Argot

At Argot, the main selling point is the wine, which is not surprising considering this busy, stylish French restaurant is part of the Lincoln Park shop, Verve Wine. Stopping by for a glass or two at the bar and chatting with the friendly staff is always a good time, but feel free to move the fun to a table or banquette if you’re trying to hang and eat with a larger group. The food here is fine—expect dishes like a burger blanketed in red wine reduction or white fish in a crème fraîche sauce that both lean a bit rich and salty, but that’s nothing a little wine can’t wash out. If you’re inspired to pick up something on the way out, their library-esque retail section has floor-to-ceiling shelves full of all types of bottles.

photo credit: Clayton Hauck