When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar
Why Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar is a charming and inviting spot located in the heart of Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood. This upscale yet cozy kitchen and wine bar offers an intimate setting perfect for meeting up with friends whether for a casual brunch or a relaxed evening out. The ambiance combines a warm, friendly neighborhood supper club vibe with comfortable seating nooks, plush couches, and ambient lighting enhanced by a fireplace, creating a relaxing environment to unwind. The venue features a well-curated wine list handpicked by the owner and sommelier Lindsey, offering a diverse range of wines alongside craft cocktails including unique drinks like “Kind of Blue” and “Gilded Age,” plus beer and liquor options. Guests appreciate the thoughtful pairing recommendations tailored to their meals. The menu highlights seasonal small plates that encourage sharing, showcasing dishes like buttery short rib Wellington, creamy wild mushroom maltagliati, and braised beef with eggs. For brunch lovers, their offerings like chilaquiles and made-from-scratch Bloody Marys are highlights. Additionally, Uvae offers a daily happy hour featuring specials such as $2 oysters and $5 prosecco. The establishment also includes an adjacent fromagerie and tasting room, augmenting its appeal for wine and cheese enthusiasts. With attentive, knowledgeable staff and a comfortable yet classy atmosphere, Uvae stands out as a favorite neighborhood destination to gather and enjoy quality food and drinks together.
Here's what people think of Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar
As of recent, Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar holds a 4.6-star rating based on 320 reviews.
User reviews of Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar overwhelmingly express enthusiasm about this Andersonville newcomer, which opened recently yet quickly became a beloved local favorite. Reviewers repeatedly praise the warm and welcoming atmosphere, noting the cozy yet classy ambiance that makes it perfect for both casual and special occasions. Many customers highlight the extensive and thoughtfully curated wine list, crediting the owner and sommelier for their expert selections and personalized pairing suggestions. Positive feedback commonly mentions the high quality and creativity of the food, especially their seasonally rotating small plates and brunch menu. Specific dishes such as the braised beef & eggs and chilaquiles receive accolades, as do the fresh, house-made cocktails and handcrafted Bloody Marys. Reviewers also appreciate the friendly, attentive staff who engage with patrons to ensure a pleasant dining experience, which enhances the welcoming vibe of the bar. On the negative side, some guests note that the establishment currently lacks outdoor seating, which limits options especially during warmer months. A few reviews suggest that the pricing is on the higher end, reflecting its upscale nature, and recommend ordering multiple small plates to share to best enjoy the menu. Overall, though minor critiques exist, the consensus is that Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar offers a sophisticated yet approachable experience, balancing excellent drinks, quality food, and a comfortable setting that keeps guests returning. Its combination of knowledgeable service and a neighborhood supper club feel makes it a dependable and enjoyable spot for socializing and dining.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jay Fal
We had such a beautiful evening at Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar in Andersonville 🍷✨ Everything felt thoughtful without being fussy. We started with the burrata with marinated strawberries, basil, lavender, and pistachios 🍓🌿 It was creamy and light with just the right touch of sweetness. The fried artichoke stole the show early on. Crispy and rich, with chili oil, citrus, and the creamiest pecorino sauce 💛🔥 Then came the black cod. It was so tender and flavorful, with miso, cucumber salad, red cabbage purée, and a crispy rice cake 🐟🍜 Every bite was balanced and comforting. Cocktails were clean and creative 🍸 and the wine pairing made everything shine 🍷 We finished with their cheesecake topped with seasonal compote and these fun little crunchy bits 🍰 It was light, tangy, and the perfect ending. The service was warm, the space was cozy, and we left already talking about when to come back. Highly recommend this neighborhood gem 💫
annie
came here for a quick drink and snack. what brought us in was the $2 oyster happy hour. overall, i was thoroughly impressed with the service, ambience, and food. we were checked up on multiple times, the decor was super cute, and the food and drink was delicious. will definitely be coming back whenever i’m in the area
Tom Lewis
In Chicago we suffer an embarrassment of culinary riches and I’ve enjoyed many a fine meal here, but after four years in the windy city at Uvae, I may have just had my best meal yet. The February Wine Dinner was the best four-course Prix Fixe I've ever had -- period, full-stop. While the food and wine were excellent on their own, pairings were harmonious making the total more than the sum of its parts. Our server Erika was funny, engaging, professional, knowledgeable, and attentive. Her descriptions were spot on and she really contributed to our experience. What more could a diner ask for? Manager Cate was gracious and warm as well. The portions were generous and beautifully presented without being overly ambitious. The service was warm and professional and the ambiance just right. The talent and passion from every single person in the kitchen shone through on every plate and with every bite. I can not sing the praises of Uvae highly enough and wish the restaurant and all the talent that resides within every success. What a not so hidden gem in Andersonville this is. May it shine for many years to come.
