When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Boleo
Why Boleo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Boleo stands out as a multifaceted global enterprise with a strong presence in both international consulting and the construction machinery industry. The company excels as a gathering place for professionals and businesses seeking expertise in diverse sectors such as international technical assistance, project management, and foreign trade, alongside advanced machinery manufacturing. Boleo’s consulting division offers specialized services including business law advice, development of international projects, capacity-building programs, and innovation consulting across sectors like human rights, governance, tourism, culture, and technology. The company is recognized for its multidisciplinary team and innovative methodologies, with offices spanning Seville, Brussels, Washington D.C., and regional hubs in Central America, the Andean region, and Eastern Europe. Concurrently, Boleo’s construction machinery brand gains recognition for producing high-performance hydraulic excavators, intelligent skid steer loaders, and compact equipment backed by stringent quality standards. Their commitment to "thinking like an engineer" ensures each product undergoes rigorous testing and refinement, using components sourced from world-renowned manufacturers to guarantee durability and reliability. With a strong focus on sustainable development and social welfare, Boleo fosters collaborations that blend cutting-edge technical solutions with socially responsible practices, making it an exceptional and well-rounded place for partners, clients, and suppliers to connect and collaborate.
Here's what people think of Boleo
As of recent, Boleo holds a 4.3-star rating based on 525 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Boleo's solid reputation, reflected in its 4.3 star rating across more than 500 reviews. Positive feedback often praises the company's commitment to quality and reliability, especially regarding their construction machinery products. Users appreciate the durable and innovative equipment, noting that Boleo’s machines maintain peak performance even under demanding conditions. Reviewers also commend the strong warranty and responsive dealer support that Boleo provides, as well as the professional and knowledgeable customer service teams who ensure smooth maintenance and repairs. On the consulting side, clients value Boleo’s comprehensive approach and their ability to address complex international projects with expertise and trustworthiness. Negative reviews are comparatively few but tend to focus on occasional challenges in logistical coordination or longer lead times for parts and services. Some users have expressed the desire for enhanced communication or faster resolution of technical issues. Despite these points, the overall consensus places Boleo as a dependable and client-focused company that successfully combines technical innovation with user-centered service. In conclusion, reviews depict Boleo as an industry player that balances product excellence with attentive customer care, fostering confidence among its global user base.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Disha Hickman
Absolutely amazing! The staff was amazing and extremely flexible. We had reservations for a time and needed to adjust it. Cameron was able to accommodate us with no issues at all. Our waiter Chase was phenomenal! They were very knowledgeable about the menu and provided delicious selections for us to choose from. We had the opportunity to watch a flamenco show as we enjoyed our dinner. My partner had the tender brisket & rice. I had the half chicken & Yuka fries with Chimichurri sauce. Absolutely delicious! Flavorful with every bite. Juicy and cooked to perfection.
Mattelyn Collins
Had a great time Friday night! The service was impeccable! We were very disappointed that the rooftop was closed. That was the reason for our visit. But our server, Chase was amazing and the manager, I cant remember his name, was so pleasant. They made sure the birthday girl had all the extra attention she deserved. Hopefully, when we return the rooftop will be open.
Daniel Moss
Boleo is a must if you come to Chicago. Our server Chace was amazing, made our anniversary evening feel very special here. Food was amazing drinks were even better and the atmosphere... chef's kiss.
B. P.
Boleo offers a neat rooftop bar, but we missed out on the main draw due to rain. The atmosphere indoors was pleasant enough, but it felt like just another restaurant without the open-air vibe. The food was decent, but not particularly memorable. The empanadas were definitely the highlight, while the ceviche could have used more seasoning. The remaining dishes were satisfactory, but nothing stood out as exceptional. Service started off strong, but unfortunately tapered off as the meal progressed. It's unlikely we'll return, but Boleo could be a convenient option if you're already staying at the Kimpton Gray Hotel.
