Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Dinner spots in River North

The end of the day demands a proper meal in a space that feels like a destination.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Chicago Chop House image 1
Chicago Chop House image 2
Chicago Chop House image 3
View all

Restored brownstone offers a traditional steakhouse vibe with live piano music enhancing the atmosphere. Steak and lobster dinners shine with excellent service and culinary skill. Ideal for special occasions like birthdays and weddings.

Steak and lobster dinners stand out with excellent service and culinary excellence. The spot suits special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings.

People are saying

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

"The service at these dinner spots is phenomenal and attentive."

"Our server Gabe made us feel loved and taken care of."

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.

02
The Omakase Room at Sushi-San image 1

Intimate counter seating for ten offers a personal dining experience with a chef guiding each course. Dinner starts with a curtain reveal and warm greetings, setting an unforgettable culinary journey. The menu blends French, Kaiseki, and Nigiri styles paired with carefully selected sakes.

Dinner unfolds with a curtain reveal seating guests at the sushi bar. Staff greet warmly and offer a nicely arranged cocktail menu before the meal, creating an unforgettable culinary journey.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the fresh urchin."

"The Omakase experience here was phenomenal and fun."

"The ingredients for dinner spots are top quality and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating capacity.

2

The meal costs over $250 per person, making it a special occasion dining option.

3

The experience includes 18 courses, typically lasting around 75 minutes.

03
Waterview image 1
American restaurant

Enjoy stunning river views and a lively atmosphere perfect for after-work drinks. Dinner offers a great selection with attentive service and friendly servers like Tom who add charm. Quality drinks like espresso martinis and margaritas enhance the relaxed vibe.

Dinner features a great selection with attentive service. Servers like Tom bring friendly energy and even sing during the meal. Errors in orders get fixed quickly, improving the experience.

People are saying

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

"The breakfast servers, Robert and Juan, were so welcoming and attentive."

"The dinner service here is outstanding and so friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:00 to 6:00 pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a calm atmosphere during happy hour.

3

Parking is easy to find and navigate.

04
Omakase by Kanemaru image 1
Japanese restaurant

Intimate 8-seat counter creates a serene setting perfect for dinner. Skilled chef crafts exceptional sushi with fresh fish. Soft lighting adds to the warm vibe. Nearby spots offer great choices for after dinner drinks.

Dinner offers a memorable experience with meals that leave a strong impression. Plenty of good spots for after dinner drinks surround the area, adding to the evening.

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 dinner spots here have amazing, fresh fish and perfectly balanced sushi rice."

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.

05
LIA Tavern image 1
Restaurant

Space blends modern art and dining with Jackson Pollock-inspired decor for a gallery-like vibe. Music supports conversation, creating a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Perfect for dinner and happy hour, it welcomes groups and visitors with cozy, rustic touches.

Art throughout the space creates a gallery dinner party vibe. It suits both dinner and happy hour occasions, welcoming groups and out-of-town guests alike.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and visually impressive."

"The art throughout the space made it feel like a cool gallery dinner party."

"The dinner spots here are delicious; I enjoyed my meal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-6:30pm with $10 cocktails.

2

The restaurant recently transitioned to a new pizza and tavern menu on 9/23.

3

There is a 3.5% surcharge on all bills.

06
Akiro Hand Roll Bar image 1
Japanese restaurant

Counter seating offers a lively, social vibe with chefs crafting sushi rolls in full view. Dinner shines with a personalized Omakase and a show element that elevates the evening. Chic decor and thoughtfully paired cocktails complete the elegant downtown feel.

Dinner features an Omakase experience guided by skilled chefs, creating a personalized meal. The setting includes a show element that adds to the evening's atmosphere.

People are saying

"The sushi chefs here are amazing and give great recommendations."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"I had an amazing dinner experience here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights like New Year's Eve.

2

The restaurant specializes in Nikkei cuisine, blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

3

Expect tight seating arrangements, which may affect dining comfort.

07
The Franklin Room image 1
New American restaurant

Underground space offers rich fabrics and carved woodwork for a high-end speakeasy feel. Attentive service, especially from Anthony, makes dinners special. Enjoy specialty whiskey and unique cocktails in a cozy, intimate vibe perfect for conversation.

Dinner features attentive service that enhances the experience. Staff like Anthony contribute to a special atmosphere for celebrations.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

"I found their whiskey selection to be extensive and impressive."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food and drinks."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

08
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

Upscale steakhouse shines with perfectly cooked steaks and a romantic atmosphere ideal for celebrations. Intimate indoor seating and a welcoming outdoor patio create a warm, stylish setting. Cocktails and wine pairings add to the comfortable dining experience.

Great for a steak dinner with a romantic atmosphere or a night out with friends. The setting suits celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays.

People are saying

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

"They made my birthday celebration unforgettable with a special dessert."

"The steak at these dinner spots is cooked to perfection."

