SubscribeChicago certainly has a plethora of choices when it comes to choosing your perfect dining choice. Before I had a baby, I was all about trying the “new on the scene” restaurants and hot spots. Now, even if I can get a babysitter, I’m mostly too tired! I do still get out there and I’m happy to say I’ve been to most of the spots mentioned in the recent article in Crains’ Chicago Business about the Melman boys.
In fact, HUB 51 is one of my favorite spots. My drink of choice is champagne and they have really great selection at very reasonable prices. A bottle of Perrier Jouet, one of my faves, is about $80 which is anywhere from $30-$60 cheaper than you can get it in any other restaurant–if they even offer it. And the food is good and inexpensive too, it gets crazy on the weekends but I find its a great place to go early, after work and get a seat and enjoy a bite before the crowds descend.
Violet Hour is right in my ‘hood and so far, they have been able to maintain the mystique and still have crowds lined up to get in. GREAT place to take a date or go as a group. All the seating is very private so its not conducive to mingling which is a plus as long as you brought the person or people you want to talk to. 
Interesting note though, they are NOT a vodka bar so don’t ask for it.
One of the things I appreciate is the fact that so many of our successful restaurateurs combine forces to create new and endearing concepts that do well in Chicago. Of course, if someone does well, they want to recreate their success but the fact that so many restaurants are a culmination of the talents from different people at different times is impressive. It shows how small the food world really is but I like to think it also shows a commitment to our city that these entrepreneurs want to continue to do business here, to cater to our midwestern/big city taste and are willing to collaborate to make that happen.
On a side note, does everyone know about Opentable.com ? If you don’t, sign up immediately–its a free online reservation system that most of the local restaurants subscribe to. For me, the best part is that I can make reservations online, whenever I happen to think about it and I don’t have to wait until someone is at the restaurant to answer the phone. The other bonus is that you earn points for each reservation which turn into a gift certificate for your next night out. And, when you really don’t know where to go or want to explore, they have featured restaurants that you earn extra points on, its a great excuse to try something new.
Bon Apetite!