so. -
Small place; big fun
Marty's is a small martini bar, but big on fun, service and warmth. The guys who own it and the guys who work there go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome. They believe in good customer service and don't disappoint. Plus, the drinks are great and the crowd is friendly and easy to look at! -
Go for a drink; stay for the bartenders
A cool space that always seems either too empty or too crowded. The bartenders are worth the trip, but the drinks are good too. It recently expanded into WineBar next door. -
The Standard
Sidetrack is the bar in Chicago by which the other bars are judged. It's the largest in town, one of the nicest and definitely has the best crowd consistently 7 nights a week. Many of the customers aren't lacking in attitude, but what the heck. Always a great time. -
Hard to label
Big Chicks is a neighborhood bar with an urban clientele. Michelle, the owner, has to be the coolest bar owner in town. The crowd can go from young and hip to older and former-hip, but usually encompasses all of them and more. -
Sports and more
No attitude and good mix of people make this a neighborhood place that's great for dinner, snacks and/or just drinks. Packed and fun during sporting events with large screens everywhere. -
Laid back and full of style
It might be a bit out of the way if you're traveling from the Northside of Chicago, but it's worth the trip. The Bucktown/Wicker Park crowd is cool and the shows in back are usually fantastic. It's a good mix of all kinds of people and the owners are great.
