DineGuides

Happy Hour in Near North Side

23 restaurants in Near North Side. Part of our Chicago Happy Hour guide.

Matilda Restaurant
#1Happy Hour
6 photos

Matilda Restaurant

Mexican·$$$$
📍 535 N Wells St

Matilda Restaurant offers a vibrant fusion of Mexican and Peruvian flavors, with dishes like the plantain and chorizo tacos and the scallop aguachile earning particular celebrate. The atmosphere is lively and sophisticated, making it a perfect spot for dates or group gatherings, complemented by an impressive full bar and an intimate speakeasy downstairs.

🍽️95Food
💰85Value
95Vibe
💬

The scallop lychee pear aguachile was maybe the best thing I’ve eaten all year, and the beef cheek birria was rich and satisfying.

💬

The sweet plantain and chorizo tacos are hands down the best dish I’ve had in Chicago, seriously unforgettable.

💬

David was absolutely phenomenal!! He answered all of our questions and explained each of the dishes that we picked.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningTasting menu experience
Kayao Restaurant
#2Happy Hour
5 photos

Kayao Restaurant

Mixed/Fusion·$$$$
📍 1252 N Wells St

Kayao offers a vibrant Peruvian-Japanese fusion, blending authentic flavors with a modern, elegant twist. The menu shines with creative ceviches and expertly prepared seafood, complemented by inventive cocktails. It's a lively spot perfect for both intimate dates and lively group gatherings.

🍽️95Food
💰85Value
92Vibe
75Wait
💬

The Chaufa was tangy and filling, and the ice cream was a perfect ending - so smooth!

💬

This is hands down our favorite restaurant in Chicago, and we eat everywhere, all the time.

💬

Loved the tasting menu here. Amazing value for your money with quality seafood.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Osteria Via Stato
#3Happy Hour
6 photos

Osteria Via Stato

Italian·$$
📍 620 N State St

This Italian spot excels at creating memorable events, from intimate dinners to large celebrations. The team's dedication to personalized service and delicious, well-executed dishes makes it a go-to for special occasions.

🍽️95Food
💰80Value
90Vibe
💬

Our waiter, Antonio, was fantastic and let us hang out in his section after we finished eating until our evening reservation at the top of the Hancock Building.

💬

Our annual dinner at Osteria was again a huge success with everyone delighted with the restaurant, the food and the excellent service and care by the entire staff.

💬

We had our rehearsal dinner here many years ago and like to come back every now and then. Still delicious food, outstanding service and wonderful setting. Highly recommend!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSpecial occasions
Il Porcellino
#4Happy Hour
5 photos

Il Porcellino

Italian·$$

Il Porcellino offers a cozy, romantic Italian escape with a lively atmosphere. It's a spot where classic dishes like lasagna shine, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and attentive service.

🍽️92Food
💰80Value
95Vibe
65Wait
💬

Our server was beyond nice (Reservation was under Bryan Loren @ 8pm hopefully you can find her and let her know she’s amazing), the environment was fun and relaxed,

💬

Chloe was fantastic!! She was very knowledgeable about the menu as well as the wine options.

💬

The food was so good!! I highly recommend the burrata lasagna! It comes with this meat ragu that was so delightful and it was phenomenal comfort food!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningFamilies with kids
The Purple Pig Restaurant
#5Happy Hour
6 photos

The Purple Pig Restaurant

Mediterranean·$$$

This Chicago staple offers a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired menu focused on shareable small plates. Expect a lively atmosphere perfect for groups and dates, with a full bar to complement the bold flavors.

🍽️95Food
💰75Value
88Vibe
🔊60Noise
💬

Every single bite was superb. Tuna tartar was soft and creamy. Bone marrow was rich and the salad offered a nice contrast.

💬

Our food was delicious and our server was top notch. I highly recommend the Roasted Bone Marrow smear, Spanish Octopus, Pork Belly and Broccoli.

💬

Stopped in for a quick dinner at the bar on a work trip - excellent food, outstanding service, and a cool vibe.

Ideal for
Group diningDate nightSolo dining
Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
#6Happy Hour
6 photos

Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse

Steakhouse·$$
📍 33 W Kinzie St

This iconic Chicago steakhouse is a shrine to Harry Caray, packed with memorabilia and a lively atmosphere that splits between a sports bar and a classic diner. It's a place where hearty Italian-American fare, particularly the steaks and pastas, is served with a side of Chicago history.

