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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Lincoln Square's best

Salad date spots

Made for those who prefer a light, vegetable-forward meal when they are out on a date.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated May 2026
01
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 1
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 2
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 3
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Modern, chic dining space features luxurious decorations and bright golden lettering outside. Live jazz music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements the upscale Thai cuisine. The small, intimate layout brings diners close to servers, enhancing the lively vibe.

Steak comes perfectly cooked with a punch of fish sauce in the ribeye salad. The spicy fish salad delivers a fiery kick, while the papaya salad offers an almost addictive flavor.

Warm and intimate atmosphere suits couples well. The owner offers personal touches that enhance special occasions. The ambiance stays cozy and inviting for a romantic night out.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"This place is perfect for dates with its warm, intimate atmosphere."

"The papaya salad here is almost addictive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.

3

Expect a separate charge for protein in dishes, which can increase total costs.

02
Cultivate by Forbidden Root image 1

Industrial-steel beams and an open kitchen define the spacious interior with huge bar and big comfy booths. Warm wood smoke scent creates a comfortable, inviting atmosphere that stays quiet enough for conversation. Beers feature floral notes with rare hops, complementing a menu with standout dishes like duck and dumplings.

Salads feature fresh, crisp ingredients like baby iceberg, watercress, and charred cucumber. Options include small plates such as frisee apple salad and sides paired with sandwiches.

Offers a casual vibe with affordable, non-greasy food ideal for a relaxed dinner. Also hosts special dinners like Valentine's for a more formal experience and serves gorgeous lunches suitable for couples.

People are saying

"The beer selection here has a great variety of styles."

"The duck confit gnocchi and beet tartine make for amazing Date Spots."

"The chicken sandwich came with a fresh, tasty salad."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Monday burger deal includes a burger and a drink for $10.

3

Trivia night is every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

03
Union Dumpling House image 1

Self-serve dumpling restaurant with fast kiosk ordering and pared-back indoor seating creates a casual, somewhat hectic vibe. A covered, heated back patio offers a more comfortable and quaint space to relax. The atmosphere blends quick service energy with a low-key, cozy feel.

Salads here are light and refreshing, especially the cucumber salad which is crisp and pairs well with dumplings. The wood ear salad offers a tasty, unique texture that complements the other dishes.

Excitement builds before even stepping inside. Lamb dumplings stand out as a favorite, while pork buns come off as just okay.

People are saying

"These dumplings are seriously so good and fresh."

"You have to try the cucumber salad, it's so fresh."

"I loved the yummy dumplings here."

Good to know

1

Budget extra time for wait or consider ordering ahead.

2

Street parking is available, but it may be limited.

3

Ordering is done through a kiosk; staff assistance is not available.

04
Caro Mio Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space filled with homemade artwork and a cozy, romantic vibe. Loud music creates a lively atmosphere where conversation rises. Offers a BYOB option that complements its authentic Italian cuisine.

House salad offers a flavorful mix that stands out. It consistently delivers a good taste appreciated by many.

Mushroom risotto and veal parmigiana stand out as hearty meal choices. The atmosphere feels nice and cute, fitting for a relaxed date night.

People are saying

"I thought the homestyle Italian food was delicious and spectacular."

"You have to try the homemade pasta; it's unbelievably creamy."

"I found the house salad to be incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

There is a 2-for-1 special on the anniversary menu every Monday and Tuesday.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on busy nights.

05
Borelli's Pizzeria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, intimate pizza restaurant with live music and a classic Chicago style vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and warm, often featuring jazz and bluegrass performances. Includes a quirky kids' play area with vintage rides, making it family-friendly.

Salads come with house-made dressings and serve as a solid side, often enough for four people. They pair well with pizzas and pasta, offering a home-cooked meal feel.

Offers a casual vibe suitable for couples and families alike. Serves pizza that fits well with a relaxed date night or family dinner.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be very good and tasty."

"Their salad was delicious."

"The pizza here is delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Expect a $2 service fee added to your pizza order.

2

Delivery charge is $6.99 for pizza orders.

3

Live music happens on Monday nights, featuring local artists.

06
Cafe Mas image 1
Coffee shop

Bold murals and colorful decor create an artistic atmosphere with a cozy, inviting vibe. Quiet spaces and a back room with a couch support work-friendly comfort, while a small play area welcomes young children. Spanish pop ballads add to the relaxing ambiance throughout.

Salads feature roasted kale, fresh greens, nuts, and seeds with a nice dressing. Options include a truffle salad alongside other fresh choices.

Couples find a relaxed spot with tasty tacos like soy chorizo and asada. The setting suits both quiet mornings and casual outings with friends and family.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great iced coffee here; it was super refreshing."

"These date spots have delicious tacos and coffee."

"The interior here is beautiful and inviting."

Good to know

1

Cafe Mas offers a variety of vegan food options and quality coffee.

2

Parking is free on Foster and is usually easy to find.

3

Soy milk, oat milk, and almond milk are available as milk alternatives.

07
Pizza Art Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with a wood-fired oven and BYOB policy creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere that suits quiet conversations and family dinners. The space feels homey and inviting, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.

Salads include pasta salads and other varieties served alongside pizza and appetizers. Some salads can be notably tough, making them hard to cut even with a steak knife.

Cozy atmosphere creates a low key vibe ideal for date nights. The setting feels intimate and relaxed, making it a favorite spot for couples seeking a quiet evening.

People are saying

"I thought the coal fired pizza was delicious."

"It's a cozy, perfect spot for date night."

"This place's salad has stayed 100% consistent for over 10 years."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required on Saturday nights.

2

Pizza Art Cafe allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

3

There is no corking fee for wine brought in.

08
Willow Cafรฉ and Bistro image 1

Outdoor patio on a leafy square offers natural light and a relaxed, community-focused vibe. Indoor space feels small but charming with a warm, inviting atmosphere suitable for multigenerational groups. The cafรฉ balances a cozy ambiance with lively yet comfortable energy.

Fresh lettuce stands out in the salads here. The side salad features perfect garnish and an amazing dressing. The chopped salad comes out just right.

Atmosphere and experience create a welcoming vibe for couples. The menu offers Beyond Burger and beef goulash, providing tasty options for shared meals.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, cozy outdoor space, perfect for brunch."

"The ambience here is so nice for Date Spots."

"Tom makes the kids feel special with their coffee milks."

Good to know

1

Expect busy patio seating during weekends around brunch time, especially in nice weather.

2

Parking in the area can be hard to find; allow at least 15 minutes before your reservation.

3

The Bistro area opens at 10am, so plan accordingly if you arrive early.

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Lincoln Square, Chicago

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