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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of River North

Chocolate relaxing spots

You want a quiet place to enjoy chocolate without the noise of a crowded room.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
TARY image 1
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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.

Mocha features real dark chocolate with a unique rich flavor. Hot chocolate stands out for its slightly bitter, high-quality taste and consistent richness.

Cozy and clean atmosphere creates a relaxing ambience. Great for unwinding or meeting with friends in a calm setting.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"It's a cozy and welcoming spot to relax."

"I enjoyed the rich, wonderful hot chocolate."

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.

02
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Chocolate flavors blend with creams in dishes showing Brazilian and Italian influence. Desserts include warm chocolate chip cookies, a dark chocolate dessert with crunch, and a smooth mini cone with a surprise at the bottom.

Ambiance feels relaxed yet sophisticated with a nice, calm atmosphere. The vibe shifts from casual up front to classier in the back dining room.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"The food here is creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The wagyu just melted, showcasing its glorious marbling."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

03
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
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.

Dubai chocolate appears in several forms, including a homemade dessert and a mocha. Chocolate flavored baklava also features as a unique option.

Soft lighting and tasteful decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space feels clean and spacious with plenty of seating, making it a relaxing environment for a meal.

People are saying

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

"It's a cozy, welcoming spot with plenty of room to relax."

"I enjoyed the homemade Dubai chocolate, it was a nice treat."

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.

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.

Signature 13-layer chocolate cake features hazelnut layers that add crunch and a flavor like Ferrero Rocher. Peanut butter pie combines chocolate and peanut butter for a rich dessert option.

Elegant and moody atmosphere creates a relaxing and cozy vibe. Outdoor seating adds a lovely touch for a calm evening.

People are saying

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

"The food here is cooked to perfection, especially the cod."

"The 13-layer Chocolate Cake was luxurious and reminiscent of Ferrero Rocher."

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
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.

Rich and decadent chocolate desserts like the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart and chocolate torte close the meal. The double chocolate crisp cake offers a sweet, crisp texture alongside other unique options.

Atmosphere feels relaxed yet elevated with a beautiful, cozy vibe. The setting blends luxurious touches with a calm, inviting mood.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The chocolate torte is a decadent, generous portion."

"The atmosphere here is beautiful and relaxing."

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.

06
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop image 1

Two-story chocolate shop offers stunning river views and a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. The space fills with lively energy and can get noisy and busy, especially with families around. Seating is limited and first-come, first-served, with an outdoor patio providing a more relaxed vibe.

Rich, creamy scoops and handcrafted hot fudge define the chocolate experience here. The World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae and hot chocolate stand out as truly unforgettable treats.

Nice seating offers a relaxing view of the river. The cozy atmosphere creates a perfect spot for calm talks and unwinding.

People are saying

"Jameson's service made the chocolate experience feel personal and joyful."

"I loved the nice view overlooking the river and city."

"This relaxing spot by the river is so nice."

Good to know

1

There's a special offer on 7/25 for a mini hot fudge sundae at $7.25.

2

Seating is first come, first serve and can be sparse during peak hours.

3

Finding a seat can be nearly impossible during busy times.

07
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.

Chocolate desserts feature decadent creativity and balance, with options like the Chocolate Snickers and a hot chocolate tart that avoids excessive sweetness.

A relaxed atmosphere sets the tone with an upmarket feel. Service stays friendly and easygoing throughout.

People are saying

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

"The food and cocktails here are top tier, perfectly prepared."

"The chocolate here is rich, tender, and perfectly cooked."

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.

08
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.

Chocolate items and pastries offer distinct flavors and are tasty. Hot chocolate tastes delightful and stays balanced, not overly sweet.

Large, luxurious seating creates a comfortable environment for a relaxed brunch or afternoon tea. Quiet and spacious, it suits a calm, leisurely meal.

People are saying

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

"The chocolate dessert was a sweet surprise at the end."

"It's an elegant, luxurious spot for a quiet meal."

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.

09
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Coffee shop offers calm, classy atmosphere with amazing city and river views. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options, featuring a beautiful terrace ideal for relaxing or people-watching. Space suits those seeking a high-quality coffee experience in a cozy, focused setting.

Hot chocolate here is very rich and well prepared. It pairs well with pastries like the chocolate croissant and is available both hot and iced.

Calm, welcoming atmosphere with a clean, spacious interior creates a relaxed vibe. Good seating supports working on a laptop or just enjoying a well-made coffee.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"It's a lovely relaxing spot with a beautiful river view."

"The hot chocolate here is rich and delicious."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered on weekends, but check availability.

2

Expect to pay over $8 for a latte.

3

Parking is very difficult, so plan ahead.

10
Ralph's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Museum-like interior with vintage-style decor creates an elegant, classy atmosphere. Space feels posh and comfortable but often overcrowded with limited seating. Souvenirs and stylish design add to a unique coffee shop experience.

Hot chocolate offers a luxuriously rich taste, similar to melted Belgian chocolate, with a dark, slightly bitter flavor profile. Mocha drinks balance rich chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness, and the chocolate in pastries melts smoothly into airy layers.

Thoughtful design creates an elegant yet cozy ambiance with vintage decor and comfy chairs. The space offers a premium, relaxing vibe ideal for catching up, reading, or working quietly.

People are saying

"The coffee here is smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"The hot chocolate here is delicious, perfect for cold weather."

"It's a stylish, cozy, and sophisticated relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

They only accept card payments; cash is not accepted.

2

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Expect a 10โ€“20 minute wait to enter during busy hours.

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River North, Chicago

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