We love your kids, but we’re keeping our wedding an adults-only night. We hope this gives everyone a chance to relax and have fun for the evening. Thanks for understanding - we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
If you’d like to continue celebrating with us after the reception formally wraps up, we intend to take the party directly across the street to the Clark Street Ale House. However, there’s no judgment if you need to hit the hay!
River North, close to the venue and three of the four hotels, is the best area for dining in downtown Chicago. Some of our favorites include Pizzeria Portofino (requires a reservation in advance; BEST GF pizza in town, NOT Chicago-style pizza); Lil Ba Ba Reeba (Spanish style tapas and killer Sangria pitchers); Nonnina (Classic Italian fare); and Beatrix (they have an entirely GF menu available). If you are staying at the Hilton, our South Loop favorites include Umai (Japanese & sushi); Flacos Tacos (casual tacos - you must get a Sangrita); Victory Tap (classic Italian fare); and Flo & Santos (pre-baseball wings). Venturing to Greektown/West Loop? You should check out Athena Restaurant (traditional Greek fare); Swift & Sons (steakhouse); or the Oakville Grill & Cellar (traditional American-style, best for Brunch).
If you want the OG Chicago deep dish experience, you want to go to Pizzeria Uno or Pizzeria Due in River North. Make sure you get a Chicago handshake while you’re there. Tasting notes: expect a lasagna inside of a pie crust. If you want the best Chicago deep dish pizza (per Josh Collins), find your nearest Lou Malnati’s. Make sure to order the “Buttercrust” deep dish. Tasting notes: Full deep dish flavor, but with a crunchier, more approachable crust. If you want to eat like a Chicago local (you can’t eat deep dish every day), you’re looking for tavern style pizza. You will want to check out Zarella. Tasting notes: Thin, crunchy crust like an elevated Totino’s frozen pizza.
Gus’ Sip & Dip - Best $12 cocktail you’ve ever had (and yes, we mean all of them are $12) with old school Chicago vibes and decor. Located in River North. The Game Room inside the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel - Play shuffleboard, darts, pool & chess while sipping on your favorite beverage or top shelf whiskey. Nicer attire recommended, but a jacket is not required. The Lincoln Tap Room - The Steeler’s bar in Chicago & the only place you can get Iron City Beer for yinz folk. Charis Listening Bar - High fidelity sound system mixed with higher fidelity drinks. While slightly farther south in Bridgeport, it is worth the ride for audiophiles and mixologists alike. Miller’s Pub - Old school pub in the Loop (very close to The Hilton). A Chicago Institution since 1935, enough said. Konbini & Konpai - For the sake enthusiast. If you’re looking for more of a “bar” experience, make sure to go to their Wrigleyville location because the Lakeview location is more of a sip & shop experience.