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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Upscale salad spots in River North

A refined setting where a composed salad feels like a deliberate choice.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
VELA image 1
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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.

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

Sophisticated Mexican vibes set the tone with elegant lighting and beautiful decorations. The atmosphere suits date nights and refined after-work drinks.

People are saying

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

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

"The upscale cocktails here are amazing, with unique flavors and flawless presentation."

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
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.

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.

Atmosphere feels sophisticated and comfortable with an elegant yet warm vibe. Decor leans toward chic and stylish.

People are saying

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

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

"I can't wait to return for the Upscale experience."

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.

03
Coco Pazzo Restaurant & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Open wood-fired grill and rustic decor create an elegant, cozy atmosphere with candlelit tables and heavy velvet curtains that reduce noise and separate diners. The space fills quickly, fostering a lively yet comfortable vibe suited for polite, discreet conversation without loud music. Views of the city through lovely windows add to the upscale, professional feel.

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.

Warm, candlelit tables and rustic decor create a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. The setting suits discreet and polite diners who prefer quiet over loud conversation.

People are saying

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

"The Upscale food here is fantastic, with rich flavors and fresh ingredients."

"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.

04
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 bib lettuce salad was lightly dressed and a nice counter balance."

"The upscale porterhouse steak is cooked flawlessly and full of rich, beefy flavor."

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.

05
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.

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

Elegant and relaxing atmosphere sets an upscale vibe throughout. Sides and starters feature bold flavors with elegant presentation.

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 steaks here are perfectly aged and seared to juicy tenderness."

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.

06
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance 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.

Dark woods and old-world steakhouse charm create a classic, refined atmosphere. The space blends historic Chicago charm with an updated, elegant feel.

People are saying

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

"I thought the porterhouse steak was exceptionally good."

"The upscale steaks here are outstanding and perfectly cooked."

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.

07
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.

Elegant atmosphere blends with an intimate and welcoming vibe. Attentive service complements the elegant ambiance without feeling stuffy.

People are saying

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

"It's an elegant, intimate, and stunning atmosphere here."

"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.

08
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.

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.

Elegant and thoughtfully designed space creates a sophisticated dining experience with a welcoming atmosphere and stunning views.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is elegant and thoughtfully designed."

"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.

09
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space features dim, cozy lighting and live music performances that create a romantic, upscale atmosphere. The lounge offers an upbeat vibe with talented singers and pianists providing background entertainment. Seating is close together, enhancing a lively, intimate feel.

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

Warm and elegant atmosphere sets the tone here. Live music adds to the upscale and refined vibe.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is upscale, elegant, and visually appealing."

"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.

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River North, Chicago

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