Looking for a unique dining experience in Chicago? Look no further than the restaurants on the river. With picturesque views of the Chicago River located in the heart of the Windy City and delicious cuisine around every corner, these Chicago restaurants offer the perfect combination of ambiance and flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun brunch spot with friends, the Riverwalk area is one of my favorite places in the city and has something for everyone.
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Exploring Chicago’s Riverwalk Dining is a must-do activity for any foodie visiting the city. From the bustling River North neighborhood to the quieter West Loop, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh catches at top seafood restaurants, while steak enthusiasts can enjoy a juicy cut with a view. And for those looking for a taste of Italy, there are plenty of Italian restaurants on the river to choose from. So sit back, relax, and let the river take you on a culinary journey.
Chicago River Restaurant Highlights
- Chicago’s river restaurants offer a unique dining experience with picturesque views and delicious cuisine.
- From seafood to steak to Italian, there are plenty of options to choose from on the river.
- Exploring Chicago’s Riverwalk Dining is a must-do activity for any foodie visiting the Windy City.
Exploring Chicago’s Riverwalk Dining
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Chicago, look no further than the city’s riverwalk. The Chicago River is the perfect backdrop for a meal, and there are plenty of restaurants along the riverwalk to choose from.
One of the standout options is Raised, an outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant that offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline. The menu features a variety of small plates and cocktails, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends.
Another great option is Island Party Hut, a waterfront bar and grill that serves up tropical drinks and island-inspired fare. The laid-back atmosphere and live music make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
For a more upscale experience, head to City Winery Chicago Riverwalk. This waterfront restaurant and wine bar offers an extensive wine list and a menu of elevated American cuisine. The outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine and watch the boats go by.
If you’re in the River North area, be sure to check out Porter Kitchen & Deck. This riverfront restaurant offers a menu of American classics with a modern twist, as well as an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails.
Overall, the riverwalk restaurants offer a unique dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else in Chicago. Whether you’re looking for waterfront dining or outdoor seating, there’s something for everyone along the Chicago River. Find some of the Chicago’s top-notch meals right in the heart of the city.
Best Brunch Spots on the River
If you’re looking for a delicious brunch spot on the river, you’re in luck. There are plenty of great options to choose from that offer a variety of tasty dishes and stunning views of the water.
Here are some of the best brunch spots on the river in Chicago:
Ema
Ema is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located in the River North area. They offer a brunch menu that includes dishes like shakshuka, avocado toast, and a smoked salmon platter. The restaurant has a modern and stylish atmosphere, making it a great spot for a weekend brunch with friends.
The Kitchen
The Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the River North area. Their brunch menu features dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, like their famous breakfast burrito and ricotta pancakes. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing brunch with family or friends.
Azul
Azul is a Latin-inspired restaurant located in the Loop area. Their brunch menu includes dishes like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, and a breakfast sandwich with chorizo and avocado. The restaurant has a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, making it a fun spot for a weekend brunch.
Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton
The Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton is a luxurious restaurant located in the Streeterville area. Their brunch menu includes classic dishes like eggs benedict and french toast, as well as more unique options like lobster mac and cheese and wagyu beef sliders. The restaurant has a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion brunch.
Small Plates
Small Plates is a tapas-style restaurant located in the River North area. Their brunch menu features a variety of small plates, like bacon-wrapped dates and truffle scrambled eggs, that are perfect for sharing with friends. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it a great spot for a small group brunch.
Avec
Avec is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located in the West Loop area. Their brunch menu includes dishes like ricotta pancakes and a breakfast sandwich with merguez sausage. The restaurant has a rustic and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a casual weekend brunch.
Top Seafood Restaurants
If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in luck! The riverfront area of Chicago offers some of the best seafood restaurants in the city.
Here are a few of the top seafood restaurants to check out:
- RPM Seafood: This upscale seafood restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including lobster, sushi, and oysters. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a great choice for a special occasion.
- River Roast: This restaurant is known for its roasted meats, but they also offer a great selection of seafood dishes. Their seafood tower is a must-try, featuring a variety of fresh seafood including oysters, shrimp, and crab.
