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Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in River West

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99 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Piccolo Sogno restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6973)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River West
Booked 68 times today
Our name, which means “little dream” in Italian, was chosen by partners Tony Priolo and Ciro Longobardo because it had always been their dream to open a restaurant of their own. “The restaurant fits our personal goal to get to the heart of Italian wine and food,” says executive chef Priolo. “You go to Italy for simple food prepared by hand with local ingredients. We wanted to bring that experience to Chicago.”Piccolo Sogno features a menu of seasonally fresh rustic Italian cuisine. The impressive all-Italian wine list boasts over 400 selections to pair with your meal.When the weather allows, enjoy al fresco dining in the hidden garden patio-regularly recognized as one of the best in the city.Starting December 1, Monday-Thursday we'll open at 5 pm rather than 4 pm-just for the winter. You are welcome to bring a cake to celebrate. If you do, we will charge a $3 fee per person cake-cutting fee. Beginning January 1, all credit card transactions will be charged a 3% fee.
A photo of Erie Cafe restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(172)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 24 times today
Erie Cafe is a premier destination of River North for steaks, chops, and homestyle Italian favorites since 1994. The 1940s club-like atmosphere, elegant bar, and lush outdoor dining is the gem of the neighborhood. Erie Cafe serves the finest aged steaks butchered daily from whole primal cuts, homemade ravioli, specials, and desserts daily for both lunch and dinner. This Chicago Classic is 3rd generation family-owned and operated.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14909)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 163 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 Gibsons Italia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4004)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 117 times today
Gibsons Italia is built on a tradition & elegance that is relentless in the pursuit of the very best. Chef-driven tastes of Italy are paired with the superiority of Gibsons Steakhouse, creating a restaurant that makes the familiar, exceptional. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of Blue Door Kitchen & Garden restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2395)
Price: Moderate
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 47 times today
Blue Door Kitchen & Garden, home to celebrated Chef Art Smith, is a farm-to-table oasis in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast and deeply rooted in the philosophy of letting the seasons dictate the menu. From its inception, the Blue Door brand has become synonymous with sustainability and responsible sourcing. We pride ourselves in showcasing dishes made from fresh, local ingredients sourced from Midwest farms. Experience a chef-driven menu featuring everything from pierogis and market fresh salads, to Chef Art Smith’s famous buttermilk fried chicken. Walk-ins are always encouraged. Be sure to join us during the warmer weather months when the beautiful outdoor patio is open. While visiting, be sure to enjoy one of Blue Door Kitchen’s garden-to-glass cocktails, local beers or perfectly paired wines from our extensive list.For reservations eight or larger, please call the restaurant 312-573-4000.
A photo of RL Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(7298)
Price: Expensive
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 69 times today
If you do not find availability online, please call the restaurant directly at 312-475-1100.Located adjacent to the Ralph Lauren Chicago flagship store on Michigan Avenue, RL Restaurant features the vision and décor of Ralph Lauren in a modern club atmosphere. RL Restaurant offers classic American cuisine inspired by Ralph Lauren’s personal favorites. Seasonal dishes range from a chopped vegetable salad to a lobster roll sandwich, grilled fish of the day and steaks. On the cocktail list, guests can choose from classic drinks and a diverse selection of wines and other fine spirits.
A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(10995)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 189 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.
A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8949)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 114 times today
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse has been a Chicago icon since partners Hugo Ralli and Steve Lombardo opened its doors in May 1989. The classic American steakhouse serves Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef. Gibsons also features fresh fish, classic cocktails, an extensive wine list and exceptional service. Celebrities, Chicago visitors and loyal neighborhood residents enjoy three distinct locations: Chicago, Rosemont and Oak Brook. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of Ema - River North restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4550)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)
Booked 164 times today
A Mediterranean & California-inspired restaurant featuring small plates & Chef CJ Jacobson's lighter style cooking in Chicago's River North.
A photo of LUXBAR restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2876)
Price: Moderate
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 110 times today
The quintessential American bar, LUXBAR features seasonal and classic cocktails made from freshly pressed juices, premium ice, house made shrubs, and an extensive selection of spirits that runs especially deep in whiskey and bourbon. A "Build Your Own Manhattan" menu, thoughtful, approachable wine list, and beer menu with vintage and local options make the bar a go-to for casual, mid-week drinks and bites with friends, watching weekend sports and post-shopping. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Mike
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food was excellent, Service was outstanding. Wine selection was great. I would recommend this spot for an intimate dinner and for a family gathering.
    More info
    Piccolo SognoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River West
    4.7
  • Cara
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wow! Amazing! So glad I was able to snag reservations! Want to go back and try more. Tried the Green beans, poke, goat belly and pork belly. We loved it all. Amazing textures and flavors.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
  • Quetzalli
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I had a delightful lunch at Gibsons Italia with my friend, and it was an experience to remember! From the moment we arrived on the 3rd floor, we were treated to excellent service. The staff was attentive, friendly, and ready to answer all our questions—including explaining what gold-extruded pasta meant, which we found fascinating. The food was absolutely delicious! The salads were fresh and flavorful, the portions were just right, and the baked potato was a standout—so good that I’ll be thinking about it for a long time. The ambiance, paired with the gorgeous riverside view, made it hard to leave after our meal. Instead of heading out right away, we decided to continue our stay at the bar, and I’m so glad we did! PJ, the bartender, was exceptional. His service, engaging conversations, and the memorable baked Alaska he recommended truly elevated our experience. He even crafted some amazing drinks that were the perfect finish to our visit. From start to finish, Gibsons Italia exceeded our expectations, and I can’t wait to return—especially to see PJ again for another round of his amazing hospitality. Highly recommend!
    More info
    Gibsons ItaliaPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • John and JenVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •150 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Our recent visit to Erie Cafe was nothing short of spectacular. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, setting the perfect tone for an enjoyable evening. We indulged in their Chicken Parmesan and Fettuccine Alfredo, both of which were absolutely delicious. The chicken was perfectly breaded and tender, while the Alfredo was creamy and flavorful. To complement our meal, we sipped on expertly crafted Negronis, which added just the right touch to our experience. The service was impeccable, with attentive staff who made us feel right at home. Erie Cafe is definitely a gem in the city, and we can’t wait to return for another outstanding meal. Highly recommend!
    More info
    Erie CafePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • JoanVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 16, 2024
    For once, I could enjoy lunch with a friend in a quiet room. My BLT was excellent. Service as one would hope, not intrusive but responsive.
    More info
    Blue Door Kitchen & GardenPrice: Moderate• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    4.7
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