Restaurants

21 Restaurants In Chicago River North To Dine At

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In the heart of Chicago, River North is a food lover's paradise with diverse restaurants catering to various tastes. Known for its lively and modern ambiance, this neighborhood is a top choice for those seeking an enjoyable culinary experience.

For individuals who are looking for restaurants in Chicago River North, we've picked 21 outstanding eateries, highlighting their culinary excellence and innovation. Come along on a culinary adventure through this iconic neighborhood to savor the delicious offerings that make these spots a must-visit.

1. Avli River North

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The Greek-inspired restaurant, Avli River North seamlessly blends traditional flavors with a modern twist. Known for its inviting and contemporary ambiance, the restaurant offers a warm and vibrant setting.

The menu offers a variety of Greek dishes that highlight Mediterranean flavors. Whether you crave tasty appetizers, fresh seafood, or juicy grilled meats, the restaurant provides a delightful culinary experience. It's a popular choice for anyone wanting a taste of Greece in Chicago.

Address: 702 N Wells Street

2. Torchio Pasta Bar

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The charming restaurant, Torchio Pasta Bar is celebrated for its focus on fresh, handmade pasta. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, creating an intimate dining experience, along with a selection of creatively crafted pasta dishes, showcasing a fusion of traditional and innovative flavors.

The restaurant features classic Italian dishes and inventive pasta options. Therefore, it's a go-to spot for those seeking a memorable and authentic pasta experience in the heart of the Windy City.

Address: 738 N Wells Street

3. Indienne

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This distinctive restaurant, Indienne is known for its vibrant ambiance and exquisite Indian cuisine. The restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes, showcasing rich and diverse flavors.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, creating a cozy setting for diners to enjoy authentic meals. The eatery is a top choice for those looking for an outstanding Indian dining experience, offering a menu with flavorful curries and creative twists on classic dishes.

Address: 217 W Huron Street

4. Mr. Beef On Orleans

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In Chicago's River North is a renowned eatery, Mr. Beef On Orleans known for its iconic Italian beef sandwiches. With a reputation built on flavorful, thinly sliced beef and savory au jus, this classic Chicago spot delivers a satisfying and hearty dining experience.

The restaurant's casual and friendly atmosphere adds more to its charm. Hence, it has become a go-to destination for locals and visitors craving Chicago's signature sandwich.

Address: 666 N Orleans Street

5. Avec River North

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The notable restaurant, Avec River North is known for its contemporary ambiance and inventive Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The menu here features a variety of flavorful small plates designed for sharing, offering a unique and communal dining experience.

This is a stylish and welcoming spot for those looking for a modern take on Mediterranean cuisine in Chicago. Their Chorizo-stuffed Medjool Dates is one of the best foods to try when you are here.

Address: 141 W Erie Street

6. Bar Cargo

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For someone who is looking for a lively restaurant and bar in Chicago's River North, Bar Cargo is the ideal spot for you. The eatery stands out for its modern, industrial feel, friendly atmosphere, and innovative pizza offerings.

Known for creative pizzas with unique toppings and top-notch ingredients, the restaurant offers a diverse menu. This includes shareable plates and craft cocktails, creating a dynamic and social dining experience.

Address: 605 N Wells Street

7. Brindille

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One of Chicago River North best restaurants is Brindille. Known for its French-inspired cuisine, the establishment boasts a sophisticated ambiance, combining modern chic with classic charm.

The diner is known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering a menu that blends traditional French flavors with a modern touch. Besides, with its upscale and intimate ambiance, this is a must-visit destination for all French cuisine enthusiasts in the Windy City.

Address: 534 N Clark Street

8. Tanta Chicago

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Tanta is famous for its creative Peruvian cuisine and the well-known pisco sour cocktail. The second floor provides private dining next to a seasonal rooftop terrace. Bar packages include signature cocktails, and guests can customize food and drinks.

Moreover, the restaurant's event expert assists in creating memorable experiences, providing services like audio-visual setups, floral arrangements, chef demonstrations, or live music. The dining style is casually elegant, featuring a blend of Peruvian, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines.

Address: 118 W Grand Avenue

9. Gene & Georgetti

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For individuals looking for the best restaurants in Chicago River North, Gene & Georgetti is for you. Established in 1941, the city's oldest steakhouse is famous for classic dishes, a broad wine selection, and a well-stocked bar.

The restaurant offers diverse menus with prices subject to change. Additionally, it also provides takeout, delivery, and nationwide shipping of steak boxes. Guests can also enjoy casual sidewalk dining daily, weather permitting.

Address: Gene & Georgetti, 500 N Franklin Street

10. Ciccio Mio

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A casual Italian restaurant, Ciccio Mio serves a variety of Italian dishes in a cozy environment. They also have standout dishes like pounded thin and breaded chicken parmesan, and crusty fennel bread in their menu.

The place exudes a softly lit ambiance that evokes a nostalgic Italian-American dining experience. The eatery is renowned for its delectable cuisine and has garnered acclaim for standing out in a city filled with numerous other Italian restaurants.

