Best Dinner Places to Eat in Downtown Chicago

"Alinea is Chicago’s only three-star Michelin restaurant, but sister restaurants Next and Roister each have a star of their own (and offer takeout); the Alinea Group is the most decorated restaurant group in the city. Founded in 2005 by Chef Grant Achatz and Tock creator Nick Kokonas, Alinea is more of an immersive flavor experience than a conventional restaurant. Which makes it all the more impressive that they have translated their food-art into a take out format."

"Believe the hype and secure tickets—yes, tickets—well in advance. Chicago's most exciting restaurant demands an adventurous spirit and a serious...Read More"

"West LoopWhen this West Loop pioneer opened back in 2003, the elegant yet approachable eatery quickly made a name for itself thanks to sleek communal tables, a forward-thinking wine list, and, most importantly, the juiciest medjool date dish the Midwest had ever encountered. Plump dates undergo the full hog treatment here, plied with spiced chorizo sausage before being wrapped in a thick slab of bacon, fired until crisp and crackling, and doused in a warm piquillo pepper tomato sauce that practically demands a hunk of good, freshly baked bread. Don’t think, just order.How to book: Reserve via Tock or order take-out and delivery via DoorDash, GrubHub, and Caviar."

"Go to this Euro-style wine bar when you're feeling gregarious; the rather stark space has seating for only 48 people, and it's a tight fit....Read More"

"Rooftop brunch Chicago at Twisted Spoke - Photo: http://twistedspoke.com/. If you are a foodie and an urban explorer, Twisted Spoke is the place that shall give you everything you need. It has a large list of delicious food and is a great place for a rooftop brunch in Chicago."

"The spinning skeletal biker that sits atop Twisted Spoke is like a beacon of hope after nights that go a little too late. The heavy, hearty brunch options and multiple incarnations of the Bloody Mary here will have you back on your feet in no time."

"Twisted Spoke was voted Best Beer Garden / Patio Hang Out in Chicago!. Check out what else was voted the Best of Chi-Town with 1035 KISS FM!"

"This two-story bar and restaurant has brought fun vibes, playful drinks, and an outdoor patio to Old Town. The menu includes specialties like chilaquiles, large cinnamon rolls, and a chicken and waffles sandwich. Guests can also liven things up with bottomless booze (mimosas, Blood Marys, White Claws, and more) plus choice of one brunch dish for $60 per person."

"I’ve only ever been to Gilt Bar once, but I understand why it’s so popular with you guys. It feels like a little romantic hideaway in the middle of bustling River North. Moreover, the pasta dishes and wine list are really impressive, too!"

"Guilt Bar tops the list of best date restaurants in Chicago. This is not the place to go if you are on a diet. The food is very rich and decedent."

"The Shops at North Bridge encompasses Nordstrom, Eataly with 50 stores and 20 restaurants across 6 city blocks. Dine-in at one of their restaurants or enjoy a quick snack at their delicious selection of restaurants like Café Nordstrom, Bhoomi Chai Co., Big Bowl, and many more. Visitors may also enjoy their shopping experience in-person, curbside pickup, virtual queuing, and in-store pickup options."

"The shops at North Bridge welcome shoppers with an architecturally unique exterior: the façade of the 1928 former McGraw-Hill building. When it was demolished the stonework was dismantled, cleaned and repositioned at the site of the North Bridge Mall. Featuring anchor stores such as Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton and Hugo Boss, North Bridge promises a fabulous shopping experience."

"This mall on Michigan Avenue is all about fun, fashion, food and family. The Shops at North Bridge is a four-level shopping centre. It is home to over 50 world-class retailers: fashion stores, cosmetics, toy stores, electronics for tech-savvy visitors, and more."

"It was very popular during the ‘80s and locals are still loyal to it. It is easy on the eye, with lawns and trees, and brick walls. Nowadays, it still attracts people and offers plenty of parking space, with security, and convenient shopping."

"Great service and an excellent environment; Logan square is a nice slice of heaven on earth. The employees and staff are always friendly and attentive, a..."

"The early bird not only gets the worm, it also gets the breakfast deal at Cozy Corner. Stop in between 6 a.m."

"Bars Lounges Lincoln Park. Munch on truffle fries and crispy elote hush puppies while taking in the nearly panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the downtown skyline from this 13th-floor terrace that's perched atop Hotel Lincoln. On the booze front, guests can choose from summer-friendly frozen cocktails, locally crafted brews or wines by the glass."

"Butternut Empanadas • butternut squash, salsa Bandera, and avocado cream • #JParkerChicago #BokaRestaurantGroup. The J. Parker is a classy Chicago restaurant that not only offers some great food but also an amazing view. Sitting on top of Hotel Lincoln, J. Parker offers 55 indoor seats as well as 140 outside seats."

"If you have club level access and make a reservation before your event, you can forgo the UC’s standard fare and opt for the royal treatment with a prime rib carving station and assorted fondue desserts."