Pinched on the River

144

384

5 years ago

Lovely little location with really delicious Greek food and great drinks with great atmosphere - Perfect for drinks and food before a movie near by. highly recommend! read more

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Vaishali P.

4 years ago

Had an amazing gastronomical experience here with a wonderful white wine, selected by a colleague who is from Siberia, and then the appetizers and selection of meats made especially for our table, with very specific flavors. The falafels we had here were the best I've ever had, light, crispy and flavorful. We also tried the beignets , which were ok. Wonderful evening with friends and everything was so good, except the Chicago weather, that prevented from sitting outside, but I'm sure if you visit in the spring or summer, there will be a visual treat as well. A must try if your visiting. read more

Pinched on the River - Salad for the table with olives, greens, pickled onions, feta, tabouleh, tomatoes, and much more - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Pinched on the River - A mix meats kabob platter - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Earl J.

Elite 21

463

116

5 years ago

Came here for a Sunday lunch. A little cold to sit outside but they gave us our own little corner with couches! Really nice space, clean and spacious. Service was top notch! Attentive and friendly. Food was also excellent! Everything is made from scratch and you can taste it! Even the simple Pita was so delicious and fresh! Our favorite was their Chicken Shawarma - a must try! The only minor downside is they didn't really offer much in drinks. But that's just probably me wanting to day drink on a Sunday before noon lol. Overall a very nice experience with top notch food. I really want to come back when it's warmer to sit by the river and eat those delicious pitas!!! read more

Pinched on the River - Chicken Shawarma - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Pinched on the River - Fish Tacos - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Pinched on the River - Hummus - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Lisa R.

2 years ago

We held a welcome reception here for a Northwestern University Lab Retreat / Reunion Event on 6/21/24 - we had about 50 people, mostly adults but a few children. The Owner Ranka was so easy to work with in planning our event. The food was amazing and the servings are very generous! The server assigned to our event was excellent. We were alble to utilize the outdoor patio along the river which is such a beautiful setting. We had such a wonderful experience overall from start to finish. I actually just asked to book another event there in July because of how fantastic everything was. I would highly recommend! read more

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Natosha M.

152

328

1855

5 years ago

Love the fact that it's on the river. Beautiful view too have while grabbing lunch or a drink with friends. Staff were really lovely. Everyone was happy and sweet. I'll definitely be back read more

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Diego Z.

2 years ago

Just had a wonderful experience here, Shannon our host was absolutely wonderful and overall every aspect was great. The music was amazing which is my personal opinion. Now the food was great, I had the victory plate, great choice for meat eaters. Great options for vegans. Lastly the location was also great. Thank you Shannon for being great read more

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Hannah M.

2 years ago

Got this amazing nitro vanilla coffee and sat outside by the river. Shina (hostess) was the most kind and caring woman! She was able to sit me outside while I enjoyed watching the boats go by. I would make a reservation for this place though because they're pretty popular! This place made my first trip to Chicago that much better! read more

Pinched on the River - nitro vanilla coffee - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Tiffany D.

2 years ago

Great food...great atmosphere. Great service. Reasonably priced. Would definitely recommend. Nice hidden gem!

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Samantha I.

Elite 23

150

4 years ago

Located right on the river, this cozy little place is a must-go! The restaurant concept is a sit-down place with a "build your meal" menu, which is unique but was well executed. The menu is full of endless options for bases, proteins, and toppings so you can't go wrong with what you order. One of the best items on the whole menu has to be the hummus! The hummus is made with a fresh mint spread, which was an unexpected but delicious surprise. Overall, the food was fresh, the service was great, and the atmosphere was relaxed-- I would go back in a heartbeat! read more

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Anamay O.

2 years ago

On 8/2 3:15 pm My husband and I were going to do the river cruise and got down there a little early and saw this place called the Mediterrean Grill we asked the hostess if they had a bar and she said yes Michael the bartender can help you. So we sat at the bar and had a couple drinks till it was time to board the boat to do the cruise. Mike was so friendly and gave great customer service. I also want to recognize the hostess that helped us she was friendly and helpful too. From, Curt and May read more

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D S.

3 years ago

Vegetarian review: Went with a friend and got the falafel mezze plate. It listed "fruits and vegetables" and just had a cucumber and tomato garnish. While technically correct, I feel it was misleading. The falafel is nothing to write home about. The best part of the dish was the feta. The only reason I ate as much as I did was bc I worked out right before I got there. Usually food is amazing when you're that hungry, but this left a lot to be desired. Ambiance - outdoor seating is fantastic until all you smell the urine from all the neighbors dogs. Don't go around the times most people take their dogs out to potty. Service - it was impersonal, but efficient. It seems like there was only one server for way too many tables. Maybe short staffed that day. But also looked like there were 5 people not doing anything inside. The waiter was crushing the speed, but that took away from it being a personal experience, felt rushed to order and to leave. NOT his fault with the volume he was given. Great view if you go at the right time. Maybe other dishes are way better, but this place isn't for me. read more

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Alyssa F.

2 years ago

I went for dinner last night. We had a big party and a few of us showed up first. We first checked in at the host stand where the host was doing everything but talking to guests as a whole line of people formed behind the stand. We finally checked in and sat at the bar where we sat for 20 minutes while the ONE bartender ran around yelling at his coworkers due to stress. finally he came and took our order. I asked for 4 waters and was going to order an alcoholic drink as well, but he rolled his eyes at me as soon as I asked for water, so I figured he didn't deserve my service. After he got us water, two older men came right up to the bar and he served them immediately. Keep in my mind, the group I was with sitting at the bar are all female and in our mid-20s. We were totally disrespected by that bartender. Then we went to our table when the rest of our group arrived. We had to sit inside where there is no AC on an 80 degree day. Bathrooms were disgusting. Our server was not attentive at all. The ONLY thing this place has going for it is its food. As a server myself and longtime restaurant industry worker, I was blown away by the lack of attentiveness to guests at this restaurant. I will not be returning and I will not be recommending it. read more

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Niharika N.

2 years ago

We went for my friends birthday! All the servers were super nice and the atmosphere was amazing. They were really attentive and helpful! The hostess was super nice and welcoming! The food was amazing and was out very quickly we didn't wait for a long time. They even took our group pictures!! Was very happy with the experience! We went around June and sat outside right by the river. Cannot recommend this place enough!!! read more

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Mike K.

2 years ago

Fantastic food, big portions, kalamata hummus was delicious. This post needs 85 characters.

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Susan S.