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.

09
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club offers live jazz music and a cozy atmosphere with dark wood and colorful wallpaper. Perfect for special occasions, it hosts events like rehearsal dinners and graduations with ease. Intimate private rooms add to the lively, unique experience.

Hosts large events like rehearsal dinners and graduations with ease. Offers a setting for special occasions including anniversaries and holiday dinners, combining dinner, drinks, and conversation.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the amazing jazz music during my visit."

"The atmosphere here is dark, moody, and romantic."

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.

10
Ila's Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Beautiful design and warm lighting create a relaxed vibe with unique cocktails that stand out. Superb service and food make it easy to stay for dinner or return soon. Comfortable furniture and chill music add to the welcoming atmosphere.

Dinner here features simply superb service and food that keeps people coming back. The quality makes it easy to stay for another round or even return the next day.

People are saying

"The dinner here was incredible, especially the short rib chilaquiles."

"The cocktails here are unique, refined, and delicious."

"It's so cozy and warm inside, with gorgeous decor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

The menu features a variety of unique dishes, including gluten-free options.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

11
Charlie Martin's image 1

Cozy spot with Hollywood regency decor sets a speakeasy mood. Bartenders serve exceptional cocktails like Old Fashioneds and martinis. Perfect for jazzy date nights and relaxed business dinners with white tablecloths.

Offers a friendly hangout atmosphere suitable for date nights and business dinners. Dinner service focuses on a relaxed yet engaging experience.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"The French food here is phenomenal, with bold, refined flavors."

"Colin at the bar really understood the assignment for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

12
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a calm, casual vibe with an airy, spacious interior and soft lighting. Dinner features quick, tasty options like Gyro salad and kebab, perfect for a fast meal. Plenty of seating and outlets make it ideal for relaxed dining or working.

Dinner includes options like Gyro salad and kebab, suitable for both dining in and delivery. Meals come quickly, making it good for quick dinners.

People are saying

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

"The hummus here is perfectly smooth and memorable."

"The Mediterranean Dinner Spots here are fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection."

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.

13
Marshall's Landing image 1
American restaurant

Enjoy river views and a wrap-around bar with cozy seating. Service is attentive, with Mario ensuring smooth dinners even for late arrivals. Space suits quiet work or informal meetings, though music can be loud.

Consistently attentive service creates a smooth dinner experience. Mario, the general manager, personally checks in and ensures reservations even with late arrivals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The river views here are absolutely stunning."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, with top-notch, welcoming service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Marshall's Landing is a popular spot for hosting corporate events and parties.

3

The venue offers a spacious area suitable for networking events.

14
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse shines with coal-cooked steaks and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, warm dining room. Perfect for celebrations and work events, it offers private rooms for intimate or business gatherings. Sunday Dinner is a solid choice for a satisfying evening.

Dinner here features great meals that suit celebrations and work events alike. The Sunday Dinner stands out as a solid choice for a satisfying evening.

People are saying

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

"The dinner service here is efficient and genuinely hilarious."

"The Vietnamese oysters were some of the best I had anywhere."

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.

15
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant shines with warm modern interior and extensive gluten-free menu. Small plates and fresh breads pair perfectly with regional wines for dinner. Outdoor seating on patio and rooftop adds to the inviting relaxed vibe.

Small plates and fresh breads pair well with regional wines for dinner. A pre-fix menu suits group dinners, creating an exceptional experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The chicken kebab here is prepared and presented perfectly."

"The dinner here is delicious and tastes like home."

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.

16
Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Colorful artwork and loud 1980s rock create a vibrant atmosphere. Staff dance and smile, making it welcoming and energetic. Fast service keeps the dinner rush smooth with a spacious patio and walk-up counter.

Even during the peak dinner rush, the team handles the queue with impressive speed and genuine smiles.

People are saying

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

"The Reaper Chicken Sandwich is seriously spicy; I had to sign a waiver."

"The chicken here is so delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

17
No Vacancy image 1
Restaurant

Dark academia decor sets a classy yet casual tone with comfortable bar seating and large screen TVs for games. Late-night dinners serve amazing birria egg rolls with quick service, perfect for groups staying late. Weekend DJs and a solid beer tap system keep the vibe fun and welcoming.

Late-night dinners offer a laid back vibe with quick service. The spot works well for groups wanting to stay from dinner to close and also suits casual drinks alongside meals.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the steak sliders; the steak is so tender."

"The burgers here are so juicy and flavorful."

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.

18
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends modern jazz design with a lively vibe. Dinner suits date nights and family dinners without kids. Upstairs loft offers live music and a pool table for late-night fun.

Dinner here features great energy and suits date nights or family dinners without small children. The atmosphere supports a night out with any party size.

People are saying

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

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

"The espresso martini here is outstanding and totally worth the hype."

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.

