Bin Wine Cafe

Wicker Park
1559 N. Milwaukee
Chicago, IL 60622
773-486-cafe (2233)
www.binwinecafe.com

Many consider wine bars to be for wine connoisseurs only. I have often heard friends comment that, though they enjoy wine, they would fear feeling out of place in a wine bar due to their lack of wine knowledge. Bin WIne Cafe will set anyone's mind at ease about the wine bar phenomenon. Whether you're a "win-o" or someone's whose never tasted a glass, you'll find a place at Bin.
The menu gives extensive, clear descriptions of all wines available by the glass. These wines are also placed in categories which allow you to order a "flight" of 4 half glasses of wine. They're also happy to bring you a taste, half or full glass of any wine-by-the-glass. Each is served with a piece of paper stating the name, origin and price of a bottle for reference when purchasing now or later. For the wine expert, Bin offered a good quality and varied selection of wines by the bottle, especially considering the small size of the restaurant and store. Even if you don't like wine, a full bar is available.
The food menu was rather limited, you're definitely there for the wine. However, the appetizer menu was lengthy, great for ordering several and sharing as a group tapas style. I actually had the entree special, an excellent grilled grouper. The restaurant is small and was therefore rather loud on the busy night I dined. I wouldn't recommend it for an intimate dinner for two, but it's a great place for a group of friends any night of the week.

Food: 4 - Very Good
Service: 5 - Excellent

Price: $30-$50 per person (depends how much wine you drink!)
Parking/Transportation: No parking available, though you may find a street space in the surrounding neighborhood. The Damen, blue line stop is just 1 1/2 blocks away and the North Ave. bus stops just a block away at the intersection of North, Damen and Milwaukee.

Adobo Grill

Old Town
1610 N. Wells
312-266-7999

Wicker Park
2005 W. Division
773-252-9990

www.adobogrill.com

Authentic mexican food with a contemporary twist! The menu features butternut squash enchiladas, fish tacos, quesadillas and, my favorite, pan-seared tilapia with the signature Adobo sauce (Tilapia a la talla). The fresh guacamole, prepared tableside, is a must and all entrees are served with corn tortillas. This restaurant has a great selection of meat, chicken, fish and vegetarian dishes. You're certain to find something to suit your tastes.
More importantly....the margaritas! Shaken and poured at your table, be sure to try one (or several). I also had a perfectly prepared mojito (the traditional cuban cocktail, which can be tricky to get right).
The service was outstanding. The waiter was helpful and friendly, as was the rest of the staff we encountered. I also enjoyed the atmosphere and decor. This would be a great place for a dinner date or an evening out with friends!

**this review based on the Old Town location only.

Food: 5 - Excellent (Yummy!)
Service: 5 - Excellent

Price: $20 per person
Parking/Transportation: Valet available at both locations. The division and north ave. buses stop near each location as well.