Chicago is filled with so many restaurants so I thought I would create a list of some of my favorite date night spots around the city. I recently asked over on Instagram for some places you like too and made sure to include some of your favorites!
For me, it is all about the ambiance, food, and vibe. I tried to do a mix of price points as well as locations. I thought In no particular order, let’s break it down…
1. PIZZERIA PORTOFINO – 317 NORTH CLARK STREET (RIVER NORTH)
Pizzeria Portofino is located right on the water and has the most beautiful views. The inside is super cute too and I’m kind of obsessed with everything on their menu. If it’s nice weather then I highly recommend reserving a table outside. Some of my favorite dishes include: Squash Blossoms, Caesar Salad, Margherita Pizza, Cacio E Quattro Peper, and the Mediterranean Branzino.
2. SWIFT & SONS – 1000 WEST FULTON MARKET (WEST LOOP)
I especially love the vibe of Swift & Sons. They have the prettiest dining room and their food definitely doesn’t disappoint. I recommend reserving a cozy booth and some of my favorite dishes include: Crispy Rock Shrimp, Wedge Salad, French Onion Soup, Beef Wellington, and the Mac & Cheese.
3. PICCOLO SOGNO – 464 NORTH HALSTED STREET (RIVER WEST)
My family and I have been huge fans of Piccolo Sogno for the longest time. Their outdoor patio is beautiful and doesn’t make you feel like you are in Chicago at all. Everything on the menu is delish, but a few of my favorites include: Peach Salad, Spaghetti Neri, Pappardelle Con Cinghiale, Margerhita Pizza, Salmon, and the Branzino.
4. MAPLE & ASH – 8 WEST MAPLE STREET (GOLD COAST)
I love the dining room upstairs at Maple & Ash as well as the downstairs 8 Bar. Both have different vibes as well as different menus. For a fancier feel, I recommend going upstairs and getting a booth along the windows. Some of my favorite dishes include: Shrimp Cocktail, Maple & Ash Wedge, Ricotta Agnolotti, Whole-Roasted Branzino, and the Classic Steak Frites. For dessert you have to go with the Sundae Service. So fun!
5. RPM SEAFOOD – 317 NORTH CLARK STREET (RIVER NORTH)
RPM Seafood is located right above Pizzeria Portofino and also overlooks the river. The views are spectacular! The inside is beautiful too and the menu is huge! There is honestly so much to choose from and everything is delicious!
6. LE COLONIAL – 57 EAST OAK STREET (GOLD COAST)
I recently dined at Le Colonial for the first time and LOVED it. I am obsessed with the decor and vibe of the entire restaurant. We sat on the all-seasons terrace overlooking Oak Street and enjoyed all of their French Vietnamese flavors. Here are some of my favorite dishes: Shrimp & Pork Rolls, Pan-Seared Chicken Dumplings, Green Beans with Garlic & Sesame, Roasted Half Duck, Shaking Beef, and their Signature Fried Rice.
7. GIBSONS ITALIA – 233 NORTH CANAL STREET (RIVER WEST)
I think if I had to choose one favorite restaurant in Chicago, it would have to be Gibsons Italia. It is my ultimate favorite for many reasons. The food is fantastic and the views are just as beautiful. I love going here for special occasions because it’s always the best experience. Here is what I love to order: Alaskan King Crab Cocktail, Caesar Salad, Cacio E Pepe, Italian Meatballs, any of the Steaks, and for dessert you have the get the Banana Gelato Oreo Cake. SO SO good!
8. AVLI RIVER NORTH – 702 NORTH WELLS (RIVER NORTH)
Avli is also a newer restaurant on my radar. I love the one in River North best (all their restaurants have different menus). The outdoor is cute and everything on the menu is delish. If you love Greek good then for sure go here! Some of my favorites on the menu include: Spread Sampler, Saganaki, Lamb Chops, Lobster Pasta, Shrimp Souvlaki, Greek Chicken, and Pork Style Gyros.
9. MON AMI GABI – 2300 NORTH LINCOLN PARK WEST (LINCOLN PARK)
Mon Ami Gabi is a classic. I’ve been going here for years and love their French food. I always love to get the French Onion Soup and Steak Frites! I also love their Mussels and Escargot. So delish!
10. BAVETTE’S STEAKHOUSE – 218 WEST KINZIE STREET (RIVER NORTH)
Last, but not least on my list is Bavette’s. The restaurant gives off a sexy vibe and everything on the menu (including dessert) is amazing. Some of my favorite dishes include: Baked Goat Cheese, Sizzling Shrimp Scampi, and Steak Frites. For dessert you have to get the Chocolate Cream Pie. It’s amazing!