Katerina's

New Discovery: jazz trio "Guitars of Fire" at Katerina's: I'm a regular on weekends at Katerina's and must say that, as a restaurant, it's first-rate. Katerina Carson is a gracious hostess and music connoisseur. Personal favorites on the menu are the tomato-scallion dip and pork medallions (Greek style). Katerina regularly features famous artists, some of whom I've reviewed elsewhere (e.g. Grazyna Auguscik, Goran Ivanovic). I was astonished to discover an amazing new talent this last Wednesday: Guitars of Fire. The band features duelling virtuosos Gregory Dobrov and Jeff Burns who are propelled by the percussive skills of Joe DeJohns. Their music is a collage of influences and original brilliance. Their sound is perhaps best described as "Friday Night in San Francisco" collides with European jazz. I was able to acquire a demo CD of their music but am told that the first formal release is forthcoming only this summer. Guitars of Fire play once a month (first Wed.) with the superb Rumba Flamenco ensemble "Guitarra Azul"--also a phenomenal musical experience. Pros: Music and Food Cons: Parking can be a bit tricky on weekends more

Katerinas is a premier place to hear Jazz. Along with the Green Mill Katerina's only hires the best jazz musicians in the city. The food is great by the way. Some of the appetizers, I think I had a fruit plate with some kind of syrup on it that was one of the best I have ever had. I have seen a number of groups there including Guitarras Azul...unbelievalbe....Rio Bamba....my favorite, and Andy Brown.... The music is superb, the service is real, and the look of the place is really romantic. If I'm by myself ...I just sit at the bar and being a woman I can tell you it's a very comfortable place to be alone in. I dig it! Pros: Great food and entertainment Cons: Can't think of anything. more

pretty place, good music. but the service was awful, we felt like the server did not want to work and she was kicking out. be nice!!! more

Katerina's is an outright treasure that should be front and center in every travel and guide book about Chicago ! Without the slightest doubt in my mind, its the best combination of restaurant and nightclub this city has to offer. If you just chose to examine Katerina's as a restaurant, I think the food would stand up to the best in the city. If you factor in the very reasonable prices you have got a cost per value ratio that any restaurant in the USA would be proud of. The grilled calamari and the are the best I have ever eaten anywhere. Though meatballs would seem on the surace a simple dish,I have been disappointed by Italian icons like Gene and Georgetti's and the Italian Village but not Katerina's. Just want a snack? The delicious Skorthalia,a creamy garlic dip served with crusty bread,will excite your taste buds, cure your cold, and end that evening's smooching all at the same time. I could simply go on and on, but let me conclude by saying I have been through about 98% of the menu. There is not one dish that I would not describe as at least very good ,so order what you like without the slightest worry. As a nightclub, Katerina's offers an intimate, warm, cozy, candlelit atmosphere that allows you ,if you choose ,to sit close enough to make you feel you were being entertained in your own living room. And what entertainment you can expect! Guitarist Alfonso Ponticelli, singers Grazyna Auguscik and Spider Saloff are Katerina's regulars and genuine world stars. Guitarra Azul (neo flamenco)and Rio Bamba (Bossa Nova and Samba)and jazz singer Amanda Crumley are fast rising "ones to watch".These are just a few. Katerina knows music and just like with the food ,you won't be disappointed. Katerina herself is a friendly,gracious ,hostess who goes out of her way to make sure first timers have a great experience, so do not be afraid to announce it's your first visit. The staff works very hard. Bartender Liz is dearly loved by all the regulars and especially me. more

First off, I'm a musician and I want to support establishments that have live music. It's a trend that is not exactly expanding right now. Quite the opposite, unfortunately. Anyway, I went there with the most optimistic expectations and was somewhat disappointed. Not with the food or the entertainment, but with the way we were treated. When we first arrived we were told not pleasantly, by I think the owner, that there was a $5 cover charge. We were seated and before we looked at the menu they demanded that we pay the cover. Ok... I have no problem paying for entertainment, but how about: "Welcome to Katerina's, by the way there will be a cover charge for the music. Would you like to pay now or have it added to your check?" The way they handled us was a real turn-off. The service after that was ok and the food was good. However, when we got the check I discovered they over-charged us $10 for our beverages. The waitress corrected it without an apology. Considering how we were dealt with when we walked in, I can't help thinking that it was deliberate. I think this establishment is struggling a bit. I like their concept with dinner and music and Chicago could use more places like this. Too bad I probably won't be going back. Pros: Food, music, ambience Cons: Surly service, street parking in a busy area more

This coffeebar is not your average neighborhood coffee shop. Its decor is that of a nightclub, the menu includes a small list of entrees, and they have great live music many nights of the week. Drop by on Tuesday or Thursday through Saturday nights and you'll likely find a jazz band playing in this close and intimate venue--no cover! The food and drinks are very good. The scones, baked goods and desserts are particulary tasty and the entrees are worth a look. The only downside is a very small and busy waitstaff. If you are there with a group it could take a while. But they are very friendly and give the impression of a family run business. Overall, I think this is a great little place. Don't go there expecting your usual coffee shop, restaurant or jazz club. Katerina's is a interesting blend of the three. Pros: Good music., Good food., Good ambiance. Cons: Small waitstaff. more