2 years ago

We hosted our son's wedding rehearsal sit-down dinner and open bar for 55-plus people and additional people arrived later for drinks & appetizers. Ranka, the owner, was very responsive and never once did I worry leading up to our gathering about the quality of service and food being a disappointment to our guests. Her professional staff took good care of us and the location is perfect for everyone staying downtown. The interior is warm and inviting with exposed brick and I especially loved having outdoor space to gather before and after dinner to show off our great city views. Thank you for ensuring our weekend of celebration started off on the right foot! read more

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Kate M.

2 years ago

Service was great- build your own bowl style Mediterranean food with delicious flavors.

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Ashley T.

3 years ago

Absolutely beautiful experience here. We sat at a high top right by the River front. Prices were decent for chicago. My brother had the Gazpacho and falafels which were amazing. I went for a build you own bowl of Lemon pepper tilapia, rice, caramelized onions, feta, olives, mixed greens, and lite garlic sauce. It was DELICIOUS! The drinks were tasty as well, I had the cucumber spritz and loved it. Wonderful staff/service, ambience, and food! We will definitely be back! read more

Pinched on the River - Build your own Rice Bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Ria O.

4 years ago

One of my favorite authentic mediterranean places in Chicago! This was actually the first restaurant I tried in the city and I was not disappointed at all (their falafel is fantastic) :) Service is great at this location and there's outdoor seating as well! read more

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Anwesh D.

Elite 23

208

4 years ago

This menu is created almost chipotle style where you can choose a base, a protein and toppings. The menu is quite pricey for this style of food. The ingredients were very fresh and the flavor of the chicken schwarma was great and very different from the usual flavor. Overall, i really enjoyed the food and would recommend! read more

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Kammy Windy Town W.

329

1836

5 years ago

Since it was a chilly weekend so we seated inside. Their menu was simple so I ordered salad bowl and my partner ordered pita bowl. Food was good and reasonable. And our server was nice. Will come back on a nicer weather days. read more

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Aditi S.

488

415

647

6 years ago

Didn't even know this place existed! Was pleasantly surprised by the food and the scenic view by the patio. I ordered the falafel plate and all the food was hot and fresh. I highly recommend checking this place out for a quick lunch! read more

Pinched on the River - Falafel - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Annie I.

167

178

1142

6 years ago

I really loved the food here. I wish I could give this place a 5 star rating but towards the end the waiter forgot to bring out the beignets after confirming twice it was on the way. It took 30 mins and a third request for the beignets to finally come out. Least to say I was even more disappointed when I took the first bite and discovered the inside batter was still runny. In fact two out of the six beignets were not fully ready. Had it not been for this mishap, I would have written a lengthy paragraph all about the brown rice. That alone with the hummus and chicken made my experience here enjoyable. read more

Pinched on the River - Not ready :( - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Pinched on the River - Views - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Leyla M.

4 years ago

The food is ok, not the best Mediterranean but pretty descent! But service is terrible! I normally do takeouts, there been times when they messed up my order, but last two times they said there is no order at all in their system, and when i left and walked back home they called me to say that they found my order... I already made other food arrangements as i ordered take out simply coz been hungry... I was not even offered to have it delivered as they have messed up...anyways my last experience, wont give it further try Disappointed read more

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Melissa C.

Elite 24

129

191

518

5 years ago

The staff is incredibly thoughtful. They checked on us frequently and sat us at the best table on the River. The food was fresh and delicious. I enjoy the chicken Shawarma with tabouli and hummus! read more

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Olga C.

226

4 years ago

Eclectic Middle East cuisine, very tasty! Couple bonuses: great coffee (served correctly, you know :) and the view !!! read more

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Sandi M.

4 years ago

I am so glad we tried this place! Amazing! Food is fresh and full of flavor! The couscous was soooo good!! It's something I'll definitely be craving!! read more

Pinched on the River - Toasted Pearl CousCous with chicken kabob - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Char Dae L.

2 years ago

Great location on the river; nice space, yet no flavor! Ordered the chicken and while it had herbs no flavor what so ever.

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Cathy W.

609

1368

4 years ago

Absolutely LOVED our lunch here. Original plans called for an evening meal, but I gotta say-I'm glad it worked out that we had lunch instead. It was such a beautiful and relaxing spot on the water. It was a brilliantly sunny day but the trees at water's edge gave ample shade and a light breeze made it perfect. Management and staff could not have been nicer or more attentive. We walked in with no reservation, and although we were seated immediately, I would encourage you not to take a chance. Reserve a table if you can. What to eat? If you are super hungry, go with the full bowl. If you want a little less, go with a side of couscous (OMG! it is incredible) and the feta and olive flatbread. The bread is so tender and the black olives and feta are perfectfully proportioned. Regular hummus and pita rounded out the meal and sangria and a hot mint tea washed it all down. Pinched is lovely inside and out and is focused on serving up healthy, delicious food. They hit every mark in my book! P.S. if you visit the restrooms, be prepared for very very dim lighting. read more

Pinched on the River - Hummus (regular) and pita bread. Olive and feta flatbread is great for sharing. - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Eileen H.

2 years ago

Food was very good. Fresh and we appreciated being able to build a bowl to our individual specifications with lots of available ingredients. Our server was fast, friendly and efficient. Restaurant was nicely decorated and very clean. Well priced for the area. We highly recommend and will return to Pinched. read more

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Samantha C.

121

171

148

4 years ago

I really enjoyed this restaurant overall! The food was great, and it was nice to be able to make my own bowl. They have a great wine selection and I liked that we were able to sit outside by the water. Our waitress was also great, and I would definitely return! read more

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April A.

158

105

106

4 years ago

New to the neighborhood. Felt beyond welcomed by the manager today. The ambiance is great, the food is great. Serving staff was amazing. Can't wait to come visit my one of my new neighborhood spots! read more

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Yanni V.

2 years ago

Came for happy hour and was pleasantly surprised. Great vegetarian options. Greek fries were flavorless and cold and the only thing that made them Greek was the small amount of feta on top. However, the mushroom and pesto flatbread was 10/10. Pesto was very good and it was a good portion for the price. The small falafel wrap was good also with the slaw bringing good flavor. It also came with house made chips that added the right amount of crunch. Finally, the beignets were super fresh and steaming hot. They were a little doughy, so if you're used to airy beignets then you might not like it as much. Pinch me margarita was fantastically balanced! The service was good and the restaurant setting was very nice. It was underground and you can see out to the river or even get a table by the river. read more

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Jordan M.

