PRICE:
Frommer's Highly Recommended

Another entry in the dinner-as-theater category, this sprawling, Pan-Latin spot is housed a former nightclub -- and judging from the dance music that played throughout a recent meal there, the stereo system remains intact. If you want to be at the center of the action, head for the two-story central dining room, where brightly colored walls and enormous red-and-yellow lanterns hanging from the cavernous ceiling complete the party atmosphere. If you prefer not to shout through your meal, request a table in one of the more intimate side rooms, or try snagging one of the tables just off the central staircase, which give you the best view of the action below. Carnivale's menu takes inspiration from Central and South America, covering everything from rum-glazed pork shoulder with Puerto Rican rice and beans to Argentine-style steaks. (While there is a decent selection of seafood, I found the portions rather small; go with a meat dish if you want to fill up.) Befitting its clubby vibe, there's also an extensive selection of tropical drinks. Overall, the food is good rather than great; Carnivale's main selling point is its bright, buzzy atmosphere, not the cuisine. It attracts lots of groups in search of a lively night out (I saw two different bachelorette parties dining here one Saturday night), so plan your romantic date night elsewhere. The large bar area has ample room for hanging out if you want to linger after dinner.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Chicago 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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