Wesley Reid
I absolutely love this place and Eric the chef, Is my favorite chef in Chicago. Literally everything eric cooks is incredible and if you have special request, he always accommodates. This is one of my favorite places with my favorite chef.
How to reach Boleo
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Why Boleo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Boleo with your friends?
Boleo stands out as an ideal spot for gathering with friends due to its unique blend of vibrant South American culture and an inviting rooftop atmosphere in the heart of Chicago. The moment you step into Boleo, you’re transported to a lively setting filled with sultry beats and flavors from Argentina and Peru, providing an immersive experience unlike any traditional restaurant or bar. The rooftop location atop the Kimpton Gray Hotel offers breathtaking city views that create a perfect backdrop for socializing, celebration, or just unwinding together after a long day. Beyond the ambiance, Boleo is known for its warm, attentive service that helps make every group feel special and taken care of. Its retractable glass roof means that whatever the weather, the vibe remains warm and welcoming, ensuring your meetup won’t be affected by Chicago's unpredictable climate. Whether you're seated on plush couches or enjoying the open-air rooftop, Boleo makes any gathering feel intimate and fun, combining impressive cocktails, delectable South American dishes, and a dynamic atmosphere that encourages connection and celebration with those closest to you.
What activities and experiences make Boleo perfect for group meetups?
Boleo offers more than just dining — it provides a lively social experience designed for groups looking to engage in multiple activities together. First, its vibrant rooftop bar is an ideal place to savor expertly crafted cocktails infused with South American flavors. Sharing unique drinks like their signature pisco sours or mezcal-based cocktails creates a communal experience that encourages conversation and discovery. The music is another significant part of the experience; Boleo’s curated playlist often includes sultry beats reminiscent of tango and other South American styles, enriching the mood with an authentic soundtrack that elevates the atmosphere. Small live music performances are common during early evenings, offering a lively soundtrack to your gathering without overwhelming conversation. The comfortable lounge seating areas, including cozy couches, invite guests to lounge and connect casually while enjoying the skyline views, ensuring groups have a relaxed space to converse or celebrate. This combination of sensory experiences—taste, sound, and sight—makes Boleo a dynamic setting perfect for groups seeking a memorable and culturally authentic meetup.
What kind of food can your group expect at Boleo?
The culinary offerings at Boleo complement its vibrant atmosphere with a menu rooted in Peruvian and Argentine street food, designed to be shared and enjoyed communally. Groups can indulge in a range of enticing small plates such as empanadas, a popular highlight for many visitors for their crispy, flavorful fillings. Other dishes include ceviche with fresh seafood marinated in citrus, although seasoning preferences vary, and various grilled meats prepared with regional spices that reflect the robust flavors of South America. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, light ingredients that balance the richness of the cocktails and provide a satisfying but not overly heavy dining experience—ideal for social gatherings that may also include dancing or extended lounging. The menu’s diversity ensures there’s something for every palate, making it easy for groups to sample and share multiple dishes, fostering a communal dining experience that brings everyone together through food. In addition to the food, Boleo’s cocktail program aligns with the cuisine’s theme, featuring drinks crafted with ingredients like pisco and mezcal, offering an authentic taste of South America in every sip.
How does Boleo’s location and design enhance group meetups?
Situated on the rooftop of the Kimpton Gray Hotel in downtown Chicago, Boleo benefits from an unbeatable central location that makes it accessible and convenient for groups coming from across the city. The 15-story elevator ride to the top adds an element of anticipation and exclusivity to the visit. Once upstairs, the rooftop design features a massive retractable glass roof that allows guests to enjoy open-air dining and panoramic views of the Chicago skyline in comfortable conditions year-round, regardless of wind or rain. This blend of indoor and outdoor space makes it versatile for different group sizes and special occasions, from casual hangouts to milestone celebrations. The contemporary decor merges sleek modern furnishings with subtle South American touches, creating a refined yet relaxed environment that feels both stylish and welcoming. Plush couches and well-spaced seating options accommodate groups of various sizes comfortably, encouraging conversation and connection without feeling cramped. This thoughtful design enhances the social aspect of meetups, allowing groups to spread out or gather closely as they prefer.
