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Top picks in River North

Mexican food date spots

You want the comfort of Mexican food in an environment that feels right for a date.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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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.

Tuna Tostadas stand out with fresh flavors. Barbacoa ossobuco and castacan en mole offer rich, traditional tastes. Pork tacos come with caramelized pineapple for a sweet twist. Guacamole is consistently on point.

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 Mexican food here is amazing, especially the shrimp tacos."

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.

02
Bar Moxy image 1

Huge space filled with board games and foosball competitions creates a lively yet laid-back vibe. Comfortable seating and a DJ spinning tunes keep energy relaxed without overwhelming. Drinks come with a professional yet cool atmosphere suited for groups or dates.

Happy hour features $3 tacos with options like Brisket Taco and adobo chicken. Drinks include a blood orange margarita that pairs well with the tacos.

Great for big groups and dates, with a cozy atmosphere. Drink options include the cuffing season martini.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and attentive."

"I enjoyed late night Mexican food and drinks here."

"The atmosphere here is great for date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price drinks.

2

The bar is popular for both hotel guests and locals, creating a mixed crowd.

3

Drinks typically cost over $15, so budget accordingly.

03
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.

Wagyu steak tacos stand out with rich flavor, often paired with truffle fries and mushroom arancini. Quesadillas and short rib options also feature during happy hour, offering a solid variety of Mexican dishes.

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."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, truly the best."

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.

04
No Vacancy image 1
Restaurant

Dark academia decor creates a classy yet casual vibe with comfortable bar seating and large screen TVs for watching games. The atmosphere stays fun and welcoming, featuring DJs on weekends and a solid beer tap system. Food and drinks include amazing birria egg rolls and craft cocktails, making it a popular spot for game days.

Birria egg rolls stand out with a rich consommรฉ for dipping. Grilled chicken and Side Chick also feature alongside these Mexican-inspired bites.

Lively atmosphere suits date night and late drinks. Good spot for watching sports with a night cap vibe. Service can be uneven, with some staff showing disrespect.

People are saying

"I found the birria egg rolls to be absolutely delicious."

"You have to try the birria egg rolls; they're amazing."

"You have to try the egg rolls; they're incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 to 6:30 pm with half-price appetizers and drinks.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during NFL games on weekends.

3

The menu features unique dishes but is small enough to not be overwhelming.

05
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.

Torta skirt steak and al pastor gringas stand out as flavorful dishes. The amazing salsa and queso with steak add great depth, while enchiladas with mole and Carne Asada dinner offer solid variety.

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 nachos here are so delicious, I loved them."

"The enchiladas and camaron tacos are delicious."

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.

06
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.

Fish tacos and lobster sliders feature prominently alongside elote that differs from the traditional style. Various Mexican-inspired dishes like shrimp tacos and jicama salad appear, but some tacos lack flavor.

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 Mexican food here is tasty and affordable with a great view."

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.

07
Ghost Donkey image 1

Upstairs space offers a hidden, cozy lounge with stunning decor and couch tables. Music is loud and upbeat, often featuring a DJ and dance elements like salsa lessons and bubble machines. The vibe suits date nights and lively gatherings, blending traditional Mexican influences with a modern bar atmosphere.

Tacos stand out with their $2 price and strong praise. Carne asada quesadilla and chips with guacamole add solid variety to the Mexican food offerings.

Lighting and table setup create a perfect atmosphere for date nights. The place offers a great vibe for both intimate evenings and casual drinks with friends.

People are saying

"This bar has a super fun, lounge-like atmosphere."

"The frozen margaritas here are excellent and worth every sip."

"This place is perfect for date night, with intimate lighting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from Monday to Saturday 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM and all day on Sunday.

2

Tacos are priced at $2.00 during happy hour.

3

Ghost Donkey gets packed between 6:00 and 8:00 PM.

08
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.

The coconut shrimp taco stands out with its rich flavor, paired well with avocado and mango pico. Tacos and quesadillas come flavorful and filling, with the crispy fish taco offering a fresh, crunchy texture and balanced cabbage.

Ordering just a couple of tacos and a tray of chili lime fries fits well for a casual date. Sharing simple dishes with sprites keeps the vibe relaxed and easygoing.

People are saying

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

"The bar seating service was fast and excellent."

"Josh makes great cocktails and explains the menu well."

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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