This upscale Italian steakhouse offers a stunning riverfront view, making it a prime spot for special occasions. The kitchen delivers on its promise of excellent steaks, complemented by attentive service that makes guests feel like family.
🍽️95Food
💰85Value
✨95Vibe
💬
“Ugo was an outstanding server and the rest of the staff followed suit, water filled, plates cleared, managers checking in to see if everything was meeting expectations.”
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“I don't know why Gibson's Italia does a better steak than any other Gibsons and even better than Bavettes.”
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“Ashley and Adam took care of us like we were their family but the food was beyond special”
Oriole offers a multi-stage culinary journey, beginning with a hidden speakeasy entrance and culminating in an intimate kitchen-table experience. The tasting menu is a meticulously crafted exploration of global influences, executed with precision and balanced flavors.
🍽️93Food
💰80Value
✨95Vibe
💬
“The tasting menu moved seamlessly from delicate seafood courses to a rich wagyu beef plate, each dish layered with detail but never heavy.”
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“Hidden from the bustling streets of West Loop exists one of Chicago's finest culinary experiences, where glowing warmth and hospitality saturate the entire space with nothing short of magic.”
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“I've been to Oriole 6 times, and for almost 4 years it held the #1 restaurant spot for me in Chicago, with its unpretentious, fine dining experience.”
Taste 222 offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for both casual dates and lively group gatherings. The menu features a thoughtful selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring something for everyone. With a full bar and a welcoming vibe, it's a go-to spot for happy hour and family outings.
🍽️90Food
💰85Value
✨90Vibe
💬
“This is my third time at Taste 222, and every single time the food has been absolutely amazing.”
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“For those with dietary preferences, there were also several vegan-friendly options, like the vegan sliders, which were hearty and delicious without compromising on flavor.”
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“The vibe is intimate and unique - perfect for a relaxed, quality meal with friends or loved ones.”
This Chicago BBQ joint feels like a lively urban hangout with a cool, dimly lit industrial vibe. Counter service means you pick your meats and sides before finding a seat at the communal tables. The focus is squarely on the smoked meats, which are well-regarded for tenderness and flavor.
🍽️95Food
💰80Value
✨90Vibe
💬
“My 1 year old daughter has a mustard allergy and the whole staff was amazing at knowing what rubs and dishes contained mustard!”
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“The jalapenos poppers and sides of coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni salad and tater tot casserole.”
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“The bar had a great selection of local draft beers on top.”
Au Cheval is a Chicago institution for its renowned double cheeseburger, a perfectly executed classic that has diners waiting hours for a taste. The unpretentious diner vibe belies the decadent, artery-clogging food and strong cocktails that make it a destination.
🍽️95Food
💰75Value
✨85Vibe
🔊65Noise
💬
“My wife had the chilaquiles, and would recommend them for those that don’t eat beef.”
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“Every time It's cooked perfectly and it's always juicy, egg cooked perfect every time.”
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“This place is well worth the wait with cozy diner vibes, decadent food, and delicious drinks.”
Canal Street Eatery and Market buzzes with a vibrant, upscale-casual energy, making it a versatile spot for everything from intimate dates to lively group celebrations. The kitchen shines with its Italian-inspired offerings, particularly the popular all-you-can-eat specials that draw crowds.
🍽️85Food
💰80Value
✨95Vibe
👋65Service
💬
“This place has an excellent vibe. Bright and airy especially on sunny afternoons! Make a reservation for lunch or dinner.”
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“$20 unlimited pizza, pasta and salad: a dream come true. The truffle pizza was delicious, the crust was thin yet fluffy and crispy.”
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“Outstanding pasta and everything you can eat for 25$ off the menú, awesome Deal.”
This West Loop spot offers a versatile, upscale atmosphere perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinners to large celebrations. The menu features fresh, seasonal dishes complemented by an impressive wine selection, making it a sophisticated destination.
🍽️88Food
💰75Value
✨95Vibe
⏰70Wait
💬
“Kennedi was the best server ever! She made this dinner even more special for my mother, sister and I.”
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“The food was really good. One thing that I was disappointed was that I had to send my chicken back because it wasn't cooked well.”
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“Our server was so kind and attentive, and always made sure we did not run out of drinks.”
Next transforms dining into a multi-sensory performance, with each menu a meticulously crafted theme that aims to transport you. The kitchen's creativity is boundless, delivering dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful, often accompanied by thoughtful beverage pairings.
🍽️92Food
💰75Value
🔊50Noise
💬
“The ever-changing nature of Next means one season's menu is amazing and the next can leave a lot to be desired.”
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“Beautiful and creative dishes. Very romantic atmosphere good for dates. Service is perfect too.”
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“I can't even remember all the courses at this point, but some standouts were the psychedelic beef and the sablefish.”
Ideal for
Date nightTasting menu enthusiastsSpecial occasions
Sepia offers a refined yet approachable fine dining experience, particularly noted for its creative tasting menus and intimate atmosphere. It's a place where familiar flavors are reimagined with unique combinations, making it a strong contender for special occasions.
