WINE 'EM AND DINE 'EM



An insiders secret to Chicago is its BYOB restaurants. These establishments do not have their liquor licenses to sell - but will allow you to bring your own alcohol to enjoy. Not only a money saver, it can prove to be a great night out when you can grab your favorite, cheap bottle(s) of champagne, jug of sangria or special wine you brought back from your trip to Napa. You'll see everything from a case of beer to a six-pack of Coke and a bottle of Beam being shared at BYOB restaurants. Some restaurants do charge a "corkage" fee of $10-15, but it's worth it to be able to bring your favorite, special drink!



Here are a few of the best BYOB establishments in the city:

HOUSE OF HOOKAH: Hookah/ Smoking Lounge. This place is one of the only places where you can smoke a cigarette (indoors) and drink at the same time. They let you bring any type of wine, liquor, or beer. There is a liquor store right around the corner. Prices are low, around $5 per person. This establishment also offers free wifi to customers. House of Hookah is open late 7 days a week. Located just 3 blocks east of the Red, Brown, and Purple lines on Belmont. On the corner of Belmont and Broadway. 607 W. Belmont Ave. www.chicagohookah.com House of Hookah



BONSOIREE: Modern American. You'll find it hard to resist bringing your favorite wine to compliment this upscale dinner menu at very reasonable prices. Try the four, seven, and 13 course tasting menus Tues-Sun. Don't forget to join the Underground Mailing list to receive invitations to exclusive Saturday night dining parties hosted in the restaurant. 2728 W. Armitage. www.bon-soiree.com/

COAST: Sushi. Located in Chicago's western Bucktown neighborhood, this classy sushi restaurant is a great place to bring a couple bottles of wine. The food is excellent with a menu offering everything from beginner to adventurous sushi. The restaurant is relaxed and hip, but not too trendy. The location is wonderful, plopped in between some of Bucktown's trendiest shops and bars. 2045 N. Damen Ave. www.coastsushibar.com/



PENNY'S: Thai. Penny's is a small, corner establishment in the heart of Wrigleyville. Delicious thai and an great outdoor seating area brings the masses everynight of the week. There is a liqour store across the street with a decent wine selection that you can pop in before heading over. I suggest the German sweet wines to compliment the spicy dishes you'll be served at Penny's! 3400 N. Sheffield Ave. www.pennysnoodleshop.com/

LAS TABLAS: South American Steakhouse. Perfectly seasoned beef and rice can be found at this amazing BYOB. Great ambiance with candles at each table and great music, accompanied by an even better outdoor eating area. Walking distance to the heart of Lincoln Park, this is must eat in Chicago. 2965 N. Lincoln Ave.

MAMACITA'S: Mexican. Grab some Corona's and loosen your belt for this Chicago staple. You'll enjoy everything from burritos to fajita plates and good crowds at this young, Northside eatery. The restaurant is very inviting with Spanish tiles while the outdoor seating area is great for mucho people watching. 2439 N. Clark St.

www.mamacitarestaurant.com/