A Saturday night at Billy Goat Tavern vs Luxbar vs ...?

Question

Hi looking for eats saturday night.

Gonna be arriving via car. Haven't spent much time in Chicago, ruled out blues spots so we can chat as a 4 person table more comfortably.

Frankly I'd be open to free live music, just isn't the trip to pay cover charge.

Should I be thinking Marge's or Green Door?

Any local advice appreciated.

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a fun, relaxed spot to enjoy some great food and a comfortable setting for conversation, without breaking the bank or dealing with a cover charge for live music. Chicago has plenty of options for a Saturday night with good eats and a laid-back vibe. Here's a breakdown of the places you mentioned, along with a few additional recommendations:

Billy Goat Tavern: A Chicago classic known for its casual, no-frills vibe and famous "cheeseburger, cheeseburger" sandwiches. If you're looking for something iconic and quintessentially Chicago, this is a great option. It’s a fun spot with a dive bar atmosphere, but the space might be a bit tight for a group of four to chat comfortably, especially on a busy Saturday night. The food is cheap and tasty, but it's more about the experience and nostalgia than the ambiance.
Luxbar: If you're after something a little more polished and upscale while still maintaining a relaxed atmosphere, Luxbar is a great choice. It has a nice balance of comfort and style, with a broad menu that includes everything from burgers to steak and seafood. It's a trendy spot with a lively vibe, but it also has enough space for a quieter dinner where you can chat. Plus, it’s located in the Gold Coast, which is a great area to stroll around afterward.
Marge’s: A hidden gem in Chicago with a chill vibe, Marge’s is known for its cozy atmosphere, and while it's a little off the beaten path, it’s a local favorite. It's definitely a more intimate place for hanging out with a group, and the food is solid, with comfort dishes that can easily please everyone. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious, perfect for a group dinner if you want to avoid the crowds. It might not have live music, but the low-key setting makes for a relaxed evening.
Green Door Tavern: Another great option if you’re in the mood for a relaxed, historic spot. Green Door Tavern is one of the oldest bars in Chicago, with a fantastic selection of drinks and a cozy, old-school vibe. It’s a good place to grab a bite and enjoy a casual conversation. The food is decent, though not necessarily the main draw—it's more about the history and ambiance. It does tend to get busy, but it’s perfect for a casual, relaxed night out without the pressure of live music or crowds.

Other recommendations if you're open to a few more suggestions:

Small Cheval: Located in the Gold Coast, Small Cheval is a great burger spot with a relaxed, modern vibe. It's casual but offers great food, making it a great option for a Saturday night. It’s a smaller venue, so it can get busy, but it’s a great spot for chatting with friends over delicious burgers.
The Violet Hour: If you're open to a more relaxed, cocktail-oriented spot for after-dinner drinks, The Violet Hour in Wicker Park is a fantastic option. It’s a cozy, intimate speakeasy with a very chill vibe. They don’t do live music, but the atmosphere is great for conversation, and the drinks are top-notch.
Parson’s Chicken & Fish: This is a fantastic casual spot in Logan Square. Known for its fried chicken and seafood, it also has a relaxed, fun atmosphere. It can be lively, but there’s also a good balance of space for your group to chat. They also have a beautiful outdoor patio, so you can enjoy the Chicago weather if it's not too cold.

In summary, it really depends on what vibe you're going for. If you want something iconic and no-frills, Billy Goat Tavern is your spot. If you're after something with a more upscale feel, Luxbar might be the way to go. Marge’s and Green Door Tavern offer cozy atmospheres with a touch of old-school Chicago charm, perfect for a group of four looking for a relaxing night without the hassle of loud music or big crowds. Enjoy your evening, and have a great time in Chicago!

A Saturday night at Billy Goat Tavern vs Luxbar vs ...?

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