Chicago is a city that's known for its diverse culinary scene, with a range of restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets.
For those seeking a truly special dining experience, however, the Windy City doesn't disappoint. With a plethora of fine dining options to choose from, Chicago is a food lover's paradise.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems that only locals know about, Chicago's fine dining scene has something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for French cuisine, Japanese fusion, or classic American fare, you'll find it all here.
And with many of the city's top restaurants offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, dining in Chicago is a feast for the senses.
So, if you're looking for the best fine dining restaurants in Chicago, you're in the right place. In this blog post, we'll be taking a closer look at some of the city's top spots for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
From the elegant decor to the impeccable service and, of course, the mouth-watering food, these restaurants are sure to impress even the most discerning of diners. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a culinary journey through the city that truly knows how to dine in style.
1. Boka
Boka is a fine dining restaurant that offers Michelin quality food and service.
The restaurant's modern American cuisine is creatively presented and visually appealing. The servers are generous and take care of their customers.
The seafood dishes are cooked perfectly and the duck is a must-try. The restaurant's lounge and candlelit back garden patio add to the stylish and modern setting.
Boka is truly deserving of its Michelin Star and is a great place to go for a special occasion or to impress someone.
2. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is an upscale restaurant that offers classic American fare in a refined setting.
This fine dining establishment is perfect for special occasions or a romantic night out. The menu features a variety of dishes, including seafood, steak, and wine.
Customers can expect exceptional service from the friendly and attentive staff. The ambiance and decor create a great atmosphere for group parties or intimate date nights.
The Capital Grille is a must-try for anyone who loves fine dining and wants to experience exceptional cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
3. Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime is a sophisticated fine dining restaurant that offers an upscale atmosphere with a focus on seafood and steak.
The knowledgeable staff provides excellent service and a wide selection of wines to choose from. The menu offers fresh, tasty dishes with a variety of sides to choose from.
The desserts are rich and not too sweet. The restaurant is perfect for special occasions or a romantic night out.
With its beautiful decor and elegant ambiance, Ocean Prime is a must-visit for those looking for a high-class dining experience.
4. Oriole
Oriole is a high-end, New American fine dining restaurant. The restaurant offers an extended tasting menu that is expertly prepared and bursting with flavor.
The kitchen staff is passionate about their craft, and it shows in the quality of the food.
The atmosphere is stylish and intimate, making it perfect for romantic dates or special occasions.
The staff is knowledgeable and accommodating, making the dining experience a delight from start to finish. Oriole is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
5. Alinea
Alinea is a new American fine dining restaurant that offers highly creative and inventive dishes.
The restaurant's tasting menus are a must-try for foodies who love theatrical presentations and unique flavor combinations.
The staff is knowledgeable, professional, and provides great service. The ambiance is comfortable and unique, making for a wonderful dining experience.
Alinea is a great choice for those who want to experience something different and exciting in the world of fine dining.
6. Eddie V's
Eddie V's is an elegant and upscale fine dining restaurant that offers a seafood and steak menu.
The restaurant features a cocktail lounge with live jazz music, creating a sophisticated and lively atmosphere.
The food is exquisite and beautifully presented, with perfectly cooked seafood and juicy steaks.
The service is professional and attentive, making diners feel welcomed and special. Eddie V's is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
7. EL ideas
EL ideas is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant that offers a unique and intimate dining experience.
Guests are seated in the chef's kitchen and served a fixed-price American menu that changes frequently.
The food is creatively prepared and expertly executed, with bold yet simple flavors that are sure to impress.
The restaurant is BYOB, which helps to keep costs down, and the service is attentive without being pretentious. EL ideas is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable fine dining experience.
8. Goosefoot
Goosefoot is a fine dining restaurant that offers a personalized, avant-garde dining experience.
The 9-course tasting menu features seasonal ingredients and incorporates molecular gastronomy techniques. The presentation is exquisite with edible flowers and plants arranged on the dishes.
The service is exceptional and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate. BYOB is a nice touch and helps take a slight blow off the price.
Reservations must be made weeks in advance for this destination dining spot. Highly recommended for those seeking innovative American fare in a modern setup.
