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Best Fun Restaurants in River West

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34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Recess restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1465)
Price: Expensive
• American • West Loop
Booked 4 times today
Located in Chicago’s West Loop, Recess (838 W. Kinzie St.) offers a vibrant, playful, escape to the daily grind. Home of Chicago’s largest patio, Recess encourages guests to adult…like a kid, while serving up delicious American food and drink. The Recess menu taps into the cravings of everyday life, offering casually elevated dishes with playful Chicago swagger, while our beverage program takes a bright, ingredient-driven approach with cocktails both classic and original. In addition to the energetic adult playground vibes and menu offerings, Recess also offers a nostalgic array of indoor and outdoor activities including giant Jenga and Connect 4, all of your favorite board games.Recess is a 21+ establishment.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1484)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 171 times today
Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched casual restaurant located directly on the Chicago riverfront offering hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an expansive patio and breezy decor that will instantly transport you to the Italian Riviera.
A photo of Three Dots and a Dash restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1809)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)
Booked 62 times today
With a secret alleyway entrance, Three Dots and a Dash is a speakeasy-style take on the traditional island bar—ready to transport you to the glamorous bygone eras of Trader Vic, Stephen Crane and Don the Beachcomber. Descend underground to discover a subterranean hideaway featuring a rum-soaked menu of more than two dozen classic, modern and original tropical cocktails and a selection of island fare. We are a 21+ venue.
A photo of SUSHI-SAN - River North restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1287)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • River North (Chicago)
Booked 99 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 Robert's Pizza and Dough Company restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2025)
Price: Expensive
• Pizzeria • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 94 times today
Robert's Pizza and Dough Company serves it's award winning thin-crust artisanal pizzas with fresh and unique ingredients.
A photo of Parlay River North restaurant
4.4
Awesome(36)
Price: Moderate
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 16 times today
Parlay River North, located within the vibrant Joy District at 112 W Hubbard St, offers a high-energy sports bar experience perfect for both casual outings and lively nights out. This modern sports parlor on the first floor serves elevated bar fare alongside a curated selection of drinks in a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Guests can enjoy American classics while watching the latest sports events on numerous big screens, ensuring they never miss a moment of the action. The stylish and comfortable setting, inspired by contemporary trends, provides a welcoming space for sports enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.Whether you're here for the game, a night out with friends, or a private event, Parlay River North promises a memorable experience with its vibrant ambiance and top-notch service. Come for the sports, stay for the food, drinks, and unbeatable energy.NO OUTSIDE LIQUOR,NO BIG BAGS, 1 BAG PER PERSON, NO RUBBER SOLES…Exceptions can be made on a case by case basis
A photo of Upstairs at The Gwen restaurant
4.2
Awesome(244)
Price: Expensive
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 23 times today
Experience the premier terrace in River North, located on the 5th floor of The Gwen, a one MICHELIN Key hotel, nestled along the iconic Magnificent Mile! Savor creative cocktails and indulge in delicious small and large plates crafted by Executive Chef Matt Jergens, all while enjoying the warm ambiance of our firepits and the stunning backdrop of towering skyscrapers. Our candlelit indoor lounge and bar offer the perfect setting to unwind, relax, and embrace the good life!Join us on the weekends for Chicago's liveliest, most unique tea service, Tipsy Tea! Featuring scrumptious savory and sweet bites, bottomless beverages, a DJ spinning, and a special themed menu every month, this is one pinkies-down tea service you will never forget!
A photo of JoJo's ShakeBAR - River North restaurant
3.8
Excellent(2639)
Price: Moderate
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 180 times today
JoJo’s ShakeBAR is a next-generation restaurant and bar, and River North’s next go-to spot for hangouts, first dates, and family affairs. Its’ modern, yet familiar, diner experience is grounded in nostalgia and focuses on creative desserts and elevated diner favorites.Outdoor Patio Seating is available for reservations and walk-ins. In the case of inclement weather, our team will do our best to accommodate outdoor patio reservations inside, but indoor seating is not guaranteed. Reservations Are Highly Recommended & Walk Ins Are Available Based Upon Availability.
