When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Avli on The Park
Why Avli on The Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Avli on The Park stands out as a vibrant meeting spot nestled in Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood, offering a perfect blend of Mediterranean and Greek culinary delights in a welcoming atmosphere. This restaurant is an ideal destination for friends looking to enjoy a flavorful meal together, with its thoughtfully curated menu featuring inventive Greek dishes, including a variety of mezze, souvlaki, and fresh spreads like tzatziki and eggplant, accommodating diverse dietary preferences including vegan options. The ambiance reflects the lively and warm spirit of the Mediterranean, emphasized by the restaurant’s core philosophies of Philoxenia (hospitality), Kefi (joy), and Meraki (passion). Avli’s location near The Loop, Maggie Daley Park, and prominent shopping and entertainment venues adds to its appeal as a convenient yet special place to gather. Highlights include a seasonal rooftop for al-fresco dining, a private banquet room, and several semi-private event spaces, making it suitable for casual meetups, celebrations, or even business meetings. The provision of complimentary valet for dinner, extensive cocktail and curated Greek wine listings, and happy hour specials further enhance the experience, making Avli on The Park a standout destination for socializing, dining, and enjoying the vibrant culture of the Mediterranean coast right in downtown Chicago.
Here's what people think of Avli on The Park
As of recent, Avli on The Park holds a 4.2-star rating based on 708 reviews.
Customer reviews of Avli on The Park reflect an overall positive experience, with the restaurant holding a solid rating of approximately 4.2 out of 5 from over 700 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the tasteful and inventive Mediterranean cuisine, celebrating the variety and quality of the mezze offerings, fresh ingredients, and authentic flavors. Positive reviews often highlight the pleasant outdoor patio and rooftop dining areas, noting the comfortable ambiance ideal for social gatherings or intimate dinners. The cocktail and Greek wine selections receive frequent praise, as do the attentive and friendly service, which contribute to an inviting dining atmosphere. Additionally, guests frequently mention the thoughtful accommodations for dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free and vegan options, making it accessible for diverse groups. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional inconsistencies in service speed and minor issues with value perception in relation to price, as well as limited parking without valet (though complimentary valet service is offered at dinner). A few diners expressed that some dishes did not meet their expectations or lacked the bold flavors they anticipated. However, the majority of critiques are tempered by positive comments about the restaurant's ambiance and overall quality. In summary, the reviews portray Avli on The Park as a well-regarded dining option beloved for its culinary creativity, hospitality, and enjoyable setting, making it a dependable choice for anyone seeking a Mediterranean-inspired meal in Chicago’s urban core.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Darren B.
Amazing Greek inspired food and wonderful cocktails. Beautiful restaurant with a great rooftop patio. Nestled in a park and a five minute walk from Millennium Park. Prices are very reasonable. Service is spot on.
Jen Rountree
Was lucky enough to come here for a work lunch with a big group and that is definitely the way to go. We ordered almost all of the small plates and none of them disappointed. The calamari, pita, and lamb small plates were my favorite but you can’t go wrong in whatever you pick. Service was just as excellent as the food was.
Steve Johnson
We had a wonderful meal and experience at Ali Taverna that we dined here. The food at this location is great! Menu has less than the Taverna and we missed some options. Service was mediocre. We ordered soup, meatballs and a side of potato’s and broccoli. The soup is wonderful. Meatballs came next and the waiter checked on us and informed us he staggered the items. We wanted them all together and he did not ask. We also added tzatziki sauce and pita at this time. So good!
Queens Curry Kitchen
First time eating here-we were a group of 7 and we reached a tad late coz we were trying to walk up n down to find this place 🤣-clearly we are not from Chicago We started with a bunch of apps and each and every app was just outstanding ! The presentation the taste everything was so fresh and inviting ! My friends all had wine which they said was a great pairing I particularly liked the shrimp kataifi n the calamari…there was also a cheese appetizer which was flambé-d table side but I can’t remember the name( it tasted very provolone like) The only disappointing app was the pita and the spreads/dips…the proportion of the dip was not enough for anyone and the dips weren’t that great either Main course we got a bunch of things like pasta with mushrooms(I think) chicken souvlaki etc everything was quite flavorful and fresh We enjoyed the ambience and the meal
Isaac Gottesman
Wow—Avli has seriously leveled up! Something remarkable has happened here over the past year, and it’s all for the better. I’ve dined at Avli before and while the food was good, it didn’t really stick with me. But recently? It’s been a whole new experience. From the appetizers to the entrées and desserts, every dish was bursting with bold, unforgettable flavors. The service was warm and attentive, the ambiance felt effortlessly elegant, and the prices are actually better than I remember—making the whole evening feel like a hidden gem kind of discovery. We ended the night with their Caldera dessert—salty caramel, flame-broiled to perfection. It was indulgent, creative, and downright delicious. Avli has truly become a standout. Go check it out—you won’t be disappointed. (Tish was there too!)
