The Least Romantic Spots; Brendan Sodikoff's Next Project; More

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This week's top dish from Eater Chicago, Curbed's restaurant, bar, and nightlife blog...

CHICAGO—Not into the standard Valentine's Day dining and drinking options? Check out Eater's guide to the least romantic places to go tonight—they're guaranteed to give you a unique Valentine's Day this year.

GOLD COAST—Highly acclaimed restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff has another new project, this one in new territory for him. Sodikoff will spearhead all the dining at the Waldorf Astoria hotel, including the restaurant (Balsan). The project should be up and running in the spring.

RIVER NORTH—The new Rockit Ranch spot, Bottlefork, is now soft open. Billy Dec recruited noteworthy chef Kevin Hickey to run the kitchen in the former Dragon Ranch space.

WEST LOOP—A noteworthy opening from last year, Kabocha, is shuttering after service on Saturday. Chef Shin Thompson (Bonsoiree) opened the "Japanese brasserie" on Lake Street last spring.