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Guide to Des Plaines

Dinner and date spots

A shared meal is the easiest way to focus on someone special without any distractions.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Outback Steakhouse image 1
Outback Steakhouse image 2
Outback Steakhouse image 3
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Steakhouse offers an open layout with a large modern bar and clean, fresh space. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming but music plays loud, affecting casual conversation. Guests enjoy well-cooked steaks and a variety of cocktails in a casual dining setting.

Juicy Filet Mignon and delicious Alice chicken offer solid main options. The Brussel sprouts stand out as a memorable side.

Dinner service features fast and efficient staff who assist multiple tables. The atmosphere suits special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays with attentive, excellent service.

People are saying

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

"The service here makes it a great spot for date nights."

"The service at these dinner spots is so attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Prices are better than expected, offering good value.

02
Karavan Restaurant image 1

Restaurant blends Kyrgyz cultural design with cozy, warm atmosphere featuring both indoor and outdoor seating. Space feels spacious and colorful, inviting for family dinners or gatherings. Unique authentic cuisine stands out alongside a notable non-alcoholic bar and attentive service.

Dinner features delicious samsa and dumplings. Outdoor patio offers a unique dining experience during warm weather.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and awesome."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and welcoming."

"You'll love the delicious food, especially the kebabs and manty."

Good to know

1

Karavan Restaurant is the only Kyrgyz restaurant in Chicago.

2

The restaurant claims to be 'Halal' but allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

3

I was charged $40 for the iftar buffet at Karavan Restaurant.

03
Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a clean, modern interior with spacious seating and cultural decorations that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Outlets at every booth and a freestyle soda machine add convenience. The vibe suits quick lunches more than cozy, long meals.

A nice atmosphere sets a simple, relaxed tone for date nights here. The setting suits couples looking for a low-key evening.

Evening dinners here are quick and easy with standout items like the chicken shwarma, hot sauce, and hummus that deliver strong flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious."

Good to know

1

Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill is certified halal.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-presented dining area.

3

The portions are generous for the price paid.

04
KOW image 1
Restaurant

Large, beautifully designed space features loud K-pop music, laser lights, and a ramen bar where customers can cook their own ramen. Atmosphere feels lively and upbeat, with neon accents and big screens playing music videos. Guests enjoy a vibrant setting with interactive dining and a full bar on a mezzanine level.

Well prepared and tasty dishes create a solid foundation for a date. The spot works well for couples, friends, and family, offering a welcoming atmosphere for shared meals.

Dinner here features consistently excellent dishes that satisfy every time. The menu offers a solid range of options that deliver on flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The music at these dinner spots is way too loud."

"The meat quality at these Date Spots is next level, truly delicious."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $33 per person.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during weekend dinner hours.

3

A 50% charge applies for unfinished food left on the table.

05
La Marina Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior features live mariachi music and a live DJ with music videos on large screens, creating a loud, energetic atmosphere especially during karaoke nights. Decor is colorful and inviting, with numerous TVs showing sports. The vibe blends festive Mexican elements with a lively social scene.

Fresh ceviche and flavorful micheladas create a lively vibe for couples. The spot suits both date nights and casual dinners with family.

Dinner here suits both date nights and family celebrations. The generous fish ceviche appetizer comes with fresh avocado and fills a whole dinner plate.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and octopus, is amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like being beachside."

"The seafood here is some of the best and freshest I've had."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, $5 margaritas are available all day with Hornitos tequila.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1.99 tacos, including shrimp.

3

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 5 to 7 pm Monday through Thursday.

06
The Tiki Terrace image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Polynesian-themed restaurant with handmade Hawaiian decor creates an immersive island vibe. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features authentic dancing shows that engage audiences. Popular for luau dinners requiring reservations, it offers a playful and fun experience.

Great for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and Valentine's Day. Offers a fun vibe that suits both date nights and events.

Dinner here pairs well with a live show, creating a unique dining experience. The setting suits celebrations like birthdays, combining food and entertainment seamlessly.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the furikake fries."

"I went for the dinner and show; it was an enchanting night."

"The show was fun and engaging for a great date spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for both dinner and the show.

2

The show starts at 8:30pm, with seating at 7:30pm.

3

Expect to pay around $150 per person for the experience.

07
CHICAGO RAMEN image 1
Ramen restaurant

Counter seating faces an open kitchen where chefs prepare ramen in an intricate, visible process. The cramped space offers a Japanese small shop feel with tight bar-style seating and authentic decor that creates a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of Tokyo.

Ramen here stands out with Beef Curry ramen and spicy red miso ramen with egg as popular choices. Both dishes offer rich flavors that make for a memorable date meal.

Dinner hours offer quick seating and a vibe that mirrors authentic Japanese dinners. The spot suits both group dinners and late-night meals, with options to stay for dessert after.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich and delicious."

"The ramen here is so rich and flavorful, perfect for date spots."

"The ramen here is so tasty, especially the broth."

Good to know

1

There are only two tables for four people, leading to limited seating.

2

Expect high prices for extra toppings, like $7 for corn and chives.

3

The portion size is generous, offering good value for the price.

08
Ostras image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a modern, artsy decor with colorful, warm design that creates a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Upbeat Latino music plays, sometimes with dancing and a private salsa room, adding lively energy. Space feels large and accommodating with a separate party area and speakeasy bar.

Salsa nights create an amazing vibe that suits a fun night out. The setting works well for a date night or hanging with friends.

Attentive and pleasant service stands out during dinner. Steak taco and birria dinners offer pleasant flavors in a setting that suits casual dining and lively nights.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and outstanding."

"The staff here is so friendly and attentive during dinner."

