Deciding whether to stay in for dinner or go out to eat can be a nightly dilemma for many. Some people firmly believe in preparing home-cooked meals almost every night. Others rarely venture into the kitchen beyond reheating last night's takeout leftovers. Regardless of your cooking philosophy, one thing we can all agree on is that dining at a local Mediterranean restaurant in Highland Park, IL, is a fantastic way to treat yourself to a delightful meal and take a break from the cooking. Eating out gives you the chance to unwind and connect with friends over wonderful food, all without the hassle of cooking or dealing with the cleanup afterward.
And when it comes to eating at a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in The Prairie State, Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar is one of the most popular and fun dining experiences you can have.
In the past, finding a great Mediterranean restaurant and patio wine bar was like trying to find a needle in the biggest sports arena in Highland Park, IL. It seemed impossible. Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar broke that mold, and today, it stands tall as one of the most renowned locations in the world for authentic Mediterranean food and Roman-style pizza.
As soon as you walk through our doors, you'll be greeted by an atmosphere of unmatched warmth and hospitality. Our talented chef takes great care in crafting a delectable menu that reflects a true passion for Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for succulent Branzino or Roman style pizza in Highland Park, IL, our food will delight your palate. Nia truly shines as one of the top dining spots in the West Loop, beautifully blending the delicate flavors of seafood with the comforting appeal of pizza.
To enhance your experience, our knowledgeable sommeliers are ready to guide you through our extensive wine list, expertly pairing the finest Mediterranean dishes with the perfect glass of vino. Whether you're enjoying a crisp white with your seafood or a robust red alongside your pizza, our selection is sure to impress. Our steadfast commitment to excellence shines through in every sip, ensuring that each glass of wine elevates your meal to new heights.
If you're new to the Chicago area or you've never dined with us, you're probably wondering what makes Nia such a sought-after place to eat and imbibe. Simply put, we strive to create an unforgettable atmosphere, serve delectable food, and wow you with our 5-star service.
At Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar, impeccable service is at the heart of what we do. From the moment you sit down, our attentive staff is dedicated to meeting your every need, making us one of the top-rated restaurants in the West Loop. Whether it's recommending a dish, providing insightful explanations, or suggesting the ideal wine pairing, we strive to ensure that your dining experience is truly unforgettable.
The best way to celebrate special occasions is at our patio wine bar with friends and family. We pride ourselves on offering outstanding cuisine and an atmosphere that whisks you away to the Mediterranean. Our rich seafood dishes and mouthwatering pizzas provide a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Wondering what kind of events we host at Nia? From birthday parties to corporate team-building exercises and everything in between, our Mediterranean restaurant is perfect. Whether you're looking for a spot to eat after visiting the most popular monument in Highland Park, IL, or you want to treat your spouse to a special night out, we can help.
For private dining experiences, our team is dedicated to ensuring your gathering is exceptional, regardless of whether you're hosting an intimate group of ten or looking to impress a larger circle of friends and family.
Corporate team-building events can do wonders for office morale and productivity. Unfortunately, finding a venue for your corporate event can be challenging. Whether you want to host an intimate gathering for 10 in our main dining room or make a lasting impression on 80 seated guests at your next corporate event in Nia's private dining room, we have the perfect space for you.
Whether you're the beautiful bride or the stunning groom, you can rest easy knowing you've got a reliable, private, flexible space for your rehearsal dinners. While you're practicing your vows and going over your wedding day schedule, we'll prepare an unforgettable meal for you and your guests. That way, you can focus on prepping for your big day while we keep your belly full and your heart happy.
Planning your next big event and need a large space for celebrating? Host your private events at Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar, where we offer a remarkable selection of options for private dining and gatherings. Our intimate main dining room beautifully captures the essence of the sunny Mediterranean with its iridescent tiles, elegant stained-glass sconces, and textured walls. The rich burgundy curtains and upholstery, paired with warm wood tones, create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for your private events.
Getting married is one of the most important and happy times in a person's life. If one of your friends or family members is getting hitched, why not celebrate with a bridal shower at our Mediterranean restaurant in Highland Park, IL? Our staff helps make your party easy and streamlined, so you can focus on having fun while we serve up tasty food and wine. Whether the wedding bells are ringing for you, a close friend, or a family member, one of the enjoyable events leading up to the wedding is definitely the bridal shower.
