Geja's Cafe

Geja's Cafe is a fantastic restaurant. I took my partner here for a nice dinner years ago, and ever since, it's been "our place".

Making reservations here is easy, whether it's in person, over the phone, online through their site, or through Open Table. We've always had hosts and servers that are very nice, well-mannered, and fun. The seating is sort of like having private booths, which adds to the romance. The decor is classy and welcoming, but you can feel free to dress casually. We usually dress up a bit because it's a special dinner for us, but we do that because we want to, not because they demand it. Sometimes while dining out at nice places, there's a sort of pretentious and uptight vibe, but not here. We feel very comfortable at Geja's. The cheese fondue is the best we've ever had, and the best thing on the menu, though all of the food is extraordinary. We don't always order premier dinners since it's just so much food. Sometimes we'll get the cheese and chocolate fondue. Sometimes we'll get the cheese fondue and a gourmet board of meats and cheeses. Though tonight, we went for premier dinners.

I ordered The International, which is aged beef tenderloin, jumbo shrimp, and tender boneless chicken breast. My partner ordered the Deluxe Seafood, which is plump Atlantic sea scallops, tender Gulf shrimp, and delicate lobster tail. We shared plates a bit. It was a great meal.

I'll say this: Restaurants in Chicago are happy to serve any customers, but I feel exceptionally welcome at Geja's with my partner on my arm. We hold hands at the table, and I feel safe, and not judged, and even applauded for being happy in love.

Geja's is fine dining, and therefore pricey, which can be off-putting, but there are lots of deals out there. There's often a Groupon. "Like" them on Facebook, and you can currently get a $25 gift certificate if you give them your e-mail. On Facebook, they also run a "Beat The Heat" promotion in the summer, where the daily high temperature sets the price for two premier dinners and a bottle of wine. Once you get on their e-mail list, you also occasionally get offers for your birthday and anniversary.

This is our favorite restaurant in Chicago, and it's always been worth the price.