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Drew's on Halsted
Master Critic Review
Drew's on Halsted
8.3
Drew's on Halsted is a long-running Northalsted bistro where martinis, crab cakes, and pastas meet a patio popular for pre-bar happy hour. It functions as a bridge between dinner and the neighborhood’s nightlife, with reliable service and a menu tuned for shareable plates and cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Cakes, Butternut Squash Ravioli, Duck Confit Risotto
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Martini-forward Halsted bistro pairing polished comfort plates with a lively patio.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting cocktails with reliable American fare.
When to visit: Weeknight early evenings for martinis before neighborhood bar-hopping.
What to order: Crab Cakes, Butternut Squash Ravioli, Duck Confit Risotto.
Insider tip: Request patio or window tables for peak Halsted people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street and metered parking on Halsted and nearby side streets; availability tight during evenings and weekends — plan a few extra minutes to circle or use a nearby paid garage.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy for evening cocktails and dates.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational at early evening and on the patio, livelier later near the bar.
Weekend wait: 20–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours; shorter if you’re flexible with patio or bar seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with easy same-day seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several accommodating options (salads, pastas, and seasonal veggie plates); staff is accustomed to modifications.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items can be modified, but expect a narrower selection.
Gluten-free options: Multiple dishes can be prepared gluten-free on request; confirm modifications with your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the polished bistro setting, attentive service, and martini-focused bar program make it a strong fit for a relaxed but slightly upscale first date, especially on the patio or at a window table.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights and earlier seatings; on busy weekends you may wait unless you arrive before the main dinner rush or are open to bar or patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally oriented toward adults and date-night groups; older kids and teens are fine earlier in the evening, but there are no kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Pre-bar happy hour, martinis, and shareable American-bistro plates in a setting that bridges dinner and nightlife with reliable service.
Skip if: You want a quiet, budget-focused meal or a menu with extensive vegan and gluten-free choices — nearby spots with narrower nightlife energy may suit better.
Hours
Monday4pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday4pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday4pm - 9:30pm
Thursday4pm - 9:30pm
Friday11am - 10:30pm
Saturday10am - 10:30pm
Sunday10am - 9pm