106

4 years ago

I had high hopes because the location was so cute. We had reservations for outdoor. But the WAIT! I had to ask the host to send a server over after 30 mins and she was so rushed. We ordered a 2-3 person "shareable" plate and after another 30 mins were finally presented with a very sad plate. One strawberry. One tomato. Was baffled it took 30mins?! Very disappointed. read more

Pinched on the River - Shareable Pinched Plate - Mediterranean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Shervani P.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

190

278

4 years ago

Enjoyed my visit to Pinched on the River! The food was delicious. I got a falafel salad and the falafel was flavorful and perfectly soft on the inside and had a good crunch on the outside. I do wish they allowed more toppings without the additional cost. The ambiance of being right on the river is great and it's a quiet, peaceful area. And the service was good. It would be a great spot for a low key date night! Definitely recommend making a visit for good Mediterranean food! read more

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Page 5 of 14

443 E Illinois St
Chicago, IL 60611
Near North Side
Directions
(312) 526-3883
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://pinchedmedgrill.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Pinched on the River open?

Pinched on the River opens at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Pinched on the River close?

Pinched on the River is closed on Monday.Pinched on the River closes at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon ClosedTue-Sun 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Pinched on the River take credit cards?

Yes, Pinched on the River takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Pinched on the River have catering options?

Yes, Pinched on the River does have catering options.

Does Pinched on the River have a happy hour?

Yes, Pinched on the River has a happy hour.

Does Pinched on the River serve alcohol?

Yes, Pinched on the River serves alcohol. Full Bar

Services

Is Pinched on the River by appointment only?

No, Pinched on the River is not by appointment only.

Indoor Amenities

Does Pinched on the River have TVs?

Yes, Pinched on the River has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Pinched on the River have bike parking?

Yes, Pinched on the River has bike parking.

Does Pinched on the River have outdoor seating?

Yes, Pinched on the River has outdoor seating options.

Does Pinched on the River have parking?

Yes, Pinched on the River has parking options. Garage Parking, Valet Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Is Pinched on the River wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Pinched on the River is wheelchair accessible.

Does Pinched on the River allow outdoor smoking?

No, Pinched on the River does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Pinched on the River have free WiFi?

Yes, Pinched on the River has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Just down the street from the bustle of Navy Pier, nestled between the beautiful Bennet Park and the Chicago River, is Pinched on the River. A unique and secluded hideaway from the noise and rush of the street above. Pinched on the River offers a heightened experience of Mediterranean inspired food. A full wine and craft beer bar welcomes weary travelers and the original flavors of Pinched Mediterranean are the cornerstone for the eclectic menu.

History

Established in 2012.

The Pinched experience started with a question. Is a healthy, delicious meal with infinite combinations of flavors in an atmosphere that was approachable and enjoyable really that difficult to make? At Pinched, you choose your journey. You decide the cultural mash up that you'd like to experience with the confidence that each flavor blends exceptionally with the others. Pair the fresh natural greens and hummus with marinated chicken shawarma, a zesty cabbage slaw, and a citrus-based black bean and corn salad. Or start with a warm fluffy pita and fill it with homemade tabbouleh, poblano pepper hummus, and round it out with a pinch of tzatziki sauce (you won't need much). All of our ingredients are prepared fresh every morning and throughout the day, so you always have the crispiest greens and the juiciest vegetables for your meal. Pinched is all about experiencing everything you can in life, with a pinch of this and a pinch of that.

More Info

Health Score

Pinched on the River Reviews in Other Languages

French
1 Review

Ask the Community - Pinched on the River

Is the meat halal?

Do they take reservations?

Yes through Open Table. Strongly suggest that you get them.

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Acanto

The restaurant is not that far from the Art museum and Cloud Gate (aka The Bean)…read more We had reservations and were seated right away. They light a new candle on your table and it was fun guessing how many hours it takes for the candle to melt all the way down. We came during dinner time and sat inside. We shared the Arancini, usually comes in 3 and they made 4 for us, since there were 4 of us. Very delicious and we all just took our time savoring the flavor. So good and it is also GF made with rice flour. Next I had the Umbricelli con Sugo d'Anatra. House made spaghetti with duck meat. Noodles were firm and didn't twirl on the fork easily. But it was really good. There were plenty of duck meat shredded and chunks. The cherry tomatoes were a bit tart to me, so I didn't eat them all. For dessert we shared the Tortino al Cioccolato Valhrona, like a chocolate lava cake. Very soft and rich chocolate. Had orange pieces throughout. Came with coffee gelato. Also shared the Vanilla bean panna cotta. Smooth creamy and light, reminds me of crème brulee. Had lots of cherries with crumbles of cookies. Both desserts are GF. I actually like the chocolate more... couldn't resist. They cleanup and give you a new plate and or silverware after each course. They are very good at keeping your glass of water refilled. Very friendly staff.

After catching a play in the city, we headed just a 10-minute walk away to this wonderful…read morerestaurant and wine bar for dinner, and it completely blew us away. The inside of the restaurant is so nice and cozy, though they also offer covered patio seating if you prefer the outdoors. We sat inside for our 5:00pm reservation for a table of four, which I booked easily ahead of time. What truly sets this place apart is their incredible accommodation for dietary restrictions. Because I have celiac disease and am listed as a vegetarian on OpenTable, the host thoughtfully brought a separate vegan menu right to our table without us even having to ask. Their main menu also has multiple items clearly marked as gluten-free or gluten-free available, and best of all, they use separate fryers to prevent cross-contamination. I let our server know right away that I have celiac, and she reassured me that the kitchen would take every precaution to make sure my food was entirely safe. We started off with the arancini, which is made gluten-free in a separate fryer and was absolutely to die for. For my main course, I had the gluten-free radiatori tossed in a spicy vodka sauce, and it was so good that I ate every single bite. To top it all off, we shared two desserts between us: the panna cotta and the flourless chocolate cake, both of which were delicious. To drink, I enjoyed a refreshing Aperol Spritz followed by a glass of the moscato. From the top-notch allergy safety to the amazing drinks and food, everything was excellent. This is a must-visit spot, especially if you need gluten-free or vegetarian options!

Fusilli with squid ink pasta, lobster, scallops, shrimp, san marzano tomatoes, calabrian chili, crispy garlic

Bar

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Arancino**

GoodFunk

3.8

(40 reviews)

1.2 mi

We tried pre opera drinks and bites at Good Funk on Wacker and overall it was a blah experience…read more The wine selection was interesting, the food was average, at best. We didn't especially enjoy the atmosphere (sadly we were seated at the bar next to some douche dude bros) or the service. I doubt we will return.

