Some of the best restaurants in Chicago located in the River North neighborhood. Here is my quick guide on my 10 favorite spots to check out when you’re in this ‘hood! And don’t expect any national chains on here!
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Before we dive in, River North is one of many incredible Chicago neighborhoods. BUT, if you are a first time visitor, I always suggest booking a food tour on your first day in Chicago to give you a mix of the food scene and history (In fact, I recommend this in any new city I visit). Consider any of the following for your Chi-town intro:
Table of Contents
Pizzeria Portofino – Seaside Italian Vibes
Pizzeria Portofino is part of Chicago’s famous Lettuce Entertain You restaurant family, but without as steep of a price point. In the summer this is one of the spots to see and be seen. However, even if you can’t get on the gorgeous patio overlooking the river, the inside is just as cute. You can’t go wrong ordering an aperol spritz, the watermelon and feta antipasto, and a pizza.
Sushi-San – Elevated Japanese & Sushi Plates
Sushi-San is delicious. Period. The plates here are melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Everything is incredible, but the aburdi is a must-have (specifically the umami scallop, pictured below). The music is always bumping here, so the vibe caters to a fun, hip crowd as well.
Tanta – Transport to Peru
Tanta is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in River North, let alone the city of Chicago. The rooftop is a small, hidden gem in the summer, but whether inside or out – come hungry. The carefully crafted cocktails are flavorful and delicious.
Quartino – Italian Specialties
Quartino makes many of my friend’s best restaurants in River North due to their delicious espresso martinis. Moreover, this Italian joint makes it difficult to choose between pasta and pizza (and all of their other dishes), but you are guaranteed to leave happy and full!
The Smith – American Classics, Elevated
The Smith has a fabulous happy hour (I could overdose on the French 75 slushie) and yummy overall menu. Diners are often ordering rounds of oysters from the raw bar while sipping cocktails. While The Smith has locations in NY and DC, this is their only Chicago location and, as a result, I like it so much it made my top 10 restaurants in River North!
River Roast – Hearty Roasts with a View
River Roast is another restaurant with a prime real estate spot both along the river and part of the historical Reid Murdoch Building. Just on location alone, this is one of the best restaurants in River North.
Keep in mind, the dishes can be quite filling depending on what you order – they are famous for their roasts, after all. If you just want a nice spot on the river without stuffing your face, I recommend the charcuterie board with an oyster shooter for good measure.
Untitled Supper Club – Dinner and a Show
Untitled Supper Club is a very popular spot in River North. However, it is hard to determine if I should classify USC as a bar, a restaurant, or a performance venue. It’s essentially all three!
As you can see in the image below, the theme is Speakeasy/Prohibition Era. If you want to stay for a show beyond your incredible dinner, you will need to call or book through the website. The entertainment is fabulous and ranges from jazz to burlesque.
Mercadito – Tacos and Margs
Mercadito looks fairly unassuming from the street, but head on in and you’re bound to enjoy a delicious Mexican meal. Get a couple items to share, don’t miss the tacos, and one (or two…or three…) of their cocktails.
Gene & Georgetti – Chicago Steakhouse Staple
If you’re looking for a classy and timeless staple in Chicago, wander over to Gene & Georgetti. This top Chicago restaurant has been around since 1941 and is definitely most well-known for its delicious steaks. Of course, it also has an extensive wine list and many other Italian dishes.
Xoco – Enhanced Street Food Style
Xoco (pronounced SHO-ko) is very unassuming from the outside, but definitely makes the list as one of the best restaurants in River North! To no surprise, it’s a Rick Bayless spot! Xoco serves up delicious tortas, tacos, and CHURROS.
Leave a comment if you have any favorite River North restaurants I missed!
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