As the year begins to wind down, thousands of individuals and families flock to the Chicago area to celebrate the season with family and loved ones. Of all the ways to enjoy this time of year, holiday parties top the list. Organizing a holiday party that truly makes a lasting impression can feel overwhelming, but with Nia's outstanding private event services, you can create an unforgettable celebration effortlessly.
Located in the bustling West Loop, Nia Restaurant & Wine Bar has been a top choice for private dinner parties in Chicago since 2008, combining affordability with sophistication seamlessly. Whether you're looking for an intimate setting with private rooms for small gatherings or need budget-friendly dining options, Nia offers customized packages to suit every budget.
Our Mediterranean-style restaurant offers a variety of customized private event packages designed to suit the distinct needs of each client. Whether you're organizing an intimate gathering or a lavish celebration, we provide flexible options that accommodate different group sizes and budgets. We offer both large rooms for lavish parties and a selection of cozy, private rooms ideal for warm connections and memorable moments.
Like the most popular football team in Highland Park, IL, our private events team works together to customize every aspect of your event, from seating arrangements to special dietary requests. This hands-on approach ensures that your holiday party not only meets but surpasses expectations, reinforcing Nia's standing as one of the leading choices for affordable private dining in Chicago.
One of the best things about being an adult is having the financial freedom to go out to eat occasionally. Of course, you've got to keep your budget and priorities in mind, but everyone needs to let loose now and then. Here are some of the top reasons why you should shut off your oven and hop in the car for a night out at Nia.
Once you've been to a real-deal Mediterranean restaurant in Highland Park, IL, it's only a matter of time before you go back. The food, wine, and flavors are just too delicious to ignore. Life is too short to spend another evening trying to make do with a makeshift recipe or whatever leftover ingredients you have lying around. The food in your pantry will still be there tomorrow, so why not seize the opportunity tonight to step out and truly satisfy your hunger? How much longer can you resist the allure of fresh, local ingredients transformed into your favorite dishes?
Dining out presents a wonderful chance to engage socially beyond the confines of home and work. This kind of leisure time is vital for nurturing a healthy lifestyle and supporting your mental well-being. It's refreshing to chat, share a laugh, and enjoy the company of others, allowing you to momentarily set aside your worries. Whether you choose to head out solo and meet someone at a wine bar or invite along your favorite person, living socially is a key ingredient in the recipe of life.
Supporting local businesses like Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar is a fantastic reason to dine out more often. When you choose to eat at a nearby restaurant, you're not just enjoying a meal; you're also helping to sustain the livelihood of everyone involved, from the owners to the servers to the sommeliers and everyone in between. Your patronage contributes to the growth and vitality of your community, making a positive impact on the local economy.
After a long day of hard work, you deserve a well-earned break. Why add to your stress by messing up your kitchen with dinner preparations? Even if you love to cook, everyone needs a chance to relax and let someone else take care of the meal occasionally. It's important to carve out time for yourself. What could be more enjoyable than savoring a delicious dish crafted by an executive chef like Daniel Echevarria? Allow someone to wait on you for a change; you've certainly earned it.
Exploring new experiences, flavors, and cultures is one of the best parts of living life. For those who find it hard to avoid a strict menu, hopping on the busiest highway in Highland Park, IL and dining out is a wonderful chance to try something different. Over time, restaurant cuisine has evolved to include innovative and distinct dishes that you might not whip up in your own kitchen. With delectable Roman-style pizza and incredible Mediterranean cuisine, Nia fits that bill to a T. So, don't hesitate to head out this evening and sample something entirely new; you just might be pleasantly surprised!
Our innovative chef and attentive servers are committed to bringing you the freshest ingredients, all skillfully prepared with love. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner, having a fun evening out with friends or family, or treating yourself to a solo date night at Nia, we can't wait to welcome you. Join us for a wonderful evening filled with exceptional food and delightful company. Don't forget to check out our Mediterranean dinner menu and reserve your table today!