🍽️90Food
💰75Value
95Vibe
💬

The bone in rib eye with sides and martinis at the bar is chefs kiss; best steak in the city, hands down.

💬

The kitchen offers delicious food options, spanning from a unique Kansas City strip steak to the restaurant favorite Harry's Chicken Vesuvio.

💬

Our waitress Elena was the perfect person. From courtesy to kindness and understanding she stood head tall over everyone.

Ideal for
Date nightFamilies with kidsGroup dining
Storyville Chicago
#7Happy Hour

Storyville Chicago

Cajun/Creole·$$
📍 712 N Clark St

Storyville Chicago transports diners to New Orleans with its romantic, dimly lit atmosphere and authentic Creole flavors. The cocktails are a highlight, with skilled bartenders crafting unique and potent drinks. It's a place that excels in creating a memorable vibe, perfect for dates or lively evenings.

🍽️88Food
💰75Value
95Vibe
70Wait
💬

I had the mushroom po boy - my friend said that her burger was one of the best she’d ever had.

💬

My group arrived during Happy Hour and took advantage of the great deals they had going.

💬

Our waitress Peyton did a great job, she was constantly asking did we need anything.

Ideal for
Date nightWeekend brunchHappy hour
Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
#8Happy Hour
5 photos

Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)

American·$
📍 100 E Walton St

This Gold Coast spot offers a crowd-pleasing menu with a lively, casual atmosphere perfect for groups and families. It's a reliable choice for flavorful American cuisine with plenty of options, from hearty burgers to fresh salads, all served in a welcoming setting.

🍽️92Food
💰80Value
88Vibe
🧹70Hygiene
💬

We enjoyed the guacamole, a delicious gluten free burger with sweet potato fries and the kale salad was fresh and crisp.

💬

Great vibe and my 3 kids fit in just fine! Loved the scene and how kid-friendly they were!

💬

Michael was excellent, he knew the menu through and through. Professional and friendly.

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningCasual weeknight dinner
Travelle at The Langham, Chicago
#9Happy Hour
6 photos

Travelle at The Langham, Chicago

American·$$$

Travelle offers a sophisticated atmosphere with stunning city views, making it a prime spot for both intimate dates and lively group gatherings. The menu thoughtfully caters to various dietary needs, featuring excellent gluten-free options and creative vegetarian dishes. It's a polished choice for a memorable meal within The Langham.

🍽️88Food
💰75Value
95Vibe
70Wait
💬

Travelle is located at the Langham hotel. I recommend a spa day there at Chuan spa then going to the restaurant.

💬

The best gluten free and diary free burger in Chicago and that I have ever had in my lifetime.

💬

I hosted a birthday party at the wine Cellar at Travelle and it was outstanding.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Siena Tavern
#10Happy Hour
6 photos

Siena Tavern

Italian·$$$
📍 51 W Kinzie St

Siena Tavern offers a lively, stylish atmosphere perfect for groups and dates, with a menu that shines with Italian-American favorites. The short rib risotto is a standout, and many servers are known for their attentiveness and recommendations.

🍽️95Food
💰70Value
90Vibe
🛡️70Safety
💬

Figure we spent $125 for 4 plain bowls of pasta. It was delicious but no bread no Parm and water seemed like a precious commodity.

💬

The food was great! Truffle gnocchi is so yummy and we had the best server!

💬

Our server, Bradley B. Gave excellent recommendations & was kind and attentive.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Topolobampo
#11Happy Hour

Topolobampo

Mexican·$$$
📍 445 N Clark St

This is Rick Bayless's flagship Mexican restaurant, offering an elevated and artful interpretation of regional Mexican cuisine. It's a place where tasting menus are a journey through history and culture, with mezcal cocktails and meticulous plating as hallmarks of the experience.

🍽️90Food
💰75Value
88Vibe
🛡️65Safety
💬

Opted for the "Perfect 7" tasting menu, and while the dishes were flavorful and beautifully presented

💬

Our server, Luis, went above and beyond to make the evening special.

💬

I came here for a post-engagement dinner with my fiancee and the staff was so nice and really did a great job of making our dinner a special experience!