Good Funk was the kind of unexpected gem that completely transforms an ordinary night--exactly what…read moreI needed while on a business trip in Chicago, the night before my birthday. I wanted nothing more than to ring in year 45 with a great glass of natural wine... and I walked out having had a 7-glass flight and one of the most memorable evenings of the trip. The bartenders deserve their own star. They weren't just knowledgeable--they were genuinely fun to talk to, the kind of people who make you feel like you've been coming there for years. We went from discussing funky wine profiles to diving deep into '80s horror films, which is absolutely my idea of a perfect tangent. Their enthusiasm and curiosity made the whole experience feel personal and spontaneous. As for the wine: unique, surprising, and delicious, even the pours I didn't expect to enjoy. Good Funk leans into exploration in the best way--nothing feels generic or predictable. Every glass had its own personality, and the flight felt like a curated adventure rather than a lineup. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, stylish without being pretentious, and perfect for either a solo wind-down or a lively night out. It's the kind of place that encourages you to linger, taste one more thing, have one more conversation. Good Funk turned what could've been a quiet, forgettable evening into an unforgettable birthday-eve celebration. If you're in Chicago and love natural wine--or just love a spot with genuine heart--don't miss this place.

Behind the bar

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Great selection of wines

The Dearborn

The next brunch spot you have to try in Chicago is The Dearborn! The aesthetic here is upscale…read moreIrish tavern, with amazing vibes and service! I came here for brunch & most definitely need to come back for dinner! Their fish & chips beat Bobby Flay, & it's no surprise they did! This dish is perfection! The cod is fresh & flaky, and the batter has just the right crisp. The dish itself is huge & all the accompaniments are exactly what you want. The beignets are so fluffy and great for sharing a sweet treat to start or end your meal. The corned beef hash is packed with traditional Irish flavors and tastes delicious! You need to come here asap!

Absolutely incredible from start to finish! Every dish was outstanding. The burger was perfectly…read morecooked--juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The handmade gnocchi was phenomenal, with a delicious smoky flavor that made it unforgettable. The croquettes were unbelievably mouthwatering and absolutely delicious, and the burrata was simply to die for. On top of the amazing food, the restaurant had great music, a wonderful atmosphere, and a staff that was welcoming, attentive, and genuinely friendly. This was an exceptional dining experience, and I can't wait to come back. Highly recommend!

$12 Martinis for Martini Mondays

New Spring Menu

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Spring desserts

Vol. 39

Fantastic service and great selection of snacks. I got the fried mushrooms and they were so good…read more It's super pretty and I love the color scheme of the place. Great place for cocktails either way a more upscale feel but not too fancy

Came in today with a group of eight friends over an hour after cocktail lounge opened (slower…read morehours). I'll begin by mentioning the drinks tasted great & the ambiance/overall esthetic and setup of this space is really wonderful. Unfortunately, my low review is because of the obvious distastefulness of some staff who are serving & bartending here. My guests visiting from out of state wanted a stiff drink in the afternoon & from the website photos + reviews, Vol 39 seemed like an awesome place that could accommodate our party with the large sofa seating. I even called ahead to ask about walk-ins of our size to be extra considerate. We received shocking dagger glares from a few staff members which made all eight of us immediately uncomfortable before even being sat. Like we were committing a major crime for thinking we could step foot in here. Empty stack of glasses slammed on the table with a water pitcher placed beside them; "I'll be right back." In a sharp tone. Ok. But not if we're paying $20 per person per cocktail. We were rushed and this attitude persisted, it is lazy.. especially given it was extremely slow.. super surprising for such an elevated establishment. Then, after a long while, we were all asked what we wanted to drink, like a fast casual burger joint. No, "any questions about our selections" or, "may I give some suggestions?" Never came by to check on us once despite the three other two tops inside. We wrapped it up fast since we definitely could choose another location with more attentiveness & basic kindness. We paid, a hefty gratuity in small print on the check which.. you guessed it.. was automatically included but no mention of this tidbit by the server. Maybe this is why we revived all this mean girl energy from the jump? Because they'll still get paid really well regardless? All eight of us have been a part of the service industry and this one stuck out extra frustrating & annoying. Never leave a low review, I'm writing today to management because they will ruin your repeat clientele, seriously. People can find another fabulous cocktail with way better service & vibes in the city. Overall, it was a shame my friends experienced this gross behavior today in the fabulous city of Chicago. Hope the staff does better in the future and works on improving their outlook.

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Sgroppino

The Purple Pig

My new favorite restaurant! the food is DELICIOUS and the staff was incredible. I don't give…read morereviews much but just loved it here so I had to :)

This place had a line that went out of the door during the multiple times I've crossed the…read moreMagnificent Mile bridge in Chicago. Made last minute reservations for brunch next day after the infamous architecture tour. It was quiet as we've put in an early morning. All the more better to savor all intricate dishes from start to finish. Like the name, The Purple Pig, their specialty is pork dishes so majority of our orders were this. Daily special of the bone marrow bacon jam toast - glazed, slippery off the bone, savory and sweet. Always love a good bone marrow dish to get the sweetness off it. This was so good that there were bits of the marrow and jam left stuck to the bone, I took a piece of the toast and scooped the bone dry. Nothing left for anyone to attack this. Non pork dishes were the Mushroom 3 ways and Spanish octopus. Mushroom dish was savory with all the coated sauces elevating this. Spanish octopus was kicked lightly and easily can bite in to enjoy the tender and charred portions. But the award went to my main course - the braised pork shoulder with saffron, apricots and Swiss chard. Aside from the rippable pork meat when dining on it, the sauces fused together on this dish elevated it and had everyone coming back for more. I needed an official Chicago culinary experience and found it at The Purple Pig without a doubt.

Inside

Chicago style hot dog

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Squid Ink Chitarra

The Gage

Had lunch here and were seated right away. Our server greeted us promptly and took our drink order…read moreimmediately. We ordered the venison burger and, honestly, I was hesitant at first because I was worried it might be too gamey. However, our server did a great job explaining what to expect, and she was absolutely right. The venison patty was juicy, flavorful, and exceeded my expectations. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. Service was attentive and efficient throughout our meal. They also have an impressive selection of signature cocktails. I didn't end up trying one because the drink I was interested in sounded a bit too strong for lunch, but it's definitely given me a reason to come back later for drinks. Overall, I left as a very happy customer and would gladly return.

