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Best Cozy Restaurants in River West

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275 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Dawson restaurant
1. The Dawson
4.8
Exceptional(2721)
Price: Expensive
• American • River West
Booked 35 times today
The Fulton River District is home to The Dawson, an expansive indoor/outdoor, multi-level space providing a multitude of dining experiences. The Dawson includes one of Chicago’s best patios conveniently found in the middle of the city.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
2. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(14819)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 170 times today
Girl & the Goat opened in 2010 with the goal of offering a menu of bold, flavorful dishes designed to share in a fun and lively atmosphere. To complement the experience, we offer a curated selection of wines from around the world, focusing on small producers, along with a rotating list of craft beers and a playful cocktail menu crafted by our bartenders. The ever-changing menu, driven by locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, features favorites like sautéed green beans, roasted oysters, crispy short ribs, and confit goat belly. While reservations are encouraged for the dining room, our bar welcomes walk-ins, adventurers, and those who prefer spontaneity.
A photo of Elina's restaurant
3. Elina's
4.7
Exceptional(139)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Town
Booked 34 times today
Fine Italian cooking served by two chefs in an intimate space.Reservations are released 30 days in advance at midnight. Parties of 7 or more must contact Reservations@elinaschicago.com to book. Parties of this size are required to participate in a $75 per person family style prix fixe menu, drinks are charged based on consumption and a 20% gratuity will be added to the final bill. If you cancel within 24 hours of your reservation time you will incur a $30 per person cancelation fee.
A photo of Fioretta restaurant
4. Fioretta
4.6
Exceptional(795)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • West Loop
Booked 78 times today
Fioretta is reminiscent of a new-age Copacabana, celebrating old-world Italian cuisine with an opulent twist, a steady flow of impressive cocktails and wine, world-class live entertainment, and a glamorous vibe cast over the entire experience.Seamlessly blending steakhouse fare with elevated versions of old-world Italian cuisine with help from Italian-American Chef, Joe Rizza. The menu pays homage to the Italian immigrants who graciously first introduced Americans to southern Italian classics. Fioretta’s custom-built solid-fuel hearth and open kitchen allows Rizza and his culinary team to impart superb flavor, char and texture to each dish. The menu strives to strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation.
A photo of Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant
5. Costera Cocina Tulum
4.6
Exceptional(884)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 56 times today
Costera Cocina Tulum brings the vibrant flavors of Tulum's coastal and Mayan cuisine to life, blending land-and-sea principles with traditional Mexican dishes. Step into a lively yet serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Tulum's unique intersection of jungle, beach, and bohemian nightlife. Experience our day-to-night philosophy, where "the jungle has two attitudes," and enjoy a dining experience that transports you to this enchanting Mexican getaway.
A photo of Cira restaurant
6. Cira
4.7
Exceptional(1758)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • West Loop
Booked 106 times today
Cira is a cozy Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago's West Loop. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with many reviewers praising its vibrant and trendy vibe. The ambiance is described as perfect for a first date, a business lunch, or a casual brunch. Despite being busy, the restaurant is noted to be quiet enough for a nice conversation, making it a great spot for a relaxed dining experience.
A photo of The Palm Court restaurant
7. The Palm Court
4.7
Exceptional(4829)
Price: Very Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 137 times today
For those who love their afternoon teas fresh, fragrant and steeped in history, Palm Court at The Drake Hotel serving tea for over a century. Even the Queen and Princess Diana have made their royal visits here. Your afternoon tea begins with Palais de Thes menu, which features 15 tea blends including classic selections like the English Breakfast to modern yet delightful twists like the Mélange du Cap.Tea is served in individual tea pots accompanied by the traditional three tiered tea tray filled with an arrangement of gourmet finger sandwiches and scones; and dainty petit fours with complements of preserves, lemon curd and English double Devon cream.And let’s not forget about our little tea. The Prince & Princess Afternoon tea service, suitable for children between 3 and 12 years of age is available throughout the duration of afternoon tea service.Reservations are heavily encouraged. Tea service seating duration is 90minAdults $79/ $82 with Carolers / Kids $35 (3-12)