Ideal for
Date nightTasting menuGroup dining
Untitled Supper Club
#12Happy Hour

Untitled Supper Club

American·$$$
📍 111 W Kinzie St

Untitled Supper Club channels a lively, intentional supper club energy with a speakeasy vibe. The venue's impressive decor and live entertainment set the stage for a night out, rather than a quick meal.

🍽️85Food
💰70Value
95Vibe
65Wait
💬

This place was an ultimate experience. It was so wonderful for a girls night out to celebrate my birthday.!

💬

The food was phenomenal (sadly not photographed) - we had the ribeye and the ragu, both were PHENOMENAL!

💬

I would recommend coming here for HH before it gets busy, but dinner likely will take you the entire night if you order a proper meal which is frustrating.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Le Colonial Chicago
#13Happy Hour

Le Colonial Chicago

Vietnamese·$$$
📍 57 E Oak St

Transport yourself to a lush, French-Vietnamese escape at Le Colonial, where the ambiance is as transportive as the cuisine. This Gold Coast staple offers a chic, intimate setting perfect for special occasions, complemented by attentive service and a menu that balances authentic flavors with creative twists.

🍽️88Food
💰65Value
95Vibe
🔊65Noise
💬

The ambiance of the restaurant is fantastic. Each of the rooms is distinct and offers a different vibe for you to enjoy your food.

💬

The restaurant sits on one of the most beautiful streets in the city and inside the decor invokes a lush tropical hideaway.

💬

Our favorite dishes this time were the elevated vegetable rolls, the pho, and the shaking beef - all outstanding.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSpecial occasions
The Capital Grille
#14Happy Hour

The Capital Grille

Steakhouse·$$$

This Chicago steakhouse offers a classic, upscale atmosphere perfect for special occasions. The kitchen delivers expertly prepared steaks and a well-rounded menu, complemented by attentive and professional service.

🍽️90Food
💰75Value
90Vibe
🛡️65Safety
💬

Outstanding quality, outstanding service and a great, quiet atmosphere! Well done!

💬

My husband and I came through on a reservation Tuesday night for a simple date night where we were welcomed just minutes after walking.

💬

Service was friendly, and that's about where the positives end. Food was average and the value is just not there.

Ideal for
Date nightSpecial occasionsBusiness dinners
Nonnina
#15Happy Hour

Nonnina

Italian·$$$
📍 340 N Clark St

Nonnina offers a cozy yet upscale Italian experience in River North, hitting all the right notes with its comforting flavors and genuine hospitality. The handmade pasta is a standout, silky and perfectly al dente, complemented by thoughtfully chosen wine selections. It's a place that feels both lively and intimate, ideal for a romantic evening or a celebratory gathering.

🍽️88Food
💰70Value
95Vibe
💬

This place was great! We hosted a small wedding lunch here and it was perfect.

💬

The ambiance was fantastic, making it an ideal setting for a romantic date night.

💬

Located in the heart of River North. They have a patio with heat warmers for the colder fall weather.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Olio e Più
#16Happy Hour

Olio e Più

Italian·$$

This Italian spot transports you to a cozy corner of Rome with its warm, inviting ambiance and beautiful decor. It's a place where attentive servers like Anthony and Bertin guide you through a menu of rich pastas and sophisticated flavors, making it ideal for both intimate dates and lively group celebrations.

🍽️80Food
💰65Value
95Vibe
🔊60Noise
💬

Alex was our waiter and he was amazing. Everything we ordered were his honest recommendations and they all hit, one after another.

💬

We ordered the pesto and pistachio pasta is undoubtedly the best pesto pasta we’ve had in Chicago.

💬

Decorated for Christmas so it felt very cozy and perfect for a date night.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Kamehachi
#17Happy Hour

Kamehachi

Japanese·$$$
📍 1531 N Wells St

This casual Japanese spot offers a lively atmosphere with a full bar, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. It's a reliable destination for fresh sushi and classic Japanese dishes, with attentive service that enhances the overall dining experience.

🍽️88Food
💰65Value
85Vibe
🔊55Noise
💬

The food was excellent, the atmosphere lively, and Ishi’s warm service made our dinner on the outdoor terrace even more enjoyable. Great value for money.

💬

Our server, Emma, was wonderful and really made our experience special! She was so warm, attentive and knowledgeable about the menu.