🍽️90Food
💰80Value
✨85Vibe
🛡️65Safety
💬
“I am admittedly a picky eater, but I do try every dish on a tasting menu because I am normally taken on a wonderful journey with these type of dishes.”
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“Sat at the bar as a last minute single person reservation and had the opportunity to get to know Marco”
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“The service was impeccable, with Erin making our time in the restaurant feel like we were the only guests in her section.”
Ideal for
Date nightSpecial occasionsTasting menu enthusiasts
Cira offers a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired menu within the stylish Hoxton Hotel. It's a versatile spot, equally suited for a lively brunch with friends or a more intimate date night, thanks to its chic decor and full bar.
🍽️88Food
💰70Value
✨95Vibe
🔊60Noise
💬
“The pistachio ravioli in saffron orange butter sauce was delicious and I had to keep myself from licking the plate.”
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“The ambiance is wonderful and the beautiful setting helped to make our date night in the city very special.”
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“The waiter actively ignored my fiance a couple times to the point we were all laughing as it felt very intentional.”
Carnivale Chicago transforms dining into a vibrant fiesta, a sensory explosion of color, music, and South American flair. It's a place where the atmosphere itself is a main course, designed for celebration and lively gatherings.
🍽️85Food
💰70Value
✨95Vibe
💬
“Our server Alexandria gave excellent suggestions on what to order and try.”
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“The layout is perfect for capturing wild dance-floor shots, intimate couple moments, and all the shenanigans in between.”
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“It’s definitely lively, not for a quiet dinner, but perfect for a celebration or night out.”
This Loop spot is a go-to for pre-theater dining, offering a lively atmosphere and a full bar. It's particularly well-suited for groups and those seeking a convenient bite before catching a show.
🍽️85Food
💰75Value
✨85Vibe
💬
“I come to Chicago for work once a quarter and I know I can depend on excellent service every single time.”
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“The staff, from the chef to the wait staff are all friendly and very attentive.”
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“The place was packed but they seated us at the bar within 10 minutes.”
This fast-casual spot in the Willis Tower focuses on fresh, made-to-order seafood bowls and plates. It's a reliable choice for a quick, healthy lunch with friendly service and a casual atmosphere.
🍽️90Food
💰75Value
💬
“I ordered the veggie salmon and it was perfect all the seasons was well blended in the veggie salad”
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“I order from Brown Bag Seafood Company frequently and the food is always fresh, delicious, and consistently excellent.”
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“The salmon bowl with whole grains, veggies, and sesame sriracha was outstanding - perfectly marinated salmon and well-grilled vegetables.”
This Chicago spot offers a dual experience: a lively distillery upfront and a sleek sushi lounge in the back. It's a place where expertly crafted cocktails meet remarkably fresh, dry-aged sushi, making it a unique destination for both spirits enthusiasts and sushi aficionados.
🍽️88Food
💰65Value
✨88Vibe
🔊65Noise
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“The omakase was phenomenal (shoutout to the amberjack, tuna run, and that incredible salad appetizer)”
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“Our server, Nick is friendly and attentive. Everyone in this restaurant is friendly.”
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“When we place our order, he was again annoyed that we ordered 4 items and said "that's it?".”
Beatnik on the River offers a transportive atmosphere, blending lush greenery and river views with a vibrant, eclectic decor. This visually stunning space is equally adept at hosting lively groups as it is intimate dates, complemented by a full bar serving well-crafted cocktails.
🍽️80Food
💰65Value
✨95Vibe
🔊65Noise
💬
“The decor is gorgeous! Sitting in the sunroom along the river was picture perfect but know there is an intense draft.”
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“We showed up 15 minutes before our reservation time/opening time and were able to sit at a wonderful table outside.”
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“While the meal was fresh and flavorful, I recommend skipping dessert which was more artificial/perfumy.”
Beity offers a modern, elevated take on Lebanese cuisine, moving beyond traditional mezze to present thoughtfully curated dishes with beautiful presentation. The intimate atmosphere, often described as warm and inviting, makes it a great spot for dates or quiet conversations.
🍽️82Food
💰65Value
✨90Vibe
⏰60Wait
💬
“Absolutely loved the Chef’s Journey tasting menu! Chef Remy blends Lebanese flavors with subtle Western touches beautifully.”
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“The lamb was $72 for two small lamb chops. Delicious but the price was a bit outrageous”
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“The food was good. The cocktails were top-tier amazing. Had a great time overall.”
Ideal for
Date nightImpressing guestsExploring modern Lebanese cuisine
This casual taqueria offers a lively atmosphere with a full bar, making it a popular spot for happy hour and casual get-togethers. While the tacos and burritos are generally well-received, the value proposition is often questioned due to pricing and portion sizes.
🍽️82Food
💰62Value
✨88Vibe
⏰58Wait
💬
“The food is fantastic! And the service is stellar. One of my favorite places to enjoy tacos!”
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“My wife loved both her fish taco and toasted veggie burrito.”
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“The Elote is great (but from time to time taste a bit different 🤷♂️).”