You hate sushi but your woman loves it. Well have I got the spot for you. Their Thai food cancels out any anti-fish eaters out there. A now not so hidden gem in the West Loop on Grand is the lively, bustling sushi and Thai joint Butterfly. Call it cozy, call it cramped. Either way the food is delicious and the price is right. Did someone say BYOB no corkage fee?
The buzzing atmosphere cannot help but make you feel lively, energetic and ripe for conversation. I recommend Butterfly for a first date, double date and any size group date. Just be sure to make a reservation…this place fills up and it fills up fast. As much as I love this nugget of a spot, I do have to for warn you of it’s…lets say coziness. You will feel as if the table next to you is on the date with you. But I PROMISE all will be forgotten when your waitress brings you the best treat of the night… a $20 check for two.
tip: Pick up and chill (if necessary) your wine, beer or sake beforehand. There is no liquor store close by.
With your date and wallet full, catch a quick cab to one of the sexiest lounges in Chicago, Violet Hour. If you see a graffiti ed wall and dangling light, you have come to the right spot.
Behind the camouflaged door, straight through the black velvet curtains, be prepared to be whisked away to an Alice and Wonderland-Esq world. The awkward chairs and the prohibition inspired libations will knock you off your feet.Detail is not something this hidden spot is known to miss. Any drink served on the rocks is replaced by a hand picked ball of ice…which lucky for you means no
watered down Old Fashioneds. Need to end the night on a sweet note? I promise you the warmly served donuts will do just the trick. Cell phones are not allowed which permits you to concentrate on what is more important…your cocktail of course!
tip: Make your dinner reservation slightly on the early side, as the line at Violet Hour starts to form around 9:00 PM. They only seat the number of people by the amount of chairs available to maintain the intimate, whimsical atmosphere they are so loved for. If there is a bit of a wait, they will ask for your cell number so you can have an adult beverage some where near by. I happen to like Blue Line Lounge and Grill.
