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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in River North

Lunch spots

A midday break should be reliable and familiar, just like a classic American lunch.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Brehon Pub image 1
Brehon Pub image 2
Brehon Pub image 3
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Restaurant

Irish pub with old-fashioned decor and a quiet secretive back area contrasts with a crowded front room. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, suited for watching sports with multiple screens and playing games like pool and darts. Offers a huge patio and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe.

Prime rib trio sandwiches and mushroom swiss burger stand out with rich flavors. Bacon cheeseburger with waffle fries and Cobb salad offer solid, classic American options with fresh sides like coleslaw.

Lunch specials stand out with good value and variety. A single bartender handles lunch service smoothly while keeping up with other tasks like pool.

People are saying

"The food and beer at this pub were awesome."

"The American Food, like the burgers and salads, is delicious."

"The bartender was so attentive during lunch service."

Good to know

1

The pub charges an extra 3% on the bill for credit card payments.

2

Expect a $1 table fee for games, payable in quarters or bills.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

02
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1

Brewpub occupies a spacious second-floor spot with modern decor and fantastic artwork. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with good music playing at a comfortable volume. Seating includes wide, cushioned bar stools that add to the relaxed vibe.

Burgers and fries come with perfect seasoning and spices. Nachos serve well as starters. The Reuben Sandwich pairs nicely with a side salad.

A cute little spot offers a really nice lunch experience with good food and great beer options. It suits casual midday meals with colleagues or friends.

People are saying

"They have a great mix of beers on tap."

"The American Food here is great, especially the beer selections."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located on the second floor of the AMC building.

2

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

3

The kitchen closes at 9pm, so arrive early for food.

03
Schneider Deli River North image 1

Small deli space with maximum efficiency and a soda shoppe feel creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. Friendly energy and an authentic vibe make it feel like a walk back in time. Tables are few and always full, enhancing the intimate setting.

Brisket sandwich blends a Rueben with Russian dressing and an Italian beef with hot giardiniera on a fresh roll. Sandwiches come with pickles and coleslaw, balancing meat, bread, and sauce perfectly without feeling too heavy.

Quarter pound pastrami sandwich stands out for lunch. Lunch specials offer good value and satisfy a range of tastes.

People are saying

"These bagels are soft, super fresh, and perfect."

"You have to try the pastrami sandwich; it's phenomenal."

"I had a great pastrami sandwich on rye for lunch here."

Good to know

1

Takeout is recommended due to limited seating inside.

2

Online ordering is advised for weekend breakfast to avoid long lines.

3

Expect a line during busy hours, especially on weekends.

04
Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Outdoor and indoor spaces feature colorful artwork and a vibrant, lively atmosphere with loud 1980s rock music. Staff engage actively, often dancing, creating a welcoming and energetic vibe. Seating includes a spacious patio and walk-up counter service.

Crispy outside and tender inside, the fried chicken delivers amazing flavor and a phenomenal taste. Loaded fries and sliders add bold, flavorful options to the menu.

Lunch offers a casual and fast atmosphere with friendly staff who keep service smooth during busy times. The food quality stays consistent, making it a reliable spot for a quick midday meal.

People are saying

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

"This American food spot has the crispiest, most flavorful fried chicken."

"This lunch spot has friendly staff who are helpful and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

05
Dough Bros Pizzeria & Sub Shop image 1

Small pizzeria with a walk-up window and brick oven creates a rustic, cozy atmosphere. Seating fits solo diners or small groups, with a few tables and ESPN on TV adding a retro vibe. Weekend nights bring a chaotic energy, while police presence adds security but a slightly sketchy feel.

New York style pizza stands out with its quality and flavor. Late night options include tacos, elote, and hot dogs.

Lunch includes a special with two slices of pizza, a side salad, and a drink. The menu offers a solid deal for midday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was amazing and really legit."

"This lunch spot's pizza is the best I've had, tasting like home."

"You have to try their New York style pizza; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is not available nearby, so consider alternative transport options.

2

Pizza slices are available for $4.50 each, which is a good deal.

3

The pizzeria is open late, making it a great option for night owls.

06
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse offers a stylish and warm dining room with quiet sophistication and a relaxed but upmarket atmosphere. Cocktails are expertly crafted, complementing the coal-cooked steaks that define the menu. Private rooms and a dynamic space support both intimate and business gatherings.

