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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Authentic food

A plate of food that honors the traditional methods and flavors of its origin.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated April 2026
01
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
Sinya Mediterranean image 2
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Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers an airy, spacious interior with tasteful decor and soft lighting that creates a calm, casual vibe. Plenty of seating and outlets support relaxed dining or working. The atmosphere balances upscale design with a welcoming, comfortable feel.

Food offers fresh authentic flavors with a perfectly crunchy falafel and generous portions. Vegetarian options stand out for their genuine taste and satisfying quality.

Food features excellent Greek dishes with delicious Mediterranean flavors and amazing coffees served in a beautiful space.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and authentically delicious."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared."

"The food here is so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Knafeh is only available at the River North location from 4 PM to 10 PM.

2

The place is legit zabiha halal.

3

They give free hummus and salad with each order.

02
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant with small, crowded space and loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option. Known for authentic Italian pizza and pasta with a lively, energetic vibe.

Authentic family-style Italian food comes straight from Sardinia here. The dishes are fresh, delicious, and capture true Italian flavors.

Food features amazing Italian dishes with excellent service and a welcoming ambiance. The menu offers a true oasis for Italian cuisine with consistently great flavors.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The food here is delicious, hot, and fresh."

"The authentic Italian food bursts with flavor and feels like a family kitchen."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

03
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.

Cuisine features authentic Kyrgyzstan dishes with ingredients like tary imported from Kazakhstan. The interior offers a modern Kazakh atmosphere that complements the genuine cultural experience.

Kazakh cuisine stands out with healthy fast food options and great presentation. Coffee pairs well with dishes, making the food experience complete.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The food here tastes just like home, it's so authentic."

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.

04
VELA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space channels sophisticated Mexican vibes with warm, vibrant design inspired by Mexico City. Music shifts from chill to loud with a live DJ mixing house, reggaeton, and hip hop, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy upscale casual energy with comfortable seating and standout cocktails.

Premium Mexican food offers authentic flavors with innovative presentations. Drinks and dishes deliver a fresh and authentic taste true to Mexican cuisine.

Food here is consistently delicious and perfectly prepared. Service complements the meals well, creating an exceptional dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here has flavor profiles that are above and beyond."

"The cocktails here are phenomenal, with recommendations that are spot-on."

"I found the food to be authentic, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 off cocktails and half-price appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant hosts a popup event with their sister restaurant every month.

05
Yasemi, A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Spacious restaurant with modern, elegant decor and airy layout that avoids crowding. Atmosphere feels casual but chic, with loud music creating an energetic vibe. Tables require personal light to read menus due to dim lighting.

Plates show a well-balanced approach to seasoning with authentic ingredients that highlight Greek and Mediterranean flavors. The menu offers a fresh and satisfying selection true to Mediterranean cuisine.

Food features flavorful Mediterranean cuisine with phenomenal dishes and cocktails. Service and ambiance support a fantastic dining experience.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh and delicious, especially the hummus."

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"I loved the authentic, fresh Mediterranean food and beautifully presented dishes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with unique cocktails at reasonable prices.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters during happy hour, a great deal for seafood lovers.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% surcharge to all bills, so plan accordingly.

06
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.

Authentic Jewish deli food shines through with fresh daily bread and a Pastrami on Rye that captures classic flavors. The vibe feels genuinely first-rate and true to tradition.

Food features tender corned beef and lox with quick service even during busy times. Pricing stays reasonable for the quality, and the owner often checks in to ensure needs are met.

People are saying

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

"The food here is outstanding and delicious."

"It's an authentic Jewish deli with tasty, fresh bread."

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.

07
Omakase by Kanemaru image 1
Japanese restaurant

Intimate 8-10 seat counter offers a minimalist, serene setting focused on craftsmanship. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, creating a warm, inviting vibe with soft lighting. Skilled chef prepares exceptional sushi with fresh, high-grade fish, complemented by an excellent sake selection.

Edomae sushi stands out with its authentic omakase experience that appeals especially to those familiar with Japanese cuisine. The food consistently reflects real Japanese flavors and craftsmanship.

Eel and tamago stand out as exceptional dishes. The tuna marinated in soy sauce offers a memorable bite. All food served is consistently fantastic.

People are saying

"The Japanese food preparation by the chef was so entertaining and skillful."

"This is authentic omakase with fish flown from Japan."

"The food here is exceptional, especially the tuna."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through OpenTable.

2

The 16-course omakase menu is priced at $195 and features fresh, seasonal ingredients.

3

Omakase by Kanemaru has only 8 seats, creating an intimate dining experience.

08
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 1

Italian restaurant offers traditional focaccia sandwiches with fresh ingredients and large portions. Atmosphere feels authentic and quaint, with lively music and bright, cute decor featuring Aperol and Campari bottles. Outdoor patio seating adds to the welcoming vibe.

Italian sandwiches deliver an authentic and pure experience with fresh, well-sourced ingredients. The focaccia stands out for its freshness and traditional style that feels truly authentic.

Food arrives quickly during less busy times and tastes light and delicious. Staff check in regularly, enhancing the wonderful atmosphere alongside great music.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be delicious and amazing."

"I found the food here to be amazing and full of Italian flavors."

"The focaccia sandwiches here taste so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from Wednesday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm.

2

During happy hour, spirits and wine are $9, and Italian boards are 50% off.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

09
Cocoro Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers an authentic, homey atmosphere with a cozy, laid-back vibe that feels like dining in Japan. The space is warm and relaxing, suited for quiet meals or enjoying sake at the counter. It stands out for its traditional izakaya style and genuine Japanese dining experience.

