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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Salad spots

A fresh, crisp salad is the only thing that hits the spot when a heavy meal feels like too much.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Charlie Martin's image 1
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Cozy spot with Hollywood regency decor sets a speakeasy mood. Bartenders serve exceptional cocktails like Old Fashioneds and martinis. Wedge salad shines with dilly dressing and house-made freshness, perfect for jazzy date nights.

Wedge salad stands out with its dilly-dressing and house-made quality. Caesar salad also appears as a solid choice among the options.

People are saying

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

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

"The Caesar salad here was to die for."

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.

02
LIA Tavern image 1
Restaurant

Space blends modern art and dining with a gallery-like atmosphere and cozy rustic touches. Salads like the chopped salad offer bright, balanced flavors with layered textures. Music supports conversation, creating a relaxed yet stylish vibe.

Bright, balanced flavors and layered textures define the chopped salad, which feels light yet indulgent. The Brussel sprout salad and Beets & Beets salad offer distinct, fresh options that stand out.

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."

"I'd go back just for that chopped salad again."

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
Waterview image 1
American restaurant

Enjoy stunning river views and a lively atmosphere perfect for after-work drinks. Salads come in large portions, with a flavorful Caesar and a hearty steak Cobb. Staff maintain a quietly professional vibe while you sip on quality espresso martinis and margaritas.

Salads feature large portions with the Caesar salad being well dressed and flavorful. The Cobb salad includes steak, adding a rich, hearty element.

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 salads here are fresh and served with friendly service."

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
Crying Tiger image 1
Restaurant

Asian-inspired interior and a stylish bar create a lively vibe with 90s hip-hop and R&B music. Salads feature Wagyu beef and banana leaf options, plus fresh papaya and glass noodles. Energy and design make dining here truly memorable.

Salads here stand out with Wagyu beef and banana leaf options. The papaya salad and glass noodles bring strong, fresh flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and thoughtfully prepared."

"The Crying Tiger dessert is the star, but it runs out."

"The wagyu salad is absolutely to die for."

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.

05
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1

Brewpub offers a spacious second-floor spot with modern decor and fantastic artwork. Chopped salad shines with sweet corn and salty bacon, paired with fresh, crisp side salads. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with good music and cushioned bar stools.

Chopped salad features sweet corn, salty bacon, and cheese with herb ranch dressing. Side salads are fresh, crisp, and packed with variety alongside sandwiches and wraps.

People are saying

"They have a great mix of beers on tap."

"The burgers here are cooked just right and packed with flavor."

"I was impressed by the sensational, fresh, and crisp salad."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located on the second floor of the AMC building.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

The kitchen closes at 9pm, so arrive early for food.

06
VELA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space offers sophisticated Mexican vibes with warm, vibrant design and a live DJ spinning house, reggaeton, and hip hop. Guests enjoy upscale casual energy with comfy seating and standout cocktails. Salads like the Avocado Quinoa salad bring fresh, vibrant flavors to the menu.

Avocado Quinoa salad stands out with fresh, vibrant flavors. Other salads like the winter salad and quinoa avocado bean salad offer unique, satisfying options.

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."

"You have to try the Avocado Quinoa salad; it's a must."

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.

07
Coco Pazzo Restaurant & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Open wood-fired grill and rustic decor create an elegant, cozy atmosphere with candlelit tables perfect for polite conversation. Salads shine with a table side Caesar and fresh vegetable options complementing meals. Lovely city views add an upscale, professional feel to the lively yet comfortable space.

Salads include a table side Caesar with fresh preparation and an Arbabietole starter. Vegetable salads come with meals and complement dishes like pasta and bread.

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."

"I loved the Caesar salad, especially the tableside preparation."

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.

08
Yasemi, A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Spacious restaurant offers a casual but chic vibe with modern decor and energetic music. Salads impress with heirloom tomato freshness, perfectly paired with dishes like beef kofta. Dim lighting means personal lights help read menus.

Salads here shine with heirloom tomato and beet burrata options that are fresh and flavorful. The tomato salad stands out for its vibrant freshness and pairs well with dishes like beef kofta.

People are saying

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

"The chicken and beef kebabs are perfectly grilled and full of flavor."

"The heirloom tomato salad is so fresh and flavorful."

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
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy seating. Salads shine with Italian chicories and a standout Caesar. Cocktails impress with creative Negroni and martinis, matching the relaxed yet refined vibe.

Salads feature Italian chicories and a Caesar salad that stands out as a hidden gem. Burrata tops a brilliant salad, and tuna crudo comes over citrusy Japanese leaves for unique flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"The Caesar salad was the best I ever had."

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.

10
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors shine with shrimp Caesar salad and lamb hummus. Rooftop bar offers spectacular city views and cozy fire pits. Live music adds a lively atmosphere that pairs well with praised cocktails and food.

Salads feature shrimp, lamb hummus, and chicken options that stand out. The Caesar salad offers a satisfying crunch, especially with shrimp added.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"The bar staff, especially Trevor, were the sweetest and best."