Address: 226 W Kinzie Street

11. Tzuco

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Tzuco is a Mexican restaurant famous for its simple yet rich dining experience emphasizing pure ingredients, extraordinary flavors, and the story behind them. It is owned by Chef Carlos Gaytán, the first Latin American Michelin Star recipient.

The restaurant is well-known for its special dish, Carne Asada, served with oven-roasted tomato, roasted fingerling potatoes, and chipotle goat cheese fondue. The modern and stylish ambiance includes a dimly lit dining room and a bar area with a happy hour menu.

Address: 720 N State Street

12. Obelix

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A contemporary French dining spot Obelix offers a vibrant and cozy atmosphere that stands in contrast to the previous occupant, the more somber Entente. The menu showcases a French twist with a mix of familiar and inventive dishes.

Among its standout dishes is the seared foie gras on a corn tortilla with salsa macha. Famous for its carefully selected French wines, the eatery is quickly becoming known for its welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere.

Address: 700 N Sedgwick Street

13. Sifr

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Sifr, a rising Middle Eastern restaurant is known for its creative cuisine, unique cocktails, and beautiful setting. Their diverse menu includes Shwarma Spiced Chicken, Falafel, Black Tiger Prawn, and Batata Harra.

The unique drink menu, including blends like Talata and Arba's, complements their visually appealing interior. The rooftop dining area is a cherished feature, providing an idyllic setting for spring and summer meals.

Address: 660 N Orleans Street

14. Chicago Cut Steakhouse

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Want to savor fresh salads, seafood, and USDA Prime Steaks with a stunning view of the river and downtown? If yes, look no further than the popular spot Chicago Cut Steakhouse.

Known for its stylish interior, riverfront patio, and iPad wine list, it's recognized as one of America's scenic restaurants. The diner has also been featured in publications like Crain's Chicago Business and WTTW-TV's Check, Please!

Address: 300 N La Salle Drive

15. LIVA

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LIVA at Chicago Winery, situated in River North, is a restaurant driven by chefs and inspired by the community. The menu, featuring modern American cuisine with a focus on fresh, market-driven ingredients, is set in the unique backdrop of a working winery.

Known for its diverse menu and skillfully crafted cocktails inspired by global influences and seasonal ingredients, this spot in River North stands out with its distinctive and lively ambiance, specializing in modern American cuisine.

Address: 739 N Clark Street

16. RPM Steak

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If you are looking for one of the good Chicago River North restaurants, then this is your destination. RPM Steak is known for its lively atmosphere and tasty dishes like fresh salads, seafood, and USDA Prime Steaks, the standout being "The Duke," a 22-ounce bone-in ribeye steak.

Featuring nearly two dozen beef cuts in a chic, group-friendly setting, the restaurant is backed by Giuliana and Bill Rancic and dedicated to using high-quality global ingredients.

Address: 66 W Kinzie Street

17. PLANTA Queen

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Are you looking for a plant-based vegan restaurant? Then your search ends at PLANTA Queen. They offer a diverse menu, including crispy dumplings, sushi, and wok specialties. A popular dish is their innovative sushi made from dehydrated watermelon.

With a chic atmosphere featuring ample natural light by day and a sophisticated ambiance in the evening, it is committed to promoting plant-based living and offers a distinctive dining experience for vegans and non-vegans.

Address: 413 N Clark Street

18. Shaw's Crab House

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Situated in River North, Shaw's Crab House is a renowned seafood restaurant and oyster bar that has been delighting patrons with seafood since 1984. Recognized for its classic dishes sushi and oysters, the restaurant exudes a vintage ambiance, providing a relaxed atmosphere.

The place also offers a kids' menu and a commitment to accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies, making it a cherished Chicago institution and a favored spot for seafood enthusiasts.

Address: 21 E Hubbard Street

19. Sunda New Asian

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Sunda New Asian, an award-winning restaurant offers modern interpretations of culturally significant dishes from various Asian countries. The chic and modern space features a full sushi bar with a variety of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri options.

Their drinks include premium sakes, Asian beers, champagnes, wine, and craft cocktails. Try the popular Miso Bronze Black Cod or Lemongrass Beef Lollipops for a diverse and satisfying dining experience.

Address: 110 W Illinois Street

20. Doma Cafe

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A Croatian cafe, Doma Cafe is recognized for its chic and inviting ambiance. The cafe provides a laid-back dining experience, offering a fusion of American and European-inspired dishes alongside specialty teas and juices.

The menu highlights, ćevapi wrapped in fluffy flatbread with clotted cream, a zesty breakfast sandwich, and an array of delightful soups and pastries. The interior exudes a soothing Scandinavian furniture store atmosphere, complemented by a charming side patio.

Address: 946 N Orleans Street

21. Coco Pazzo

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Coco Pazzo is a River North Chicago restaurant that is famous for its Tuscan dishes and a wide selection of Italian wines. They serve a mix of classic and modern Tuscan-inspired cuisine in a chic urban setting. 

Known for outstanding food and service, it's a popular choice for dining. With creative dishes and a lively atmosphere, this stands out as a notable dining spot in the area and falls among one of the best River North Chicago restaurants.

Address: 300 W Hubbard Street