River North, Chicago's vibrant heart, pulsates with energy, and its culinary scene is no exception. From Michelin-starred establishments to cozy neighborhood gems, this guide unveils the top 15 restaurants that define River North's diverse and delicious landscape. Whether you're craving a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a late-night bite, River North offers a restaurant for every palate and occasion. This list of the top River North restaurants is designed to help you navigate this exciting culinary district and discover your next favorite spot.
Upscale Dining Experiences in River North
These River North restaurants offer elevated dining experiences with impeccable service and sophisticated menus.
1. RPM Italian
RPM Italian consistently ranks among the best Italian restaurants in River North. Its stylish ambiance, exceptional service, and creative dishes make it a popular choice for special occasions. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, using high-quality ingredients. Their pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy.
Why it's great: Elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, delicious food.
Must-try: Handmade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas.
2. Sunda
Sunda offers a unique Pan-Asian dining experience. With a chic design and a vibrant atmosphere, Sunda blends various Asian cuisines into innovative dishes. Their sushi is renowned, but their other dishes, like Korean fried chicken and short rib, are just as impressive.
Why it's great: Creative Pan-Asian cuisine, stylish ambiance, vibrant atmosphere.
Must-try: Sushi, Korean fried chicken, short rib.
3. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a steakhouse that transports you back to a classic Chicago steakhouse experience. With its intimate setting and exceptional quality of meat, it's a great choice for a special night out.
Why it's great: Classic steakhouse ambiance, high-quality cuts of meat, excellent service.
Must-try: Dry-aged steaks, classic cocktails.
Mid-Range Gems in River North
These River North restaurants offer a high-quality dining experience without the hefty price tag.
4. Rosebud on Rush
Rosebud on Rush is a Chicago institution known for its authentic Italian dishes and lively atmosphere. It's a great option for a casual night out with friends or family. The pasta is handmade, and the pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Why it's great: Authentic Italian cuisine, lively atmosphere, great for groups.
Must-try: Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza.
5. Maple & Ash
Maple & Ash offers a refined, yet approachable, steakhouse experience. While it’s a step up from a casual dinner, it's more accessible than some of the ultra-high-end options. They also offer a great selection of sides.
Why it's great: Excellent steaks, refined but approachable atmosphere, good selection of sides.
Must-try: Dry-aged steaks, Wagyu beef.
6. RPM Steak
Another establishment from the RPM group, RPM Steak provides a similarly stylish setting but with a focus on, you guessed it, steak! Expect top-quality cuts and a sophisticated ambiance.
Why it's great: Top-quality steaks, sophisticated ambiance, excellent service.
Must-try: Dry-aged steaks, Wagyu beef.
Casual Dining and Quick Bites in River North
These River North restaurants offer more casual dining experiences, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
7. The Purple Pig
The Purple Pig is a popular tapas restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delicious small plates. It's a great option for sharing food with friends or family. Their Mediterranean-inspired dishes are a highlight.
Why it's great: Mediterranean-inspired tapas, lively atmosphere, great for sharing.
Must-try: Grilled octopus, lamb chops.
8. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A Chicago institution, Lou Malnati's is a classic choice for deep-dish pizza. While not strictly River North, it's close enough to warrant inclusion for any pizza lover.
Why it's great: Classic Chicago deep-dish pizza, consistently high quality.
Must-try: Deep-dish pizza (naturally!).
9. Formento's
Formento's is a modern Italian restaurant offering a more relaxed ambiance than some of the higher-end options but still with delicious food. Their pasta dishes are always a crowd-pleaser.
Why it's great: Modern Italian cuisine, relaxed atmosphere, delicious pasta.
Must-try: Pasta dishes, handmade gnocchi.
Unique and Specialized Dining Options in River North
These River North restaurants offer something a little different and stand out from the crowd.
10. Monteverde
Monteverde is a highly acclaimed Italian restaurant known for its handmade pasta and sophisticated dishes. This is a place to experience a truly special Italian meal.
Why it's great: Exceptional Italian cuisine, handmade pasta, refined atmosphere.
Must-try: Handmade pasta dishes, seasonal specials.
11. Osteria Langhe
Osteria Langhe is known for its authentic Piedmontese cuisine from Italy. This gives it a unique character in a city known for its Italian offerings.
Why it's great: Authentic Piedmontese cuisine, unique regional flavors.
Must-try: Agnolotti al plin, braised meats.
Sweet Treats and Late-Night Spots in River North
After a meal, you'll want to cap off your evening with dessert or a late-night drink.
12. Stan's Donuts
A Chicago staple, Stan's Donuts provides a delightful sweet treat at any time of day. The classic donuts are just what you need to end a meal on a high note.
Why it's great: Classic donuts, consistently good quality, always a crowd-pleaser.
Must-try: Old-fashioned donut, cake donut
13. The Dearborn Tavern
If you're looking for a late-night meal or a great place to grab a drink, The Dearborn Tavern is a solid choice. It often stays open late and offers a good late-night menu.
Why it's great: Late-night option, solid menu, great for drinks.
Beyond the Top 10: Honorable Mentions
These restaurants offer great experiences and are worth checking out if you have the time.
14. Chicago Cut Steakhouse
Chicago Cut provides yet another high-quality steakhouse experience with a very upscale feel.
Why it's great: Top-quality steaks, excellent service, luxurious ambiance.
15. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap
A classic Chicago tavern offering great food and a casual atmosphere. If you're looking for something relaxed and familiar, this is the place to go.
Why it's great: Classic Chicago tavern food, casual atmosphere, comfortable setting.
This list provides a comprehensive overview of the best restaurants in River North, Chicago, offering a variety of cuisines, ambiances, and price points to suit every taste and budget. Remember to check menus and make reservations, particularly for popular spots, especially during peak hours and weekends! Enjoy your culinary adventure in River North!