What kind of group occasions is Boleo best suited for?
Boleo’s vibrant and stylish environment suits a wide range of group occasions, making it an excellent choice for friends and families looking to celebrate or simply reconnect. The atmosphere is festive yet relaxed, ideal for birthdays, reunions, or casual after-work meetups where good food, drinks, and ambience are priorities. The rooftop setting also lends itself beautifully to romantic dates within larger group events or even casual engagement celebrations. Because the venue offers a perfect balance of sophistication and fun, it caters well to a diverse crowd—from young professionals seeking a chic urban lounge experience to families who want an inviting space to enjoy a special meal together. While the restaurant sometimes hosts private events that may limit reservation availability, it maintains a friendly, personable service standard that helps groups feel welcome and well cared for when they visit. Plus, the location in the Loop makes it a convenient choice for those arriving from theater outings, downtown offices, or nearby hotels, adding to its flexibility for different meetup plans.
How does the service at Boleo support a seamless group experience?
Service at Boleo is frequently praised for its attentiveness and the staff’s warm, accommodating approach, which is especially important for group gatherings where individual needs can vary greatly. Many reviewers note how servers go above and beyond to ensure celebratory moments are acknowledged and that guests receive personalized attention. For example, hosts have reported that staff members gracefully managed high-maintenance groups and handled simultaneous demands with professionalism and care. This level of service contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the experience, allowing groups to focus on their celebration or socializing without stress. Although some critiques mention occasional inconsistencies during peak hours, the consensus indicates that Boleo staff typically strive to create a memorable, positive experience. Effective communication, timely food and drink service, and the ability to manage group-oriented orders and requests make Boleo a practical and enjoyable option for meetups. The staff’s local knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for the South American theme further enrich the dining experience by providing helpful recommendations and insights to first-time visitors or tasting adventurers.
What unique aspects set Boleo apart from other rooftop restaurants?
Boleo distinguishes itself through its vibrant South American theme that permeates every aspect of the experience, from the music and menu to the visual design and beverage selection. Unlike generic rooftop bars or restaurants, Boleo offers an authentic cultural experience that invites guests on a sensory journey without leaving Chicago. Its dedication to Argentine and Peruvian flavors in both food and drink breaks away from common rooftop fare, offering something fresh and compelling for groups interested in trying new tastes. The combination of an elegant rooftop setting with a retractable glass roof makes it usable year-round, which is a significant advantage over many rooftop venues that close or reduce services in colder months. Additionally, the integration of curated live music events and carefully crafted playlists designed to complement the cuisine celebrates the rich musical traditions of South America, creating a holistic cultural vibe. This multi-layered approach ensures guests get not just a meal or a drink but an experience that stimulates sight, taste, and sound—a compelling reason for groups seeking more than just a place to eat and drink.
Why is Boleo a smart choice for repeat group visits?
Groups tend to return to Boleo because it offers a consistently engaging environment with enough variety to make each visit feel new while maintaining beloved elements. The menu’s combination of classic South American dishes and seasonal specials invites exploration over multiple occasions. The dynamic atmosphere, influenced by changing music, occasional live performances, and the ever-changing Chicago skyline views, means no two visits are exactly alike. Furthermore, the staff’s friendly familiarity with returning guests helps create a welcoming community feel that encourages loyalty. Despite occasional challenges with reservations due to private events, many groups value Boleo for special celebrations where they expect impeccable ambiance and service. Being located off the beaten path in a hotel, yet with easy city access, also means it’s a reliable go-to that isn’t overwhelmed by tourist crowds but still feels exciting and upscale for locals. Each trip to Boleo becomes not just a meal but a memorable outing that strengthens bonds between friends and family through shared culture and conviviality.