19
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant shines with stunning windows and personalized service from servers like Kayleen. Lively vibe and beautiful city view make dinners special. Perfect for celebrations with warm, welcoming atmosphere and curated music.

Personalized service stands out with servers like Kayleen, Kyra, and Ashley making dinners feel special. Celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries get extra attention to create memorable evenings.

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 dinner spots here are delicious, especially the greens and mac and cheese."

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.

20
The Tasting Room at Chicago Winery image 1

Wine bar boasts high ceilings and bright lighting for a modern feel. Dinner offers family style servings with standout dishes like half chicken Vesuvio. Vibrant wines made on site pair well with sharing plates and unique cocktails.

Dinner features family style servings with dishes like short ribs, cauliflower, steak florentine, and burrata. The half chicken Vesuvio stands out as a notable option for the evening meal.

People are saying

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

"The wine service here is outstanding and truly above and beyond."

"The service at these dinner spots is outstanding and friendly."

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.

21
CBR image 1
Bar

Bar inside a hotel offers dim lighting and cute furniture for a relaxed vibe. Dinner serves solid quality meals alongside a well-regarded menu. DJs spin great music, making it lively for special occasions.

Dinner offers nice meals with solid quality. Both breakfast and dinner serve good food.

People are saying

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

"The Steak And Eggs here was elevated in quality."

"I thought the food at these dinner spots was delicious."

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.

22
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse offers live DJ sets and bold neon decor for a lively vibe. Dinner shines with top-tier service from servers like Jordan and Gino. Fresh, flavorful cocktails complete the energetic atmosphere.

Dinner features top-tier service with servers like Jordan and Gino providing knowledgeable and attentive care. Celebrations such as birthdays and Thanksgiving dinners happen here with a lovely atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

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

"Our server made our dinner experience great and unforgettable."

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.

23
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space features a beautiful patio perfect for dinner. Cocktails impress with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed to refined, making it ideal for both drinks and meals.

Beautiful patio space offers a pleasant setting for dinner. Options include ร  la carte dinner and cocktails, both leaving a satisfying impression.

People are saying

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

"The homemade pasta here is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The food here is amazing, with unique tastes and flavors."

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.

24
House of Blues Chicago image 1

Small venue offers live blues music with strong cocktails in a warm setting. Dinner features decent food but shines with authentic blues atmosphere and unique psychedelic decor.

Dinner includes live blues performances that play during the meal. Food quality is decent but not the main focus compared to the music experience.

People are saying

"The live music here sounds fantastic."

"The vibe here is cool, with funky art and aesthetic decor."

"I enjoyed dinner with live music and great performances."

Good to know

1

Parking at the venue is valet only, which can be expensive.

2

Brunch is available 30 minutes before the show and throughout the performance.

3

Expect a limited food menu with generous portion sizes.

25
Moe's Cantina - River North image 1
Mexican restaurant

Massive Mexican restaurant offers Carne Asada dinner and lively vibes. Outdoor seating and artistic decor create a vibrant scene. Weekend nights turn into a nightclub with reggaeton and dancing.

Carne Asada dinner stands out as a solid choice. The spot suits both casual dinners and celebrations, with options to enjoy cocktails and even dance afterward.

People are saying

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

"The nachos here are so delicious, I loved them."

"These dinner spots have flavorful food and a lively atmosphere."

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.

26
320 RiverBar image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy riverview patio with calm vibes and prompt service. Dinner features breathtaking river views and attentive staff like Isreal. Perfect for a relaxing meal or casual drink by the water.

Dinner offers a breathtaking view of the Chicago River and attentive service from staff like Isreal.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the salmon dish."

"I had dinner with a breathtaking river view."

"The bar service was fantastic, with patient attention to detail."

Good to know

1

The bar is located on the main floor of the Westin hotel.

2

Expect high prices, with cocktails like a Jim Beam Old Fashioned costing $17.

3

Vegetarian options are available on the menu.

27
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned spot shines with authentic Italian pizza and cheesy garlic bread perfect for dinner. Small, crowded space buzzes with energy, while the outdoor patio offers a calm alternative. Lively vibe makes it a favorite for evening meals.

Dinner offers a satisfying experience with cheesy garlic bread standing out as a notable item. Positive reviews and a desire to return for an early dinner highlight its appeal for evening meals.

People are saying

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

"The Italian food here is served by the friendliest, most attentive staff."

"The cheesy garlic bread at these dinner spots is out of this world."

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.

28
Coco Pazzo Restaurant & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Enjoy Tuscan dinner by an open wood-fired grill in a cozy, elegant setting. Candlelit tables and heavy velvet curtains create a quiet space for polite talks. City views through large windows add an upscale, professional feel to the lively atmosphere.

Offers a wonderful Italian Tuscan dinner with a great atmosphere from start to finish.

People are saying

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

"The squid ink pasta here is perfectly cooked with incredible flavor."

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic, especially the branzino."

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.

Discover more

River North, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...