Where to Dine During ProMat 2023
Strolling through the more than 1,000 exhibits that ProMat 2023 offers, you are bound to work up an appetite. Chicago’s culinary scene is one of the great perks of attending the trade show in March. Whether you want to entertain clients or show your employees the town, we have rounded up a list of reservation-worthy restaurants.
Restaurants Perfect for a Business Dinner
RPM Steak: Nothing says business dinner like a great steakhouse, especially if it’s a trendy one like RPM Steak. This restaurant is a favorite in the River North neighborhood. Japanese and Kobe beef are what is recommended here, along with the desserts. With chocolate peanut butter pie and vanilla sugar doughnuts on the menu, the final course is not to be skipped! (Note: if Italian is more your thing, book a dinner at the steakhouse’s fancy sister, RPM Italian.)
The Dearborn: Think upscale tavern. With red booths, beautiful hardwoods, and old pictures of Chicago, this place has just the right amount of character. For that local flavor, you can’t go wrong with the Midwest Fried Chicken appetizer. From there, graduate to the short ribs or housemade parmesan gnocchi. A private room is available if you want to set up a larger dinner meeting.
Le Select: With a French, Michelin star chef and white tablecloths, you might expect Le Select to be overly stuffy. But nope, this brasserie prides itself on serving great food in a comfortable setting. The tarte flambée and poached salmon with beurre blanc are among the all-star lineup of French dishes.
Don’t Forget Jose Andrés!
In addition to being a ProMat keynote and humanitarian, José Andrés is also a world famous chef. Chicago is home to a few of his popular restaurant endeavors. If you can get a reservation, we highly recommend any of the following:
Bar Mar: This is a fun highlight of the River North neighborhood. Although you will recognize many traditional Spanish dishes like flan and patatas bravas, it could be your first opportunity to try baby squid in ink sauce. Featuring a Wine Monday and an “adventurous drinkers” section on their cocktail menu, Bar Mar is a great place for a light meal or happy hour drink.
Bazaar Meat: Located upstairs from Bar Mar, is the lively Bazaar Meat. This is definitely a spot for carnivores! From tartars, to carpaccios, to tenderloins, to bison…you can get stuffed just reading the menu. If you are looking to impress your dinner mates, go ahead and splurge for the “say when” caviar service.
Jaleo: You might just think you’re in Spain when you’re served classics from José Andrés childhood: bocatos, omelets, mussels, and a range of Spanish cheeses. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the menu; the flavors will blow you away. Quite simply, Jaleo is good for anyone with taste buds.
Mercat a la Planxa: If you can’t get into a José Andrés joint, rest assured that we have a good backup plan. Satisfy your Catalan cravings at Mercat a la Planxa! Located in Chicago’s South Loop, it is a short drive away from the McCormick Place. On the menu, you will find several varieties of paella, croquettes, and charcuterie. End with churros!
For more Chicago attractions during ProMat 2023 check out choosechicago.com.
