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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Upscale bars in River North

An upscale evening spent entirely at the bar.

Based on 555 Opinions
+552
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Updated April 2026
01
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1
Hawksmoor Chicago image 2
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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.

Full service bar offers amazing cocktails and food. Friendly staff and a pleasant host create a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff are so knowledgeable and kind."

"The upscale porterhouse steak is cooked flawlessly and full of rich, beefy flavor."

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.

02
The Alston image 1
Steak house

Dining room offers spacious elegance with a unique interior design and tableside presentations like duck press. Atmosphere blends pre-Covid hospitality with a lively, upscale crowd. Bar serves impressive cocktails alongside expert wine pairings.

An intimate and refined setting welcomes guests to the bar, offering a breathtaking atmosphere distinct from the dining area. Drinks and food at the bar stand out, with a recommendation to ask for Alex Padilla for service.

Elegant and thoughtfully designed space creates a sophisticated dining experience with a welcoming atmosphere and stunning views.

People are saying

"The steak here is outstanding, and the service makes you feel well taken care of."

"The atmosphere here is elegant and thoughtfully designed."

"The bar staff's attentiveness and knowledge made our drinks special."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

A 3% service charge is added to all credit card transactions.

3

Happy hour features a curated menu of food and drinks.

03
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

Bartenders like Derrick and Julio craft amazing cocktails and help pick drinks that match your meal. The bar area works well for celebrations and offers drinks like a stellar Old Fashioned.

Dark woods and old-world steakhouse charm create a classic, refined atmosphere. The space blends historic Chicago charm with an updated, elegant feel.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"The bartenders here make amazing cocktails."

"The upscale steaks here are outstanding and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

04
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

Upscale steakhouse offers intimate indoor seating and a welcoming outdoor patio with plants and shade. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with stylish decor including Deco lamps and a flowered canopy. Cocktails and wine pairings complement perfectly cooked steaks in a comfortable setting.

Staff at the bar are attentive and kind, making the experience welcoming. Seats at the bar are available without a reservation, even during busy times like restaurant week.

Elegant and relaxing atmosphere sets an upscale vibe throughout. Sides and starters feature bold flavors with elegant presentation.

People are saying

"The steak here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The bartenders here are attentive and kind."

"The steaks here are perfectly aged and seared to juicy tenderness."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, including weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

3

Half off bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

05
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.

A vast array of drinks fills the bar, with terrific cocktails and happy hour appetizers available. The bar staff is friendly, seating happens quickly, and the atmosphere carries high vibes.

Sophisticated Mexican vibes set the tone with elegant lighting and beautiful decorations. The atmosphere suits date nights and refined after-work drinks.

People are saying

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

"The bartenders here craft flawless cocktails and offer next-level service."

"The upscale cocktails here are amazing, with unique flavors and flawless presentation."

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.

06
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.

Professional and warm service stands out at the bar. Staff members, especially Taso, show deep knowledge and make you feel genuinely valued.

Atmosphere feels sophisticated and comfortable with an elegant yet warm vibe. Decor leans toward chic and stylish.

People are saying

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

"The drinks here are amazing and the food is delicious."

"I can't wait to return for the Upscale experience."

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.

07
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.

Seating at the bar happens quickly, even on busy nights like New Yearโ€™s Eve. Fantastic bar service supports a relaxed vibe for grabbing a nightcap or enjoying happy hour with friends.

Warm, candlelit tables and rustic decor create a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. The setting suits discreet and polite diners who prefer quiet over loud conversation.

People are saying

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

"The French martini at the bar was the best I've ever had."

"The Upscale food here is fantastic, with rich flavors and fresh ingredients."

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.

08
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club blends live jazz music with a cozy, lively atmosphere featuring dark wood and colorful jazz-inspired wallpaper. Dining spaces include a private room with a bar, creating intimate vibes amid a bustling crowd. The setting combines elements of a jazz club and restaurant for a unique experience.

Warm and friendly atmosphere with a creative cocktail menu crafted by skilled bar chefs. Options include non-alcoholic choices like Tost NA Rose, and a larger lounge space offers live music for events.

Elegant atmosphere blends with an intimate and welcoming vibe. Attentive service complements the elegant ambiance without feeling stuffy.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and delicious."

"You have to try the beef Wellington at the bar; it's top-notch."

"It's an elegant, intimate, and stunning atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made well in advance.

2

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

3

Valet parking costs $16 for three hours, making it convenient for guests.

09
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space features dim, cozy lighting and live music performances that create a romantic, upscale atmosphere. The lounge offers an upbeat vibe with talented singers and pianists providing background entertainment. Seating is close together, enhancing a lively, intimate feel.

Live singer adds energy while a large bar offers a wide selection of alcohol. TVs and good seating create a comfortable vibe, and the bar manager makes cocktail recommendations and offers a Port tasting.

Warm and elegant atmosphere sets the tone here. Live music adds to the upscale and refined vibe.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and friendly staff."

"The bar staff here are so attentive and friendly."

"The atmosphere here is upscale, elegant, and visually appealing."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available and recommended for convenience.

10
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.

Bartenders work fast and stay friendly while mixing great cocktails. The bar offers a full selection of beers and wines alongside its drinks.

The spot offers a quiet and elegant atmosphere with excellent seafood. It suits both casual dinners and elegant date nights.

People are saying

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

"The bar team was fantastic, friendly, and fast."

"The atmosphere here is quiet and elegant."

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.

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River North, Chicago

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