We may be miles away from the ocean, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy some top-notch waterfront views. Besides the gorgeous beaches, we have our famous riverwalk nearby. From bohemian hideouts by the river to beachy hangouts by the lake, these stunning Chicago riverwalk restaurants and bars are open for outdoor dining and offer a beautiful spot for drinks or dinner.
1. Beatnik On The River
This is probably the only bohemian oasis Chicago Riverwalk restaurant where you can enjoy a range of eclectic dishes and drinks as eclectic as its retro patio decorations.
The dinner menu is teeming with mouthwatering international dishes from American Huitlacoche Arepas ($19), with duck confit, grilled corn, green mole, and mustard greens, to Mediterranean Fatoush Salad ($14) with Persian cucumber, baby kale, kalamata olives, Parsley, fried pita, lemon vinaigrette!
Address: 180 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
2. Chicago Cut Steak House
Sipping on a glass of Pinot Noir while enjoying a buttery-soft steak is even more enjoyable when done al-fresco and by the river. At Chicago Cut Steakhouse, you’ll enjoy some of the best steaks in the city paired with an extraordinary wine list featuring options from around the world.
Address: 300 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654
3. Pizzeria Portofino
Spend an afternoon on the Italian Riviera without moving from the Chicago Riverfront! An excellent Italian riverfront option, this Chicago riverwalk restaurant offers delectable hand-stretched pizzas and refreshing Italian wines that will transport you to the Italian Riviera in just a sip and a bite!
Address: 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
4. Porter Kitchen & Deck
At Porter Kitchen & Deck, you’ll be able to enjoy some excellent new American bites, such as their signature steak frites ($24) or their Porter cheeseburger ($17) with one-year aged cheddar, prime beef, and onion jam. Their drink menu offers a wide variety of summer-inspired concoctions.
Address: 150 N Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606
5. River Roast
This gorgeous riverside enclave is one of our favorite Chicago Riverwalk restaurants, which is perfect for cozying up while enjoying soul-warming bites! As the name suggests, River Roast offers a New American take on British classics with its wide variety of meat, fish, and veggies that are roasted and carved tableside. If you choose to go for brunch on the weekends, you’ll also be able to catch a live show by some of Chicago’s finest acoustic musicians!
Address: 315 N La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60654
6. RPM Seafood
This riverside eatery is a must if you’re a seafood fan. RPM Seafood has a double-decker terrace and is said to be one of the best Chicago Riverwalk restaurants for seafood. They offer a variety of options, all the way from platters of chilled oysters ($19) to Wild Alaskan Halibut ($39) and King Crab Mac n’ Cheese ($36)!
Address: 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
7. Gibsons Italia
This three-story steakhouse in the West Loop offers awesome homemade pasta dishes, premium steak cuts, and other Italian delicacies. From Italian Meatballs ($13) to an incredible Ravioli Carbonara ($40), you can be sure you’ll be heading home more than satisfied. Pair that with a side of gorgeous Chicago riverfront views, and you’ve got the recipe for a delightful evening!
Address: 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
8. City Winery Riverwalk
We can’t compile a list of waterfront spots without mentioning City Winery’s Riverwalk location between State and Dearborn. A smaller version of the City Winery, this riverwalk patio offers the same charm, incredible locally-made wine and delicious food. Now open seven days a week, 11 am – 9 pm, Monday through Sunday.
Address: 11 E Riverwalk South, Chicago, IL 60601
9. Tiny Tapp & Café
Are you looking for one of the Chicago Riverwalk restaurants with live music? Well, then, Tiny Tapp is your place. A vibrant bar and gathering place featuring great cocktails, craft beer, and contemporary American fare on the Chicago Riverwalk.
Address: 55 W Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601
10. Northman Beer & Cider Garden
Northman Beer & Cider Garden is one of the only Chicago Riverwalk restaurants with a beer garden. A place where everyone can come together, sipping European-style Beer and cider Garden and listening to the rush of the Chicago River is an ideal way to spend the afternoon. While surrounded by nature, you also have plenty of beer—our favorites include Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier and the Escapist.
Address: 33 E Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601
11. Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company
Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company is a peaceful haven away from the bustling streets of Chicago. It is situated just a stone’s throw from Michigan Avenue, offering a picturesque view of the Ogden Slip—a narrow canal with a pier. The menu features a variety of delicious and savory pizzas. The dough is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a delightful chewing experience.
12. Bar Mar by José Andrés
Bar Mar is one of the beloved Chicago riverwalk restaurants that led by esteemed chef José Andrés and situated right on the Chicago River. The menu not only pays homage to the sea but also has the most sought-after and reasonably priced tasting experiences in Chicago. Priced at $65 per person, the ‘Snack Like José menu allows patrons to savor seven delectable and artfully crafted bites, including offerings such as Lobster Croquettes, Hamachi Cones, and Patatas Bravas.
Address: 120 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606