Where To Take Her

Because every man needs a plan, and some of us need that plan with pretty pictures, we present Where to Take Her: a series that answers a gentleman’s most pressing lifestyle questions and recurs whenever we get around to it. Next up: the city’s best new restaurants, by occasion. Bon appétit.

Your Key:

Celeste – River North – There’s a lot of chatter about this elegant River North spot with a food and drink menu inspired by the skies. Dinner is served in the sophisticated Deco Room on the second floor. Stay for the cocktails.

The Dawson – River West – A huge yet inviting space serving up hearty New American eats with a bar program that always excites. Keep an eye out for patio season. Until then: a fireplace. Get cozy.

Sophie’s at Saks – Gold Coast – Take her up to the seventh floor of Saks for a clean, sophisticated take on American comforts. And because nothing says “I’m sorry” better than lunch and shopping.

42 Grams – Uptown – So you screwed up. Like, majorly. Nothing the city’s most welcoming fine dining resto can’t fix. If Jake Bickelhaupt’s inventive tasting menu doesn’t earn forgiveness, nothing will.

Japonais by Morimoto – River North – Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s Japonais reboot is lavishly east-meets-west in both food and decor. Snagging two seats at the open sushi bar will keep things interesting. Also: shochu and sake. 

Azzurra EnoTavola – Wicker Park – A Milwaukee Ave. gem from the Anteprima team dishing out soulful Italian: handmade pastas like tagliatelle with prosciutto ragu. A fun neighborhood vibe.

Nico Osteria – Gold Coast – Paul Kahan and company’s latest venture is worthy of all the buzz. Intrepid rustic dishes pay tribute to Italy, and fresh seafood delights like the salt-crusted branzino served whole make it hard to argue.

Cicchetti – Streeterville – Upon entry, a beautiful illuminated bar. The dining room: classy rustic, where you’ll order small plate regional Italian specialties, all accompanied by a stellar wine list.

Tanta – River North – Not the newest, but there’s a lot to explore at this haute Peruvian resto. Your adventure begins with a tasting of the freshest ceviches in town, and don’t forget the pisco sours to pair.