First Date Spots to Make You Look Cool This Winter
via Vasili’s
Picture this… you found the perfect guy (or girl) who meets all your qualifications. You’ve spent hours staying up late to talk and now it’s time for the exciting first meet up. And with a million and one restaurants to choose from in the Windy City, it can be hard to narrow it down to just one. But don’t worry, we have you covered! Follow along as we share some of our favorite cozy spots for the perfect first date…
The Press Room {1134 West Washington Boulevard, Chicago; 331.240.1914}
If you want a moody spot with dim lighting, good food, and great cocktails, head to The Press Room. Located in the West Loop, this is perfect for either an after-work or weekend date night. While you’re there, try one of their unique wine choices or a craft cocktail like the Champs-Elysee (cognac, lemon, green chartreuse and bitters).
via Bambola
Bambola {1402 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.526.3983}
Advertised as “a culinary journey along the Silk Road,” Bambola has set out to explore the shared cultural heritage that spans through Asian and European cuisines. You can enjoy beautiful chandeliers, bright colors, and timeless marble as you dig into their delicious food and sip on one of their elegant drinks. Our pick is their Rose & Red Shiso cocktail made with rose, red shiso, and lime leaf!
Taverna Violi {260 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook; 630.592.2104}
Greek food with a vibey interior? Count us in! If you are looking for a spot in the burbs that is just as delicious as anything you would find in the city, try Taverna Violi. Newly opened in Oakbrook, Taverna Violi offers all things Greek food, plus cocktails like The Karpouzi (gin, St. Germain, watermelon, cucumber, lemon, and oregano).
Meadowlark {2812 West Palmer Street, Chicago; 773.697.8070}
Imagine if there was a basement bar straight from a movie, complete with comfortable leather couches, aesthetically placed picture frames, and cool cocktails. Meadowlark in Logan Square has all those vibes and more. Grab your date and take a step into a different world. And while you’re there, sip on one of their pretty and delectable cocktails. Make sure to make reservations though, as this is one of the city’s most popular spots right now!
The Up Room at The Robey Hotel {2018 West North Avenue, Chicago; 872.315.3060}
The Robey Hotel is known for being welcoming and warm while still trendy at the same time, and The Up Room is no different. People go for the drinks and stay for the expansive skyline view. So, grab one of their classics like the Black Manhattan and get ready for your date to be blown away!
via Lazy Bird
Lazy Bird {200 North Green Street, Chicago; 312.761.1700}
We love the Hoxton Hotel and all it encompasses, including this basement bar. Try Cabra for dinner and then head to Lazy Bird, a cocktail and music lounge located underneath the hotel. Our favorite cocktail is the Clover Club (gin, raspberry syrup, lemon, and egg white). After you and your date are done sipping your cocktails and listening to music, stroll through Fulton Market.
Vasili's {135 Water Street, Naperville; 630.328.0431}
Want to get out of the city altogether? Vasili’s is the kind of place where you go and feel like family. The food is delicious and your company will be just as warm as your food. If you aren’t into anything fancy and want a laid back spot with really awesome food, Vasili’s is for you. Sip on one of their several glasses of wine while you bite into classic Mediterranean dishes.
Dorian's {1939 West North Avenue, Chicago; 773.687.9824}
Calling all music lovers! As if Dorian’s Record Shop couldn’t get any cooler, they also have a cocktail bar hidden behind the record shop. The bar not only offers creative cocktails, but has live performances and vinyl DJ sets to listen to while you sip your drink. For something different than just the average sports bar, this is a fun and engaging option!
By Madison Freeman | Special Correspondent