- Shaw’s Crab House: This classic seafood spot has been a Chicago staple for over 30 years. Their menu features a wide variety of seafood dishes, including their famous lobster roll and fresh oysters.
- GT Fish & Oyster: This trendy seafood spot offers a unique twist on classic seafood dishes. Their ceviche and crudo dishes are a must-try, and they also offer a great selection of oysters.
Steakhouses with a View
Chicago is known for its iconic riverfront views, and what better way to enjoy them than with a delicious steak dinner? Here are some of the best steakhouses in Chicago with a view.
Chicago Cut Steakhouse
Located in the heart of downtown, Chicago Cut Steakhouse offers stunning views of the Chicago River and the city skyline. Known for their prime cuts of beef, the menu also features fresh seafood and a variety of sides. The elegant atmosphere and impeccable service make this restaurant a must-visit for any steak lover.
Gibsons Italia
Gibsons Italia offers a unique dining experience with its modern Italian cuisine and breathtaking views of the river and the city. The menu features a variety of steak options, including a 22-ounce bone-in ribeye and a filet mignon. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list to pair with your meal.
RPM Steak
RPM Steak is a modern take on the classic steakhouse, with sleek decor and a menu that features both traditional and contemporary dishes. The restaurant’s riverfront location provides stunning views, and the steak options are top-notch. Be sure to try the dry-aged bone-in ribeye or the wagyu beef filet.
Gene & Georgetti
A Chicago institution since 1941, Gene & Georgetti is a classic steakhouse with a cozy atmosphere and riverfront views. The menu features all the traditional steakhouse favorites, including a 22-ounce porterhouse and a bone-in ribeye. The restaurant also offers a variety of Italian-American dishes and an extensive wine list.
Italian Restaurants on the River
If you’re in the mood for some delicious Italian cuisine, there are a few great options on the river in Chicago. Here are some of the best Italian restaurants to check out:
Pizzeria Portofino
Pizzeria Portofino is a great spot for some delicious pizza. They offer a variety of toppings, including classic options like pepperoni and mushrooms, as well as more unique options like prosciutto and fig. Their crust is crispy and delicious, and they use high-quality ingredients to ensure that each pizza is packed with flavor.
Italian Beef
If you’re looking for a classic Chicago dish, Italian beef is a must-try. There are a few spots near the river that serve up this delicious sandwich, including Al’s Beef and Portillo’s. The beef is slow-cooked for hours until it’s tender and juicy, and then sliced thin and piled high on a roll. Add some hot giardiniera for a little extra kick.
Pasta
For some delicious pasta dishes, head to RPM Italian or Quartino. RPM Italian offers a variety of pasta dishes, including their popular lobster ravioli. Quartino offers small plates of pasta, so you can try a few different options. Their gnocchi is especially delicious.
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, pasta, or Italian beef, you’re sure to find something you love.
Rooftop and Outdoor Dining
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience with a view, rooftop and outdoor dining options in Chicago are a must-try. Many restaurants along the river offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the city skyline and the river.
One of the best outdoor dining restaurants in Chicago is the Beat Kitchen on the Riverwalk. This restaurant offers a great selection of food and drinks, and the outdoor seating area provides a perfect view of the river. The Beat Kitchen is also a music venue, so you can enjoy live music while you dine.
Another great option for rooftop dining is the Lake Michigan restaurant. This restaurant offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. The menu features a variety of seafood and American cuisine, and the outdoor seating area is perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends.
Cindy’s Rooftop is a fun experience near Millenium Park with views of the lake, this is the perfect space to enjoy an evening out in the warmer months.
If you’re looking for a casual dining experience, the Riverfront Cafe is a great option. This restaurant offers outdoor seating with a beautiful view of the river and the city skyline. The menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and burgers, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.
No matter which restaurant you choose, rooftop and outdoor dining in Chicago is an experience you won’t forget. With stunning views and delicious food, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the city’s beauty while dining in style.