A photo of Three Dots and a Dash restaurant
8. Three Dots and a Dash
4.7
Exceptional(1802)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)
Booked 54 times today
With a secret alleyway entrance, Three Dots and a Dash is a speakeasy-style take on the traditional island bar—ready to transport you to the glamorous bygone eras of Trader Vic, Stephen Crane and Don the Beachcomber. Descend underground to discover a subterranean hideaway featuring a rum-soaked menu of more than two dozen classic, modern and original tropical cocktails and a selection of island fare. We are a 21+ venue.
A photo of Lýra restaurant
9. Lýra
4.7
Exceptional(1970)
Price: Moderate
• Greek • West Loop
Booked 63 times today
Lýra is cozy due to its unique blend of earthy and outdoor elements. Reviews consistently highlight its fantastic ambiance, describing it as 'energetic', 'romantic', and 'lively'. The restaurant offers a fresh and flavorful dining experience that guests find delightful and highly recommendable.
A photo of The Izakaya at Momotaro restaurant
10. The Izakaya at Momotaro
4.7
Exceptional(824)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • West Loop
Booked 39 times today
The Izakaya is located on the subterranean level of Momotaro. The Izakaya and its shared-plates pub-inspired menu echoes the Yokocho street scene of Tokyo. Narrow lounge-inspired ‘alleys’ around a central bar bedecked with hand-painted Japanese menus, moody neon lights, and vintage Tokyo street signs set the scene for the Izakaya’s direct nod to Tokyo’s most famous post-war black markets. Dark, energetic, and ripe with expectation, the Izakaya additionally offers a 30-seat bar featuring crafted cocktails, sakes, and a quality selection of Japanese whiskeys. Parties and programming are no strangers to the Izakaya, where a rotating selection of events, including Monday Night Karaoke, feel right at home in this lively lower-level atmosphere.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Emilyvip
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Love Elina’s and have been often because the vibes, service, and food is top notch. Definitely a great date night. Intimate and cozy!
    More info
    Elina'sPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Town
    •
    4.7
  • Kenvip
    Chicago / Illinois •72 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I cannot count the number of visits we've had to The Girl and the Goat, but it continues to be a favorite for both personal and professional dining. I brought three colleagues, who have never been, to the restaurant for dinner. One diner is vegetarian, but there are menu offerings and options available to provide them with enough to eat. All three were quite impressed with the food. My only complaint would be our table was right next to the kitchen, which can be loud. However, we made due, and had an enjoyable meal. Service is always very good, and the cocktails are fun. If you're interested in dining, make sure you book way ahead, as there is almost no chance to get a table day of.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Jordan
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Recently had a great experience at Fioretta. Jose was our server and he did an outstanding job. He took such good care of our table and explained the menu thoroughly as well. Can’t wait to go back!
    More info
    FiorettaPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• West Loop
    •
    4.6
  • allison
    Denver / Colorado •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Had a fantastic meal from start to finish. Special thanks to the management for their amazing customer service.
    More info
    The DawsonPrice: Expensive• American• River West
    •
    4.8
  • Chicarivip
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    Our waiter, James, gave us exemplary customer service! The food was amazing and the drinks were good. I’d definitely come back!
    More info
    Costera Cocina TulumPrice: Moderate• Mexican• West Loop
    •
    4.6

Discover best cozy restaurants in River West

Nestled in the vibrant River West neighborhood of Chicago, our selection of cozy restaurants offers a unique dining experience that captures the essence of warmth and intimacy. These eateries are perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, where the ambiance sets the mood for a memorable meal. Each restaurant in this curated list prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere, emphasized by soft lighting, comfortable seating, and thoughtful decor, making them ideal spots for both romantic dinners and relaxed gatherings. The dining scene in River West is diverse, yet these cozy restaurants stand out by blending expert culinary skills with genuinely heartwarming environments. Visitors can expect a variety of cuisines, each prepared with the utmost care and served in settings that exemplify comfort and charm. Whether it's a casual catch-up with friends or a special occasion, these establishments ensure a delightful dining experience that resonates with both locals and tourists alike. Discover your next favorite spot in Chicago's River West for a cozy dining adventure that promises both exceptional food and an inviting atmosphere.

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