An American Bistro in Lincoln Park

My dining companions at Gemini Bistro

If you're not looking for it, you'll zoom right past Gemini Bistro on Lincoln Avenue. But if you are looking for the cool flatiron building, you'll appreciate the clean exterior and convenient location in the middle of Lincoln Park. Parking is usually easy on Lincoln Avenue and the restaurant isn't too far from public transit.

The location is great and the building is a unique design, but, really, you should visit Gemini for the food. And drinks. And the homey atmosphere.

Our table wasn't quite ready on a busy Sunday night during restaurant week, so we started at the bar. I had a delicious Chicago Sidecar, while Z had a Lychee Martini, one of his go-to drinks.

We dined with friends Kelley and Peter, also adventurous foodies, so we had the luxury of being able to try many dishes on the menu. My favorite dish of the evening was a special--foie gras atop a toasted ciabata, accompanied by a cherry chutney. We ordered two. It was that good. Z still talks about it and holds it up as the gold standard in foie gras.

Other favorites on the menu included the Creamless Tomato Soup, the Baby Beet Salad and the Truffle Parmesan Fries. I typically love brussels sprots, but I found the sprouts at Gemini to be mushy and flavorless. The Gemini Burger wasn't anything special either.

Gemini Bistro is another Michelin Bib Gourmand winner. You can make a reservation on OpenTable. In the warmer months, request a table outside on the sidewalk cafe.

Awesome Aviary

Mike ordered the classic "In the Rocks"

I thank my super-foodie friends Andrea and Javier for introducing me to Aviary last summer. They don't even live in Chicago and know all of the hippest spots! Aviary is perfect for a special occasion, a birthday or other celebration or just a fun night on the town. What makes Aviary such a great place to take out-of-town guests is the unique presentation and careful detail in each and every drink. It represents some of the most innovative culinary presentation the city has to offer. When Betsy and Mike were in town a few weekends ago and we wanted to grab drinks before dinner, we knew just where to take them.

Betsy's drink

Aviary accepts reservations if you email them in advance. Seating times are 6 p.m., 8 p.m. or 10 p.m. I recommend making a reservation to avoid waiting an hour or more on a typical Friday night. Guests dining at Next, which is adjacent to Aviary, have preference at Aviary.

My drink--"The Ginger". Seems better suited for Mike.

Don't come to Aviary expecting to eat a full meal with your drinks. The menu features delectable bite-sized portions, but you'd have to eat the entire meal at least twice to get a decent meal.

Pina Colada--My favorite drink of the evening