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We understand that social media and photography has become a large part of any dining experience. Heck, we are 100-percent guilty of stopping a friend from eating so we can get that perfect tablescape shot for our Instagram now and then, too! But, sometimes, it’s important to disconnect from technology and re-connect with the people around us. We all live super busy lives, and a great meal is the perfect time to touch base with family and friends to really talk about what’s going on. So, put down the phones and get ready to eat, uninterrupted! These restaurants are visually appealing, intimate enough for great conversation, and still provide a phenomenal meal. It’s time to call up someone you haven’t seen in a while and book a no-phones-allowed meal at one of these restaurants…
STK Chicago
- Avec {615 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.377.2002}: Shared plates are the perfect way to keep a conversation going over a meal, and few places do it as well as Avec. The food appeals to a wide range of palates, and they pride themselves on creating an intimate atmosphere great for deep conversation.
- River Roast {315 North LaSalle Drive, Chicago; 312.822.0100}: Warm weather is coming to Chicago, we promise! And there is no better spot to wait it out than right along the Chicago River. River Roast is warm, cozy, and full of comfort food that is meant to be shared. That way you can swap stories with your favorite people while you dig into their famous table-side proteins.
- Bluegrass Restaurant {1636 Old Deerfield Road, Highland Park; 847.831.0595}: Venture to the burbs for one of the famous Bluegrass Boils! Hosted throughout the year by Bluegrass Restaurant, here, you can enjoy all you can drink beer and eat crab boils, making it the perfect place to gather the crew and have a long day together over great food.
- BLVD {817 West Lake Street, Chicago; 312.526.3116}: Yes, yes, we know this spot is highly Instagram-able but, resist! You can make group reservations of 25 without it being a private event, so bring the whole gang and have a fun night just spending time together over a delicious meal.
- The Lunchroom {200 East Chestnut Street, Chicago; 312.751.1519 }: It will be hard not to take photos at this bright, picturesque spot inside SPACE 519…but you can do it! Meet here for breakfast before work or a fun happy hour! It’s especially perfect for a girls’ gathering because you can also shop at SPACE 519 right after your meal!
- Tanta {118 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.222.9700}: Connect with your coworkers outside of the office! Sitting at the bar at Tanta will make it easy to chat and really get to know the people you spend most of your time within a more fun setting than a conference room. This also makes a great casual date night spot!
- Funkenhausen {1709 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago; 312.929.4727}: This fun spot combines Southern and Bavarian flavors to create a soulful mash-up of cuisines that everyone will love. Plus, their on-tap beer list features only German offerings, making it a great spot to try a new stein with your favorite people.
- Riccardo Osteria {1023 West Lake Street, Chicago; 312.291.8620}: Riccardo Trattoria has been a Chicago favorite for years, and they have now expanded to the West Loop! It’s wine-focused but they have a whole menu of Northern Italian classics that make it a perfect spot for date night or when you have family in town. Plus, you can tell whoever you dine with that you’re taking them to the newest West Loop hot spot!
- STK {9 West Kinzie Street, Chicago; 312.340.5636}: Happy hour-goers, this spot should be on your list! Connecting people over food and drink, STK’s Social Hour includes specials like oysters, Bone-In Filet Lollipops, and half-off cocktails every Monday-Friday from 3:30-6:30 PM. Dig in on a budget!
- Acadia {1639 South Wabash Avenue, Chicago; 312.360.9500}: If you’re a serious food-lover, this is a must-visit in the South Loop. Their seafood-focused tasting menu is a treat for the taste buds and leaves you plenty of time to catch up over all those courses. Just sit back and enjoy!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
The post Make a Real Connection at These Chicago Spots appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.