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Salsa lessons start at 9 PM on Saturdays, followed by a lively dance party.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 7 PM with special drink and food prices.

3

There is a $10 cover charge for salsa night, even for dinner guests.

09
Aladdin Kitchen and Market image 1
Turkish restaurant

Space combines authentic Turkish market with a modern, clean restaurant and an impressive bakery. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and cozy with warm lighting and lively conversations. Visitors find a high-quality, well-decorated environment that blends shopping and dining seamlessly.

Kofte and chicken kebabs come out flavorful and juicy, cooked just right. The spot suits a quiet meal, especially during iftar.

Dinner features fresh, hot dishes with a focus on kebabs and desserts. Food consistently tastes very good and the option to buy groceries after dinner adds convenience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The dinner spots here serve really delicious and authentic Turkish food."

"The food here is authentic and delicious, just like back home."

Good to know

1

Expect a 3% fee for credit card transactions.

2

Döner may not be available at all times.

3

Quality food is offered at affordable prices.

10
VIA ROMA image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers a cozy, family-style atmosphere with loud, lively energy inside and a charming patio with umbrellas outside. Regulars frequent the space, creating a welcoming vibe, while the BYOB policy adds a relaxed, personal touch to dining.

Penne Arrabiatta and ravioli stand out as popular dishes for couples. The setting supports a beautiful date night atmosphere enjoyed over many years.

Arriving early avoids waits for a table. Dinner offers a nice atmosphere with Italian-style dining and options for wine pairing.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and the portions large."

"The Italian food here is amazing, bursting with flavor."

"I found the Italian food at this dinner spot delicious."

Good to know

1

VIA ROMA allows customers to bring their own beverages without a corkage fee.

2

VIA ROMA does not accept reservations.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high demand.

11
CHICAGO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with cozy modern decor and bright Asian artwork creates a calm, quiet atmosphere with relaxing lofi and piano music. The space suits both casual nights and special occasions, offering a comfortable and nostalgic vibe.

Sushi dates work well here with options like the Ume Jewelry Box featuring salmon, tuna, eel, and more on rice. The spot suits couples looking for a casual sushi experience.

Atmosphere suits both casual dinners and special nights out. It works well for family gatherings and late-night meals.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, tasted so fresh."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"It's a really cute place, perfect for sushi dates."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a small parking lot, so arrive early.

3

Menu includes unique items like Japanese hot dogs and curry dishes.

12
Qué bolà! Cuban Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy, colorful space filled with salsa music and Cuban murals creates a lively, authentic vibe. Small, spotless interior with vibrant decor transports diners to Havana. Music and atmosphere invite a spirited, immersive Cuban experience.

Authentic Cuban cuisine creates a tropical vibe that makes the atmosphere feel like a getaway. Dishes like the Ropa Vieja and jibarito add to a memorable date night experience.

Dinner features ropa vieja as a standout dish that draws repeat visits. The setting suits a dinner date with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be so authentic and delicious, just like home cooking."

"You'll love the authentic Cuban food at these Date Spots."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, especially the ropa vieja."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:00 PM, so arrive early for dine-in.

2

They offer takeout if you arrive close to closing time.

3

Parking is available, but a pick-up lane is recommended.

13
RC Supply Co image 1
Food and drink

Space combines modern, classic, and romantic design with beautiful lighting and craftsmanship. Atmosphere feels elevated but relaxed, with a dark, moody bar side and fun wall elements. It attracts those seeking a quiet, well-kept spot for date nights or casual outings inside a casino.

Hidden inside a casino, this spot offers a great vibe for date nights with shrimp poor boy loaded with shrimp and short rib topped mac and cheese that stands out. The ribs get high praise, making it a solid choice for a casual or special evening.

Dinner includes great bread with whipped butter and a generous side salad that can serve as a meal. The GM is friendly and attentive during dinner.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have huge portions, like that giant seafood platter."

"These BBQ ribs are huge and some of the best I've ever had."

"The dinner spots here have huge portions, like the French onion soup."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has no bathroom; guests must use the casino facilities.

2

Expect a 12am-4am buffet at an affordable price on weekends.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other casino dining options.

14
Taqueria El Gallo de Oro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with detailed decor and a friendly atmosphere. Loud music sets an energetic vibe while the limited seating creates an intimate setting. Known for flavorful tacos and authentic dishes, it draws those seeking genuine Mexican flavors.

Frequent visits highlight this spot as a go-to for couples. Shared meals include quesabrilla taco dinner and al pastor burrito, with bills running on the higher side.

Tacos and burritos stand out for dinner, especially with the quesabirria sauce. The marinated steak dinner offers a tasty option at a good price.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I ever had."

"These dinner spots have the tastiest tacos and burritos."

"The food here is amazing, especially the tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for seating during busy times due to limited space.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially with the lunch special available.

3

The lunch special includes only two tacos, which may not be enough for some.

15
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago OHare Airport image 1

Hotel offers quiet rooms despite proximity to airport and features an airy lobby with a large restaurant and bar that stay open late. Free shuttle service connects to the airport, and the pool area is popular with kids. Rooms are spacious and modernly decorated with ample seating and workspace.

Spa and pool offer a relaxing setting for couples. Staff provide personalized service like early check-in and suite preparation to enhance the experience.

Dinner offers a large menu with surprisingly good food. Service stands out with attentive servers providing excellent care.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were really friendly and welcoming."

"The staff here are incredibly nice and helpful."

"The dinner here was surprisingly good and the menu was large."

Good to know

1

Parking costs an extra $20 per night at the hotel.

2

Breakfast buffet is available for $22 each morning.

3

The hotel is very close to the airport, making it convenient for travelers.

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Des Plaines, Illinois

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