"The rooftop views are panoramic and beautiful, especially at sunset."

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.

11
Brehon Pub image 1
Restaurant

Irish pub offers an authentic atmosphere with a quiet back area and a lively front room. Multiple screens make it great for watching sports, while pool and darts add fun. Salads like Caesar and Cobb feature fresh grilled chicken and crisp greens. Huge patio enhances the relaxed, neighborhood vibe.

Fresh grilled chicken tops the salads here. The Caesar and Cobb salads stand out with crisp greens and solid flavors.

People are saying

"The food and beer at this pub were awesome."

"I loved how the burgers were cooked to order."

"I loved their awesome Caesar salad."

Good to know

1

The pub charges an extra 3% on the bill for credit card payments.

2

Expect a $1 table fee for games, payable in quarters or bills.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

12
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot blends modern jazz design with a lively vibe. Caesar salad shines with rich flavor and fresh ingredients. Upstairs loft hosts live music and a pool table, perfect for a fun night out.

Caesar salad stands out with its rich flavor and fresh ingredients. Other salads like the caprese and braised mixed barley offer variety and unique textures.

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 Caesar salad here is surprisingly good and non-traditional."

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.

13
No Vacancy image 1
Restaurant

Dark academia decor sets a classy yet casual vibe with comfortable bar seating and large screen TVs for games. Salads like sesame ginger chicken and Caesar pair well with sandwiches. Weekend DJs and a solid beer tap system keep the atmosphere fun and welcoming.

Salads feature sesame ginger with chicken and a chop salad with grilled chicken. Options include a house salad and a Caesar salad, often paired with sandwiches or sides.

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."

"I loved the sesame ginger salad with chicken."

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.

14
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned spot serves authentic Italian pizza and pasta in a lively, loud space. Burrata salad rivals Rome's best and Cesare salad pairs well with pizza, all at affordable prices. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option.

Salads here stand out with the Burrata salad that rivals versions from Rome and the Cesare salad that pairs well with pizza. They offer affordable prices compared to downtown spots.

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."

"I found the salads here to be scrumptious and affordable."

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.

15
Pizzeria Ora Chicago image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot shines with authentic deep dish and a relaxed atmosphere that feels suburban. Salads are fresh and simple, especially the Caesar with grilled chicken. Large tables and a private party area make it great for groups.

Salads come fresh and simple, with options like the Caesar Salad with grilled chicken standing out. Dinner salads serve well for two, and upgrading from the house salad to Caesar adds a solid boost.

People are saying

"I found the deep dish pizza to be delicious and fire."

"It's a great late night spot when other places have closed."

"I loved the fresh and delicious Caesar Salad."

Good to know

1

Breakfast service ends at 11:30am.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for pizza preparation.

3

The restaurant is located inside a Best Western hotel.

16
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.

People are saying

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

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

"The bib lettuce salad was lightly dressed and a nice counter balance."

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.

17
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot features an airy interior with soft lighting for a calm vibe. Salads come with free hummus and generous portions, like the chicken shawarma salad. Plenty of seating and outlets make it great for dining or working.

Salads come with free hummus and are fresh and generous in portion. The chicken shawarma salad and side salads with entrees offer great quality and value under 25 dollars.

People are saying

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

"The hummus here is perfectly smooth and memorable."

"I ordered the chicken shawarma salad; the portion and quality were superb."

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.

18
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club blends live jazz music with a cozy, lively atmosphere featuring dark wood and colorful jazz-inspired wallpaper. Dining spaces include a private room with a bar, creating intimate vibes amid a bustling crowd. The setting combines elements of a jazz club and restaurant for a unique experience.

People are saying

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

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

"The ambiance is dark and moody, creating a great atmosphere."

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.

19
Ila's Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Beautiful design and warm lighting create a relaxed vibe. The little gem salad is fresh and crunchy, pairing well with other dishes. Unique cocktails and chill music make it a home away from home with a welcoming atmosphere.

Freshness and crunch stand out in the little gem salad. It consistently arrives super fresh and pairs well with other dishes like empanadas and half chicken.

People are saying

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

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

"The salad here is super fresh and really good."

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.

20
Cocoro Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy authentic izakaya vibes with a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for quiet meals or sake at the counter. Fresh seaweed salad and tofu with bonito flake sauce offer crisp, cold options. Traditional dishes pair well with soups and sushi for a genuine Japanese dining experience.

Cold options like seaweed salad and tofu with bonito flake sauce stand out. Salads come as part of sets and pair well with soups and sushi.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Japanese food outside of Japan here."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, with delicious sushi and ramen."

"The seaweed salad and cold tofu were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Lunch specials are available during the day, offering good value.

3

The restaurant features a menu with authentic Japanese dishes beyond typical sushi.

21
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

Upscale steakhouse shines with perfectly cooked steaks and a warm, inviting atmosphere featuring Deco lamps and a flowered canopy. Wedge salad with beets and burrata offers a standout dressing, while the super green salad pairs well with salmon. Outdoor patio adds a welcoming vibe.

