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This winter seems to be going on forever! Between the Polar Vortex, freezing rain, and un-ending slush, there isn’t a lot to love about the Chicago outdoors right now. It’s enough to make anyone want to book a tropical vacation, ASAP. But if that’s not in your budget or schedule, we still want to help you escape to warmer climates…at least for dinner. We have rounded up some Chicago restaurants that have been giving us warm and tropical vibes, thanks to their décor and menus. You’ll feel a bit warmer just by walking in the door, and after a few of their colorful cocktails…it might almost feel like spring.
The Hampton Social {various locations}
This one should be a no-brainer, The Hampton Social was created to be an oasis away from Chicago weather. Though the Hamptons might not be considered “tropical,” this spot will surely give you major summertime vibes with its rosé happy hour specials, bright interiors, and many Instagram-able spots.
Mezcalina {333 East Benton Place, #100, Chicago; 312.240.5000}
Walls covered in bright murals and folk art. Spicy and flavorful cuisine. More than a hundred varieties of mezcal and tequila. What’s not to love? See you there!
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Tanta {118 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312. 222.9700}
This place is always jam-packed for after-work happy hour and weeknight dinners, and for good reason! It’s in a great location with a constantly bumping bar that serves specialty cocktails like the Mosto Verde Sour and the Tanta Paloma. Their light bites are also perfect for sharing so you can order a whole bunch and dig into all kinds of bright and flavorful combos.
La Josie {740 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.929.2900}
Nothing cures the winter blues quite like a margarita! And thanks to La Josie’s bright interior filled with natural light from their wall of windows, you can sit with a Taco al Pastor in one hand and a cocktail in the other while you watch the snow from inside. That is the way to ride out the winter.
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Texas de Brazil {various locations}
If you want to keep eating your way through the winter season, Texas de Brazil has you covered with an endless salad bar, appetizers, and freshly carved meat menu. Their hospitality is also endless, making it the perfect place to bring a large group and just indulge!
Fig & Olive {104 East Oak Street, Chicago; 312.445.0060}
For a taste of a Mediterranean summer, Fig & Olive is the perfect place. It makes for a great date night spot, and though you might not get an actual tan, menu items like Crostinis and Branzino a la Plancha will give you a warm, sunshiney feeling inside. Cheers to that!
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Nacional 27 {325 West Huron Street, Chicago; 312.664.2727}
Let’s dance, Chicago! Nothing will get your blood pumping like a salsa lesson and a great meal! Nacional 27 has been a staple for both for years, so their team is ready to help you dance your way into warmer weather! Their Havana Nights menu and “All You Can Eat Meat” Thursdays are both worth a visit in themselves.
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
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