Ok, made my first visit to CND today and my feelings are mixed.
Food first:
I thought the gyros melt was damned good but not transcendent. My version did not include the egg that G Wiv enjoyed, but I might have added it, had I known it was available. Still the sandwich did not blow me away. Perhaps this is because I've been enjoying the aforementioned "Waitress" at the Wilmette Chuck Wagon for a couple of decades and I'd have to give that very similar rendition the edge. Was CND's rendition better than the sum of its parts? Definitely.
OTOH, the previously frozen fries were limp and cold. The burger, of which I had a taste, was a very perfunctory foodservice-style version. It was ok but nothing to return for or order again.
Atmosphere second:
CND is divey in a very inviting and comforting way. It's definitely unique to have this type of food -- and a menu this large -- available in such a decidedly bar venue. The place is clean and cozy, and decorated with fun Chicagocentric iconography. The bartender who is, as G Wiv posted above, the son of the owner, was very friendly and personable.
Ironically, CND is the kind of place that I'd be more likely to recommend to an out-of-towner than a Chicagolander. I guess that's because I feel like it offers a concentrated dose of Chicago flavor which, in many ways, exemplifies what this town is all about. The lounge is casual and relaxed, the foods are very much representative and the vibe is extremely friendly. OTOH, if a local asked me for a recommendation, I could immediately think of other places that offer more enjoyable renditions of these (types of) foods. As for the lounge aspect, I can think of more inviting places, although I will admit that bar was very comfortable and that spending a few hours there would not be hard to do.
CND Gryos and Lounge is distinctive, personality-rich and comfortable. Based on my one visit, I'd describe the food as good but not great. So, GNR-wise, I'm really on the fence about this one.
=R=
Same planet, different world