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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Modern unique spots in River North

A modern space that offers something genuinely unique instead of just following the latest design trends.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated April 2026
01
Akiro Hand Roll Bar image 1
Akiro Hand Roll Bar image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Counter seating surrounds chefs who handcraft sushi rolls in full view, creating a lively and social dining experience. The space combines chic decor with an elegant, downtown vibe that complements the fresh, high-quality sushi and thoughtfully paired cocktails.

Atmosphere features a modern Japanese interior with a clean and calming vibe. Lighting stays low with sleek finishes, blending modern style with warmth and inviting energy.

Explosive flavors and unique combinations define the menu, offering a culinary experience unlike traditional sushi bars. The scallop nigiri and negri specials stand out with their distinctive tastes inspired by Madrid.

People are saying

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

"The flavor combinations here are so unique and unexpected."

"The sushi here is so fresh and beautifully presented."

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.

02
LIA Tavern image 1
Restaurant

Space blends modern art and dining with Jackson Pollock-inspired decor and a gallery-like atmosphere. Music plays at a perfect volume to support conversation, creating a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Guests enjoy a cozy setting with tasteful rustic details that balance the artistic design.

Striking interior inspired by modern art creates a unique vibe. The space feels like a museum of modern art mixed with fine dining, offering a modern yet cozy ambiance.

Cocktails come with unique flavor profiles and artistic presentation. Dishes feature original presentations and some include a bit of show.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and visually impressive."

"The cocktails here have unique flavor profiles and are works of art."

"The modern art inspired interior felt striking and memorable."

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.

03
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.

Interior blends an authentic Kazakh vibe with modern design. Ancient recipes get a fresh take through modern nutrition fusion.

Coffee infused with tary adds a distinct flavor and richness not found elsewhere. The menu features unique Kazakh dishes and a sweet cheese latte that stands out for its unusual and delicious taste.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"You have to try the unique Kazakh food here; it's so authentic."

"The food here is modern, tasteful, and delicious."

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.

04
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.

Elegant space blends classic and modern French style with a classy ambiance. The Duck Presse service nods to culinary history while keeping a modern edge.

Unique flavor combinations and expertly prepared food create a distinct dining experience. The outstanding decor adds a sophisticated and warm atmosphere that feels personalized.

People are saying

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

"The service here is unique, with attentive and knowledgeable staff."

"The Modern steaks are outstanding and impeccably cooked."

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.

05
Crying Tiger image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers an immersive Asian-inspired interior with a beautifully designed layout and a stylish bar area. Music features 90s hip-hop and R&B, creating a fun and cool vibe throughout the space. The atmosphere feels lively and memorable, blending great energy with a gorgeous setting.

Stunning atmosphere with modern, high-end dรฉcor creates a chic yet warm vibe. The interior feels cool and fun, making it easy to relax and enjoy a meal.

Unique dishes like eggplant bhan xeo and the dessert called Tiger Crying offer smooth, distinct flavors. The decor creates a funky immersive environment that matches the food and cocktails.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and thoughtfully prepared."

"The food here is uniquely interpreted and full of flavor."

"The interior's modern vibe is stunning, warm, and inviting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking costs $20 for 2 hours.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

06
ACME Hotel Chicago, Outset Collection by Hilton image 1

Boutique hotel with industrial artistic decor and a strong music theme creates a cool, eclectic vibe. Spacious rooms offer city views and modern amenities, while a lively bar and bakery provide social spots. Loud music and a unique entry system add to its distinctive character.

Rooms feel comfortable and modern with a pop-art charm. Clean spaces include vintage-inspired modern amenities that all function well.

Rooms feature unique and eccentric touches with rock n roll vibes throughout. The building and decor create an eclectic atmosphere blending art and Midwestern hospitality.

People are saying

"This hotel's decor and music give it a fun, cultured vibe."

"This place has a unique vibe with its rock n roll decor and music."

"It's a Modern hotel, just a couple blocks from the Mag Mile."

Good to know

1

You need to ring a bell and show your key to enter the hotel at night.

2

The hotel is centrally located near bars, restaurants, and shopping.

3

Parking is available, but consider using Uber or walking to nearby attractions.

07
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.

Dishes combine simple but complex flavors with thoughtful creativity. Unique pairings like fava beans with grilled octopus add distinct textures and tastes, while desserts offer a refreshing change from the usual.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The food here is unique, flavorful, and thoughtfully made."

"It's a beautiful, warm, and inviting modern space."

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.

08
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.

Decor features a modern and charming style. The menu offers modern Mediterranean dishes with vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

Kiwi martini stands out as a refreshingly unique drink. Happy Hour features unique cocktails at reasonable prices.

People are saying

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

"I loved the modern Mediterranean food, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented."

"The food here is divine, bursting with flavor and expertly prepared."

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.

09
UMMO image 1
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.

Upscale dining features a sleek and modern atmosphere with modern jazz influences. The menu offers modern Italian cuisine with clean, balanced flavors and well-sized portions.

Dishes feature unique presentations like tiramisu shaped as a coffee bean and chicken wrapped instead of stuffed. The menu blends Italian flavors with Mexican roots, creating distinctive appetizers and entrees.

People are saying

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

"The food here has unique spins on staple dishes and incredible flavors."

"I enjoyed the modern Italian food, bursting with flavor."

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.

10
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.

Spaces feel modern and minimalist with a palette of soft neutrals and natural materials like wood and concrete. Interiors are spacious and super clean, creating a serene atmosphere.

Atmosphere feels classy and unique with a distinct vibe. Coffee options include black cardamom latte and shakerato, offering unique and flavorful choices.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"The space feels so modern, clean, and sophisticated."

"I loved their unique coffee options like the black cardamom latte."

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.

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.

Cozy modern vibes blend with authentic Mexican dishes that have a fresh twist. The spot stands out as a genuine example of modern Mexican cuisine.

Salmon Tostadas and Empanadas offer unique flavor combinations that stand out. Pulpo a la Parilla adds a distinctive twist, while drinks feature flawless presentation and unusual tastes.

People are saying

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

"The flavors here are unique and leave you feeling satisfied."

"The Modern food and drinks were 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.

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River North, Chicago

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