Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in River North

Brunch and date spots

Made for those who prefer to handle their romantic introductions over mid-morning eggs and conversation.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
UMMO image 1
UMMO image 2
UMMO image 3
View all
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a modern jazz inspired design with upstairs loft featuring live music and pool table. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and intimate dining to a lively late-night hangout with DJs and bands. Decor includes quirky records and stylish interiors creating a warm, upbeat vibe.

Brunch features elevated twists on classics like shakshuka, flatbreads, and burgers. Dishes such as egg raviolo carbonara and French toast come with flavorful profiles paired with excellent wines and attentive service.

Quiet and intimate atmosphere suits date nights well. It works for celebrations and casual evenings but is less ideal with small children.

People are saying

"You honestly canโ€™t go wrong with the outrageously good pasta here."

"The Italian food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"You have to try the Shakshuka at brunch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating.

2

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

3

The loft space converts into a club after 10pm with a DJ and dancing.

02
Electric Shuffle Chicago image 1

Shuffleboard with high-tech tracking and immersive visuals defines the space, blending classic gameplay with modern tech. Vibrant social energy fills the stylish, throwback-decorated bar, enhanced by live DJ music and a fun, competitive vibe. Cocktails and food complement the atmosphere, making it lively yet not overcrowded.

An all-inclusive brunch costs $50 and offers great value. Weekend options include a non-boozy menu and attentive cocktail service that sets a relaxed mood.

Fun games and a lively bar create a great spot for dates. Drinks flow easily while enjoying the engaging atmosphere with someone special.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here were excellent."

"The weekend brunch options are an amazing deal."

"Mitchell's energy made our Date Spots experience twice as fun."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 3 pm to 5 pm Monday to Friday, offering $5 beer, wine, seltzers, and all fries.

2

During Happy Hour, margaritas, ranch water, espresso martinis, and house pizza are $10.

3

The all-inclusive brunch costs $50 per person for 90 minutes of shuffleboard, a bottle of bubbly, and food.

03
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.

Brunch offers a very decadent menu with options that suit all ages, including seniors. It covers a wide range from breakfast into brunch, making it easy to find something for everyone.

Great ambience sets the tone for date nights here. The uni bucatini stands out as a decadent dish that impresses during special celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious, especially the crispy rice and oysters."

"Jake gave us excellent recommendations and service during Brunch."

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.

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.

Weekend brunch features bottomless cocktails and a $35 drink package. Dishes include lobster and caviar omelettes and steak and eggs with attentive service.

Perfect for a date night with a cozy vibe and attentive service. The menu features roasted chicken, filet, and salmon, all prepared with care, plus a signature 13-layer chocolate cake for celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The brunch service here is excellent, especially DavidDDDD!"

"The Date Spots here serve the best steak I've ever eaten."

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
The Tasting Room at Chicago Winery image 1

Wine bar offers high ceilings and modern touches with bright lighting that contrasts typical winery dimness. Atmosphere feels stylish and comfortable, with lively sections and cozy nooks for photos. Wine made on site features rich, vibrant flavors alongside sharing plates and unique cocktails.

Brunch offers a calm atmosphere even on Sundays with fewer crowds. The overall experience impresses with quality food and drinks, making it a solid choice for hosting or casual visits.

Offers a date night special that exceeds expectations. Provides a great date experience suitable for surprises and repeat visits.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the scallops and potato croquettes."

"The French toast and brisket hash were excellent for brunch."

"The food here is delicious, especially the short rib."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available every Monday to Friday from 5 to 6:30 PM.

2

You can go for brunch, do wine tastings, or tours.

3

The winery offers a choose your own wine tasting experience.

06
CBR image 1
Bar

Bar inside a hotel with dim lighting and cute furniture creates a relaxed, cool vibe that feels like catching up with old friends. DJs play great music, adding to the lively atmosphere especially during special occasions. The place draws people looking for a chill brunch spot with impressive cocktails and a well-regarded menu.

Offers a wide brunch menu with strong breakfast options. Conveniently connected to a hotel, making it easy to access for brunch.

Fancy breakfast options include Steak & Eggs with elevated quality. Happy hour offers drinks and dishes like short ribs for a relaxed date vibe.

People are saying

"Happy Hour craft cocktails and modern American dishes were delicious."

"I found it to be a great place for brunch."

"The Date Spots here have amazing short ribs and chicken sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4 pm to 6 pm.

2

Cocktails during happy hour are priced between $8-12.

3

Draft beers, ciders, and house wines are available at happy hour prices.

07
Toast It IZ image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a classy atmosphere with elegant decor and comfortable seating. Music ranges from lively DJ sets to well-curated playlists, creating a welcoming vibe. Space includes a bar, various table types, and a private room, catering mainly to a younger crowd.

Brunch features amazing food and best mimosa towers. It serves as a true gem for breakfast and brunch with consistently strong offerings.

