When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Figo Wine Bar
Why Figo Wine Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Figo Wine Bar, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, offers a unique and inviting experience that makes it an excellent spot to meet up with friends. This wine bar brings the ambiance and charm of a modern Italian wine bar, complemented by a menu featuring Italian-inspired tapas and foreign cuisine fusion, crafting a culinary adventure for guests. The atmosphere is lively yet cozy, making it perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions, with a capacity to host private dining and wine cellar parties for groups of six or more. The bar boasts a carefully curated wine list selected by a sommelier, ensuring wine enthusiasts have an exciting variety to explore. Happy hour offerings include select wines, cocktails, appetizers, and a standout charcuterie board, all at attractive prices that encourage relaxed socializing. Its location on North Sheffield places it conveniently close to downtown Chicago and other key landmarks, making it easily accessible. Whether you're indulging in small plates such as tuna tartare or mushroom bruschetta, joining a wine tasting menu event, or enjoying the convivial atmosphere at the bar during happy hour, Figo presents a versatile and appealing venue for friends to connect over great food and wine.
Here's what people think of Figo Wine Bar
As of recent, Figo Wine Bar holds a 4.2-star rating based on 299 reviews.
Reviews of Figo Wine Bar are generally positive, reflecting its reputation as a fantastic neighborhood spot with a surprisingly deep wine list and outstanding small plates. Many reviewers appreciate the attentive service, with servers providing excellent wine recommendations and detailed descriptions of dishes, enhancing the dining experience. Positive feedback highlights the delicious tapas, especially the tuna tartare and mushroom bruschetta, which some guests consider among the best they've had. The ambiance is rated as lively and suitable for social gatherings, with a friendly neighborhood vibe and a charming Italian setting. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention inconsistencies such as seating arrangements that felt inconvenient and a few disappointing dishes like calamari, criticized for poor preparation and texture. Additionally, some customers noted issues with the communication around complimentary items and service coordination. Despite these critiques, many patrons express a willingness to return because the quality of other dishes and the overall inviting atmosphere outweigh these minor setbacks. In conclusion, while Figo Wine Bar has areas to improve, particularly regarding menu consistency and host-to-server communication, the bar remains a favored destination for those seeking a pleasant wine bar experience with great food and attentive service in a lively Chicago neighborhood setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gurleen Kaur
Such a cute place to grab a drink! I came here with a few friends and we had such a cute time grabbing some drinks and enjoying the fun ambiance! Service was a bit slow but they were pretty busy so we didn’t mind too much and they were super helpful with choosing drinks!
Bill Wang
A cozy wood-accented Italian wine bar in Lakeview. The small plates were mostly enjoyable though with a few misses. The octopus was a standout with a tender texture and great char, while the roasted beets and pear salad were fresh and well-balanced. The shrimp and clams were overly salty, and the tortellini felt overcooked and heavy. Overall, a comforting neighborhood spot for a relaxed dinner, though a bit uneven in execution.
candycoated kush
Oysters were delicious & well shucked. The dates with speck were excellent, as was the artichoke bruschetta. We enjoyed an orange wine from Austria that was very lovely. The food & drinks came out quickly & ambiance was quiet & classy. Highly recommend.
John Smith
Figo Wine Bar is a hidden gem in Lakeview that never disappoints. I recently visited with a friend and we shared a selection of tapas: the truffle arancini, pork belly, and gnocchi. Each dish was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. We paired our meal with a bottle of Italian red wine, which complemented the dishes perfectly. The service was attentive without being overbearing, and the staff was knowledgeable about the wine list. We spent around $100, which felt like a steal for the quality and experience. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking for a great meal, Figo Wine Bar is a must-visit.
Keith R
Cute neighborhood wine bar with good Italian tapas that gets loud on the weekends. We went on a Friday night - reservations were available online and looked very available. Make reservations! Although the place was completely packed our table was available a little early. Food was good with the arancini the highlight. Pear salad made a nice counterpoint to our other heavy dishes. Nice options with the select your own meat / cheese plate and the mix & match oysters. Duck breast was good, skin / fat could have been more crispy / rendered. Service was engaging and courteous - coverage felt slightly stretched at times with the full house. Atmosphere - very cute spot but the tables are close together and when packed the noise level is quite high. Would recommend for a weeknight if you are in that neighborhood: pre-show bites or group outing with reservations.