To be fair, we've been here before and absolutely LOVED it. However, this past visit on 6/19 was…read morerather problematic. After we sat down, our server took her sweet time getting to us and was largely absent the entire visit while the servers for the others tables were attentive and present as I've come to expect. We started with the Crispy Brussels and Burrata Toast which was an amazing and fun combination of flavors textures with the sherry glaze and pickled onions providing a perfect counter to the richness of the cheese. Our second course was the Gage Caesar which we've had before and have enjoyed sharing multiple times, but this time the lettuce was full of grit as if the prep chef did not even bother washing the lettuce. The server never came by to check on us so I had to wave the manager to complain about the salad. The server also never checked to see if we wanted refills on our cocktails so we placed our orders with the manager. The final dish was the venison burger which was perfectly cooked and seasoned if you like venison, which I do so we enjoyed that greatly. The condiments that came with it were perfectly matched to balance the game of the meat and the fries were perfect as usual! The server then FINALLY got more involved with our dinner and was predictably perky and present at the end, something that always irks me when they have been otherwise absent for the meal. The ONLY reason they are getting 3 stars instead of less for this visit was the flavor of the food and the response of the manager in dealing with the lack of service (and the gritty salad). I would give the initial server a zero if I could.

The Gage Bar

Blueberry French toast

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The Gage Bar Area

City Winery Chicago Riverwalk

Very nice! Great customer service! Great view! We had chips and guac and it was very fresh. The…read morechips were good. We had tacos and I forgot to get pics. I had the brisket tacos and she had the chicken tinga tacos. I would visit again next time I'm in town.

06/28/26 Our first night in Chicago after driving from…read moreOmaha, so we didn't want to go too far from the hotel. The service was very friendly and we were seated promptly. I have to say, "winery" is a stretch. There are 3 red wines, 2 white wines, 1 rose, and a sparkling wine. That's it! I asked if this was the extent of their wine list and was told it was. We ordered a couple of Pinot Noirs which were served in plastic cups!! Such a let-down. The wine wasn't great and we left half the wine in the cups. The Margarita Flatbread and the Hot honey flatbread were good, although more like long thin crust pizzas. Flatbreads in the NJ/NY area are thinner still, crispier and not so pizza like. Hopefully we can find some wine in real wine glasses tonight.

Chips and salsa and Mediterranean Mezze

Restaurant section.

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Chicago Winery

4.3

(65 reviews)

0.8 mi

I stopped by Chicago Winery on a Wednesday early evening solo and was able to sit at the bar…read morewithout reservation. I was blown away by the ambiance and decor. Chicago Winery prioritizes upscale and intimacy but their service is personable and friendly allowing you to feel right at home. On Wednesday they offer a Happy Hour special, $5 off a tasting and $10 wine by the glass. The server as extremely kind, and was able to offer me some suggestions based on my personal palate and wine interests. I landed on the Winemaker's Tasting, which included 4, one ounce pours, including Blancs de Blancs, Albarino, Barbera and Merlot. I paired the tasting with the a BYOB board. From their menu I picked the olives, Afterglow, and the Tempesta Guanciale. The server was educated on the wines was able to walk me through the tasting and pairings but gave me independence and autonomy to enjoy at my own leisure and pace. I highly enjoyed my visit and absolutely will be returning to dine in, as well as to get a winery tour!

Was gifted the wine tasting and tour for my birthday which was a very fun experience. Great deal to…read morebuy wine after. I preferred the whites and was disappointed by the reds. We had the date package and ate at the restaurant after. I recommend the pork schnitzel and pierogis. We ordered four shareables but weren't blown away by the butternut squash fondue and gougeres. Loved our hostess for the wine tasting, but wish there was more guidance on tasting notes and wine terminology. I'd recommend though to any wine lovers, I still learned a lot!

Enjoy a seasonal American menu in our restaurant

LIVA Private Dining Room

Dinner Reception

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The Drunken Bean Coffee & Wine Bar

Love the atmosphere and selection. Great view of the par…read more Love the atmosphere and selection. Great view of the par

Visited in the afternoon. Friendly service but I think they forgot to put the coffee in my latte…read more Bland, no taste and my chocolate croissant tasted like it had sat there for a couple of days. Will give it one more try in the future. Hopefully things will be better

Masala Pumpkin Chai (middle)

Menu Nov 2024

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Strawberry Cheesecake Jelly-Filled Donut

Brando's Speakeasy

Such a fun vibe and a great crowd! I went in on a Sunday evening and it was decently packed. The…read morebar itself is dimly lit and moody. There's plenty of booth seating, as well as tall chairs at the bar. Once it was karaoke hour, I put myself on the list and started singing. Everybody is fun about it, whether the performer is conventionally a great singer or not, and I absolutely love it! There was even a group of 4+ girls who sang together on stage, and the energy was so infectious, it got the whole bar yelling the lyrics along with them. Would highly recommend!

Brando's was a good time. Drinks were solid. There's two main areas split by the bathrooms -- one…read morefocused on karaoke and the other for conversation (with bartenders available in both areas). When we arrived karaoke seemed pretty paired down but an hour or two in, it was lively with a long queue for singing.

Bar, decor, karaoke monitor

Interior

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Cocktails and Conversation

Quartino Ristorante

Awesome! We were in town from Kansas City and this restaurant was recommended to us. It was just…read morearound the corner from our hotel so we fortunately we were able to get a reservation and have an incredible dinner.

Great service. Amazing food. It does come out at different…read moretimes. You can also order half plates to share! The gnocchi was amazing. The lasagna was a showstopper.

PROSCIUTTO SAN DANIELE and Duck Prosciutto

Bathroom

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Coppa alla banana

Green Street Smoked Meats

This place was so good that I came back the very next evening for dinner again…read more On my first visit, I ordered the pulled pork with mac and cheese, cornbread, and sweet tea. Every single part of the meal was outstanding. The pulled pork was delicious on its own, but I also loved the sweet barbecue sauce. The cornbread was, without exaggeration, the best I've ever had!! It was moist, flavorful, and served with absolutely incredible butter. The mac and cheese was rich, creamy, and one of the best I've ever had as well. Even the sweet tea was perfect: actually sweet without being overpowering or having that bitter, earthy aftertaste that some sweet teas have. I couldn't stop thinking about it, so I came back the next night and tried the brisket. It was sooooo good too. It was tender, smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor. At that point I knew the first meal wasn't a fluke. It's not inexpensive, but the portions are generous, and I felt the quality more than justified the price. I was there by myself because I'm traveling for work and actually enjoyed the communal tables. They made the atmosphere feel welcoming and a little less lonely than sitting by myself. The staff was excellent, too. The gentleman with the glasses at the meat counter was friendly, funny, and made the experience even more enjoyable. He even threw in a complimentary rib, which was such a nice surprise and a great example of the hospitality here. One thing to know before you go: the line can get long, but don't let that scare you away, it moves efficiently, and the food is absolutely worth the wait. Green Street Smoked Meats lived up to every bit of the hype. Between two visits, I tried the pulled pork, brisket, mac and cheese, cornbread, sweet tea, and a rib, and every single thing was excellent. This will be one of my first stops the next time I'm in Chicago.