Stepping into a wine bar can feel a bit like embarking on a treasure hunt. Sometimes, you might be caught off guard by a bad selection, a misguided theme, or, even worse, uninspiring wine. Add to that the fact that wine bars come in all shapes and sizes these days, from dim, abandoned spaces to bustling venues, and it makes wine bar hunting even more fun. Yet, when you stumble upon a gem like Nia-one that exceeds expectations and shines on multiple levels-it truly transforms your sipping and dining experience.
Here are some of the top qualities of an exceptional wine bar.
While it may seem obvious that a great wine list should be a standard feature, you'd be surprised by how many wine bars stumble on this essential element. A top-notch wine list is as carefully curated as an exhibit at the most popular museum in Highland Park, IL, state - meticulously chosen and always diverse. It should allow you to explore wines from across the globe, showcase a variety of vintages, and include both well-known labels and hidden gems from afar.
A wine bar should have a captivating concept that draws people in. It's important to offer enough variety, including seasonal menu updates and special promotions. Whether it's the cozy atmosphere, the overall vibe, or the delicious food and wine pairings, all elements must work harmoniously together to create a memorable experience. At Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar, we're always rotating our wines and looking for the newest and most popular choices.
A well-trained staff is essential for a quality wine bar. They should possess a solid understanding of the wines they serve and beyond. Familiarity with the regions and other similar wines is key. They don't need to be certified sommeliers, but they must be knowledgeable about the menus and wine lists. There's nothing more frustrating than inquiring about a restaurant's wine selection and being met with a vague response like, "We have white and red." Or worse, asking about different varietals and receiving a confused look in return.
Here's an instance where size really does matter. Every wine has its own distinct flavor profile that you can experience at different points on your tongue and throat. As a result, the shape of a wine glass influences how each sip of wine interacts with your taste buds.
To create an inviting atmosphere in a patio wine bar, the lighting should be understated yet bright enough for patrons to appreciate the colors of each wine. The music needs to be at a volume that's enjoyable and can be heard over chatter but never loud enough to drown out the sounds of glasses clinking in celebration. The overall vibe should make everyone feel relaxed, welcome, and comfortable to minimize any feelings of tension or discomfort.
Discover why Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar stands out as one of Chicago's premier dining destinations and a favorite for unforgettable meals. Make a reservation today and embark on a delightful culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and create cherished memories. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, crave Roman style pizza in Highland Park, IL, or love wine, Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar promises an exceptional dining experience. Don't forget to take advantage of our enticing happy hour specials in the West Loop, adding an extra touch of enjoyment to your outing at one of downtown Chicago's best restaurants.
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Highland Park|Local EventSat, Dec 14, 2024 at 6:30 PMHighwood, IL, 60040Join us on 12/14/24 in Highwood to hear the best choir in history sing their way through the town. An annual tradition not to be missed.Make your reservations today!Choir donations gratefully accepted! ...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Highland Park|Local Event
Join us on 12/14/24 in Highwood to hear the best choir in history sing their way through the town. An annual tradition not to be missed.
Make your reservations today!
Choir donations gratefully accepted! Products | HPHS Virtual Store | Township High School District 113 Online Store
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National Association of Hispanic Nurses -Illinois Chapter (NAHN-Illinois) is being spotlighted on the Ruth Fell Wander Community Art Wall located in the lobby of First Bank of Highland Park. The new exhibit highlights their dedication to enriching the lives of Hispanic nurse individuals through the promotion of academic attainment, mentorship, professional development, and by actively reshaping healthcare in the Hispanic community.In January of 1986, Jesusita Pedroza-Sepulveda RN brought together the founding committee who identified ...
National Association of Hispanic Nurses -Illinois Chapter (NAHN-Illinois) is being spotlighted on the Ruth Fell Wander Community Art Wall located in the lobby of First Bank of Highland Park. The new exhibit highlights their dedication to enriching the lives of Hispanic nurse individuals through the promotion of academic attainment, mentorship, professional development, and by actively reshaping healthcare in the Hispanic community.
In January of 1986, Jesusita Pedroza-Sepulveda RN brought together the founding committee who identified the many needs of healthcare delivery system for the Hispanic community. Recognizing that the lack of Hispanic Nurses and other healthcare professionals affected access to care for the entire Hispanic Community.
This association continues to increase awareness of nursing, improve access to care by providing educational, professional, and economic opportunities for Hispanic Nurses in Illinois. In 1994 the Illinois Hispanic Nurses Association was created, known as IHNA. IHNA has since, adopted the National title, so we are now known as NAHN-Illinois.
