Top 15 diners in River North
Diners in River North offer a wide variety of delicious food and unique atmospheres. Whether you're in the mood for classic diner fare or something more adventurous, you're sure to find it in this bustling Chicago neighborhood. From cozy corner spots to lively downtown destinations, diners in River North have something for everyone. Come explore and discover your new favorite spot!
- 1. Beatrix
- 2. Sunny Side Up Breakfast & Lunch in River North
- 3. The Smith in River North
- 4. Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
- 5. River North Bistro
- 6. The Hampton Social - River North
- 7. Tzuco
- 8. Tanta Chicago
- 9. River Roast in River North
- 10. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
- 11. RPM Seafood
- 12. RPM Steak
- 13. Siena Tavern
- 14. Ciccio Mio
- 15. avec River North
1. Beatrix
Eco-friendly to-go containers, gluten-free crust available

Beatrix is a restaurant that offers great-tasting and healthy options throughout the day. During a recent stay, I had breakfast at the restaurant several times and enjoyed the spicy chicken tinga and omelette. The staff was friendly and service was quick, and the mix of local business people and hotel guests created a nice atmosphere. In addition to breakfast, Beatrix also offers a variety of lunch and dinner options, including the prime burger and lemon & garlic chicken, which were both cooked well and flavorful.
However, the service can be slow at times. Despite this, the friendly atmosphere makes up for it. Whether you're looking for a healthy breakfast option, a business lunch, or dinner with friends and family, Beatrix is a great spot to consider. With its great-tasting and healthy options, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder that Beatrix is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
2. Sunny Side Up Breakfast & Lunch in River North
Features a dog-friendly patio

Sunny Side Up Breakfast & Lunch is a historic brownstone restaurant that offers delicious breakfast and lunch meals. It has gained a reputation for its quick, friendly, and attentive service. Some customers have mentioned that the restaurant automatically includes gratuity in the bill. The restaurant's charm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its locally owned and operated status, make it a popular choice among patrons.
The reviewer was thrilled to discover the restaurant during a weekend trip to Chicago. They appreciated the fact that the restaurant was locally owned and operated, and they were impressed with the food's quality and the service's friendliness. Overall, the reviewer was extremely satisfied with their experience and gave the restaurant a perfect rating of 5 stars.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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3. The Smith in River North
Housed in a historic building with a modern interior design

Diners at The Smith can expect to enjoy a meal in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The food at The Smith is known for being consistently good, with a wide-ranging menu that offers something for everyone. The restaurant's staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring that every diner feels welcome and well taken care of.
For those looking for a lively dining experience, The Smith is an excellent choice. The restaurant is known for its upbeat atmosphere, which is perfect for a night out with friends or family. The service at The Smith is top-notch, with staff going out of their way to ensure that every diner is satisfied. With a menu that offers a variety of options, The Smith is able to cater to different tastes and preferences, making it a great spot for just about anyone.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
4. Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
Live music on weekends, river views, upscale atmosphere

A diner, who recently visited the restaurant while in town from Milwaukee, had the opportunity to experience the establishment's offerings and was thoroughly impressed. The convenient location of the restaurant, in relation to the diner's hotel, made it an easy choice for a meal. Upon arriving, the diner was greeted by friendly and kind staff who provided excellent service.
The food and drinks served at the restaurant were delicious, contributing to the diner's overall positive experience. The diner was impressed by the quality and taste of the dishes, which lived up to the high ratings given by other diners. Based on their experience, the diner highly recommends this restaurant for those seeking a delicious and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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5. River North Bistro
Features a seasonal menu with locally-sourced ingredients

The best experience during our trip to Chicago was having a meal at this establishment. The food and drinks were incredible and stood out as the highlight of our visit. In particular, we enjoyed the Truffle & Wild Mushrooms Scramble and the Croissant Breakfast sandwiches. The staff was exceptional and went above and beyond to make my husband's birthday special. They created a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere that we will not forget.
The restaurant had a quiet and airy ambiance with lots of natural light, making it a pleasant place to start our day. Although the server was alone, the service was efficient and timely. However, the coffee could use some improvement. The patio was also gorgeous, and we look forward to returning for another visit. Overall, we had a fantastic experience and highly recommend this place to others.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
6. The Hampton Social - River North
Live music, rosé all day theme, nautical decor

I had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant during a business-funded evening. The ambience, particularly at night, was delightful. Friendly staff walked around offering delicious appetizers. The dinner selection was a buffet with offerings such as smoked salmon, spinach, asparagus, and flank steak with an amazing horseradish sauce. Every dish was phenomenal.
The people were extremely nice, with gracious hosts, waitstaff, and a manager who checked on our table to ensure everything was to our liking. They served excellent eggs Benedict, and they willingly substituted avocado for the meat. The side of beans and rice was delicious, and they even provided brown rice upon request. The spacious dining room was decorated in a Hamptons-style theme, and a guitarist played covers as live music.
TOPICS
- Rooftop
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
7. Tzuco
Contemporary Mexican cuisine with a theatrical dining experience.

