Chicago’s River North neighborhood is home to world-class restaurants. With a mix of upscale steakhouses, trendy sushi restaurants, and an impressive variety of global cuisines, you can find a spot for every mood and occasion at these best restaurants in River North, Chicago.
Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy Italian trattoria, a lively Peruvian-inspired rooftop, or a luxe seafood spot with killer views, there’s a restaurant for you in this neighborhood.
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Read more to discover the 10 best restaurants in River North Chicago.
For pizza with killer views at one of the best casual restaurants in River North Chicago — reserve a table at Pizzeria Portofino (River North)
Pizzeria Portofino is a bustling casual Italian hotspot that overlooks the Chicago River. The enclosed patio with views of the waterfront and skyscrapers is a highlight, while the interior features cozy yellow-striped booths and lantern-style light fixtures. The black truffle three-cheese pizza and crispy parmesan fries are all-star favorites as are the thin-crust pizzas (including gluten-free options).
For Italian shared plates and housemade pasta — check out Quartino (River North)
Quartino is a must-visit for Italian shared dishes in a lively atmosphere. Located in a nostalgic building spanning two floors, the classic hardwood floors and wooden tables create a rustic feel. Check out the vintage salumeria case from the 1920s while you dig into house-made fettuccine alfredo, gnocchi with ricotta and tomato sauce, or popular beef short rib. Satisfy a sweet tooth with profiteroles stuffed with vanilla gelato and drizzled with chocolate and almonds.
For an upscale Italian steakhouse near the Waldorf Astoria — book a table at Gibsons Italia (River North)
Gibsons Italia is one of the best Italian-accented steakhouse restaurants in River North Chicago near the Waldorf Astoria. Nestled between skyscrapers with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Chicago River, the spacious dining room with leather seating and white tablecloths is a stunning setting for a special occasion meal. The lavish menu boasts Australian lobster tail, lamb chops, house-made gold-extruded pasta, and steaks from all over the world.
For healthy options from dawn to dusk in a chic atmosphere — grab a table at Beatrix (River North)
Beatrix is a neighborhood gem that blends the charm of a coffeehouse with a chic full-service restaurant. Sit at the bar with friends or grab a cozy nook by the fireplace for a date or focused work session. Expect a menu of classic American fare—including several vegetarian and vegan dishes—ranging from light and fluffy lemon pancakes to hot honey fried chicken.
For sustainably sourced seafood and riverfront views — make a reservation at RPM Seafood (River North)
Come to RPM Seafood for a fancy seafood extravaganza combined with stunning downtown and river views, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. The dining room is dressed in neutral hues and plush booths, while the second-level mezzanine offers open-air patio or terrace dining. The luxe menu is unbeatable, with sustainably sourced mussels, crab, and oysters. Other options include prime steaks like wagyu. To take the experience up a notch, try the mixed seafood grill that’s flamed tableside.
For elegant small plates at one of the best Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago — ensure your table awaits at Ema (River North)
At stylish Ema, chef CJ Jacobson focuses on hyper-seasonal ingredients for Mediterranean-forward dishes. Expect hummus, spreads, mezze platters, and juicy meat kebabs along with elegant seafood dishes. The interior incorporates elements of nature-themed design elements like wooden columns and tables and plants galore.
For a lively spot with fresh Japanese sushi — visit SUSHI-SAN (River North)
When sushi cravings hit, head to SUSHI-SAN for lunch, dinner, or late-night eats. Grab a seat at the sushi bar, where chefs work with precision and finesse as they prepare seafood from top markets in Japan in the sleek, black-toned interior with wood-based accents. Try the 12-piece d-luxe nigiri with Spanish bluefin and the best of Toyosu. Pair your meal with one of the rare Japanese liquors.
For an award-winning steakhouse with Basque influences — head to Asador Bastian (River North)
Nestled in a historic, restored townhouse, Asador Bastian was named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in 2023. Enjoy small bites and cocktails in the lively bar room or settle into the opulent dining room with leather banquettes for a feast of boutique steaks, such as the true Galiciana, cooked on the live-fire grill. Don’t leave without trying the bone marrow potato purée.
For a rooftop meal at one of the best restaurants in River North Chicago — snag a table at Tanta (River North)
Sit at Tanta’s year-round heated rooftop patio, adorned with wood paneling and lush greenery, to take in stunning views. Then settle in and enjoy a Peruvian-inspired menu of vibrant ceviches, flavorful anticuchos, and shareable dishes like the plancha tanta. For a special occasion or a fancy date night, go all in on the chef’s tasting menu. Don’t miss the standout cocktails, including creative takes on the classic pisco sour, Peru’s national drink.
For a steakhouse with sweeping river views — book a table at Chicago Cut Steakhouse (River North)
Head to Chicago Cut Steakhouse for prime riverfront views and premium steaks. Grab a seat in the elegant dining room with ceiling-to-floor windows, dark hardwood floors, red leather chairs, and velvet banquettes. You’re here for the high-end beef, dry-aged and cut on-site, plus refined seafood classics like king crab legs and lobster. Raise a glass and toast to a memorable meal with a wine list covering over 600 selections.
With a mix of energetic atmospheres and stunning waterfront views, River North Chicago is home to top restaurants serving up Italian fare, sustainably sourced seafood, and Peruvian dishes packed with flavor. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find creative, high-quality cuisine that showcases global flavors and premium ingredients.
