Apolonia

"You might already be familiar with S.K.Y in Pilsen, a fantastic restaurant that feels like a sexy basement. Apolonia, a mostly Mediterranean restaurant, is from the same team. Unlike S.K.Y., Apolonia is bright and airy, with tall windows and high ceilings. There are dishes like mussels on toast, buttery truffle puff bread, and fiorentini topped with a rich pork sugo. McCormick Place isn’t known for having a plethora of upscale restaurants in its vicinity, but this is where you can have a fun dinner with your coworkers after a conference, or catch up with visiting family who spent the day touring the Museum Campus." - veda kilaru, adrian kane, john ringor

"Stephen Gillanders (S.K.Y.) takes inspiration from his Scottish side with a unique Euro-Mediterranean menu in an elegant space near Wintrust Arena. The pastas are the star (the bucatini is a highlight). Find interesting seafood and a top-shelf dessert menu." - Ashok Selvam

"This light and breezy Mediterranean and Italian restaurant features handmade pasta, fish, and a tasting menu from chef Stephen Gillanders, a restaurant veteran with three restaurants in Chicago (S.K.Y., Valhalla). It’s open from brunch, lunch, and dinner and is a good upscale choice for a celebration or when diners want something a little special without hurting the bank account too much." - Ashok Selvam

"Located in South Loop, another venue where Jelena Prodan has made a significant impact." - Ashok Selvam

"Apolonia is a Mediterranean restaurant conveniently located near McCormick Place and the plethora of hotels in its vicinity. You’ll find couples drinking wine, as well as lanyard-wearing Accounting Association Summit attendees debating which of the fantastic dishes—like the roasted mussels on toast, buttery truffle puff bread, or fiorentini topped with a pork sugo—to order. After dinner, head next door to VU Rooftop for drinks and one of the best views of the city." - sam faye, adrian kane, john ringor, veda kilaru, nick allen