Thanks! I knew folks would have good ideas. Appreciate the help.

This isn't about a meal, per se, but I know hounds know the scene better than most ... Have reservations at 830 for a special occasion dinner in River North area at 830 and family is looking for a place to have cocktails beforehand, probably 7/730ish. The group will probably be about 6, ranging from 25 to 65 -- a multigenerational family group. We don't absolutely need to be seated or able to get a table but I doubt that there is much appetite for a super-crowded hip spot where it will be tough to even find a spot to perch or hard to hear each other talk. (yes, violet hour is great but not workable for us, I don't think.)

Given these parameters, I suspect we are talking about hotel bars, but if we are, maybe there is one that won't be too painful for the younger set?

We would be willing to cab to dinner if there is a great bar option in another neighborhood but hopefully not too far!

Thanks for any advice. The chicagoans are the older folk, so they aren't much help in finding the spot!

I wanted to try to get this back on the radar! desert rose is in my neighborhood and i would love to get an opinion ...