Restaurants near McCormick Place

We were seated 10 minutes early for our 1pm reservation. Out server arrived at our table immediately and greeted us. We put in drink orders then when she came with those we ordered our appetizer and meal. We thought it might take a bit of time as the place was full but it was all out quickly. Ordered thr pot pie and braised beef and both good. This is where service got slow but I think they seated 3 or 4 new tables in her area at once so she was busy. Ordered thr mint cheesecake and that was amazing. Bill was $80 plus tax so not really bad for 2 people to have a nice meal with drinks and dessert. The tree and Christmas decorations were beautiful and we lucked out and were seated near the tree. Will make it a tradition each year to go back. Lucked out on the reservation because we missed it when it opened. So glad we got one!

Pizza Portofino is one of my favorite spots in the city. The garlic bread and truffle pizza (request hot honey, trust me) are GAME CHANGER. I went with a few friends and we all agreed that they both redefined garlic bread and pizza (at least in Illinois) respectively. Great service and great vibes!

The wait staff was friendly and accommodating. It was not busy so they allowed us to sit in the window area. Our service and food were good and because it wasn’t real busy it was not noisy. Our only negative was their signature appetizer—the crostinis were burnt, I don’t mind well done so decided to go ahead and try them but all I could taste was the burnt taste. We told our waitress and she got new ones that still appeared burnt but did not taste as bad, but still not great. Neither of us ate much of the appetizer, it just tasted like burnt toast.

Everything was amazing. I just needed a bit more seasonings on the fish.

I celebrated my birthday with Lips today, and let me tell you, this was such a memorable experience. Our food was delicious, the server was a fabulous diva and performer who made sure that i felt like a VIP guest. The entertainment was next level with theatrical performances. They shared the spotlight with all of those celebrating a special occasion. There was free cake, a free photo. And they didn't mind taking all of the selfies that you asked for. My entire party left with smiles on our faces, and we will definitely return again soon.