Really solid barbecue in the heart of Chicago. The honky-tonk-style bar, counter-service setup, and…read moresmokers running in the back give the place a great atmosphere. We ordered the brisket, pulled pork, cornbread, macaroni salad, and green jambalaya. The pulled pork was the standout, with the brisket not far behind. It's not the best barbecue you'll ever have, but if you're craving good barbecue in Chicago, this is a spot worth visiting. The biggest surprise was the green jambalaya, essentially collard greens with smoked meat in a rich broth. I could have drank the whole thing like a can of Coke.

Chopped Brisket Hot Link Pork Ribs smoked turkey Elote Style Corn Baked Beans

Line to order + Menu

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Photo from the bar

SUSHI-SAN

My husband went to Sushi-San on a work trip. He enjoyed the experience so much that he recommended…read moreI give the place a try on my trip to Chicago. Candidly it wasn't on my to-do, but the restaurant happened to be on my route back to my hotel and I hadn't had dinner yet. I walked into the restaurant, and there was a spot open right at the bar waiting for me. I think it was meant to be. Loved the vibe of the restaurant, which was casual but trendy. Best part of all was the music. My ears perked up when I heard Hieroglyphics - The Who... A Plus Remix. Instantly felt "at home" with the underground, old school hip hop. Compliments to their curated Pandora playlist. I ordered the the spicy scallop roll, super san roll, and sawara (Spanish mackerel) nigiri. The spicy scallop roll was my favorite. The super san roll was a mix of their toro with varying fattiness. I appreciated that you could order half rolls at Sushi-San, which came out to 5 pieces instead of 10. This was more than enough food for me. The sawara was buttery and fresh. If you don't like the "fishiness" of saba, you'll enjoy sawara. Lastly, overall customer service was great. The food came out incredibly fast. The bartender who assisted me was awesome. He was attentive and personable.

Solid sushi spot in River North that does the job and has good ambiance, but doesn't blow me out of…read morethe water as the best sushi ever. I came with a friend for lunch during the week and they have a somewhat decent lunch special (for today's standards when factoring the cost of living and inflation). We took advantage of that and ordered the 3 combo platter per person so we got 6 total items since there was two of us. The highlights for us were three yellowtail yuzu sushi as well as the salmon rice bowl. The miso soup that came out first wasn't that great. It was overly salty. My friend who is from Japan that I ate with said this place was ok for American standards but not at all great compared to anything in Japan lol.

Togarashi Chicken Nuggets

Seating

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Happy Hour! Spicy Tuna and Avocado Crunch - very simple and perfectly refreshing. 5/5

Miller's Pub

Needed a last chill spot after dinner, and I'm glad we found Miller's down the street. The…read morebartender, Sinead, was quick with our drinks and made us feel like regulars. They had a good set up on dart boards and touchtunes to keep the night going.

Cool vibe. Great menu selection…read more Classic Chicago pub restaurant. Came here on a Saturday evening and was seated within 5 minutes. Great service too.

Extra crispy flavorful fish and chips!

I love the holiday decor

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Virtue mitten fennville, mil, burbon barrel aged apple cider

Iron Age Korean Steakhouse

Great place to go for a date or family outting. Pricing is reasonable per person. Dinner price $35…read moreper person all day on the weekends. You do have to pay for the meat you don't eat. This was my boyfriend's time going and I haven't been here in 4 years. LOTS has changed. First We ordered the Hawaiian bulgogi and the brisket. The brisket was amazing. The bulgogi was a bit too sweet. The grill gets burnt up very fast. I don't remember the grills going bad that quickly years ago. Our server was nice but slow, the grill needed to be changed out frequently due to the bulgogi. They don't give you any oil either. Only thing I didn't like was the lettuce it tasted funny and old. Overall nice place but it's a bit dated, they need to upgrade the design and functionality of it asap.

Food: 4/5 stars. I thought the entrees were all good. The bonchon was a little sad looking, but…read moretasty. We were issued one pair of (dull) scissors and one set of tongs for a party of 4, which isn't nearly enough for as much flipping and serving as we were doing. I did appreciate that we cooked our own meat. Value: 5/5 stars. You really can't beat AYCE for $32pp, especially in Wicker. Service: 5/5 stars- very attentive and quick service. Had a friendly and smart server. Environment: 0/5 stars. If ambience matters to you at all, this is not your spot. There was 0 attention to ambience in there- the black and red paint was atrocious and I felt like I was in some dystopian slop hall. I wish they had the hosed exhaust fans that sit closer to the cooking table like in Korea, as the place would've felt way less smoky and gross. I get that the smells and oils make it harder to "feel" clean but... I've been in some well ventilated and pristine K BBQ spots, so there's really no excuse. I guess ultimately this is a case of you get what you pay for. Now I know. Just be informed before you go in- set your expectations. If you want to close your eyes, ignore the bbq glaze your feet are slipping on, and chow the F down on some good but not great meat, hit up Iron Age!

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Tanta

Best meal ever. Service was amazing, we had a group dinner with a custom menu. Every single dish…read morewas absolutely amazing. My favorites were the stracciatella, chaufa aeropuerto, and cebiche clasico.

I had so high hopes for this place and maybe that's why I was a bit disappointed, because I was…read moremaybe expecting too much and it was just ok. The host to being with was the worse. She sat us down, brought 1 menu ( we were 2) and said she'd be back with the other ( and we are still waiting ) her phone was more important so she never gave us a second menu. The waitress talked like she didn't have a voice ( SO hard to even understand what she was saying) Food overall was good ( nothing to die for) Ceviches were delicious at least. Ambience good although when we got there there was only 1 more table, but I guess it gets better when it gets busier. Overall a good place, but there are other great Peruvian places in the city to try before coming back here

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14 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Rochelle S.

2 years ago

Very happy to have found this place. I was in town this past weekend for business & came across this inviting, warm & fun place. Ive never been to Chicago before and was feeling a little hesitant being that I am a female & was alone. I made a reservation for 1 on Saturday & when i arrived, i was told it would be a little bit of wait. I sat at the bar & met the bartender Mike. Ive been apprehensive in the past about sitting alone at a bar but Mike made me feel very welcome, safe & comfortable. He had some great drink suggestions & was very informative. The conversations with him were absolutely hilarious & entertaining. When MIke found out what time my reservation was & how long I had been waiting he talked to the host & i was seated promptly. Shina was great & totally understand that it was a busy night. I had absolutely no problem with the wait for a table considering how much I enjoyed my time at the bar. Mike is a great ambassador for the City & Restaurant. Will be back!!!!! read more

Lazo J.

