Taste of River North

Question

Hi! Myself and two friends will be visiting Chicago the weekend of July 18th and are staying in the River North area. I see it’s the Taste of River North that weekend. Can anyone tell me about it? Would you recommend it for dinner/drinks on Friday night (we currently have reservations at Rose Mary)? We’re in our 40s. Is it fun or overly crowded?

Answer

The Taste of River North is a fantastic event for anyone visiting the area during that weekend! It’s an annual food and drink festival showcasing some of the best restaurants and bars in the River North neighborhood. The event typically features local chefs offering tasting portions of their dishes, along with craft cocktails, beer, and wine. It’s a great way to experience the local culinary scene in one place, with many options to try. It also tends to have a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a fun night out.

As for whether you should go on Friday night, it depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. The Taste of River North can get quite crowded, especially in the early evening, as people gather to sample food and drinks. However, it can be a really enjoyable experience if you like a bustling, energetic vibe. Since you're staying in River North, it could be a convenient way to dive into the neighborhood’s food scene.

If you’re worried about the crowd, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Pros:
- It’s a fun event with a festive, community atmosphere.
- You'll get to try food and drinks from multiple local places in one spot.
- Live music and entertainment make the evening more enjoyable.
Cons:
- It can be crowded, especially as the night goes on, which may be a little overwhelming if you prefer a quieter setting.
- The lines for food and drinks can be long during peak hours, so you might spend some time waiting.

Since you already have a reservation at Rose Mary, which is an excellent choice for a delicious dinner, I’d recommend keeping that reservation and enjoying a more relaxed dining experience first. Afterward, you can head to the Taste of River North for drinks and some light bites. This way, you can avoid the crowds during dinner but still enjoy the event afterward, especially if you’re in the mood for some post-dinner fun.

If you're set on checking out the event on Friday night, try to get there early before it gets too crowded, or perhaps visit later in the evening after the initial rush dies down. It's definitely a great way to experience the local food culture in a lively and interactive setting.

In summary, the Taste of River North is a great event, but it can be crowded. If you're looking for a more relaxed dinner experience, Rose Mary is a wonderful option. If you want to check out the Taste afterward, it can be a fun way to continue your night with great food and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere!