Graduation Dinner!

Hello, almost graduated MAPHers! I imagine that many of you have family and friends coming down to Hyde Park this weekend for a little celebration of sorts, a little cap-and-gown affair. And I also imagine that they will want to take you someplace delicious to eat. May I suggest that you vacate the Hyde Park area as quickly as possibly on Saturday? Do not try to eat here.  20,000 people will be here. Also, it will be 90 degrees.

So, I will give you a few suggestions for places to eat. Make reservations in advance (if they take reservations)!

AVEC

615 W. Randolph; 3:30 pm- 12:00 am; no reservations.

Delicious small (and not so small) plates to share, 30 wines by the glass, totally delicious and very special. Outdoor seating for drinks only.  As they don’t take reservations, I suggest going early (before 5:30) for a late lunch, or late (after 9:00) for dinner. It is a little noisy, maybe not the best place for grandma.

NIGHTWOOD

2119 South Halsted; 5:30 pm-11:00 pm; reservations at 312-526-3385.

Delicious local and sustainable fare in Pilsen; food you can feel good about enjoying. Fantastic patio and very good cocktails.

KITH AND KIN

1119 West Webster Ave; 5:00 pm- 12:00 am; reservations at 773-472-7070.

Beautiful large rooms, open air “windows,” delicious updated American fare.  Get the fried chicken.  Also, they will make you a killer cheese plate if you ask for it. Delicious old-fashioned cocktails.

MERCAT A LA PLANXA

638 Michigan Ave; 7:00 am- 2:00 am; reservations at 312-765-0524.

Catalonia-style tapas and entrees. Pretty good vegetarian selection despite the specialties being meats and fish served “a la planxa”- cooked on a metal plate. Unique sangria.

LAO SZE CHUAN

2172 South Archer Ave; 11:00 am- 12:00 am; reservations at 312-326-5040.

Best Chinese restaurant, ever.