Best Restaurants for People Watching in River West

41 restaurants available nearby

1. Cabra - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(3048)

Price: Expensive

• Peruvian • West Loop

Booked 39 times today

Perched atop the Hoxton Hotel in the heart of Chicago’s Fulton Market, Cabra Chicago is a lively rooftop escape, inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Led by James Beard Award and Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, alongside longtime partners Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of Boka Restaurant Group, Cabra serves up crave-worthy dishes in a colorful and energetic setting. The restaurant’s airy, plant-filled ambiance, paired with its open kitchen and sweeping city views, creates a dynamic dining experience. Guests can savor a variety of shareable plates, from ceviches to savory meats, all bursting with the rich, fresh flavors of Peru.

A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant

2. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(8929)

Price: Expensive

• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 112 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.

3. RL Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(7289)

Price: Expensive

• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 65 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 Happy Camper Pizza - Old Town restaurant

4. Happy Camper Pizza - Old Town

4.8

Exceptional(604)

Price: Moderate

• Pizzeria • River North (Chicago)

Booked 29 times today

Minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian for entry. A valid ID is required for guests age 21+.A chic, outdoorsy pizza haven located in Old Town. Happy Camper boasts a décor that includes Airstream trailers, neon renditions of the Great Lakes, warm wooden accents, and tire swing seating around the bar. A wide variety of colorful pizzas and delicious appetizers await you.F*ckin' Charity Bingo on Sundays at 1:30pm is sat on a first come first serve basis. All reservations will be sat in the non-bingo area.We cannot guarantee inside or outside seating.Neighborhood ordinances require our patio to close by 12am. Your table is weather permitting. If there is inclement weather, Happy Camper reserves the right to cancel your reservation. If you are dining when inclement weather occurs your food will be packed and given your bill. You are more than welcome to head to the bar afterward.

A photo of Legal Sea Foods - Chicago restaurant

5. Legal Sea Foods - Chicago

4.0

Excellent(241)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • River North (Chicago)

Booked 32 times today

Legal Sea Foods Chicago is now open along the vibrant Riverwalk in the bustling River North neighborhood at the famous Marina Towers. Legal's first Midwest location features two floors of upscale casual New England vibes with sweeping riverfront views and an outdoor space. The brand-new restaurant features a large main dining room, bar area, private event space, and outdoor terraces. Serving New England specialties such as Boston's best Clam Chowder and Half Pound Lobster Rolls, as well as new signature dishes and local favorites. Legal Sea Foods combines New England's coastal fishing traditions with modern culinary flair. A taste of New England in the Mid-West.

6. Bar La Rue

4.6

Exceptional(191)

Price: Expensive

• French American • West Loop

Booked 17 times today

Bar La Rue celebrates French-American cuisine with an inventive cocktail program in the heart of Fulton Market. The stylish space boasts a beautiful all-season, street-side, walk-in-friendly pergola bar and dining area, perfect for a cozy patio experience. The menu incorporates French plays on approachable American comfort foods, offering an inviting setting for lunch, brunch, or dinner. Whether you're enjoying cocktails at the bar, celebrating birthdays, or planning a romantic date, Bar La Rue provides a Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

7. The Publican

4.5

Awesome(5908)

Price: Expensive

• American • West Loop

Booked 29 times today

A homage to oysters, pork and beer, Executive Chef Paul Kahan's eclectic menu is inspired by simple farmhouse fare in a space evocative of a European beer hall.

A photo of Bar Siena - West Loop restaurant

8. Bar Siena - West Loop

4.6

Exceptional(3274)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • West Loop

Booked 53 times today

Perfectly Centralized In Chicago's West Loop 'Restaurant Row', The Two-Story, 8,000-Square-Foot Restaurant Is The Sibling Of DineAmic Hospitality'S River North Staple Eatery, Siena Tavern. Bar Siena Offers Diners The Perfect & Approachable Setting To Enjoy Lunch, Dinner, Late Night, And Weekend Brunch. The Menu Features An Expansive Italian Street Food And Pizza Bar Selection, All Served Within The Streets Of Fulton Market. Our Team Of Hospitality Professionals Are Thrilled And Dedicated To Host Your Next Dining Experience, Private Event Or Catering Function!