How to reach Figo Wine Bar
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Why Figo Wine Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Figo Wine Bar with your friends?
Figo Wine Bar offers an inviting and distinctive atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to gather with friends or family for a memorable meetup. The venue's focus on blending the best elements of a traditional Italian wine bar with international culinary influences creates a unique and exciting dining experience. Whether you are wine aficionados or just looking for a relaxed place to enjoy good food and drink, Figo’s carefully curated wine list and thoughtfully crafted menu cater to diverse tastes. The wine tasting offerings and happy hour specials add an element of fun and value, encouraging guests to explore new flavors together. With a warm yet lively ambiance that combines cozy spaces and elegant styling, Figo creates the perfect backdrop for conversations, celebrations, and shared moments. It’s also conveniently located in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, close to public transit, making it accessible for groups. The ability to book private spaces, such as the wine cellar for parties of six or more, further enhances its appeal as a versatile venue for socializing in a welcoming, stylish setting.
What activities are available at Figo Wine Bar for groups?
Figo Wine Bar is much more than just a place for food and drink; it provides various engaging activities that make your group meetup special. The standout activity is the wine tasting menu, designed for wine lovers eager to sample a range of sommelier-selected wines that highlight both Italian tradition and global varieties. This experiential tasting invites groups to savor different profiles and discover new favorites collectively. Happy hour features add another layer of enjoyment, with select wines priced at $9 and cocktails for $10, alongside appetizers and a popular charcuterie board, creating an affordable way to spend quality time with friends. Groups can also reserve the wine cellar—a private, intimate space perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings of six or more—offering exclusivity and comfort for your party. Moreover, the bar hosts special events periodically, inviting guests to join in on unique occasions and themed nights that foster a lively communal vibe. The menu itself acts as an activity: with Italian small plates, pasta, and international dishes, sharing and trying multiple items becomes an interactive and social dining experience.
Why is Figo Wine Bar perfect for a group meetup?
Figo Wine Bar is tailored to accommodate groups of all sizes in a way that feels both personal and festive. Its flexible seating arrangements and private spaces like the wine cellar ensure that groups can enjoy privacy or blend into the vibrant main dining room depending on the occasion. The combination of excellent food and beverage quality with a strong focus on wine culture means guests are not just eating and drinking but enjoying an elevated culinary journey together. The happy hour specials provide an incentive for groups to gather early and extend the experience without breaking the bank. Additionally, the staff’s knowledgeable and accommodating service enhances any group visit by helping select wines or dishes that suit the occasion and group preferences, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable visit. The venue’s location in a lively neighborhood also adds convenience and opportunities for further activities or nightlife after your meetup. This thoughtful blend of ambiance, menu variety, pricing, space, and service creates an environment that naturally fosters great conversation, laughter, and camaraderie among friends and family.
What kinds of food and wine can I expect at Figo Wine Bar?
The cuisine at Figo Wine Bar revolves around Italian traditions infused with international influences, creating a diverse and exciting menu that appeals to a broad audience. Expect Italian tapas-style small plates, savory pasta dishes, and globally inspired flavors, all crafted to complement the wine selection. The charcuterie board—a crowd favorite—is ideal for sharing and pairs beautifully with the well-curated wines. The sommelier-selected wine list includes authentic Italian wines alongside international varieties, which ensures that every wine lover in your group will find something to enjoy. Seasonal specials and a wine tasting menu further elevate the dining experience, inviting exploration and discovery. Cocktails are also thoughtfully selected, offering a balance to the rich wine program. The food and beverage pairing philosophy invites guests to experiment and enjoy new taste combinations, making each visit fresh and engaging.
How accessible and convenient is Figo Wine Bar for hosting meetups?
