Chicago is one of those cities that's steeped in history. It's old school. But despite the odds against it (most notably, it's in a flyover state), Chicago still remains on the leading edge of style, and culture. So when you're in Chi-town, you be sure to take one evening for the classic, and one for the new.

Charlie Trotter's
This has been a local institution for 20 years, and it has a pretty tight grip on being one of the classiest spots to dine. If it won't be a problem for you to lay down some pretty serious money, then it won't be a problem for them to lay down some serious seafood and meat courses. The food there is, in one overused word, delicious. And it's also worth the bucks. But also, saying you haven't been to Trotter's is simply not an option for any serious man on the move who finds himself in Chicago.

Alinea
But let's not forget about the new, the hip, the place everyone is talking about: It's called Alinea, and it's located conveniently near the Steppenwolf Theatre (which you should be sure to take advantage of). You may have heard of Alinea, as it's been covered in pretty much every single culinary publication ever printed. If not, here's where you learn that it's not only the hottest, hippest, most stylish restaurants in Chicago, but it's also probably the most unique. In addition to the food, Alinea is known for its aromas. It's more complicated than you think:

Alinea takes the experience of eating to a whole new level when they flavor the air in which you dine. Those rosemary centerpieces aren't just there for decoration. They are actually heated up to produce an aroma that compliments the flavor of your food. And to think, just when you thought you mastered the art of pairing wine with food, they bring it to a whole new level.

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6/2/08