Looking for the best restaurant to dine at in the area? You’ll never go hungry in River North Chicago. There are several restaurants in River North that you can dine at, including everything from cheap eats to fine dining.
- Tzuco – Opened by Michelin-starred chef Carlos Gaitan, Tzuco showcases a side of Mexican cuisine that goes beyond tacos and tostadas. For delicious, unpretentious fine dining in a stunning location, look no further than Tzuco. Vegetarian options are available but limited;
- Sunda Chicago – Have you ever tried Filipino food? If not, you’re missing out. Luckily, this spot on the north side of the Chicago River is the perfect place to try some of Southeast Asia’s most underrated dishes for the first or fiftieth time. Other Pan-Asian favorites are also on the menu, but Filipino dishes like Lumpia, Pork Belly Steamed Buns, and Pancit Canton will not disappoint (although vegetarians and vegans may find it hard to get enough);
- Vermilion . For over 20 years, this Indian and Latin American restaurant, which is one of Chicago’s food staples, has been serving original dishes. The luxurious interior has “date” written all over it. In addition, vegan options are available if you can make a reservation;
- Mr. Beef On Orleans – No list of River North Gallery District restaurants is complete without Mr. Beef. Sure, it might be a lot of tourists, especially after the success of Bear, the TV show inspired by this fast food joint, but it’s an establishment that serves delicious food at an affordable price. It’s a win in a neighborhood that is better known for upscale restaurants. Vegetarians should probably look elsewhere.
Where to drink
With so many offices, warehouse buildings, and luxury apartments scattered around, River North is the perfect place for an exciting nightlife experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing post-work drink at a local watering hole or a great cocktail before heading out on the town, this is one of the best places in Chi-town to get your whistle wet.
Some of the River North bars worth visiting include:
- Arbella . Arbella is an atmospheric choice in the center of the neighborhood, serving some of the best cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks in River North. With an unheard of Saturday happy hour (17:00-19:00), this is the place to start the weekend with drinks for a reasonable price. In addition, for $20, the bartender will make you a customized drink based on your favorite spirits and flavor profile – all you have to do is ask;
- Miki’s Park – This Korean-style bar puts a welcoming twist on some of your favorite cocktails, including the Seoul-ito and KPop-a-loma. If you’re in need of something to eat, Miki’s also has you covered for Korean street food. And how could we forget about karaoke on Thursday nights;
- Three Dots and a Dash – a tiki bar in the middle of the North River – what more could you need? Named after the famous cocktail (and the letter “V” in Morse code), Three Dots and a Dash serves delicious, sometimes giant tropical drinks in a sophisticated, sticky environment.