Chicago Restaurant Week

Chicago Restaurant Week is a fantastic opportunity to get a taste of fine dining without breaking the bank, as over 130 restaurants throughout Chicago offer a 3-course prix-fixe meal at the same price.February 20 - 27, 2009Over 130 Chicago restaurants will be offering a 3-course prix-fixe meal for the same price -- $22 for lunch, $32 for dinner. Beverages, tax, and tip not included.Starting in 2008, Chicago Restaurant Week was created to help boost business at area restaurants in what is typically a slower time of the year. It was such a success the first go around that it's now been turned into an annual event.

Over 130 Chicago restaurants are participating, offering a set prix-fixe menu of 3 courses for $22 at lunch, $32 at dinner. As many of the restaurants normally have entrée selections well into the $20 range, this provides a unique opportunity to sample some great cuisine and get a nice bottle of wine and spend less than $100 for an enjoyable dinner for 2. If I had to pick a half dozen restaurants from the dining choices, at the top of my list would be:

Carnivale
702 W. Fulton St.
Latin food, colorful decor, and a fun atmosphere

David Burke's Primehouse
616 N. Rush Street
Newcomer David Burke's has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the city's best places for steak

The Gage
24 S. Michigan Ave.
Chef Dirk Flanigan prepares upscale comfort food in a pub-like atmosphere

Japonais
600 W. Chicago Ave.
This trendy spot serves up some of Chicago's highest quality sushi

one sixtyblue
1400 W. Randolph
A long time favorite, this restaurant helped set the stage for the Chicago contemporary dining revolution

Topolobampo
445 N. Clark St.
Chef Rick Bayless turns upside-down most American's notions of Mexican food

View the entire list of spots participating in Chicago Restaurant Week, as well as make early reservations if you're an American Express cardholder.