Dishes focus on authentic Japanese comfort foods with no fusion. The menu offers a variety of traditional Japanese style dishes that taste true to their origins.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines with exactly the same taste as in Japan and generous portion sizes. Ordering in Japanese is possible, enhancing the genuine experience.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Japanese food outside of Japan here."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, with delicious sushi and ramen."

"I found the Japanese food here to be incredibly authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Lunch specials are available during the day, offering good value.

3

The restaurant features a menu with authentic Japanese dishes beyond typical sushi.

10
Coco Pazzo Restaurant & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Open wood-fired grill and rustic decor create an elegant, cozy atmosphere with candlelit tables and heavy velvet curtains that reduce noise and separate diners. The space fills quickly, fostering a lively yet comfortable vibe suited for polite, discreet conversation without loud music. Views of the city through lovely windows add to the upscale, professional feel.

Flavors stay true to classic Italian roots with an authentic Italian menu. Dishes deliver delicious and genuine tastes that reflect traditional recipes.

Italian dishes offer authentic flavors and consistent quality. Penne All Arrabbiata stands out as delicious and spicy. Food pairs well with the excellent service and atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is outstanding and delicious."

"I thought the food here was great and delicious."

"The Italian food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

3

The average meal cost is around $150 for two, including drinks.

11
Crying Tiger image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers an immersive Asian-inspired interior with a beautifully designed layout and a stylish bar area. Music features 90s hip-hop and R&B, creating a fun and cool vibe throughout the space. The atmosphere feels lively and memorable, blending great energy with a gorgeous setting.

Bold, authentic Southeast Asian flavors shine through dishes like Pad Thai Lobster and traditional Lao and Thai recipes. The food captures the essence of street food in Thailand with inventive techniques and well-balanced tastes.

Food here is consistently amazing and phenomenal, with a warm and lively vibe that complements the dishes. The menu offers a delicious variety that stands out in every visit.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and thoughtfully prepared."

"The Crying Tiger dessert is the star, but it runs out."

"The food here is authentic, tasting like homemade Thai street food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking costs $20 for 2 hours.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

12
Fado Irish Pub image 1

Two-floor pub with old wooden ambiance and outdoor patio offers lively and relaxed areas. Live music and multiple TVs create an energetic vibe, especially during soccer games. Friendly crowd gathers around a rustic bar and dedicated fan corners, blending authentic Irish feel with sports enthusiasm.

Authentic Irish pub atmosphere stands out here with a friendly vibe. It ranks close to an authentic Irish breakfast experience but sometimes feels more like a bro bar than a traditional Irish pub.

People are saying

"The pub staff here are super friendly and helpful."

"I thought the food here was great and tasty."

"I found it to be a great authentic Irish pub."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Trivia nights occur every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

13
Moe's Cantina - River North image 1
Mexican restaurant

Massive Mexican restaurant with ample seating and a unique design that shifts into a nightclub on weekends. Lively atmosphere with energetic music, including reggaeton and clear TV audio for games. Outdoor seating and artistic decor add to the vibrant vibe.

Fresh, authentic food offers a great selection with well-portioned dishes. The atmosphere adds a modern feel to the Latin experience.

Food features fresh, authentic flavors with a great selection that fits a modern Latin vibe. Dishes come with tasty, well-prepared ingredients that pair well with drinks.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the Mexican food experience so friendly and attentive."

"The food here is delicious and tasty."

"The service here is so attentive and helpful, making you feel welcome."

Good to know

1

Expect a $20 cover charge for entry during club hours.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

All guests must arrive together to avoid additional cover charges.

14
The Wellsley image 1
Event venue

Art deco design and intimate lighting create a breathtaking space with two beautiful dining rooms and an upstairs lounge featuring red velvet curtains and sofas. The atmosphere combines a high-end polished vibe with loud, nightclub-style music that can make conversation challenging. Weekend DJs add a cinematic energy reminiscent of a Scorsese film.

Feels like a classic French bistro reborn with a modern interior. Offers an incredible authentic experience that appeals to foodies.

Food here is consistently delicious and served with care. The menu offers great French cuisine with high quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The bar staff are so engaging and friendly, even when busy."

"The food here is delicious and of high quality."

"This authentic French bistro feels like Paris with its warm ambiance."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

The restaurant is currently only hosting private events until the end of the year.

15
Su Casa Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful decor and a mural telling cultural stories create an authentic Mexican atmosphere with a cozy yet open layout. Outdoor seating is abundant, and a bar with televisions adds a lively touch. Complimentary group photos and occasional live Mariachi music contribute to a festive vibe.

Food features real traditional Mexican recipes cooked to perfection with fresh ingredients. Dishes deliver a delicious and authentic taste true to Mexican cuisine.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with delicious, amazing food served in a beautiful setting. The menu offers real, enjoyable dishes that capture traditional flavors.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is so delicious and authentic."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I loved the authentic, well-balanced flavor of the food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, valid only at the counter.

2

Couples special available on Valentine's Day.

3

A parking garage is on the same block, with SpotHero reservations.

16
Bodega Bar River North image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vibrant and colorful space with a lively atmosphere and rave music that energizes the room. The bar features award-winning tequila cocktails and a mixologist crafting unique drinks. Known for amazing street tacos and a fun vibe that draws people for socializing and good times.

Bar offers a wide range of authentic mezcal and tequila that are hard to find elsewhere. Mexican food serves great authentic flavors but may not satisfy those seeking deeply traditional dishes.

Food here is consistently delicious and well priced with a great atmosphere that complements the meals. Service is friendly and adds to the overall positive dining experience.

People are saying

"The tacos here are amazing, especially the birria."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The staff here are genuinely kind and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $3 tacos, $5 Modelos, and $10 margaritas.

2

Be aware of a 20% service charge automatically added to bills.

3

Request a paper bill to check for any extra charges before paying.

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River North, Chicago

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