What's the best casual dining restaurant in Chicago?

I'm looking for something beyond the usual Chili's/Bennigans type stuff.



My only real reservation is that I'm not very fond of Asian food, especially sushi and Japanese.



If the prices are good too, then please mention that!What's the best casual dining restaurant in Chicago?
grand lux or giordanos!!
If you don't mind a chain-type environment, we always go for Max and Erma's (I especially recommend the margaritas and the burgers). If you want somewhere a little more low-key and urban, you can try Clark's or Connie's.What's the best casual dining restaurant in Chicago?
If you love pizza and who doesn't love pizza?! you must go to Lou Malnati and if you enjoy it as much as I think you will, they will pies anywhere in the US. Bon Appetit!



http://www.loumalnatis.com/
quartino is great italian... 1492 tapas is great for tapas, bandera on Michigan Ave is good as well.What's the best casual dining restaurant in Chicago?
There used to be a chain (I think it was about 7) in the Chicago area called "Leona's" - it was italian, but had great chicken too. If they are still there, you should go! :) Best foo I ever ate! It did cost about $50 for two, but we had drinks too.



Good luck! :)
Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders is awesome...

2121 NORTH CLARK STREET

CHICAGO, IL 60614

773-248-2570

It's the best, but you do want to get there early like 4pm, or be prepared to wait 2-3 hours, but it's good stuff... they have a website at

http://www.chicagopizzaandovengrinder.com/
Cheesecake factory!! They have burgers and sandwhiches as well!
I used to hang out Grace O麓Malleys bar when I lived in Chicago, and love it-close to downtown. with a variety of food on the menu.



http://www.mainstayhospitality.com/index鈥?/a>
(1) Cafe Iberico !!! they serve spanish food that is so good!



(2) Carmine's at downtown Chicago - italian



(3) Buffalo Joe's - American; Chicken wings, Cheddar Chips/fries and burgers



(4) Bob Chinn's - seafood/steak place
I second Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders.



The pizza is different from anything you know as pizza. The ingredients are put in a bowl, then the crust is placed over the bowl and baked. At the table, the server flips the bowl over and you are left with the crust as the bowl and the ingredients inside.



Their oven-grinders are also outstanding. An oven Grinder is a baked sub sandwich. I alternate each time I go between pizza and an Oven Grinder.



Also, try the Mediterranean Bread as an appetizer. It also is delicious.



Lastly, if you go when it is crowded, you will be amazed by the host/maitre d'. He will ask how many are in your party, but not write anything down. About an hour or so later he will come and find you and seat your party. If you notice the people milling about, waiting, you will notice that he pretty much has seated you in the proper order.



Definitely a fun time with friends!