Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot to get cozy with a good book, an interactive chef’s counter, or a bustling space where you can people-watch for hours, you can find every kind of experience at these best solo dining Chicago restaurants.
Sample Mediterranean-inspired small plates in an intimate communal dining destination in the West Loop. Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen at a cozy spot in Logan Square. Indulge in Southern-inspired favorites at a retro diner in Bucktown/Wicker Park.
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Read on to discover the 10 best restaurants for solo dining in Chicago.
For Riviera-inspired Mediterranean dining at one of the best solo dining Chicago restaurants — book at La Serre (West Loop)
Inspired by the French Riviera, La Serre serves elegantly plated Mediterranean- and French-inspired cuisine in a refined, intimate setting. Enjoy a solo meal at the bar, where you can enjoy elegant dishes like a truffle brie tart, silky pastas, and mains like a filet with frites. Round out your meal with a glass of wine or a refreshing, botanical-forward cocktail in the stylish space with floral wallpaper and lush greenery.
For Mediterranean small plates at a lively spot with communal tables — try avec (West Loop)
Grab a seat at one of avec’s long communal tables or at the bar for a cozy solo meal. The menu is packed with Mediterranean-inspired small plates like chorizo-stuffed Medjool dates and creamy hummus—ideal for sampling the menu as a party of one. Pair your meal with a glass from the deep wine list or an innovative cocktail in the lively, wood-accented interior.
For modern Italian dishes in a stylish space — head to Alla Vita (West Loop)
Executive chef Lee Wolen’s Alla Vita is where you go for hearty Italian American cuisine in a stylish space with warm, rustic design touches. Grab a seat at the spacious bar for a solo meal of Italian favorites like housemade ricotta dumplings and wood-fired pizzas. The relaxed yet stylish interior, adorned with greenery and soft lighting, makes for an inviting solo dining experience.
For handmade Italian pastas at one of the best solo dining Chicago restaurants — try Tre Dita (River North
Located inside The St. Regis Chicago, swanky Tre Dita is an elegant choice for top-notch solo dining. Celebrity chef Evan Funke celebrates the flavors of Tuscany. Enjoy a selection of small plates as well as exquisite handmade pastas and premium wood-fired steaks at the bar or in the jaw-dropping dining room with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River through dramatic 40-foot windows.
For elegant Italian cuisine in a sleek, modern setting — visit Adalina (Gold Coast/Streeterville)
Adalina is where you go for classic and contemporary Italian dishes in a stylish Gold Coast space. Snag a seat at the elegant bar or lounge to enjoy rich, house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared meats by “Top Chef” alum Soo Ahn. The cocktail program is equally refined, with innovative drinks like a martini riff with mezcal. The modern, dimly lit interior adds to the intimate and sophisticated atmosphere.
For a rich bowl of ramen at a laid-back noodle bar — check out Akahoshi Ramen (Logan Square)
Ramen bars are a solo diner’s dream, and Akahoshi Ramen delivers. The intimate, counter-style setup is ideal for enjoying steaming bowls of tonkotsu or miso ramen made with hand-pulled noodles and flavorful broths. Everything is made in-house, including noodles, seasonings and toppings. The compact but well-curated sake and beer selection complements the Japanese-inspired menu.
For prime steaks and classic cocktails at a timeless steakhouse — try The Palm (Downtown/Loop)
Steakhouse giant The Palm is an inviting spot for solo dining, especially at the well-stocked bar. Located inside the elegant Swissôtel, the dining room sets the scene for an unforgettable meal. Known for its prime steaks, jumbo Nova Scotia lobsters, and decadent chophouse sides, the menu is both indulgent and refined. The expertly crafted martinis and signature cocktails further enhance the meal.
For classic Italian comfort food in a cozy, neighborhood spot — head to Francesca’s on Chestnut (Gold Coast/Streeterville)
Longtime Italian favorite Francesca’s on Chestnut is a warm and welcoming spot for solo dining. Traditional dishes like spaghetti pomodoro, risotto, and house-made tiramisu make the restaurant a go-to for comforting Italian fare. The attentive staff and cozy ambiance—complete with exposed brick and candlelit tables—make this a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.
For comforting Mexican-Southern fare at a retro counter — try Dove’s Luncheonette (Bucktown/Wicker Park)
A cozy, retro-style restaurant, Dove’s Luncheonette serves soulful Tex-Mex comfort food in a relaxed setting. Pull up a stool at the counter and enjoy dishes like chicken-fried chicken with chorizo verde gravy or smoked brisket tacos. The curated selection of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails pairs well with the food, while the vinyl soundtrack and friendly staff add to the welcoming, nostalgic vibe.
For a bold fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors in a vibrant atmosphere — try Mirra (Bucktown/Wicker Park)
Mirra is a destination for its creative fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisine in a casual, counter-service setting, making it one of the best restaurants for solo dining in Chicago. Standout dishes include lamb barbacoa biryani and roasted bone marrow. Grab a seat at the counter in the colorful space to watch the culinary team in action.
Dining alone in Chicago is anything but lonely at these restaurants that serve up outstanding food and welcoming settings for solo meals. Whether looking for a cozy nook, an engaging chef’s counter, or a lively bar experience, these are Chicago’s best solo-friendly restaurants.