Brunch offers delicious food with French toast that stands out. Service stays on point, making it a solid spot for dates.

People are saying

"The food and service here are genuinely wonderful and attentive."

"The owner's hands-on presence makes this brunch place feel so well managed."

"The food here is amazing, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends due to high demand.

2

A $200 deposit is required for large party reservations, which is deducted from the final bill.

3

Expect a 20% automatic gratuity added to your bill for all dining services.

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.

Offers a light brunch with zabiha halal meat options. Good spot for a weekend catch-up or a quick meal before other activities.

Cozy atmosphere suits catching up or a date. Drinks like Latte Irimshik and mochas stand out. It works well for both business lunches and casual meetups.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"The coffee here is fantastic, especially the lattes."

"I loved the fancy porridge at Brunch; it was nutty and flavorful."

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
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy dรฉcor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Brunch here features a fun atmosphere with attentive service from staff like Ashley and manager Candice. The spot hosts memorable celebrations and invites guests back for special occasions.

Offers a memorable experience with a menu guided by knowledgeable staff. Suitable for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays despite being a bit pricey.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so knowledgeable and attentive for your date night."

"The brunch service was attentive and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

10
The Lobby image 1
American restaurant

Luxurious interior with live violin and cello music creates an elegant, quiet atmosphere ideal for special occasions. Classic decor blends with modern flair, featuring views of an ice skating rink and tasteful holiday decorations. Tables near busy service areas can disrupt the otherwise calm, refined vibe.

Weekend brunch features a buffet that suits relaxed gatherings. The setting works well for family brunches during holidays.

Holiday tea offers a special occasion vibe with a variety of treats. Spa breakfast includes light, refreshing options suited for a relaxed morning.

People are saying

"The holiday tea experience with magical Mr. and Mrs. Claus is so kid friendly."

"The holiday decorations made our brunch feel so festive."

"The ambiance here is wonderful for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM, Monday through Sunday, and can be booked on OpenTable.

2

Reservations are recommended for holiday-themed tea events like Halloween and Christmas.

3

The restaurant offers a separate menu for vegetarian options and accommodates dietary restrictions.

11
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.

Brunch features a great variety of dishes with fresh ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere that invites lingering over the meal.

Offers a lowkey vibe ideal for intimate dinners and celebrations. Features excellent cocktails and suits both date nights and after-work drinks.

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."

"The brunch food here is amazing 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.

12
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Brunch here is fresh, bright, and colorful, packed with flavor. The service includes a comedic and engaging server who adds fun to the meal, making it a great spot for a lively weekend gathering.

Great spot for a first date or date night with a relaxed vibe. Offers gluten-safe options and cocktails like the Do Not Disturb favored by many.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"I had an amazing brunch with fresh, flavorful dishes."

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

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

13
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.

Brunch offers a delicious and comforting meal with options to enjoy drinks. Service can be slow and unorganized during brunch hours.

Offers a date night deal with wine, appetizers, entrees, sides, and dessert for $69 each from Sunday to Thursday. Staff like Cody and Valerie provide attentive service, keeping glasses full and ensuring a smooth experience. The bone-in filet stands out as an excellent choice for a special meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The service during Happy Hour was amazing, especially from Olivia and Sonia."

"Sonia's friendly vibe made our brunch celebration so special."

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.

14
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.

Brunch features delicious food served on a rooftop with great weather. Sometimes the service feels understaffed.

Sunset views create many photo opportunities for dates. The rooftop offers a relaxed spot for beverages and atmosphere after dinner.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"RJ's drinks and conversation make it a great spot for Date Spots."

"The rooftop views are great for brunch."

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.

15
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.

Brunch features a lively atmosphere with mimosa specials and strong energy. Service is attentive, making it suitable for big groups and last-minute plans.

Jumbo shrimp fajitas and enchiladas with mole offer solid meal choices for couples. Bartenders craft custom cocktails to suit specific tastes, making it a reliable spot for date nights before shows.

People are saying

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

"The enchiladas and camaron tacos are delicious."

"Matt was an awesome bartender during brunch."

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.

16
Parlay River North image 1

Sports bar offers a gorgeous rooftop bar with a beautiful view and a live DJ playing music during game breaks. Atmosphere combines great energy and vibes with multiple TVs for sports fans. Some seating areas feel crowded or poorly lit, but food includes standout items like chicken and waffles and stuffed French toast.

Brunch features unlimited Mimosas and a lively, high-energy atmosphere with music. Food offers good value and many delicious options, making it a popular spot for a day party vibe.

Relaxed atmosphere suits couples celebrating special occasions. Food timing can be uneven, with dishes sometimes arriving separately, which may affect shared dining moments.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and absolutely delicious."

"The brunch food here is delicious, especially the crispy potatoes."

"The atmosphere here is great for date spots and mingling."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on beer and wings.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm.

3

Brunch includes bottomless mimosas for 90 minutes.

Discover more

River North, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...