Jenbala Ya
Had dinner here, and it was a pleasant experience. The sommelier was knowledgeable and nice, with the wine pairings being the highlight. The food was prepared with care, but the taste was just alright. Good vibes overall. I’d come back for the wine tasting and happy hour deals.
Mary Joe
I was on the Andersonville wine walk when i found this business and i will definitely be back! After our samples they helped us find wines each of us loved and then we tried tried their burrata was incredible. They have specials pretty much very week day so I’ll be back for sure.
How to reach Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar
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Why Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar with your friends? Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar offers an exceptional blend of atmosphere, cuisine, and wine that makes it an ideal destination for gathering with friends or family. First, its vibe combines the charm of a friendly neighborhood supper club with an inviting, warm ambiance, featuring beautiful and comfortable decor that encourages relaxed socializing. This welcoming environment lets groups enjoy meaningful conversations without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The menu is both creative and diverse, featuring gourmet small plates and shareable dishes that encourage communal dining, perfect for groups who want to sample a variety of flavors together. Their wine selection, curated by a knowledgeable sommelier, features a broad range of options with flexible pour sizes designed to satisfy every palate, allowing friends to explore wines together without making full-bottle commitments. Attentive service rounds out the experience, making guests feel cared for from the first glass to the last bite. With everything from daily happy hour specials including $2 oysters and $5 prosecco to an adjacent Fromagerie & Tasting Room for wine tasting events, Uvae stands out as a perfect spot for evenings filled with great tastes and great company.
What activities can you enjoy at Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar? Group meetups at Uvae can revolve around multiple engaging activities that cater to different tastes and moods. Start your evening with their popular Happy Hour, which features specials such as $2 oysters and $5 prosecco, setting a festive tone and providing affordable starters that excite the palate. For those looking to deepen their wine experience, the adjacent Fromagerie & Tasting Room offers a unique opportunity to sample select wines in a more intimate setting, making it ideal for wine tastings or educational classes hosted by their sommelier. Sharing plates is another highlight, as their menu offers a wide selection of creatively prepared small dishes, including standout items such as braised pork with apple slaw, lobster cakes with amazing sauce, crispy brussels sprouts, and short ribs Wellington—each designed to delight while encouraging sharing and conversation among friends. The extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff also allow guests to explore perfect food and wine pairings, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you want a leisurely dinner, a lively wine-tasting event, or happy hour with friends, Uvae has the flexibility to accommodate.
Why is Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar perfect for group meetups? Uvae’s layout and service philosophy make it exceptionally well-suited to groups large and small. The intimate yet spacious dining area helps create a cozy ambiance conducive to group conversations while preventing noise from becoming overwhelming, which is a common pitfall in busy urban restaurants. The menu design, emphasizing “shareables” and small plates, naturally fosters interaction as guests pass dishes around the table, trying a range of flavors instead of ordering individual entrees. This communal dining style is excellent for meetups where the goal is to taste and experience food together. Additionally, the wine service is tailored for groups with multiple pour sizes available (3, 6, or 9 ounces), allowing everyone to customize their experience without needing to commit to a full bottle, making for a more casual and exploratory evening. The attentive and knowledgeable staff also play a crucial role, offering personalized recommendations, ensuring timely service, and making guests feel welcomed, which enhances the group vibe and prevents frustration. Finally, the option to extend your meetup into the Fromagerie & Tasting Room adds a sophisticated after-dinner activity that can turn a simple meal into a memorable event.
What kind of food and wine can guests expect at Uvae? Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar boasts a menu that is both innovative and approachable, appealing to a wide range of tastes which makes it ideal for a group with diverse preferences. You can expect dishes like the duck pâté appetizer, scallops with butternut squash sauce, and spiced carrots atop chickpea-sauerkraut puree—smart culinary creations that balance creativity and familiarity. The charcuterie boards are especially popular for groups, offering an assortment of cheeses, breads, and spreads ample enough to share comfortably among four or more. Other notable dishes include bacon-wrapped shrimp with blue cheese sauce, lobster cakes, and braised pork with apple slaw and cheese grits—each dish designed to boast deep, layered flavors. Wine lovers will appreciate the carefully curated list, including unique selections and classic varietals available by the glass with portion flexibility, giving groups the freedom to sample and share. The sommelier’s expertise ensures that wine choices correctly complement your meal, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to every bite.
