Playing the waiting game

Looking for a Saturday night table for two? Some of Chicago's most lauded cuisine is available on a moment's, or at least a few days', notice. Other spots require a bit more patience -- and a willingness to adjust your summer vacation plans.

Below is a roundup of the wait involved to secure a two-person reservation on a Saturday night.

1723 N. Halsted, (312) 867-0110

Weekends are booked through July. Books open June 1 for August reservations; call quickly for a weekend slot.

CHARLIE TROTTER'S

816 W. Armitage, (773) 248-6228

Four weeks in advance, it's possible to secure a 5:30 or 9:15 p.m. seating.

TABLE FIFTY-TWO

52 W. Elm, (312) 573-4000

Saturday night diners should call now in hopes of scoring a table in August.

SEPIA

123 N. Jefferson, (312) 441-1920

Ten days in advance nets you a 5:30 or 9:30 slot. Call a month in advance for a more reasonable time; a helpful reservationist suggested checking in for cancellations closer to the date.

SIXTEEN

401 N. Wabash, 16th floor, (312) 588-8030

Currently booked six weeks in advance for a weekend date. But call today and it might be possible to enjoy Fourth of July fireworks along with your skyline view.

Allecia Vermillion