The Delta | Chicago

"The Delta is a casual Southern bar and restaurant in Wicker Park that’s great for drinks and light bites. There’s a long cocktail menu, and you can also get snacks like tamales, fried shrimp, and smoked catfish dip. They have a secluded back patio, so you can grab a seat back there, then head to the bathroom and just dip out. You shouldn’t, but you could." - adrian kane, john ringor

"The Delta has a very nice back patio that you might not know exists. You can’t see it from the street, and it’s far away from all the noise of Chicago Avenue. Come here for dishes like hush puppies, Delta-style tamales (which are simmered instead of steamed), and a burger." - adrian kane, john ringor

"If the date is less a romantic evening, and more of an escape pod from your shared life of bills and random errands, try The Delta in Wicker Park. It’s a laid-back restaurant that serves Southern food like hush puppies, fried green tomatoes, and tamales, and most things are less than $15. Plus there’s a quiet, secluded back patio to help you forget that tomorrow you need to buy stamps." - josh barnett, adrian kane

"The Delta is a bar and restaurant in Wicker Park that’s great for cocktails and small-plate Southern food, and they specialize in tamales. Cocktail-wise, there are a bunch of different “smashes” (made with crushed ice), and also “vases” of drinks that are excellent for sharing. It’s small in here, and gets very crowded, so you have the perfect opportunity for an exit line like, “Wanna get out of here? My place is right around the corner.”" - adrian kane

"The Delta is a laid-back place in Wicker Park with consistently delicious Southern small plates (like tamales and hush puppies), plus a secluded back patio. They don’t take reservations, so it’s a good idea to be prepared with a back-up plan. If it’s busy, just put your name in and grab a drink at Dorian’s down the street." - josh barnett, sam faye