A photo of Rosebud Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant

9. Rosebud Steakhouse - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(3507)

Price: Expensive

• Steak • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 25 times today

*Rosebud Steakhouse is a special occasion restaurant, with an UPSCALE BUSINESS CASUAL Dress Code Policy. For clarification please review the policy at https://rosebudsteak.com/dress-code/ and we thank you for your courtesy. Welcome to a rare steakhouse, well done! Rosebud Steakhouse knows a thing or two about the fine art of cooking. Located on Walton Street, a stone's throw from Michigan Avenue, this relaxing hideout is the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable meal paired with a glass of wine from our impressive wine list. The extensive menu features prime steaks by Meats by Linz, fresh seafood and Italian specialties. The beloved hamburger, voted number one in the city of Chicago by the Chicago Tribune, graces our dinner menu. Rosebud Steakhouse invites you to enjoy an unforgettable fine dining experience in a romantic setting. Rosebud Steakhouse is a Creative Hospitality Concepts restaurant. Visit our second location, coming soon to, Munster, Indiana.

A photo of Beatrix - Fulton Market restaurant

10. Beatrix - Fulton Market

4.7

Exceptional(2635)

Price: Moderate

• American • West Loop

Booked 85 times today

Beatrix is a neighborhood coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place in Chicago’s River North, Streeterville, Fulton Market, The Loop and Oak Brook neighborhoods. The restaurant is the brainchild of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Founder Rich Melman, Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs and Chef Partners Andrew Ashmore, Rita Dever and Susan Weaver. The menu features healthy meets delicious options, and is known for its iconic coffee and bakery counter, including signature cookies, in-house pastry favorites and our house blends from Beatrix Coffee Roasters, featuring Light, Dark, Espresso and Decaf roasts.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
MichaelVIP
Minneapolis - St. Paul •3 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Excellent evening great service. Pizza was excellent!
More info
Happy Camper Pizza - Old TownPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• River North (Chicago)
•
4.8
M
Michelle
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Gibson’s always delivers. No matter the occasion. Festive, attentive service, food is delish. It’s our favorite— perfect family outing for the holidays!
More info
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.7
L
lynetteVIP
Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Food is good. Outdoor space is a bit too noisy but the view is great though
More info
Cabra - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Peruvian• West Loop
•
4.7
J
Jeff
Detroit / Eastern Michigan •18 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We were there for a late lunch and was seated with a great river view. Service was quick and friendly. The food was outstanding. Will return for a dinner time experience the next in Chicago.
More info
Legal Sea Foods - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Seafood• River North (Chicago)
•
4
C
CaitlinVIP
Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
This is our favorite place in the city for many reasons. The drinks, the food, the look and feel of it, but the number one reason we keep coming back is the people who work at RL. It was a wildly busy evening this last time we came in and while many would have folded, the team went out of their way to take care of us. And that’s what sets this place apart. You’re cared for here. We were listened to and made comfortable. It ended up being a wonderful evening all thanks to obviously the food and drink, but mainly each employee we came in contact with. Come for the lush martinis, the perfect dover sole, the rich wood and dim lights but keep coming back for the people.
More info
RL RestaurantPrice: Expensive• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.9

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Best Restaurants for People Watching in River West

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41 restaurants available nearby

1. Cabra - Chicago

2. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago

3. RL Restaurant

4. Happy Camper Pizza - Old Town

5. Legal Sea Foods - Chicago

6. Bar La Rue

7. The Publican

8. Bar Siena - West Loop

9. Rosebud Steakhouse - Chicago

10. Beatrix - Fulton Market

See what locals rave about

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