1 year ago

Pinched on the River is a hidden gem in Streeterville that serves up Mediterranean eats with a chill riverside vibe. I went with the CousCous Bowl featuring tangy chicken, tabouli, black bean and corn salad, and feta--super fresh and flavorful . My friend had the Athena Bowl, which was equally delicious. We couldn't resist the beignets for dessert--light, fluffy, and perfect with their caramel sauce. The whole meal set us back about $50 for two, and it was worth every penny. If you're looking for a laid-back spot with great food and a view, this is it. read more

John S.

2 years ago

From NC, this is the 4th time my wife & i have visited Chicago. We were in town all last weekend & this place really stood out. Arrived Saturday late afternoon & the place was really buzzing, we took some spots at the bar. The bartender Mike had a great sense of humor, was diligent & made sure we were well taken care of. Great menu suggestions & he made us a drink that wasnt on the menu, it blew my wife away. Will definitely be back! read more

Elizabeth K.

7 years ago

Pinched is my go-to spot for a quick work lunch during the week. Their bowls are awesome and feel semi-healthy! Until you devour their fresh baked pita, they're truly amazing. During the summer they have a great patio outside overlooking the water! The owner is always there and checks in to make sure you are happy with your meal. It's a bit hidden, so I highly recommend you seek out this great local spot! read more

Kyle L.

145

4 years ago

Decided to check it out due to its location on the pier, however seating was limited and had to eat inside (should have gotten a reservation). The food was just O.K...chicken was a bit dry and they were stingy with the tzatziki sauce. Kinda pricey for the quality. Could probably find something better in GreekTown! read more

Tim Z.

3 years ago

This enjoyable spot offers incredible food. The menu is straightforward, allowing you to build your own bowl, salad, or pita. The flavors in my food were absolutely delightful, and the service was both quick and friendly. Moreover, you'll find reasonable prices and a lovely view to complement your dining experience. read more

Rose S.

6 years ago

This was a long due review, this place is one of my most favourite mediterranean cafes in all Chicago, their location is just superb. Beautiful view and great outdoor seating. Their food i absolutely love. This place deserves 5 stars for their service, food, location, ambience. Surely would recommend! read more

Humayun A.

2 years ago

This spot provides a unique dining experience with a beautiful and lively atmosphere. The setting is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the vibrant city vibe. With excellent service and a charming ambiance, it's a great place for a memorable outing. read more

Malek A.

6 years ago

Love this place! Great food, great outdoor seating with beautiful views, very friendly staff, and a great atmosphere. Best outdoor seating in Streeterville, this is my place of choice for the summer! read more

Kurt L.

5 years ago

Awesome restaurant...great food ...really cozy inside and great outdoor patio by the river. Highly recommend!!!

K G.

112

4 years ago

Excellent food. Excellent service. We really enjoyed the meal and the service. Everyone enjoyed the view too.

vinny a.

7 years ago

Great location and great food. Relaxed atmosphere. Welcome addition to the neighborhood!

Alex G.

7 years ago

Not bad - would go again. Great new place to try though!

Liz J.

4 years ago

Great service, food, and setting!!

Pinched on the River - mediterranean - Updated July 2026

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Seville Chicago

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(117 reviews)

The food and service were incredible! Loved the rooftop atmosphere. It was shaded nicely as well.read more

Solid pasta. Cute interior. Would come back to try the more of their menu…read more We came for a quick lunch and this did not disappoint. Price is comparable to other similar restaurants in the loop. Service was fast, but when we went it wasn't that busy at all. This would be a good spot for a big team lunch since it's so spacious inside. We got the Wagyu Bolognese and the Duck Sausage Pasta. Both were delicious pastas, and had good flavor, but the Duck Sausage was a bit oily. Solid pastas and would get again, but nothing exceptionally better than other pastas in Chicago. Overall, good vibe and food. Would come back to try more of their menu, especially outside of pastas.

Beatnik On The River

3.7

(1.1k reviews)

This was my second visit. They redeemed themselves with me because I wasnt rushing to come back…read more Definitely better than my first. I feel like the menu is super limited. The avocado hummus was good but needed a bit of salt. I think I would like it better with crispy pita raher than the corn tortillas. My frozen paloma was awesome. The curry meatballs was delicious and moist. I tried the brussel sprouts and Caesar salad last time the sprouts were great salad was lacking flavor. Overall I recommend and would come back. The service was just okay. I would love to try the brunch. Ive never been lucky enough to sit on the river side outside would love that. I think the ambiance is lacking. The music selection could be better it seems pretty dead.

Came here for a quick trip to meet hubby while he's working in Chicago. He wanted to bring me…read moresomewhere I could appreciate the food and atmosphere. He looked this place up and made a reservation the night I got in. Let's start with the ambiance... BEAUTIFUL! Absolutely loved it from walking in, to going all the way downstairs to be seated facing the river. We started at the bar while waiting for the rest of our party. Hubby ordered his limited edition tequila winter blend, and of course I had to order my Yamazaki. Yes we know our taste in liquor is not cheap, and we don't drink cheap alcohol. So spending over $100 for two drinks we're expected and was ok with that. Bartender was a cool guy. Now here is where and why I'm giving only 3 stars. There were 6 of us dining. The husband told everyone to order whatever they want. Also ordering a few rounds of his tequila for everyone. We all ordered fairly quickly once we sat because we were all so hungry. Food took about an 1.5 hrs to come out. We ordered the octopus hummus and avocado hummus as well. They didn't give us much pita so we had asked for more. That took 30mins to get extra pita. Then I ordered another Yamazaki. That took 40mins. For what? Idk I drink it on a solid cube so no need to shake, stir or mix anything. He said they had to get it from the bar upstairs. It's wasn't like upstairs was 16 floors up. My husband wasn't happy about keeping me waiting. We understand it was packed. But that's mostly every night my friends said. They need to do better. Now the for the food? Absolutely delicious!! Everything except the lamb. My friend barely made a dent she said it was over cooked and dry. She didn't want to order anything else because she didn't want to wait another hour. Would we come back? Yes, to give it another try. Hopefully timing of delivery will be better.

