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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Illinois

Dinner and whiskey

Made for those who require a glass of whiskey to set the right tone for a serious dinner conversation.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated May 2026
01
Tsukiji Sushi Sake Bar image 1
Tsukiji Sushi Sake Bar image 2
Tsukiji Sushi Sake Bar image 3
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Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant blends Japanese decor with Latin music, creating a unique fusion atmosphere. Warm, inviting vibe features comfortable patio seating with gorgeous landscaping. Energy stays friendly and lively, enhanced by a reggaeton playlist and candlelit tables.

Dinner offers a mix of fresh sushi rolls and creative cocktails like the strawberry margarita. The setting combines good service with a pleasant ambiance for a relaxed evening.

Whiskey sours here come in unique flavors like Tamarindo, Passionfruit, and Jamaica. These drinks offer refreshing twists on the classic cocktail with bold, fruity notes.

People are saying

"The owners are so sweet and made me feel at home with their kindness."

"You have to try the whiskey sours; the flavors are amazing!"

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM daily, offering great drink deals.

2

Halal chicken and beef options are available on the menu.

3

Free parking is available four blocks away from the restaurant.

02
The Franklin Room image 1
New American restaurant

Underground space with rich fabrics, leathers, and carved woodwork creates a high-end speakeasy atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and intimate, with music at a level that allows easy conversation. A specialty whiskey selection and unique cocktails attract those seeking a refined drinking experience.

Dinner features attentive service that enhances the experience. Staff like Anthony contribute to a special atmosphere for celebrations.

An extensive whiskey list offers a wide range of choices with notable breadth and depth. Bartenders share rare bottles of whiskey and mezcal, adding a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

"I found their whiskey selection to be extensive and impressive."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food and drinks."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

03
Tuman's Tap and Grill image 1

Bar and grill with tin ceiling and deep wood bar offers a relaxed, cozy atmosphere and a corner bar vibe. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly and quiet, providing a calm spot away from busy streets. Crowd enjoys excellent burgers, Amish chicken, and a variety of craft beers and cocktails.

Half chicken and pork chop dinners stand out on the menu. A plentiful dinner crowd keeps the staff attentive but slightly hurried in a cute, casual setting.

Selection includes Pappy 10, 12, and 23-year whiskeys and a variety of Irish whiskeys. Whiskey happy hour features Buffalo Trace rare breeds on Fridays and Sundays.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is amazing and way above expectations."

"They had a great selection of whiskeys, including Pappy."

"The dinner spots here have really good burgers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is on Fridays and Sundays featuring Buffalo Trace rare breeds.

2

Oktoberfest menu includes German cuisine and extra large beers.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

04
Thornton Distilling Co. image 1

Historic building with exposed brick, chandeliers, and string lights creates a rich, old-time vibe. Atmosphere feels storied and inviting, blending history with lively energy. Features include dog-friendly outdoor patio, retro games, and a large projector for sports.

Pulled pork tacos, fish tacos, and margarita flatbread stand out as dinner highlights. The spot suits group dinners and special celebrations.

Samples include Bourbon and Pecan whiskey, both with a great finish. The whiskey matches online descriptions and includes rum and bourbon varieties. An American Single Malt Whiskey release is upcoming.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and flavorful."

"The food and drinks here are outstanding, with amazing flavor combinations."

"The whiskey here is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The distillery tour costs $15 and includes tastings of four signature drinks.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like New Yearโ€™s Eve.

05
Cured and Cultured image 1

Whiskey bar features a huge liquor and wine display with an interior of bare plasterboard walls and a back bar area. Loud, party-like atmosphere makes conversation difficult, with music and chatter echoing throughout. Bourbon selection stands out as a key highlight amid the noisy environment.

Dinner offers a completely different menu from lunch with limited appetizers and higher prices. Some items like the sweet potato fries can come out burned during dinner.

Excellent whiskeys fill the shelves at this whiskey bar. Staff enjoy discussing and tasting new whiskey varieties with guests.

People are saying

"The Lunch Spot sandwiches, like the French dip, were amazing."

"I appreciated the excellent whiskey selection."

"The dinner spots here have great chicken sliders and sweet potato fries."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices for food and drinks, with most items priced a la carte.

2

The menu changes between lunch and dinner, offering limited appetizers at night.

3

Outdoor seating is available, providing a nice atmosphere for dining.

06
MIKAMI IZAKAYA & RAMEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant combines industrial-chic design with elegant touches for an upscale look and vibrant, casual vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and spacious, fitting for romantic dates or relaxed chats. Full bar offers Japanese beer on tap and notable cocktails alongside rare ramen varieties.

Diverse menu offers many spectacular entrees with strong flavor and quality. Suitable for romantic dinners, business meetings, or hanging out with friends.

An impressive whiskey and scotch selection stands out at the bar. The whisky eyeball drink resembles a whisky mule, and Japanese whiskey fits the full experience here.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is flavorful and comforting."

"The ramen here is packed with flavor."

"The whiskey and scotch selection here is very impressive."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $21.95, including a side, main dish, and drink.

