Mon Abi Gabi
Dark wood, low lighting and a buzzing, crowded bar make for a casual, warm atmosphere. This is not the place for a quiet dinner date, but groups of friends in the mood for a chatty evening will adore this tightly packed room.

Nine Steakhouse
Close to two years after opening its doors, Nine still draws Chicago's beautiful people by the roomful to its glam dining area and hip upstairs Ghost Bar. All glass, mirrors, brown suede and shiny silver, the cavernous, super-sleek space is centered around a granite champagne and caviar bar supported by pillars that shimmer like disco balls.

Geja's Cafe
Geja's is like a catacomb for lovers. After descending the steps from Armitage Avenue, you enter a tightly packed labyrinth of dark, wooden walls, fluttering candles, whispering lovers, live flamenco music and a staff that manages to glide gracefully through the murk. Try for one of the curtained-off booths.

North Pond Cafe
The Frank Lloyd Wright-esque building is one with its surroundings. A bike path runs past, there's a playground next door, and benches out front are perfectly situated for duck-feeding on quiet North Pond.