By Melanie King By Melanie King | January 19, 2024 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guides,
From Andersonville to the West Loop, there’s no shortage of romantic restaurants in Chicago. Whether you’re looking for a quick stop or a lasting experience, these nine restaurants are the best places to be for a romantic evening in the Windy City.
Since 1965, this cozy Lincoln Park eatery has been a neighborhood staple, known for its premier fondue menu, live music and extensive wine list. Named America’s Most Romantic Restaurant by a USA Today poll in 2015, Geja’s has continued to provide a calm and intimate atmosphere perfect for a first date or an anniversary celebration. 340 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Whether you’re looking for an intimate happy hour or a candlelight dinner, this intimate West Loop basement wine bar makes your decision easy. Take a seat and order from the curated cocktail menu or sip a glass of “giggle juice,” and enjoy the good vibes while savoring menu favorites like raw oysters and charcuterie (to share, of course). 1134 W. Washington Blvd. / Website
An upscale New American restaurant with French flair, Bavette’s boasts impressive menu selections, from filet mignon to its delicious chocolate cream pie. With intimate velvet seating and dim lighting, this River North steakhouse is the perfect destination for a memorable evening. 218 W. Kinzie St. / Website
Nestled in Lincoln Square, this charming neighborhood restaurant offers a new take on date night, drawing inspiration from intimate French bistros. After exploring the menu, try the gnocchi parisienne for dinner and indulge in the crème brûlée for a sweet ending. 4518 N. Lincoln Ave. / Website
If you’re looking for a classic Italian date night spot, look no further than Piccolo Sogno in River West. With cozy dinner favorites and impressive twists on classic pasta dishes like paglia e fieno and spaghetti neri, this Italian staple is one of the best in the city. And best of all, it has an all-Italian wine list of over 400 varieties to pair with your meal. 464 N Halsted St. / Website
Located inside RH Chicago, the 3 Arts Club Cafe sits in the grand central garden courtyard, making for a perfect escape from the noise of the city. Surrounded by greenery and seated under an impressive skylight, guests can enjoy brunch or dinner offerings, as well as handcrafted cafe drinks and bubbly favorites. 1300 N. Dearborn St. / Website
Looking for something with an extra wow-factor? This Michelin-starred favorite serves up fresh gourmet seafood during a chef’s tasting special, which can also be enjoyed from an a la carte menu. Whatever menu you choose, make sure to pair it with one of Porto’s exquisite culinary cocktails, such as the Corazón Rojo or one of the zero proof options. 1600 W. Chicago Ave. / Website
Inspired by the Alpine regions of Europe, this rustic Logan Square eatery specializes in handmade breads and seasonal plates. With rotating selections of charcuterie and seasonal cocktails, this eclectic restaurant and wine bar boasts intimate seating and a crackling fireplace for a relaxing ambiance. 2728 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
This Andersonville cocktail bar and bistro is the perfect romantic getaway. Knowledgeable bartenders will serve-up any request you may have, and contemporary classics such as mussels and steak frites fill the menu. On weekends, enjoy live entertainment, from jazz and cabaret to everything in between. 1475 W. Balmoral Ave. / Website
With sweeping city views from the 16th floor of Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, Terrace 16 offers a recipe for a romantic evening. The rooftop restaurant and bar features a 200-seat outdoor patio, an elevated dining and bar area, and an impressive menu of elevated American plates and craft cocktails. 401 N. Wabash Ave. / Website
Photography by: Cover photo courtesy of Trump Hotel Chicago
