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Best Fun Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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459 restaurants available nearby

A photo of RPM Seafood restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1585)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • River North (Chicago)
Booked 77 times today
Introducing RPM Seafood, a dramatic multi-level restaurant overlooking the iconic Chicago River featuring the truest expression of the world’s best fish and seafood.The sister restaurant to RPM Steak and RPM Italian, it marks the third collaboration between partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1477)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
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(1804)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)
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 Tanta restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5056)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 54 times today
Tanta is a blast, with a fun and lively atmosphere that reviewers rave about. It's not just about the delicious Peruvian cuisine, but the whole vibe. One reviewer mentioned the 'great cocktail menu and wide range of interesting Peruvian and Peruvian inspired dishes'. Plus, the Chef's Tables offer a unique dining experience, allowing you to see the chefs at work. Whether you're upstairs or downstairs, the ambiance is always described as 'lively'.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4172)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
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.
A photo of Asador Bastian restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(171)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 19 times today
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR CHRISTMAS EVE!Asador Bastian is a Chicago chophouse with Basque influences from acclaimed ChefDoug Psaltis. Located in the iconic “Flair House” originally built in 1883, this historictownhouse has been revived and brought back to life with culinary inspiration from thegreat asadors of San Sebastián, Spain to serve the world’s best boutique beef withoutcompromise. The most remarkable dining experience comes from the purest ingredientsdelivered in the supremely thoughtful, welcoming and hospitable manner. This ethoshas directed every aspect of the experience at Asador Bastian, whether you’re joiningus for small bites and libations in our Bar Room or for a more intimate experience in ourDining Room.
A photo of Siena Tavern restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6002)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 104 times today
Entirely Rooted In A "From Scratch" Approach, We Present Upscale, Classic Italian Fares, Straight From Top Chef Alum, Fabio Viviani. Siena Tavern'S Extensive Wine List And Our Highly Contemporary Design, Interspersed With Rustic Details, Elevates The Genuine Italian Dining Experience While Simultaneously Maintaining Authenticity. Farm To Fork, Refined And Redefined.
A photo of RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(12179)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
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 Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(10915)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
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 JoJo's ShakeBAR - River North restaurant
3.9
Excellent(2620)
Price: Moderate
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 133 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.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • John
    Chicago / Illinois •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    il Porcellino NEVER disappoints! Wish I could remember the name of our server because she gets an 11 out of 10. Food 11/10. Atmosphere 10/10. Happy we chose to dine here for our anniversary! Thanks for the Prosecco, Hector!
    More info
    il PorcellinoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Ritu
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Pizza Portofino is one of my favorite spots in the city. The garlic bread and truffle pizza (request hot honey, trust me) are GAME CHANGER. I went with a few friends and we all agreed that they both redefined garlic bread and pizza (at least in Illinois) respectively. Great service and great vibes!
    More info
    Pizzeria PortofinoPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Jenny
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Went to brunch with the girls. It was a great experience overall. The food was absolutely delicious. The only thing is the wait staff kept coming to our table repeatedly making it seem like they wanted us to leave, while we were the only ones at this restaurant. Other than that, it was great and it was amazing. Will definitely go back for dinner.
    More info
    TantaPrice: Expensive• Peruvian• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Vanessavip
    Chicago / Illinois •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great service and ambiance. Took my sister here for her birthday dinner last night. I got an email earlier this week asking for the name of the person we were celebrating and what milestone birthday it was, which I appreciated and happily provided. Although the gesture was greatly appreciated, they didn’t provide anything specific so unsure what that info was needed for. Anyhow, upon arrival, our server acknowledged we were there for a special occasion which added a nice personalized touch. One minor thing is that we wished our food didn’t come out SO quickly lol but overall everything was fantastic. Service was great and we noticed how happy the staff all seemed to be working there. Will certainly be back!
    More info
    RPM SeafoodPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• River North (Chicago)
    4.6
  • Tovar
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We had the pu pu platter plus some sides, everything was really nice plated and yummy, my favorite thing forever is the curry. The holiday drinks were really cute and i also like that they have zero proof drinks that are delicious and also come in a cool glass.
    More info
    Three Dots and a DashPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• River North (Chicago)
    4.8

Discover best fun restaurants in River North (Chicago)

Discover the vibrant dining scene in Chicago's River North, where every restaurant promises an unforgettable, fun-filled dining experience. Whether you're looking for a lively family dinner or a chic evening out, this diverse neighborhood caters to all tastes with its eclectic mix of eateries. The area is renowned for its dynamic ambiance, with restaurants featuring everything from live music and light shows to stunning river views and sophisticated decors. Guests consistently praise the fantastic service, creative menus, and the overall energetic atmosphere that makes each dining spot uniquely enjoyable. Ideal for both casual outings and special occasions, River North offers a plethora of dining options that are perfect for making any meal a celebration. Enjoy the blend of excellent food, engaging environments, and top-notch service in one of Chicago's most exciting culinary destinations. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the fun dining options in River North is sure to be a highlight of your Chicago experience.

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