9. Next Restaurant
Next Restaurant is a high-end foodie destination that offers themed tasting menus and inventive presentations. The food is excellent, and the portions are generous.
The restaurant's sommelier is knowledgeable and offers great wine pairings. The service is attentive, and the staff is welcoming and accommodating.
The ambiance is elegant and perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The menu changes regularly, so diners can expect a new experience each time they visit.
All in all, Next Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fine dining experience that is both creative and delicious.
10. Temporis
Temporis is an upscale New American fine dining destination that offers creative tasting menus with wine pairings in a chic setting.
The limited seat dining room allows for a more personal connection with the two main chefs who take great care to explain each course. The food is bursting with flavor and presented beautifully, earning them a Michelin star.
The service is excellent, with attentive staff who make the dining experience memorable.
While the price may be steep, the gift box at the end of the meal is a nice touch, including a menu, wine pairing, and a dessert treat for later. For those looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Temporis is a must-visit.
11. The Lobby
The Lobby is a luxurious fine dining restaurant that offers an exceptional culinary experience.
The menu is uncluttered, yet sophisticated, and the food is beautifully presented. The staff is professional, friendly, and efficient, providing impeccable service.
The ambiance is modern mixed with stylish pieces of art, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant also offers a great selection of cocktails and a reasonable wine list.
Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner, The Lobby is a perfect place to enjoy a memorable dining experience.
12. North Pond
North Pond is a fine dining restaurant that offers modern American cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
The menu is seasonal and changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available.
The restaurant's location inside Lincoln Park provides a peaceful and cozy atmosphere that complements the exquisite dishes served.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, providing excellent service that adds to the overall experience. North Pond is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and indulgent dining experience.
13. Coco Pazzo
Coco Pazzo is a fine dining restaurant that offers creative Tuscan cuisine and an extensive Italian wine list.
The ambiance is sophisticated with velvet-draped surroundings. The service is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings.
The food is well seasoned and prepared with skill by the talented chefs. The portion sizes are appropriate for fine dining, and the desserts are delicious.
The restaurant offers a great experience for those looking for high-end dining.
14. CDA
CDA is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fine dining experience. The contemporary French cuisine is prepared flawlessly and presented beautifully.
The upscale atmosphere is modern and elegant, and the attentive and friendly staff make for an enjoyable dining experience. The menu offers a variety of options, including a price fixe menu and à la carte options, all of which are exquisitely prepared.
The desserts, especially the hazelnut chocolate, are not to be missed. The restaurant also offers brunch options, which are equally impressive. The grilled octopus appetizer and the baby octopus for dinner are standouts.
Although the prices are on the higher side, the quality of food and service make it worth the splurge. CDA is a great choice for a special night out or a weekend brunch.
15. La Storia
La Storia is an Italian fine dining restaurant with a rich history. The restored Victorian house adds to the ambiance, which is pleasant and relaxing.
The menu is delicious, and the service is excellent. The staff is friendly, accommodating, and attentive. The outdoor patio is lovely, and the back courtyard is to die for.
The bar staff is entertaining and full of character, making the experience entertaining and enjoyable. The food is impeccable, and the flavors are bold and well-balanced.
The Italian cuisine is elevated and multiregional, making it a must-visit for those who love Italian food.
16. Gene & Georgetti
Gene & Georgetti is a classic Italian steakhouse that has been serving up delicious food for over 75 years.
The restaurant has a traditional atmosphere with rich wood paneling and autographed pictures of famous people who have dined there.
The menu features a variety of Italian specialties and wet aged steaks that are cooked to perfection.
The service is impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who make sure that every guest has an enjoyable dining experience. Gene & Georgetti is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fine dining restaurant in the city.
17. Kinzie Chophouse
Kinzie Chophouse is a classic steakhouse that has been serving up high-quality food for decades. The atmosphere is elegant and the service is top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff.
The menu features a variety of entrees, including perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and delicious sides.
The presentation of each dish is impressive and the flavors are superb. The bar area is also excellent and offers a great selection of cocktails.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of the food and service. Kinzie Chophouse is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fine dining experience in the city.