Wedge salad features beets and burrata with a standout dressing. Super green salad offers a generous portion and pairs well with salmon.

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 beet burrata salad was amazing and perfectly balanced."

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.

22
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone offers a traditional steakhouse atmosphere with early 1900s decor and live piano music. Wedge salad features house-made blue cheese that pairs well with steaks. Comfortable seating and personalized touches create a refined dining experience.

Wedge salad comes with a house-made blue cheese that stands out. Caesar salad is available and sometimes comped. Salads pair well with steaks and cocktails here.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the porterhouse steak was exceptionally good."

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.

23
House of Blues Chicago image 1

Small venue buzzes with live blues music and psychedelic decor. Salads like the Southern Salad with shrimp pair well with hearty dishes. Strong cocktails add to the warm, pleasant setting that keeps crowds coming back.

Shrimp features prominently in the Southern Salad and a Creole starter salad. Salads often accompany main dishes like chicken tenders.

People are saying

"The live music here sounds fantastic."

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

"I enjoyed the Southern Salad with shrimp."

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.

24
Shanghai Terrace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open terrace offers shaded patio with spectacular views and a festive vibe. Salads highlight crisp cucumber flavors, including a unique dragon cucumber option. Indoor spaces feel elegant but worn, while outdoor areas bring lively energy for special events.

Salads feature cucumber prominently, including a dragon cucumber salad option. The salads serve up fresh, crisp flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best Chinese food I've found."

"The outdoor terrace has a great energy and perfect atmosphere."

"The half Peking duck is perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must at this place.

2

Expect higher prices compared to typical Chinese restaurants.

3

The terrace offers a nice view, especially for outdoor dining.

25
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot boasts a warm, modern interior with lively yet relaxed vibes. Fresh salads like Greek salad and watermelon cucumber shine alongside an extensive gluten-free menu. Outdoor seating on a rooftop patio adds charm for dining.

Fresh salads stand out with options like Greek salad, watermelon and cucumber salad, and beet salad. Almond and garlic spread, hummus, and faro salad add variety to the vibrant menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

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

"The cucumber watermelon feta salad is so refreshing."

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.

26
Just Salad image 1
Health food restaurant

Small space fills quickly at lunch with long lines but offers convenient pickup to save time. Salads like Buffalo Chicken Caesar come fresh and large, with careful vegan options. Prices are higher, matching the quality and efficiency of service.

Salads come in fresh, large portions with options like Buffalo Chicken Caesar and Plant Power with miso ginger dressing. Staff serve quickly and keep vegan salads free from cross-contamination.

People are saying

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is super friendly and efficient."

"I found the salads to be always fresh."

"The takeout salads are enormous and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid long lines during lunch hours.

2

Expect long wait times around noon; consider ordering ahead.

3

Prices can be high, but they offer a variety of salads, bowls, and wraps.

27
The Tasting Room at Chicago Winery image 1

Wine bar shines with high ceilings and vibrant flavors from on-site wines. Salads like kale salad and beet salad impress, while arugula salad falls short. Stylish, bright space offers cozy nooks and lively spots for a great visit.

Salads include a kale salad and a beet salad that stand out. The arugula salad comes heavily dressed and not well mixed.

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."

"I thought the kale salad was outstanding."

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.

28
Cafe L'Appetito image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with a true deli vibe offers quick bites and casual meals. Salads feature tortellini and vegetarian options but pricing varies. Dog-friendly outdoor patio adds to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Salads here come with delicious deli options like tortellini and vegetarian varieties. Pricing can vary, with some salads charged at $11.99 per pound instead of the advertised rate.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent."

"I got the diavolo sandwich; it was amazing."

"I found their salads pretty delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours; arrive early for full service.

2

The cafe closes at 6:20 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Affordable meals are available, typically around $10.

29
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space shines with dim cozy lighting and live music that sets a romantic mood. Caesar salad impresses with classic flavor and fresh ingredients. Lounge buzzes with an upbeat vibe and talented pianists, making it lively and intimate.

Caesar salad stands out with its classic flavor and fresh ingredients. The mambo salad also offers a unique twist alongside other solid dishes.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and friendly staff."

"The live music here is pretty cool and adds to the atmosphere."

"I had the best Caesar salad in the city."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available and recommended for convenience.

30
The Alston image 1
Steak house

Dining room shows spacious elegance with unique design and tableside duck press. Salads shine with a light Caesar and big Hearts of Palm in the Alston House Salad. Bar offers impressive cocktails and expert wine pairings, matching the lively, upscale crowd.

Salads stand out with a light and refreshing Caesar and the Alston House Salad featuring big Hearts of Palm. They often compete with steaks for attention.

People are saying

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

"The Fine Dining here is spectacular, especially the Wagyu filet."

"The house salad was fantastic and unlike any Caesar I've had."

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.

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