Nora Restaurant

4.3

(220 reviews)

In Chicago for a few days and relying on Yelp to take us to new places…read more Nora was 2 blocks from our hotel. This place is all about service. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted and escorted quickly to our table outside. Mirco was our server and we asked him for recommendations. He was so spot on it was amazing! We started with 1/2 dozed oysters and Tuna tartare. The tartare melted in your mouth and had a mild flavor. You could taste everything from the capers to the lemon in each bite. I'm not a huge oyster fan but my fiancé seemed to love them. Mirco recommended the Sardinian style ravioli filled with melt in your mouth short rib smothered in a rich mushroom and truffle sauce. Heaven!! She ordered the beet salad with salmon and gigantic grilled shrimp added. She just raved about it all. I appreciated great food but great service is what makes it a memorable experience. This checked all the boxes. 5 stars!

the appetizers were better than the mains -- we tried the fried calamari, wagyu carpaccio, and…read moreburrata, which were all delicious. in terms of the mains, the steak and lamb shank were way better than the pasta dishes. the steak and lamb were pretty tender and flavorful! unfortunately, the short rib ravioli's pâté filling was grainy and felt dry. the oxtail rigatoni was pretty bland and not enough oxtail

Travelle at The Langham, Chicago

(384 reviews)

The food was very tasty…read more We had breakfast and it was delicious. I typically don't order avocado toast out but after seeing it decided to give it a try and it was delicious. The service was amazing and the ambiance is stunning!

Came by while family was in town visiting and staying here. Very nice hotel, and very nice…read morerestaurant. We came here twice, once for drinks at night and again for brunch in the morning. The brunch was okay - nothing special to be honestly. The matcha was mostly milk and I could have made my omelet at home. That being said, our server was lovely and even though the place was busy she was very attentive and kind. The drinks we got the night before tho were great! We had a nice couch/table set up near one of the windows and all got Espresso Martinis. I really enjoyed the drink but the ambience was what sold it. Overall, I'd recommend if you're staying at the hotel, but can probably skip if you live in town.

Porter Kitchen & Deck

(232 reviews)

Ambiance 6/10 nice view outside. We have 8:30 reservations for a people of 5 didn't get seated till…read more9.. we didn't get waters (any drinks) or utensils until after we got our food. Bolognese pasta was dry 4/10

I wanted to have a nice family dinner on the riverwalk and opted for this spot and I'm so glad I…read moredid! Food was exceptional with great flavor and fair pricing. I got the Porterhouse Burger and patty was thick and it had a good sauce in it keeping it moist and not dry. My dad got the filet mignon sliders, and I think those were the best things on the table. Sliders had whole pieces of filet mignon as the patty instead of a ground up filet mignon + it came with truffle fries, which were delicious. Service was great, although we did have to pay a required 20% for having a party of six or more. But I do appreciate that our server still gave us amazing service regardless of the automatic fee. There is also a 3% fee added to your check that you could ask to get removed with no problem. Ambience was great. We were able to get a same-day reservation and table next to the window to see the Riverwalk while we were eating dinner. The only issue is I dined in in July 2026 and there's a lot of construction going on on the Riverwalk, causing us to need to take a pretty big detour up and around the restaurant to access instead of going through the bridge and stairs on Riverwalk. Overall, food was great. Pricing was fair and I would definitely come back again.

Apolonia

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Had a casual dinner here over a weekend Drinks were on…read morepoint and boozy The bread was phenomenal The pastas are fresh in house and all of the food was great Overall would recommend to anyone - veggie friendly as well

Once again discovered a restaurant in Chicago that I know I'll be returning to. Apolonia was a…read moredelightful meal with a curated menu at a great price. The calm, bright Mediterranean interior welcomes you into what feels like a cool summer day. Started with the black truffle puff bread -- felt like eating a cheese pizza with anchovies, deep and umami and honestly some of the best bread I've ever had. Would come back just for that alone. The tasting menu delivered from start to finish. The Manchego cracker came out crispy with a light creamy interior from the cheese and a hint of saltiness from the ham on top. The roasted mussel toast was next abundant mussels paired with Calabrian chili butter that took it over the edge, one of my favorites from the meal. The pasta was fresh and light with a deeply flavored sausage that complemented it well. The prime picanha closed out the savory courses perfectly tender, juicy, and the romesco sauce alongside brought a nice lightly sweet and smoky balance. Dessert was the pistachio which I don't typically gravitate toward but this one was well balanced and a nice finish to a great tasting menu. Shoutout to my server Peter who doubled as the bartender exceptional service throughout. -Mr.

Avli River North

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Great spot for a work dinner, date, friends gathering. Food is really good. So are the drinks…read more We tired a bunch of apps, ofc Saganaki is a must hehe I had a Pork Gyro for dinner - super yummy. And then the fries... mmmmmm really good! Highly recommend this spot!

First time here. It was a walking distance from an event we attended. We were seated upstairs as we…read morehad a large number of people in our party. They do have elevators for those who cannot walk up the flight of stairs. A cozy Greek restaurant with a warm, neutral-toned ambience that made the dining experience feel relaxed. Service was welcoming, and our waiter was genuinely friendly and attentive throughout the meal. The Greek salad was so delicious!! Crispy, tangy, balanced perfectly with a block of Feta cheese that was not overly salty. I could have eaten the whole bowl!! The pork gyros were definitely a highlight that was served with crispy and flavorful French fries. The moussaka had good texture and comfort-food appeal, though it could have used a bit more salt to really bring out the flavors. Overall, a lovely spot for authentic Greek dishes and warm hospitality.

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Looking for great Italian food and tired of the crowds in the triangle? This place never…read moredisappoints. Daughter and I wandered in last night and had a perfect meal. Carpaccio and bruschetta starters that were imaginatively presented and tasty. We ordered a pesto pasta and bolognese pasta and shared. Both great. The bolognese would win in a city wide contest . Fresh pasta cooked correctly as well. Washed it down with a couple of glasses of Super Tuscan. And daughter had a 10/10 Tiramisu for dessert. Try this hidden gem on Chestnut .

We stopped for and early dinner so they were not busy at that time , however our waiter was very…read moregood , knowledgeable of the menu & polite The food was excellent, my wife had the Beet salad & Brazzo fish dinner and had the carbonara Both our meals were delicious The ambience was very nice as well as a nice outdoor seating area !

Osteria Via Stato

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Fabulous from start to finish! Highest recommendation, you will not be disappointed. Everything…read morewas perfectly prepared and we're so glad we came. Service was beyond great. Matt was filled with knowledge and expert recommendations. And the ambiance was super chill. Will certainly be back next time we're in town.

The thin crust margarita pizza was good. But the service at the bar was the worst I have had…read moresince being in Chicago....... I would go somewhere else!

the Albert

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