312 Chicago

What a pleasant surprise. I was making last-minute dinner reservations before a play at the Goodman -- and to be honest, the only reason I ended up here was because it was the only theater district restaurant with a table available.  I usually avoid places with review averages below 4 stars on Yelp, but I need to stop that -- because I realize what a kiss of death that can be for an establishment -- and the rating in many ways can be self-perpetuating.

Yes, 312 was very crowded, and although the decor was tasteful, the ambiance was a bit loud and busy.  But any negativity stops there ....

Our server was spectacular.  She recognized that we were in a rush for the play -- and told us not to worry -- and she remained active through the whole meal making sure things moved at the right pace.  

And despite the rush and despite that it was Restaurant Week, the food was exquisitely prepared.  I had a ravioli and my wife had salmon.  The ravioli was homemade and fresh -- the best I've had in awhile -- and the salmon was perfectly cooked.

They have a very good beer and wine selection as well.

To top it all off, despite the rather large crowds they often accommodate, the chef makes a commitment to local and organic foods.

For what it is -- I couldn't ask for more.

Food not great, tourist trap.

I don't know why this place doesn't have a 4-5 star average!

I had a wonderful experience. My partner and I spent the weekend downtown and stayed in Hotel Allegro (attached to this restaurant).

We made a reservation two days in advance for 6:30pm. We were greeted and seated immediately on a busy Saturday night. The service was above and beyond friendly and attentive. They even gave us two glasses of Proseco for FREE since we were celebrating an anniversary.

We happened to be there during restaurant week and each had three courses for $33. Great deal!

Appetizers:
Grilled calamari- amazing, highly recommend
Beets and goat cheese salad- good, but not spectacular

Entrees:
Squash tortellini- delicious
Salmon on bed of barley, kal, and pearl onions- very, very flavorful and PERFECTLY cooked. Fish was very fresh.

Dessert:
Carrot cake- yum
Flourless chocolat cake with berries- excellent, very decadent. berries were very fresh.

We will definetly go back. Good experience all around!