How does Uvae’s atmosphere enhance the meetup experience? The physical and social atmosphere at Uvae is a large part of its appeal for social gatherings. The sophisticated yet unpretentious interior creates a cozy yet elegant backdrop, where exposed brick, warm lighting, and tasteful decor make guests feel both comfortable and special. This setting helps reduce the noise and hustle typical of many bars or large restaurants, allowing for easier conversation and a laid-back feel. Crucially, the vibe here is never stuffy or intimidating despite the upscale touches, which means groups don’t have to worry about feeling out of place or pressured. Friendly, attentive staff members contribute to a welcoming environment, ensuring that guests receive prompt attention without being intrusive, which is essential for comfortable group dynamics. For those desiring a quieter or more focused experience, the separate Fromagerie & Tasting Room offers a refined space for wine tastings and smaller gatherings, adding to the overall flexibility of the venue.
What special occasions or group sizes can Uvae accommodate? Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner with close friends, a family celebration, or a casual after-work gathering, Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar is well equipped to cater to groups of various sizes. While the restaurant is cozy, it manages to balance space for private conversations with the communal dining experience that friends and relatives cherish. Larger groups can book in advance, especially on weekends when reservations are recommended due to the popularity of the place. The presence of multiple dining spaces including the main dining room and the Fromagerie & Tasting Room gives groups the option to either stay together or divide according to mood or activity preference. The staff is experienced in handling gatherings and will assist with seating arrangements and menu coordination to ensure all dietary and wine preferences are met. From casual meetups during weekday happy hours to more elaborate weekend dinners, Uvae offers versatility that makes group events memorable and enjoyable.
What makes Uvae stand out from other wine bars? Unlike many wine bars that can feel overly formal or intimidating, Uvae strikes a balance between sophistication and approachability, which is key to its appeal as a group-friendly destination. Their extensive wine list paired with portion flexibility means guests can experiment with wines without pressure, encouraging exploration and lively discussion. The food menu elevates the wine bar concept by offering thoughtful and inventive dishes focused on shareability and bold flavors rather than simple bar snacks. The addition of the Fromagerie & Tasting Room is a unique selling point, providing a curated setting for tastings, classes, and retail purchases under expert guidance. This broader concept extends the visit beyond dining and drinking, making Uvae not just a place for a meal but a destination for wine and food enthusiasts to learn, taste, and socialize in a comfortable environment.
How does Uvae ensure a quality experience through service? Service quality at Uvae is consistently praised for being attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, vital elements that enrich the group meetup experience. Servers are not only responsive but also well-versed in the menu and wine list, often assisting guests in discovering pairings that best suit their tastes and dietary needs. This personalized approach helps groups navigate the diverse menu with confidence and enjoy a seamless dining experience. The staff’s ability to handle busy nights efficiently ensures that groups receive timely service without feeling rushed. Even during more crowded times, efforts are made to maintain a warm atmosphere with attentive care so that the focus remains on enjoyment and connection. Such service standards transform a simple outing into a memorable event where guests feel truly valued and comfortable.
What do customers say about their experience at Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar? Patrons consistently commend Uvae for its beautiful décor, warm and cozy ambiance, creative and delicious menu, and excellent wine choices. Many reviews highlight the attentive service and the sommelier’s expert recommendations as significant positives. Guests often mention small details like perfectly cooked dishes, interesting flavor combinations, and the joy of sharing a variety of small plates with friends. Happy Hour offerings like $2 oysters and $5 prosecco are especially popular, making the experience both enjoyable and accessible. While the overall sentiment is highly positive, occasional critiques about pricing and rare service mishaps are outweighed by the consistently high quality and welcoming atmosphere noted across hundreds of reviews. The 4.6-star rating from over 320 reviews reflects widespread satisfaction and a strong likelihood of repeat visits, emphasizing Uvae as a trusted venue for social dining in Chicago.
In sum, Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar excels as a premier spot for rallying with friends due to its combination of inviting ambiance, thoughtfully designed shareable menu, extensive wine selection, and outstanding service. Whether you want a casual happy hour, a culinary adventure, or a private tasting event, this Andersonville gem caters expertly to group needs and creates lasting memories with every visit.