Tzuco has received numerous accolades for its innovative fusion of French and Mexican cuisine, making it a popular choice for diners seeking a memorable meal. The restaurant is highly regarded for its exceptional service, which contributes to the overall enjoyable dining experience. A special occasion is perfect for a visit to Tzuco, where the fusion of bold flavors and exquisite presentation is a delight for the senses.
The unique and innovative dishes served at Tzuco showcase the perfect blend of French and Mexican culinary techniques. With dishes that feature rich and bold flavors, the menu tantalizes the taste buds and presents a visual feast. Expect a dining experience that is anything but ordinary at Tzuco, where the food, presentation, and service come together to create a truly unforgettable meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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8. Tanta Chicago
Family-owned restaurant, Authentic Egyptian cuisine
Tanta, located in Chicago's River North neighborhood, is known for its upscale vibe with a lively atmosphere. The music is energetic, and the lighting is club-like, creating a vibrant dining experience. The restaurant's colorful decor and bright dishes on the menu add to its energetic ambiance. One of the highlights of Tanta is its rooftop bar, which is particularly enjoyable during the summer months.
However, while Tanta offers delicious food, it can be quite noisy, making it less than ideal for those looking for a quiet conversation, especially for larger groups. The restaurant is often busy and happening, creating a lively and bustling environment. Therefore, if you're looking for a place to enjoy good food and don't mind the noise, Tanta is an excellent option. But if you're looking for a more intimate dining experience, this may not be the best choice, particularly for parties of eight or more.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
9. River Roast in River North
Located on the riverwalk with beautiful outdoor seating

The restaurant offers a dining experience with stunning views, especially when seated outside. It features a family-style service for dinner, creating a welcoming and communal atmosphere. The menu includes an entire roast chicken or fish, which is carved and served at the table. These dishes are generously sized and can easily feed more than two people.
We decided to share a roast chicken, a turnip au gratin side, and an artichoke appetizer, all of which were delicious. The chicken was tender and juicy, and the turnip au gratin was a delightful surprise with its cheesy and creamy texture. The artichoke appetizer added a nice touch to our meal, making it a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
10. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
Live music on select nights, intimate and cozy atmosphere

Bavette's, my top Chicago destination for surf and turf dishes over the past five years, recently fell short of my expectations. The service in the parlor was noticeably casual, and the attention we received was minimal. The dry-aged steak we ordered tasted no different from a regular steak available on the menu.
Dining at Bavette's typically offers an unforgettable experience, blending nostalgia with exceptional cuisine. Before this disappointing visit, Bavette's successfully transported me to a different era with its ambiance, while their dishes stood out as some of the finest in the city.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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11. RPM Seafood
Live music on weekends, romantic atmosphere, sustainable seafood practices

Diners have given feedback about the dining experience at the establishment. Some have commented on the delicious food, but noted that it can be greasy, likely due to the use of oil, butter, and salt in the preparation. On a positive note, many diners have enjoyed the scenic views while dining, which adds to the overall experience. The outdoor dining option has been particularly appreciated, offering a great setting to enjoy a meal.
In summary, while the food has been praised for its taste, there have been comments about its heavy use of oil, butter, and salt. However, the scenic views and outdoor dining experience have been highly commended, making for a memorable mealtime setting.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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12. RPM Steak
Renowned chefs, expansive wine list, lively atmosphere

RPM Steak is a modern interpretation of the traditional steakhouse, providing a chef-driven menu that focuses on classic dishes. The restaurant features a sophisticated atmosphere with mahogany walls and spacious leather booths, offering diners a trendy yet comfortable setting.
The menu at RPM Steak showcases a variety of high-quality meat options, including prime, dry-aged, and Japanese beef. Alongside the steak, diners can enjoy contemporary twists on classic side dishes, such as truffle creamed spinach and goose fat potatoes. Although the restaurant is known for its hype, the focus on quality ingredients and innovative culinary techniques make RPM Steak a standout choice for steak lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
13. Siena Tavern
Upscale Italian cuisine in a modern tavern setting

Siena Tavern, a popular dining destination, is known for providing guests with a unique experience that combines comfort and sophistication. The restaurant, which was brought to Chicago's culinary scene by Top Chef Fabio Viviani and DineAmic Group, is known for its made-from-scratch menu that pleases crowds. The vibrant and social atmosphere, paired with the polished presentation of the food and service, creates an overall memorable dining experience for guests.
Fabio Viviani's cuisine, which is the focus of Siena Tavern's menu, is famous for its sophistication and charisma. The DineAmic Group, which has a successful track record in the hospitality industry, has helped to create an atmosphere that is both comfortable and polished. This combination of fantastic food and impeccable service has established Siena Tavern as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Chicago's culinary offerings.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
14. Ciccio Mio
Features a lively bar area, outdoor seating, and a daily happy hour

Ciccio Mio offers a range of delicious dishes and drinks in a moody, European bistro setting. Standout menu items include braised beef short rib, chicken parm, and vegetarian pasta and entree options. The restaurant also accommodates dietary restrictions with gluten-free choices. Appetizers such as burrata and mozzarella truffle cheese sticks are not to be missed, and the gelato ice cream with olive oil & sea salt is the perfect sweet finish. The mocktail menu, featuring options such as Seedlip sour and phony Negroni, is also notable.
The dining experience at Ciccio Mio is exceptional, with top-tier service and knowledgeable waitstaff. The menu offers a variety of options, with standout dishes including vodka rigatoni and chicken vesuvio. While the calamari appetizer was good, it may be worth skipping in favor of other options. The pavlova dessert was a delightful surprise, and the restaurant is a great choice for a date night or weeknight dinner. High-quality drinks, attentive service, and delicious food make Ciccio Mio a dining destination worth returning to.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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15. avec River North
Sustainable seafood, raw bar, creative cocktails

A group of friends and I enjoyed a dinner at a nicely furnished and spacious restaurant. The menu offered a variety of options, making it suitable for tapas/family style dining. The restaurant had a great atmosphere, neither too loud nor uncomfortable.
The menu featured dishes that catered to a wide range of tastes. One dish that stood out was the Hamchi crudo. Although some of the cocktails had an unusual taste, they were still enjoyable. In summary, the restaurant offered a pleasant dining experience with tasty food and drinks in a comfortable space.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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