Description:
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.
- © Frommer's 2012
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User Reviews for Carnivale
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Everything I want in a dining experience
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Went here purely because of comments on TripAdvisor. Was in Chicago for a leisure weekend with the family and wanted a restaurant with a slightly more exotic menu and this one popped...
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TripAdvisor
- posted on 05.27.12
- by WineTraveller
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One of my favorites
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This is absolutely one of my favorite restaurant in the city. When you walk in, the ambiance is energetic. The decor is lively and everyone is in a happy and upbeat mood. I suggest...
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TripAdvisor
- posted on 05.18.12
- by fmagriz
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Fun environment
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Fun atmosphere, good food. Waiter just ok, didn't really know the menu.
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review
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TripAdvisor
- posted on 05.14.12
- by travelgames
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I dont know wether to eat my food or hang it on a wall?!?
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Sweet and simple. First time visitor to Carnivale and last. The restaurant looks great visually .. but thats it. This place is alll fluff, especially for the price. This is a so called...
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review
- posted on 12.24.11
- by by Hungryman79 at Citysearch
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Not for Family
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Me, my wife and our 7-year old daughter had a terrible experience! The server was snotty. She gave my wife an attitude when she told her that my daughter has food allergies. She didn't...
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review
- posted on 10.02.11
- by by rje123 at Citysearch
Awards:
- Details
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Contact:
- visit website
- tel: 312/850-5005
- fax: +1 312 850 3680
- send email
Address:
- 702 W. Fulton St
- Between Clinton St. and the Kennedy Expressway/I-94
- Chicago, IL 60661
Payments:
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Hours:
- Mon-Thurs 11:30am-2:30pm and 5-10:30pm; Fri 11:30am-2:30pm and 5-11:30pm; Sat 5-11:30pm; Sun 5-10pm. Bar Mon-Thurs till midnight; Fri-Sat till 1:30am; Sun till 10pm
- User Rating
