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Best Hot Spot Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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99 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ema - River North restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4532)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)
Booked 96 times today
A Mediterranean & California-inspired restaurant featuring small plates & Chef CJ Jacobson's lighter style cooking in Chicago's River North.
A photo of RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(12177)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 105 times today
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, RPM Italian is modern in approach and Italian in spirit, featuring a contemporary menu with dishes meant to be shared. The sister restaurant to RPM Steak and RPM Seafood, RPM Italian marks the first collaboration between partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic.
A photo of SUSHI-SAN - River North restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1277)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • River North (Chicago)
Booked 94 times today
Sushi-San serves up the best sushi in Chicago made with the freshest ingredients they can find, all served with a side of old-school hip-hop and ice-cold beer. The bar is kept stocked with rare Japanese whisky, sake, wine and inventive cocktails. Join them for lunch and dinner.
A photo of Chicago Cut Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9965)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 56 times today
Chicago Cut Steakhouse is one of Chicago’s most iconic dining experiences in a city that boasts dozens of options for steak-centric dining. Our downtown Chicago steakhouse offers guests a selection of signature, USDA-certified prime beef that is hand-cut and dry-aged on site. Our curated menu also features fish, shellfish, chops and a selection of unique side dishes and appetizers. In addition to delicious martinis and specialty cocktails, Chicago Cut offers a wine list with more than 600 bottles that has been highlighted Wine Spectator, the world’s leading authority on wine. Our dining area features a lively bar scene, vibrant red velvet banquettes and spacious dining tables, private dining options and beautiful, sweeping views of the Chicago River. In the warm months, we also open our sprawling outdoor dining patio, which makes Chicago Cut an excellent spot for an outdoor brunch, lunch or dinner reservation along the river.
A photo of STK – Chicago restaurant
4.1
Excellent(6346)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 109 times today
STK – Chicago is a hot spot for its unique blend of a trendy vibe, high-quality steaks, and top-notch service. As one reviewer put it, 'If you’re looking for a nightclub atmosphere with good drinks and food, stk will not disappoint.' The lively atmosphere, often featuring a live DJ, has been noted as a standout feature by multiple reviewers. Despite being a bustling spot, STK is commended for its exceptional service and great food, making it a favorite among diners.
A photo of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(17492)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • River North (Chicago)
Booked 113 times today
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a hit for its extensive seafood selection and prime steaks, all served with a side of warm hospitality. With rave reviews mentioning the 'amazing food', 'exceptional service' and 'great atmosphere', it's no surprise this place is always crowded. Plus, the 'knowledgeable, friendly wait staff' and 'classy surroundings' add to the overall experience. Whether you're in the mood for fresh Florida Stone Crab claws or a perfectly cooked prime steak, you'll find it all at Joe's.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6257)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 96 times today
We are the city’s top Mexican restaurant for authentic modern cuisine, specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails, located in the heart of River North. Our culinary team features popular Mexican dishes, including our signature tacos, as well as fresh salsa and guacamole, ceviche, esquites and more.Mercadito's lounge is nestled in the lower level of Mercadito. It offers a speakeasy-style experience with a chic and exclusive ambiance. The space features banquet-style booths and dim lighting that enhances the elegant wood furniture, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Once inside, guests can enjoy the full Mercadito menu, with the same delectable cuisine and beverages that our restaurant is known for.
A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(10912)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 123 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.
A photo of Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(9096)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 85 times today
Riverfront dining in the heart of the Windy City. Join us for a magnificent meal on the water and let the good times flow. Ideal for gatherings of all sizes with easy access to parking, major hotels, and convention centers.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4170)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 115 times today
Il Porcellino, located in the heart of River North in downtown Chicago, is a neighborhood restaurant offering classic Italian-American comfort food in a casual setting. Our seasonal menu focuses on housemate pastas, vegetable antipasti and daily specials, all crafted with ingredients sourced from quality artisans, purveyors, and local farmers. The fun and approachable wine program encourages sharing with selections primarily from Italy. As a way to offset rising costs associated with the restaurant (food, beverage, labor, benefits, supplies), we have added a 3% surcharge to all checks. We do this in lieu of increased menu prices. You may request to have this taken off your check, should you choose.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Valerie
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I went with a group of friends for my birthday, and it was the best decision I could’ve made! Although we were all late due to downtown traffic, the restaurant was willing to wait for my entire party to arrive while we waited at the bar. The food portions were outstanding! Everyone said that their food was delicious! The restaurant is beautiful, and it was an energetic vibe, but not too noisy. Our waiter was excellent. He went above and beyond even taking a picture of us outside. Although it is pricey, I would definitely go again. 
    More info
    STK – ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    4.1
  • Marc
    Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The bass was excellent, and the Kofta was tasty. However, the humus was a disappointment—not better than what one can buy in a grocery store. The cauliflower/broccoli dish was a good surprise. Overall, the food was good, but not surprising. The place was full (on a Friday night) -- crowded and noisy. Service was slow.
    More info
    Ema - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Nereida
    Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Wonderful food (short rib bologhnese, salmon, rib eye, spaghetti and meatball and Caesar) were all very good. The atmosphere peaceful and elegant. Huge selection of wines and specialty spirits which we did not partake in. Great service (Mattie). Great, great for very special occasions only because if the price point, but you will NOT be disappointed. Must try at least once.
    More info
    RPM Italian - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Brittany
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We love this place! I’m a whisky drinker and have exceptional whiskey! Plus we love the food very fresh sushi.
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    SUSHI-SAN - River NorthPrice: Moderate• Japanese• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • Lisavip
    South Carolina •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Hosted a small business dinner here and while the final bill was a bit higher than I anticipated I will say that the food was excellent and everyone enjoyed their meal, so mission accomplished. The whole place was decked out for Christmas and so festive. It was packed on a Wednesday evening so while the vibe was very energetic it was not overwhelming at all. And the staff was great. I would go back with my husband next time we’re in Chicago.
    More info
    Chicago Cut SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    4.8

Discover best hot spot restaurants in River North (Chicago)

River North in Chicago is renowned for its vibrant dining scene, offering a wide array of culinary experiences tailored to delight any food enthusiast. Highlighting the area as a true "hot spot," these establishments serve up not only exceptional food but also provide unique dining atmospheres and top-notch service. From classic American dishes to innovative Asian fusion, the restaurants in River North cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, each maintaining a strong focus on creating memorable dining experiences. Patrons consistently praise the inviting ambiances and the high-quality service, making each meal an enjoyable and satisfying event. Whether you're seeking a casual meal by the river or a sophisticated dinner with fine cuisine, River North offers an exciting culinary journey that's sure to impress. These restaurants, celebrated for their culinary creativity and attentive service, make River North a must-visit hotspot for both locals and tourists alike.

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