How to reach Avli on The Park
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Why Avli on The Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Avli on The Park with your friends?
Choosing the perfect venue for a gathering with friends or family is crucial for creating memorable moments, and Avli on The Park in downtown Chicago stands out as an exceptional choice. This Mediterranean and Greek-inspired restaurant boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere that balances casual comfort with refined style, making it ideal for social meetups. Located centrally in Lakeshore East, just minutes from Maggie Daley Park and Chicago’s Loop, it offers easy accessibility coupled with stunning views of the city skyline and Park, creating an ambiance that enhances every gathering. Whether you're planning a relaxed brunch, lively dinner, or a happy hour catch-up, Avli on The Park’s commitment to excellent food, attentive service, and a vibrant atmosphere ensures a rewarding experience. With a solid rating of 4.2 from over 700 reviews, the restaurant has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike for its flavorful cuisine and accommodating spaces. The venue’s diverse menu, combined with flexible seating and event hosting options, makes it a place where groups can unwind, celebrate, and connect effortlessly. Simply put, it’s a place where good food and good company come together perfectly.
What activities can you enjoy at Avli on The Park?
Avli on The Park offers more than just a meal; it is a destination for varied activities that complement any group gathering. First and foremost, the restaurant features a Happy Hour from Sunday through Friday, 3 pm to 6 pm, presenting a great opportunity for friends to enjoy discounted cocktails and small bites in a lively yet relaxed setting. Sampling the Trio of small bites during Happy Hour allows groups to share and savor Mediterranean flavors together. For those who prefer a heartier meal, the restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated three-course $30 lunch special during weekdays, which is perfect for group lunches or casual meetings. Beyond dining, the venue’s rooftop seating area is a seasonal highlight where guests can mingle while soaking up panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city, adding an outdoor experiential element. For celebratory occasions or larger group events, Avli on The Park provides private banquet rooms and multiple semi-private spaces with attached parking, which makes hosting easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, the restaurant offers catering services, making it possible to bring the taste of Avli to private gatherings outside the space. Every detail—from menu variety to event-ready facilities—makes it great for socializing, dining, and celebrating in style.
Why is Avli on The Park perfect for a group meetup?
Several factors make Avli on The Park an ideal venue to meet with friends or family. One major advantage is its location: situated in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood, it’s easily reachable by public transportation or car, and it offers complimentary valet parking during dinner service, simplifying logistics for groups. The spacious dining room and diverse seating options, including cozy booths, large tables, and scenic outdoor rooftop arrangements, can comfortably accommodate various group sizes and preferences. The menu diversity plays a crucial role—a variety of Mediterranean and Greek dishes including vegan-friendly options means the restaurant caters well to multiple dietary needs, ensuring everyone in your group finds something delicious. Moreover, the restaurant’s professional yet friendly staff excel in managing group bookings, guaranteeing smooth service and attention to your party’s needs. Whether it’s a casual reunion, a birthday celebration, or a business-related social event, Avli on The Park’s combination of ambiance, convenience, and culinary excellence creates an environment conducive to connection and enjoyment.
How accessible and convenient is Avli on The Park for visitors?
Accessibility and convenience are essential when choosing a meetup spot, and Avli on The Park excels in this regard. It is centrally located at 180 N Field Blvd in Lakeshore East, a vibrant neighborhood that’s close to many of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, shopping areas, and entertainment venues. This proximity allows visitors to easily combine a visit to Avli with other activities, such as a walk through Maggie Daley Park or a visit to the nearby Chicago Riverwalk. The restaurant offers ample parking including an attached garage and complimentary valet at dinner hours, which is particularly beneficial when visiting with a group, sparing the hassle of searching for street parking. Public transit options are also plentiful, as Lakeshore East is well-served by buses and nearby train stations. Inside, Avli provides ADA-compliant access and offers table service, ensuring that all guests, regardless of physical ability, can comfortably enjoy their visit. These factors illustrate Avli on The Park’s dedication to making your group rendezvous as seamless as possible.