Prime Rib Sunday Roast stands out with its rich flavor. Mac and cheese features a perfectly crumbly top. Dishes include Vietnamese oysters, scallops, ribeye steak, Yorkshire bread, and Caesar's salad.

Lunch offers a wonderful and excellent experience with incredible flavors. The meals stand out for their quality and satisfaction.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The American Food here, especially the steaks, were cooked perfectly."

"The Lunch Spot's beef was perfectly cooked and everything was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

07
Lure Fishbar - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with quiet, elegant atmosphere and beautiful interior design featuring boat decor and funky wall art. Seating is comfortable and the space offers a small patio alongside plenty of indoor tables. The vibe suits a fancy dining experience rather than a casual, lively spot.

Seafood shines with Maine-style lobster roll featuring unique slaw and warm kettle chips. Dishes like lamb chops, smoked salmon, crab cakes, and clam chowder add variety to the American menu.

Lunch features a lunch special alongside oysters and crab claws. The spot suits casual meals and working afternoons.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, high quality, and delicious."

"This lunch spot's seafood, especially the oysters, is delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the lobster roll, was spectacular."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, including weekends.

2

Enjoy half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

08
TARY image 1
Cafe

Cozy, minimal cafรฉ with authentic Kazakh decor and subtle cultural elements creates a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi support work or socializing, while unique Central Asian pastries and dishes offer a distinct culinary experience.

The menu features a Craft Cheeseburger with delicate beef and traditional flavors. Chicken noodle soup comes with bread served alongside fragrant olive oil and roasted garlic.

Lunch offers amazing food and a relaxing atmosphere. Tables are available even when busy, making it suitable for casual meals with friends, family, or business.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"This lunch spot has amazing food and coffee, I loved it."

"The cheeseburger here is the perfect American Food experience."

Good to know

1

Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles only, leading to potential tickets.

2

TARY serves unique Central Asian pastries and drinks not found elsewhere.

3

The cafe gets packed, making tables hard to get at times.

09
Marshall's Landing image 1
American restaurant

Space offers great river views and a wrap-around bar with comfortable seating. Atmosphere feels warm and versatile, suitable for quiet work or informal meetings, though music can be loud and varied. Private dining rooms overlook the river, supporting gatherings and events.

Calamari, tuna tartare, and lobster roll stand out as solid choices. The truffle butter and Parmesan popcorn add a unique twist, while the fully loaded hamburger comes with skinny fries. The grilled cheese sandwich tends to be soggy and overpriced.

Lunch here offers prompt seating even during busy hours and amenable staff who accommodate post-lunch work needs. The spot suits both business lunches and larger group orders for events.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The staff at this lunch spot are so friendly and welcoming."

"The American food here is a standout choice with captivating views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Marshall's Landing is a popular spot for hosting corporate events and parties.

3

The venue offers a spacious area suitable for networking events.

10
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse blends trendy club vibe with live DJ sets and bold neon decor. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, with music often loud enough to dominate conversations. Cocktails stand out as fresh and flavorful highlights amid the setting.

Steaks like the filet, ribeye, and New York strip come cooked just right. Sides include brussel sprouts and creamy mac and cheese. The hamburger stands out as well.

Lunch features a steak and fries special with butter. The atmosphere stays awesome and service is fantastic during midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The American Food here is great, especially the steak and mac and cheese."

"The service at this lunch spot was unforgettable and exceptional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak dining hours.

3

Cocktails are priced at $9 during happy hour.

11
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop bar offering spectacular city views and multiple seating options including fire pits and private couches. Live music creates a lively atmosphere that balances well with conversation. Cocktails and food receive strong praise, contributing to an overall vibrant and welcoming vibe.

Buffalo wings stand out with their flavor. Sliders like the 101 Burger and Shrimp & Lobster Roll offer variety alongside sides such as Crispy Onion Rings and Elotes. Burgers and salads like Caesar appear standard but complete the menu.

Rooftop seating offers a great spot for lunch with a relaxed vibe. Frequent visits confirm it works well for both late lunch and regular midday meals.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"The American Food here has a spectacular atmosphere and great views."

"The poached eggs at this Lunch Spot were hard boiled."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available 7 days a week from 5-7pm.

2

Reservations are typically required, but walk-ins may be accommodated if available.

3

The happy hour offers a great selection of drinks and appetizers at unbeatable prices.

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