It's the dog days of summer alright. Turn up the heat a little further with these sultry date ideas:
• Grab a blanket and a picnic basket and head down to Grant Park for the Outdoor Film Festival; this week's film is The Awful Truth, starring Cary Grant and Irene Dunne.
• The tried and true — fondue — is at its most romantic at Geja's Cafe.
• Chocolate is an aphrodisiac, right? Then Hot Chocolate must be a pleasure palace.
• Want to get a little more hands on? The Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails and Clay is ideal for some artistic flirting this Friday.