meetinchicago.com location in Lakeview. Uncommon Ground also serves craft beer from its own Greenstar Brewing, which was the first organic brewery in Illinois. At the Edgewater location, plan a rooftop cocktail party in the garden, followed by dinner on the large outdoor patio or in one of the two rustic dining rooms. Acclaimed Mexican restaurants Topolobampo and Frontera Grill , owned by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, have both been awarded Guaranteed Green Seal certification by the Green Restaurant Association. The restaurants were recognized for their efforts to reduce waste, energy, and water use, improve recycling, and support organic farming. Bayless sources much of the restaurants’ produce and ingredients from local, sustainable farmers, limiting the resources needed to transport ingredients across the country. Tacos, Mexican street snacks, and seafood specialties are the stars of the show at La Vista , a festive private dining space located above Frontera Grill that accommodates up to 32 seated guests, or 50 reception-style. Big Jones is an LGBTQ-friendly dining option in the historic Andersonville neighborhood, serving up delicious Southern heirloom cuisine like fried catfish and shrimp and grits. Big Jones has made it a mission to develop sourcing practices that are as sustainable and healthy as possible. The restaurant is a partner in the Shedd Aquarium’s Sustainable Seafood program, which serves as an educational resource for all things seafood, as well as a reference for ethical sourcing options. Big Jones also prioritizes using organic produce and meats from a variety of Midwest farms. Topolobampo
Chicago Meeting Professionals Guide 2022: Page 41
