Avli River North

There are several Avli's around Chicago—you'll find one in Lincoln Park, Lakeshore East, and inTime Out Market, just to name a few. And the River North location of this upscale Greek spot is a good option for a fun group dinner in the neighborhood. It has a family-style menu, with dishes like astakomakmaronatha (a lobster pasta in a great ouzo-tomato sauce) and chicken souvlaki—tender chicken breast skewers on top of a bed of fries topped with feta and yogurt sauce. Plus, there's a huge patio and the large two-level space is perfect for groups, while also being quiet enough to have a conversation.