Chicago, IL + Add a trip

Alinea, one of the best restaurants in the world

if you don't have $600 to blow on dinner @ Alinea or Moto, but still want a taste of Chicago's molecular gastronomics, head to Otom - same kitchen as Moto, and right next door - but 1/10th the price for a scaled down 'comfort food' version of quixotic cuisine. Fantastic drinks too, the old bar-chef is now at Violet Hour. I'd say try Schwa but they're horrible to actually get seated at; odd hours and no reservations.

if want 'normal' food (as in not prepared with liquid nitrogen or vaporized) - then try Avec, or their new 'Publican'.

all are fantastic & cannot go wrong with anything on the menu.

Vermilion Indian+Latin fusion is awesome. I understand there is one in NYC also.

Duo pizza The name is "two" in Spanish, but it provides the number one quality pizza. It's a good place for casual dinner or group meeting.

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

For uncomplicated food and astonishing handcrafted beers, try Rock Bottom at the corner of Grand and State. Turns out it's actually one of 29 Rock Bottoms in US, but it's definitely worth a visit anyway. Try the ales.

The Publican. Amazing beer list and melt in your mouth food. In the Fulton Market area.

http://chicago.metromix.com/restaurants/restaurant/the-publican-west-town/519462/content

Ginos East.

Duo is not the word for two in Spanish. Perhaps Italian, but definitely not Spanish. The first place I hit when I get to Chicago is Portillo's - best hot dog, hands down. You must get it fully-loaded, Chicago style. Fine dining it isn't, but it is TASTY! For pizza, don't mess with Giordano's (but if you want deep dish DO go to Lou Malnati's), go to Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder's (CPOG). I promise you it's the best pizza in the U.S. Nothing fancy or overpriced - just a wonderful pizza pot pie. Sounds strange - but a must try. For pasta go to Tuscany. For Greek go to Athena in Greektown. Be sure to hit Sweet Mandy B's if you have a sweet tooth (best cupcakes) or Scooter's and try a delicious custard/italian ice parfait or a milkshake.