Is your dad like Ben in “Knocked Up” — the clueless-but-sweet sort? Or is he more of a Tony Soprano type — overprotective and controlling, but well intentioned? (Tony pistol whipped Coco to defend Meadow’s honor — so sweet!) Either way, we’ve found options to please a plethora of pops.
Frugal dad: Copperblue
If Dad’s mantra is “I don’t want you spending money on me,” well, then don’t. At this Streeterville restaurant, dads score free entrees (when the rest of the group pays). There are restrictions: The deal is only good on the no-reservations-accepted 40-seat sidewalk cafe (the dining room will be closed); dads must show a photo of the kiddies if they’re not in tow; and the pricey strip steak is off-limits. Lunch options include beer-braised Italian sausage ($9); dinner brings selections like pan-roasted shrimp with orzo and basil pesto ($19). 580 E. Illinois St. 312-527-1200.
Nautical dad: Fulton’s on the River
If Dad always dreamed of owning a yacht but ended up with a dinghy instead, take him to this River North eatery for riverwalk views of highfalutin boats coasting by on the Chicago River. Treat him like Daddy Bigbucks with the special surf, turf and Scotch combo, an 8-ounce prime filet mignon paired with a 7-ounce lobster tail and a single-malt Scotch flight. ($75). 315 N. LaSalle St. 312-822-0100.
A.D.D. dad: 10pin Bowling Lounge
If dear ol’ Dad can’t sit still, take him to this River North spot where he can keep tabs on multiple sporting events on eight 16-foot-wide screens while simultaneously bowling a perfect 300. Specials include a half slab of baby backs with a Jim Beam-laced sauce ($13) and grilled baby lamb chops ($15). Three hours of bowling and shoe rental: $15. 330 N. State St. 312-644-0300.
Low-key dad: Fireside Restaurant
If Dad’s idea of a perfect day means dressing in jeans, hitting an all-you-can-eat buffet and parking it in front of a TV, then he’ll love this Edgewater haunt. The $17.95 brunch includes choices such as prime rib and Cajun omelets, plus there’s a bloody mary bar fit for a king ($4.75 and up). Prefer a spot sans TVs? There’s a spacious outdoor cafe, and it’s fitted with a retractable awning in case it rains. 5739 N. Ravenswood Ave. 773-561-7433.
Golf-obsessed dad: Silver Cloud Bar & Grill
If Dad’s idea of fun involves dropping stats on Vijay Singh, take him to this casual Wicker Park spot to watch the 2007 U.S. Open Championship. He can put his knowledge to use: They’re giving away a pair of Cubs tickets to the dad who picks the winner. Manly specials include steak eggs benedict at brunch, and a steak sandwich with blue cheese and onions at dinner (both $9.95). Order a Stoli Citros-spiked John Daly and get Silver Cloud golf swag ($5). 1700 N. Damen Ave. 773-489-6212
DIY dad: David Burke’s Primehouse
If Pops insists on grilling, tell him you’re bringing prime. This River North steakhouse is offering beef to-go from Creekstone Farms; most cuts spend time in the restaurant’s dry-aging room for added flavor. The carryout lineup includes a 20-ounce ribeye ($38) and a 40-ounce porterhouse ($77), plus they throw in cooking instructions, a bottle of Burke’s steak sauce and eight meat-focused recipe cards. 48-hours notice required; steaks must be picked up by 2 p.m. Saturday. 616 N. Rush St. 312-660-6000.
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