avec River North

"Let’s say someone in your party might have a little too much wine, then shout something rude about your future in an ivory tower. Head to Avec in River North. Unlike narrow, shoebox-sized Avec in the West Loop, no one can overhear your conversation at this much larger location. Plus, the combination of wood and tile floors, tall windows, and high ceilings make the whole space sound like a mall food court in December. The menu is full of delicious Avec classics (like the chorizo-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates and taleggio flatbread), along with a lot more small and large plates, pastas, and pizza." - veda kilaru, john ringor, adrian kane, nick allen