Located at 3207 N Sheffield Ave in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, Figo Wine Bar benefits from easy access via public transportation, including the nearby Belmont CTA station, making it a convenient choice for guests traveling from different parts of the city. The bar’s operating hours, from 4 or 5 PM until 10 PM every day, accommodate after-work meetups as well as weekend gatherings. For larger groups, the option to reserve the wine cellar on multiple days of the week or arrange special event bookings outside regular hours demonstrates flexibility and a willingness to tailor the experience to your needs. The environment is spacious enough to handle group sizes while maintaining an intimate feel, particularly in private areas. For guests who prefer a casual visit, the bar seating and happy hour incentives encourage spontaneous drop-ins as well. Overall, Figo combines location, operational convenience, and adaptable settings, making group meetups effortless to organize and enjoy.
How does Figo Wine Bar stand out compared to other wine bars in Chicago?
Figo Wine Bar distinguishes itself through its commitment to blending traditional Italian wine bar qualities with a global culinary perspective, which is fairly unique among Chicago’s competitive wine and dining scenes. While many bars focus strictly on local or Italian fare, Figo's menu incorporates international influences that broaden the appeal and offer an adventurous culinary experience. The sommelier-selected wine list is curated thoughtfully to complement these diverse flavors, rather than just adhering to the expected pairings, which appeals to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. The private wine cellar reservation option provides an upscale yet accessible way to host gatherings in an intimate setting. Moreover, Figo’s vibrant happy hour and special event offerings create dynamic social opportunities that many other wine bars do not consistently provide. This blend of excellent hospitality, diverse menu, and wine expertise has earned Figo a strong reputation and solid reviews, making it a favored destination for both locals and visitors seeking a stylish, welcoming spot to enjoy quality wine and food with friends or family.
What special events or promotions can groups look forward to at Figo Wine Bar?
Figo Wine Bar frequently hosts special occasions and events that add excitement and novelty to any group outing. From happy hour promotions Monday through Friday—with select wines and cocktails at reduced prices—to curated wine tasting menus, customers can engage in activities that elevate their meetup beyond the typical dinner or drinks scenario. The wine cellar can be reserved for private events, including themed wine tastings or celebrations that require a more exclusive venue. These events often feature sommelier-guided tastings, which enhance the educational aspect while keeping the atmosphere lively and enjoyable. Additionally, Figo occasionally opens outside of regular hours or before main service to accommodate very large parties or special gatherings, ensuring that groups have the freedom to tailor their event to specific needs. This active approach to engagement and flexibility in hosting helps foster a community feeling and keeps guests returning for fresh experiences.
What should I know about the atmosphere and service at Figo Wine Bar?
Visitors to Figo Wine Bar consistently remark on the warm, inviting ambiance that balances cozy comfort with chic styling. The space is designed with high ceilings and elegant decor that elevate the casual Italian wine bar vibe without feeling pretentious. The lighting and layout encourage intimate conversations while also supporting a lively social scene. Though some reviewers have noted minor issues such as the air conditioning management due to the high ceilings, overall, the environment is praised for making guests feel at ease and welcome. Service at Figo is generally described as attentive and knowledgeable, with staff happy to guide guests through wine selections or menu recommendations, which is especially valuable for group meetups with varied preferences. This combination of atmosphere and service helps ensure that every visit feels special, relaxed, and well attended.
How can I best plan my group meetup at Figo Wine Bar?
To make the most of your group event at Figo Wine Bar, start by considering the size and preferences of your party. For groups of six or more, booking the wine cellar in advance is highly recommended for a private, focused experience. Reservations can be made through OpenTable for most days or directly by phone, with flexibility for weekend or larger special event bookings. Take advantage of the happy hour hours for early arrivals to maximize value and enjoy a variety of drinks and small plates. Discuss any dietary restrictions or special preferences with the staff ahead of time—they are accommodating and knowledgeable about the menu’s international offerings. Planning around special events hosted by Figo can also add exclusivity and fun to your gathering. Lastly, consider transport options and timing to ensure everyone arrives comfortably and on time, reinforcing a smooth, enjoyable evening for all attendees. With a bit of planning, your meetup at Figo Wine Bar will combine excellent food, wine, and company in an unforgettable way.