Ema recently became a favorite place to meet my friends after work and recommend to my family to try when they are in Chicago. Ema’s location makes it easy for me and my two best friends to meet up as we are coming from three different parts of the city. Also, being close to downtown makes it easy for visitors to find in the city.

I picked Ema for a weekday get-together because the food is light but satisfying. The menu is set up for each person to order a few plates and share. Do not miss ordering the hummus and crispy potatoes.

The cocktail Fog Over Rio impressed me and I was delighted to share a bottle of wine from Lebanon (I am part Lebanese) with my friends. The atmosphere is bright and laid back. Reservations are recommended as I was here on a Monday night and we waited 15 minutes with a reservation. This is also a “Lettuce Entertain You” restaurant, so you can earn points.

If you do not know what “Lettuce Entertain You” is and you live in or visit Chicago often, sign up for an account. The staff at Ema can help you and you will be on your way to earn $ off your next dinner out.