Often times Hispanic nurses work in isolation or with few other Hispanic nurse colleagues, NAHN-Illinois offers an opportunity to network with other Hispanic nurses working in diverse areas. NAHN-Illinois members are making contributions by advocating, educating, mentoring, and volunteering in the Latino community to improve health equity, elevate literacy, heighten education, and influence policy.
NAHN is committed to identifying the needs of the Hispanic community and empowering Hispanic nurses to become influential leaders throughout the state, nationally, and globally. Through advocacy and education, they aspire to challenge nurses to surpass their limits and become involved in advancing the nursing profession and reshaping the healthcare system of the future.
"NAHN Illinois is thrilled to invite you to experience our story at First Bank's December Art Wall! This display will spotlight our vibrant community, the dedication of our incredible nurses, and our mission to make healthcare accessible and compassionate for all. You'll see inspiring quotes, heartfelt stories, and the faces behind NAHN Illinois' impact. Join us in celebrating our journey and our influential role in Illinois healthcare!” said Jamie Najera, President, Board of Directors.
The NAHN-Illinois exhibit is located in the bank lobby and will be open to the public during regular business hours throughout the month of December. For more information about NAHN-Illinois or to sign-up for their newsletter, visit https://www.nahnillinois.org/ or on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
ABOUT RUTH FELL WANDER COMMUNITY ART WALL
The Ruth Fell Wander Community Art Wall was created in 2002 in memory of Bank Director, Ruth Fell Wander. The art wall showcases novice artwork from local non-profit organizations and provides visibility to the various resources and services offered throughout the community. For more information call 847-432-7800 or visit www.firstbankhp.com.
ABOUT FIRST BANK OF HIGHLAND PARK
First Bank of Highland Park, a Division of First Bank Chicago, provides full-service banking solutions for commercial and consumer clients throughout Chicagoland. With over 65 years of banking history, First Bank ranks as one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago. Our experienced bankers utilize our personal service model to provide customized banking solutions without the bureaucracy of the megabanks. First Bank’s deep culture of caring includes giving time, talent, and resources to all corners of our community. Our bank has been named as one of the “Best Places to Work” by Crain’s Chicago Business in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. American Banker ranked First Bank the #1 Bank to Work for 2024. To learn more about the First Bank of Highland Park, visit www.firstbankhp.com.
Originally listed at $29 million, His Airness's estate sold for a fraction of its original price — but its sale still broke records.Jonah Meadows, Patch StaffHIGHLAND PARK, IL — Nearly 13 years after Michael Jordan first listed his massive north suburban estate the NBA Hall of Famer sold his Highland Park mansion this week for $9.5 million.The sale, which closed Tuesday, marks the end of one of the lon...
Jonah Meadows, Patch Staff
HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Nearly 13 years after Michael Jordan first listed his massive north suburban estate the NBA Hall of Famer sold his Highland Park mansion this week for $9.5 million.
The sale, which closed Tuesday, marks the end of one of the longest-lived luxury listings in Illinois. Its new owner has yet to be identified.
Originally listed for $29 million in February 2012, the final sale price came in at less than one-third of the amount Jordan initially asked for the house at 2700 Point Drive.
By May 2015, the property had been reduced to $14.855 million, a figure chosen for its connection to Jordan’s iconic jersey number 23.
Despite a series of marketing promotions and publicity efforts, it would be more than nine additional years before the former Chicago Bull accepted an offer in September.
Spanning more than 7 acres, the property boasts a litany of luxuries along with various reminders of the basketball star’s monumental career and lifestyle.
"NBA Superstar Michael Jordan's seven-acre estate is as legendary as His Airness himself," according to its listing.
"The 56,000 square foot property-equipped with every conceivable luxury amenity-is a physical monument to his tireless dedication and hard work," it said.
It includes an indoor basketball gym, a circular infinity pool, a putting green, a cigar room and garage space for 14 cars.
Evergreen trees strategically planted along the edge of the property provide privacy from the adjacent Heller Nature Center.
Jordan had the home custom-built in the early 1990s as he led the Chicago Bulls to their six NBA championships.
He and his then-wife, Juanita Vanoy, raised their family there before divorcing in 2006.