Exploring Neighborhoods for Dining
When it comes to finding the best restaurants on the river in Chicago, exploring the neighborhoods is a must. One of the most popular neighborhoods for dining is Lincoln Park. Known for its beautiful park and zoo, Lincoln Park also offers a variety of dining options. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, Lincoln Park has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, consider heading to the Northman. This cider bar and restaurant offers a wide selection of ciders from around the world, as well as a menu of delicious food options. With its cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, the Northman is a great place to enjoy a meal and a drink.
Another great neighborhood for dining is River North. This area is known for its trendy restaurants and nightlife. From sushi to steak, River North has a variety of options to choose from. It’s also home to some of the city’s most popular bars and clubs, making it a great spot for a night out on the town.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, exploring the different dining options in Chicago is sure to be a memorable experience. With so many great restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.
Michelin Starred Restaurants
If you’re looking for the ultimate fine-dining experience on the river in Chicago, you can’t go wrong with a Michelin-starred restaurant. These establishments have been recognized by the prestigious Michelin guide for their exceptional cuisine and service.
One of the top Michelin-starred restaurants on the river is Alinea. This three-starred restaurant offers a tasting menu that is a true culinary adventure, featuring innovative and creative dishes that will surprise and delight your taste buds. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail, making it a must-visit for any foodie.
Another Michelin-starred restaurant on the river is Acadia. This two-starred restaurant offers a tasting menu that showcases the best of American cuisine with a modern twist. The menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the availability of fresh, local ingredients. One standout dish is the duck, which is prepared with precision and served with a delicious sauce.
If you’re looking for a more casual Michelin-starred experience, check out Duck Duck Goat. This one-starred restaurant offers Chinese-inspired cuisine with a playful twist. The menu features a variety of dishes that incorporate duck, including the famous “Duck Duck Goat” dish, which is a must-try.
No matter which Michelin-starred restaurant you choose, you can be sure that you’ll be treated to an exceptional dining experience on the river in Chicago.
Making Reservations
Many of Chicago’s most popular restaurants will need reservations to ensure a table at your preferred dining time, especially during peak dining hours.
Here are some tips for making reservations:
- Plan ahead: Many restaurants allow reservations to be made weeks or even months in advance, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you have a specific restaurant in mind.
- Use online reservation systems: Many restaurants use online reservation systems like OpenTable or Resy, which can make it easy to find available tables and make a reservation.
- Be flexible: If you’re willing to eat at an off-peak time or on a weekday, you may have an easier time getting a reservation at a popular restaurant.
Making a reservation at one of the best restaurants on the river in Chicago is a simple and necessary step to ensure a memorable dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some fun restaurants to visit in Chicago?
Chicago has a vibrant food scene with many exciting restaurants to choose from. If you are looking for a fun dining experience, we recommend checking out Big Bowl for their delicious Asian cuisine or The Purple Pig for their Mediterranean-inspired small plates.
What are the best Chicago Riverwalk restaurants with outdoor seating?
If you want to enjoy a meal with a view, there are several great options for outdoor dining on the Chicago Riverwalk. We suggest trying Beat Kitchen, City Winery, O’Brien’s Riverwalk Cafe, or Island Party Hut for some of the best outdoor seating on the Riverwalk.
Which rooftop restaurants in Chicago offer the best views?
Chicago has no shortage of rooftop restaurants with stunning views of the city skyline. For the best views, we recommend visiting Cindy’s Rooftop, The J. Parker, or The Terrace at Trump.
What are some Chicago restaurants with a great view?
If you’re looking for a restaurant with a view, there are plenty of options in Chicago. For a stunning view of Lake Michigan, we suggest visiting The Signature Room at the 95th or The Shore Club. For a view of the Chicago River, try River Roast or Smith & Wollensky.
What is River Roast Chicago and why is it popular?
River Roast is a popular Chicago Riverfront restaurant known for its contemporary American cuisine and picturesque views of the Chicago River. It is a great spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Are there any unique or popular restaurants on the Riverwalk in Chicago?
Yes, there are several unique and popular restaurants on the Chicago Riverwalk. Some of our favorites include Tiny Tapp & Cafe, Flanders Belgian Beer & Fries, and Chicago Brewhouse. Each offers a unique dining experience and delicious food.
** All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. Being Mommy with Style is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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