A photo of Parlor Pizza Bar - River North restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(897)
Price: Moderate
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 33 times today
For more information please email info@parlorchicago.com . Entire party must be present to be seated.
A photo of Fulton Market Kitchen restaurant
3.8
Excellent(701)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Inspired by the 1980s NYC art scene and the Wynwood Walls in Miami, Fulton Market Kitchen offers guests the rare opportunity to enjoy dining, drinking, and the work of incredible artists in a single, truly unique setting. Executive FMK presents a refined, contemporary American cuisine with a global influence. We offer seasonal presentations with ingredients sourced from regional farms, local markets, and our neighbors from Fulton Market Street. FMK's Bar Team, delivers one of the West Loop’s most innovative cocktail programs, executed with fresh ingredients and small batch spirits pulled from a carefully curated collection. Together they have developed an impressive spirit list that boasts over 650 bottles with a special focus on hand-selected barrels, limited allocations, and rare vintages.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Gabrielle
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Had a lot of fun! It was our first time there and we didn’t know what to expect but it was definitely worth it! We’ll be back again for more brunch and possibly a happy hour or two.
    More info
    RecessPrice: Expensive• American• West Loop
    4.5
  • danielle
    Grand Rapids / Western Michigan •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I was here a few years ago and remembered how fantastic it was, so I suggested it for a group lunch for some people coming out of town!
    More info
    SUSHI-SAN - River NorthPrice: Moderate• Japanese• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • Jacqueline
    Las Vegas •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Pizzeria Portofino - Chicago I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday at Pizzeria Portofino in Chicago, and I can’t recommend it enough! From the moment I made the reservation, the experience was exceptional. The manager emailed me to ensure everything would be perfect for my special day, which was a thoughtful and personal touch. The atmosphere at the restaurant is warm and inviting, with a lovely Italian charm that makes you feel right at home. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, providing service that made the night feel truly special. And then, of course, the food – absolutely amazing! The pizzas were cooked to perfection with fresh ingredients, and the flavors were spot-on. We also enjoyed a variety of appetizers and pasta dishes, all of which were delicious. It’s rare to find a place that combines great food, fantastic service, and a personal touch like this. Pizzeria Portofino definitely made my birthday one to remember, and I’ll certainly be back again.
    More info
    Pizzeria PortofinoPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Alexandra
    Miami - Dade •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Amosphere was vibrant and truly captured the essence of a tropical underground getaway. Our server, Sofia, was nothing short of amazing—attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. She recommended beverages that were simply delicious, each crafted with unique flavors that left a lasting impression. If you're looking for a great place to unwind with fantastic drinks and exceptional service, this is a must-visit!
    More info
    Three Dots and a DashPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • Scottvip
    Chicago / Illinois •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The Detroit Pizzas on Tuesday nights are a delicious addition to the menu!
    More info
    Robert's Pizza and Dough CompanyPrice: Expensive• Pizzeria• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    4.8

Discover best fun restaurants in River West

Discover an array of vibrant and enjoyable dining experiences in Chicago's River West neighborhood, perfectly suited for those searching for a "fun" culinary adventure. This bustling area is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants that offer not only delicious food but also engaging atmospheres that promise a memorable night out. Whether you're in the mood for innovative cocktails, unique and original dishes, or simply a lively place to dine al fresco, River West has something to excite every palate. The dining scene here is characterized by its creative flair and commitment to quality, making it a standout destination for both locals and visitors. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on excellent service and a beautiful setting, ensuring every meal is enjoyable. Perfect for gatherings with friends or family, these establishments cater to all looking for fun times and great food in a dynamic urban setting. Explore River West for an unforgettable dining experience where fun meets fabulous cuisine.

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