💬

It’s amazing, consistent, and always a delight. Already excited to go back.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSolo dining
Cocoro Restaurant
#18Happy Hour

Cocoro Restaurant

Japanese·$$
📍 668 N Wells St

Cocoro offers a genuine taste of Japan, with a menu that ventures beyond typical sushi and ramen to include more traditional dishes. It's a place where Japanese speakers practice their language and diners can feel transported back to Japan, even if it comes with a slightly higher price tag.

🍽️90Food
💰68Value
88Vibe
💬

Best authentic Japanese food in the city. Everything we’ve had here is delicious. The place and food are so cozy.

💬

It’s a little pricey but honestly worth it. Even outside of my Japanese bias it’s still my favorite restaurant right now.

💬

I took a date here just days before Christmas Eve and had an amazing experience.

Ideal for
Date nightSolo diningFamilies with kids
La Grande Boucherie Chicago
#19Happy Hour
6 photos

La Grande Boucherie Chicago

French·$$$

This grand brasserie transports you to Paris with its Belle Époque decor and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both romantic evenings and lively group gatherings. While the ambiance and attentive service shine, the kitchen's execution can be inconsistent, with some dishes hitting the mark and others falling short of expectations.

🍽️80Food
💰65Value
95Vibe
🔊65Noise
💬

The Boucherie French 45 is incredible. I love browned butter fat washed vodka and it paired perfectly with the tart raspberry and pineapple.

💬

We had a romantic dinner, and everything was perfect. The cozy, elegant atmosphere and truly excellent service.

💬

I had the duck cassoulet which was perfect, the beans were nice and soft, the duck was cooked perfectly (nailed the crispy skin).

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
River Roast
#20Happy Hour

River Roast

American·$$

River Roast offers a vibrant scene right on the Chicago River, making it a prime spot for both lively group gatherings and intimate dates. The menu leans towards crowd-pleasing comfort food, with standout roasted chicken and a decadent chocolate cake. Expect attentive service and a polished atmosphere that shines, especially from the patio.

🍽️82Food
💰65Value
95Vibe
60Wait
💬

The roasted chicken, fried pork belly, soup of the day, and kids’ pasta were all excellent.

💬

Such a beautiful restaurant with lots of natural light and a view of the river.

💬

Amra, my waitress was amazing! She brings such a joy to her job

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Kings Dining & Entertainment
#21Happy Hour

Kings Dining & Entertainment

American·$

This entertainment complex offers a lively, casual atmosphere perfect for groups and families, with bowling, arcade games, and a full bar. While the food is generally considered decent bar fare, the real draw is the fun, energetic vibe that makes it a go-to for celebrations and casual outings.

🍽️78Food
💰65Value
90Vibe
💬

We took our seven-year-old bowling for the first time and all had a wonderful experience! Very family friendly and spotlessly clean.

💬

Adriana the best bartender and server she really made us feel comfortable and welcome here at Kings.

💬

The food was delicious - yummy appetizers and a variety of hearty options that kept everyone satisfied throughout the event.

Ideal for
Group diningFamilies with kidsDate night
Odyssey Cruise River North
#22Happy Hour

Odyssey Cruise River North

Mixed/Fusion·$$$

This Chicago river cruise offers a unique perspective on the city's architecture, transforming a simple dinner into a romantic movie scene. It's a versatile venue, perfect for celebrating special occasions from proposals to family reunions, with a full bar to enhance the festive atmosphere.

🍽️78Food
💰65Value
90Vibe
💬

With so many great restaurants in Chicago, this may not be the best food, but it’s still good.”

💬

The food was excellent, I had cioppino on squid ink linguine, my wife had gnocchi.

💬

I had the flat iron steak it was cooked to perfection as was the salmon.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
River North Bistro
#23Happy Hour

River North Bistro

American·$$
📍 660 N State St

This modern American spot offers a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere with a full bar, making it a great choice for groups and casual brunches. While the food is generally solid, the service can be inconsistent, with some staff members shining while others falter.

🍽️80Food
💰68Value
90Vibe
60Wait
💬

The food was delicious, the atmosphere was great - but the real highlight? The staff!

💬

She had the vegetarian omelette that had a ragout that was fantastic.

💬

Although, our server only came over to us to order and then give us our check.

Ideal for
Group diningWeekend brunchHappy hour