Home » Special Features » The World’s Best » Best Power Lunches Chicago
The days of the three-martini lunch may be gone, but some restaurants still buzz with the sound of wheels and deals in motion. Discreet alcoves hide the quiet rendezvous, suitably imposing menus impress VIP clients, and exquisite waterfront views set the scene for a celebratory toast. These power playgrounds attract all breeds of movers and shakers—from high-profile politicians and finance execs to media moguls and entertainment royalty.
The Draw: If you’re really looking to impress, this will do the trick. Executive Chef Paul Kahan is obsessed with the freshest produce, and you can taste it on your plate. Award-laden and still wildly popular after over ten years, Blackbird is don’t-miss dining. The Scene: The super-small space has simple lines and muted hues, letting the food, and the stunning clientele, stand out. Mon–Thu 11:30am–2pm and 5:30–10:30pm, Fri 11:30am–2pm and 5–11:30pm, Sat 5–11:30pm. $$$ Hot Tip: Given the somewhat crowded tables and boisterous atmosphere, this place is better suited to celebration than to serious negotiating.
Capital Grille 633 N. Saint Clair St., Gold Coast, 312-337-9400 thecapitalgrille.com
The Draw: Masculine beyond compare, Capital Grille is the place to go when your expense account has no limits. The Scene: Power players celebrate victories and wrangle deals while ingesting super-sized, dry-aged cuts of meat and dirty martinis. Mon–Thu 11:30am–2:30pm and 5–10pm, Fri 11:30am–2:30pm and 5–11pm,
Sat 5–11pm, Sun 5–10pm.$$$ Hot Tip: If you’re looking to talk business with a group and want total privacy, there are three private dining rooms available.
Naha 500 N. Clark St., River North, 312-321-6242 naha-chicago.com
The Draw: The combination of a warm and inviting vibe and standout Mediterranean-influenced American cuisine make this a perennially popular choice. The Scene: Calm, cool surroundings make for a very polished setting in which to enjoy a professional lunch with a colleague or client. Chef Carrie Nahabedian’s Armenian heritage and background at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills inform her clean, classic cooking. Mon–Thu 11:30am–2pm and 5:30–9:30pm, Fri 11:30am–2pm and 5:30–10pm, Sat 5:30–10pm. $$$ Hot Tip: Try the hamburger for lunch; it’s been voted one of Chicago’s best. Plus, it’s an unexpected touch in such nice digs.