Jordan retained ownership of the house, which remained a fixture in local real estate headlines as the price lingered well above market value for over a decade.
The estate’s sale price sets a record in Highland Park for a non-lakefront property, according to Crain's Chicago Business.
While area homes on Lake Michigan commanded significantly higher prices, Jordan’s mansion commanded a sales price nearly twice the all-time record for a house west of the lake.
Over the years, various marketing stunts sought to attract buyers. Video tours highlighted the home's many signature features. At one point, a real estate agent promised a full set of Air Jordan sneakers to the eventual buyer.
Jordan, whose net worth is estimated to be more than $3.5 billion, is unlikely to feel the financial impact of the discounted sale.
Earlier: Michael Jordan’s Iconic Highland Park Mansion Under Contract After 12 Years On Market
HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The Highland Park City Council unanimously approved a $131 million budget on Monday, with final approval of an 8.1 percent property tax levy hike set for next month.Spending is up by $4 million from last year's budget, though the city's total staff size is shrinking by 0.6 of a full-time position to 272.4.Finance Director Kristi McCaulou said the property tax increase amounts to an additional $125 for a Highland Park homeowner whose house is assessed at $500,000 in value."This increase is d...
HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The Highland Park City Council unanimously approved a $131 million budget on Monday, with final approval of an 8.1 percent property tax levy hike set for next month.
Spending is up by $4 million from last year's budget, though the city's total staff size is shrinking by 0.6 of a full-time position to 272.4.
Finance Director Kristi McCaulou said the property tax increase amounts to an additional $125 for a Highland Park homeowner whose house is assessed at $500,000 in value.
"This increase is driven heavily by the debt levy and it has to do with the timing of our debt payments and previously issued debt, as well as some new debt that the city is expected to issue in 2025," McCaulou said at a "truth in taxation" hearing, which is mandated by state law any time home rule municipalities seek to hike levies by more than 5 percent in a year.
The 2025 Highland Park city budget dedicates $36 million to capital improvement projects, $32 million of which is set aside for infrastructure improvements, according to City Manager Ghida Neukirch.
"The 2025 capital [improvement plan] is supported by $10.5 million of debt financing, $9.4 million of user charges, $6.7 million of strategic fund drawdowns, $5.2 million of motor fuel tax and grants, and $4.2 million of sales tax, tax increment financing, other taxes, and sale of assets," Neukirch said.
This includes $16 million for upgrades to streets, sidewalks, bridges, parking areas, bike paths, lighting and forestry, along with another $16 million for water and sewer system improvements, Neukirch said in the budget transmittal letter. The remaining $4 million will go toward facility upgrades and replacing fleet equipment.
Mayor Nancy Rotering emphasized that the city government's share of its residents' property tax bills is just under 8 percent.
"We continue to look at city operations and investments with a sustainability lens," Rotering said. "We're making progress, but we have a handful of goals not yet met that we will continue to work on, as our future and the futures of our children depend on it."
The mayor said the 2025 budget supports the local government's commitment to fiscal stability, public safety, infrastructure investments, economic development and environmental stability.
"It reflects our values as a community. It's balanced and it's transparent. Our costs line up clearly with our revenues," the mayor said.
Rotering also claimed, falsely, that "we're one of only a handful of Illinois cities with the highest bond rating available, AAA."
While it is true that Moody's does rate Highland Park "Aaa," with a credit update in February citing the fact that the median income of its residents is twice the national average, that agency also gave top ratings to more than "a handful" of other towns.
On the North Shore alone: Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Deerfield, Wilmette, Winnetka, Northbrook and Glenview, not to mention other cities, such as Champaign, in other parts of the state, received top ratings from Moody's. And last year, fellow ratings agency Standard & Poor's listed 22 Illinois municipalities with AAA stable ratings — Highland Park was not among them.
Also at Monday's meeting, the City Council approved a new contract with City Manager Ghida Neukirch, who completed a decade on the job last month.
The new five-year employment agreement includes a raise of more than $14,000, bringing her base salary to $300,000. The contract also includes $3,500 in annual deferred compensation, two additional vacation days and a one-time $20,000 bonus.
The city's 2025 budget was approved Monday, while the levy is set for final approval Dec. 16.
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