2

Happy hour features discounted cocktails and appetizers, making it a great time to visit.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes beyond ramen, like gyudon.

07
McDill's Irish Pub image 1

Pub offers outdoor patio seating with garage doors that open to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Atmosphere feels upbeat and chill with live music and multiple entertainment options like pool tables and darts. Space is clean and modern with plenty of seating and a welcoming vibe.

Dinner features good entrees served in a casual, comfortable setting. The spot works well for those wanting a relaxed meal and a drink.

A very good selection of Irish whiskeys and scotch stands out here. Drink portions are notably small, with some of the smallest whisky glasses poured around.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The dinner entrees here are really good."

"I loved the great whiskey and scotch list here."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect a wait for food during busy hours.

3

The pub is family-friendly and allows dogs.

08
Dukes Northwoods image 1

Rustic cabin design with large garage doors opening to river views creates an authentic Northwoods Wisconsin vibe. Loud, lively main area contrasts with quieter back room featuring non-high-top seating and game sounds. Multiple TVs show sports, and outdoor patio seating adds to the casual, fun atmosphere.

Offers a solid dinner menu with options suitable for groups. The spot combines bar food and snacks with a riverfront setting for a relaxed meal.

Offers a good selection of whiskeys alongside beers. Old Fashions stand out as a notable cocktail choice.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best."

"I had excellent food and service at this dinner spot."

"They have a great whiskey selection and good beers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, featuring discounts on drinks and food.

2

The loaded bloody mary is available only on weekends from 10am to 1pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on game days, especially during Packer games.

09
The GOAT image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small space with upstairs loft and patio seating offers a cozy atmosphere that feels casual and inviting. Music plays loudly, especially near the bar, but conversations remain easy at tables. Walls display famous athlete photos, adding a unique sporty touch to the decor.

Offers both dine-in and takeout options for dinner. Serves cocktails alongside meals.

Wide selection of whiskeys and bourbons fills the menu. Whiskey flights rotate often, offering chances to try many varieties. Clear liquors are limited, but whiskey choices are plentiful.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were delicious and really good."

"The burgers here are so yum, especially the classic smash."

"They have a wide selection of whiskey and bourbon."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4-6 pm with half-off cocktails.

2

Fish tacos and a fish sandwich are the specials this month during happy hour.

3

Seating is available on the main level, upstairs, or outside.

10
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro image 1

Large bar with warm wood decor and a cozy fireplace creates a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of Ireland. Live traditional Irish music plays most nights, adding to the friendly, family-run vibe. The space balances an upscale feel with a family-friendly environment.

Corned beef and roast dinners stand out with home-cooked meals and solid side dishes. The rib dinner for four comes with fries and curry sauce, and a full meal for two, including drinks and dessert, totals around $100.

An extensive Irish whiskey list stands out here, with a dedicated whiskey room on the first floor selling bottles. Some drinks like the Irish coffee may vary in quality depending on the whiskey used.

People are saying

"This pub has such a cozy and friendly atmosphere."

"You can grab a pint and enjoy live Irish music during dinner."

"They have an incredible whiskey list."

Good to know

1

The storytelling event occurs on the second Thursday of each month.

2

Live Irish music sessions are held on Wednesdays and Sundays.

3

The Sunday trad session runs from 1 to 3 pm.

11
Whiskey Bend image 1
Gastropub

Gastropub combines prohibition-style decor with a modern outdoor patio featuring live music and a fire-lit porch. Atmosphere is lively and fun but can be very loud, making conversation difficult. Seating includes many two-top tables and private patio sections for groups.

Large hush puppies start the meal. The pan-seared white fish comes with sauce on the side and is excellent. The chicken dinner stands out as very flavorful. It's a solid spot for catching up over dinner.

Over 100 whiskey options include bourbon, scotch, and unique pours like Blood Oath and Ezra Brooks. Several premium labels such as Blanton's and E.H. Taylor are available, paired with a spacious patio and midweek Happy Hour specials.

People are saying

"The dinner portions here are surprisingly large and delicious."

"I loved their wide selection of whiskeys and bourbons."

"The breakfast burrito and tacos at Brunch were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Parking around Whiskey Bend can be a pain.

2

Happy hour is from 4 to 6pm on weekdays.

3

The menu offers gluten-free options on some items.

12
The Barrel Club image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers gorgeous decor and small tables that require careful handling. Atmosphere stays clean and classy with photographers capturing moments and selling framed pictures. Cocktail flights and signature drinks add a distinctive touch to the menu.

Dinner features fried green tomatoes as a standout appetizer and offers a menu that impresses with its flavors. The setting suits private events like brunch or dinner, providing a solid option for group dining.

An extensive selection of bourbons, ryes, and whiskeys fills the menu, including a unique house bourbon. Whiskey flights, especially the barrel club flight, offer a great way to sample different options.

People are saying

"The American Food, like the salmon and crab cakes, is seasoned to perfection."

"The dinner here is amazing, especially the short beef ribs."

"They specialized in whiskey and had plenty of options."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the venue can get crowded quickly.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is added to all checks, including food and drinks.

3

Happy hour specials are only available in the bar area.

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