What kind of food and drinks can your group expect at Avli on The Park?
Avli on The Park specializes in authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine that is flavorful, fresh, and satisfying. You and your friends can expect a broad menu that features classic dishes such as fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian plates rich with herbs and traditional spices. Highlights include mezzes perfect for sharing, which encourage group interaction over tasting different items—ideal for casual meetups or celebrations. The restaurant also caters well to varied dietary preferences, providing vegan options and accommodating special diet requests, enhancing its suitability for diverse groups. Drinks are equally thoughtfully curated, with a selection of house cocktails, wines, and craft beers that pair wonderfully with the food. The Happy Hour menu offers discounted drinks and appetizers, enticing groups to linger and enjoy the sociable vibe without rushing. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely brunch, a festive dinner, or just drinks and appetizers, the menu is built to please diverse palates and make your gathering memorable.
Can Avli on The Park host special events and gatherings?
Yes, Avli on The Park is well-equipped to host a wide range of special events and group gatherings, making it a premium choice for anyone looking to celebrate with friends or family in a sophisticated yet casual environment. The restaurant features a private banquet room and multiple semi-private event spaces that can be tailored to fit different group sizes and occasions, from intimate family reunions to larger corporate events. The attached parking garage and convenient valet service significantly ease the arrival and departure experience for event guests. Many groups have chosen Avli for weddings, graduations, corporate parties, and other significant celebrations, partly due to Avli’s extensive in-house catering options. This flexibility allows hosts to bring the full Avli experience to any venue or keep it within the inviting restaurant space. Additionally, the seasonal rooftop area can be reserved for unique outdoor events, adding a scenic dimension to your gathering. The professional event staff at Avli work closely with clients to ensure customized menus, schedules, and setups, ensuring stress-free and memorable experiences for all involved.
How does Avli on The Park compare with similar venues in Chicago?
Avli on The Park ranks highly among Chicago’s Mediterranean restaurants and event venues, thanks to its strong combination of authentic cuisine, prime location, and versatile event accommodations. Its 4.2-star rating from over 700 reviews reflects consistent positive feedback on food quality, friendly service, and ambiance. Compared to other restaurants in the New East Side and Lakeshore East, Avli stands out for offering both casual dining and upscale event hosting under one roof, a versatility not always available elsewhere. The presence of a rooftop and private dining spaces enhances its appeal for groups seeking something beyond the typical restaurant experience. Many competing establishments may offer similar dishes but lack the added benefit of attached parking, event flexibility, or a location adjacent to popular city sites, all of which streamline visits and gatherings at Avli. For groups wanting a balance of comfort, style, and authentic flavors in a vibrant Chicago neighborhood, Avli on The Park is a reliable, impressive choice that consistently meets—and often exceeds—expectations.
What are the operating hours and best times to visit Avli on The Park?
Avli on The Park maintains generous operating hours designed to accommodate a variety of group plans and schedules. It opens from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Friday, offering both lunch and dinner options for workday meetups or leisurely evenings. On weekends, Saturday service starts a little earlier at 10:30 AM and runs through 10:00 PM, while Sunday hours are from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM, perfect for weekend brunch or relaxed dinners. The Happy Hour—a great time for groups to gather—is available Sundays through Fridays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, providing discounted drinks and small bites. For mid-week social groups or casual business meetups, weekday lunch specials and early dinners offer excellent value. For larger groups planning special events, reservations are advised to ensure availability in the desired seating area. Visiting during happy hour or weekend brunch times often results in a lively social atmosphere, making it great for group energy and interaction.
What makes Avli on The Park a neighborhood gem?
Avli on The Park is often described as a neighborhood gem because it combines the warmth and personal touch of a local favorite with the culinary and service standards of a top-tier restaurant. Its location in Lakeshore East, a thriving urban neighborhood, means it fosters a community feel while attracting visitors from across Chicago who appreciate its authentic Greek flavors and inviting environment. The staff are known for their friendly and attentive approach, making guests feel welcome whether they come in weekly or for a special occasion. The ability to host everything from casual lunches to elaborate private events without sacrificing quality or atmosphere further enhances its appeal. This adaptability, combined with a reasonable pricing model and high-quality ingredients, ensures a broad range of clientele can enjoy what Avli offers. For groups looking for a distinctive, reliable, and stylish meetup spot in downtown Chicago, Avli’s reputation as a neighborhood treasure makes it a satisfying choice time after time.