On the cusp of Bucktown and just outside Lincoln Park, Green Dolphin Street sits on the empty intersection of Ashland and Webster, and a brightly striped sign makes it hard to miss.
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Green Dolphin Street |
2200 N. Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL.
(773) 395-0066
Dining Hours: 5:30 to 9:45 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday
5:30 to 10:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday
5:30 to 8:45 p.m. Sundays
Closed Mondays
Club Hours:9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday
8:30 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Sundays
Closed Mondays
www.jazzitup.com
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I first encountered Green Dolphin Street 10 years ago and remember vividly the swank scene, the crowded dining hall, the stage showcasing a large jazz band, and in particular a rather rude waiter who literally sniffed when someone at my table ordered a glass of white zinfandel. "No one drinks that," he sputtered. That story must now be revised, as a recent trip uncovered impeccable, friendly service and a large selection of wines, including rosés, to accompany the music and the fine food. If you're searching for a jazz and dining destination, this is it.
ATMOSPHERE
Green Dolphin Street is a club in the old-fashioned sense -- geared toward dining, music, and dancing, reminiscent of classic films. Think Cary Grant or Ingmar Bergman. Dining tables fill the main hall, facing a large stage where crooners, instrumentalists and swingers set the tone. Other dining rooms feature wood and dark furnishings, with cozy banquettes and dim lighting -- perfect for that romantic date or special occasion. An enclosed patio adjacent to the dining rooms is spacious and pretty. My friend and I enjoyed our dinner on the patio, and afterwards were so relaxed we moved to the smooth bar to hear torch songs and try more wine.
CROWD
This is an excellent spot for couples or double dates, but is also fun for groups of friends or larger parties. You'll bask in the double glow of jazz and drink. Dress is nice -- slacks or dresses rather than jeans -- but the vibe is casual. People are here to enjoy themselves, and you can talk during the musical performances without fear of getting hushed, which is good for those who might be there more for the company than the jazz.
ENTERTAINMENT
But if you're there for the jazz, you're in the right place. Every night except Mondays, Green Dolphin Street offers jazz in many flavors, including swing, big band, latin jazz, salsa, and funk, rhythm and blues. Sometimes you can get a dance lesson -- check their online calendar for upcoming sessions. Covers vary from zero to $20, depending on the performer. Most nights you'll get in for about $10.
SPIRITS
The wine and spirits list is extensive, to say the least. You can choose anything from an $8 glass of Pinot Grigio to a $300 bottle of California Meritage, and sizes range from a glass or half-bottle to a magnum. Their selection is international, with several options from France, Italy, South Africa , New Zealand and elsewhere. And don't forget the after-dinner drink. I had cognac, a slow-sipping delight to match the beat in the other room.
GRUB
Food here is elegant and tastefully presented. The portions aren't huge, and the sides cost extra, but it's an occasion, so go for it. The menu offers steaks and fish, as well as salads and interesting appetizers. We loved the seafood appetizer for two, even if cutting a shrimp in half seems a little weird.
PRICES
Green Dolphin Street is pricey -- specials of the day can hit $36. If you're ready to splurge, this is a good place to do it. Or, you can stick with appetizers and drinks and still enjoy all the flavors and ambience.
WHY IT'S UNIQUE
There might be other places to hear jazz in Chicago, but Green Dolphin Street offers a classic experience you won't forget -- a combination of elegant food, wonderful wine, live jazz and fabulous service.
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kett82
Written by Guest on 2007-06-18 13:08:26
 Great review...! |
Written by Guest on 2007-06-18 20:37:54
Nice job! Always wondered what that place was like.
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