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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Near North

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63 restaurants available nearby

A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
1. il Porcellino
4.7
Exceptional(4266)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 95 times today
Il Porcellino, located in the heart of River North in downtown Chicago, is a neighborhood restaurant offering classic Italian-American comfort food in a casual setting. Our seasonal menu focuses on housemate pastas, vegetable antipasti and daily specials, all crafted with ingredients sourced from quality artisans, purveyors, and local farmers. The fun and approachable wine program encourages sharing with selections primarily from Italy. As a way to offset rising costs associated with the restaurant (food, beverage, labor, benefits, supplies), we have added a 3% surcharge to all checks. We do this in lieu of increased menu prices. You may request to have this taken off your check, should you choose.
A photo of Tzuco restaurant
2. Tzuco
4.7
Exceptional(832)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 67 times today
Located in the bustling River North neighborhood of Chicago, Tzuco, helmed by the Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán, offers a blend of authentic Mexican flavors and sophisticated French techniques. Named after Chef Gaytán’s hometown, Huitzuco, the restaurant boasts a menu rich in ceviche, seafood, and traditional Mexican dishes, served in a spacious dining room, lively bar, lounge, and an all-weather outdoor terrace.Tzuco’s captivating interiors, designed by the acclaimed Cadena + Asociados Concept Design, tell a story of Chef Gaytán's heritage with preserved materials from Mexico and handcrafted furnishings, ensuring guests not only savor exquisite dishes but also relish an immersive cultural experience.
A photo of Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! restaurant
3. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!
4.8
Exceptional(401)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • River North (Chicago)
Booked 44 times today
Welcome to Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! in River North. The little sister of Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park, Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba! stays true to its Spanish roots serving a wide variety of iconic small plates like Patatas Bravas, Bacon-Wrapped Dates, and our signature Beef Tenderloin Toro Skewer. Of course, no celebration would be complete without our classic Sangria. ¡Salud!
A photo of Osteria Via Stato restaurant
4. Osteria Via Stato
4.7
Exceptional(3486)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 23 times today
Osteria Via Stato, a Lettuce Entertain You restaurant follows the Italian tradition of seasonally prepared dishes featuring local ingredients and artisanal producers paired with an all Italian wine list. Open for Lunch, Tuesday - Friday at noon - 2PM.Join us for Happy Hour everyday for 1/2 priced pizzas and glasses of wine, Sunday - Thursday at 5PM - 6PM, Friday - Saturday at 4:30PM - 5:30PM.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | Streeterville (Magnificent Mile) restaurant
5. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | Streeterville (Magnificent Mile)
4.7
Exceptional(2333)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • River North (Chicago)
Booked 64 times today
Founded in Tokyo in 1996, Gyu-Kaku has become the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand! Thanks to our devoted fans we have reached over 700 locations worldwide. Each day, hundreds of thousands of people gather around the table-top smokeless grill, a centerpiece of our dining concept, enjoying selections of premium meats, just off the grill, and other freshly prepared foods from our kitchens, inspiring laughter, conversation, and a magical dining experience.Our authentic yakiniku (grilled barbeque) dining experience crowns you the chef. Share a variety of delicious appetizers and premium cooked meats over a flaming grill, paired with Japanese sake, frosty cold beers, or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options of your choice. We're the perfect spot to enjoy time with friends and family, organize an office party, or to spend quality time with your significant other!Before you go, don't forget to taste our best-seller Harami Skirt Steak or Prime Kalbi Short Rib among other must-try dishes!
A photo of Vermilion restaurant
6. Vermilion
3.7
Very Good(2261)
Price: Expensive
• Indian • River North (Chicago)
Advocating unabashed intrepid Indian cuisine since 2003. Feast on the best of our fare: our new Chaat Bar, Indian-Latin flagship dishes & newer Indian-Chinese fare. A sensual space with dramatic accents of lights, fire, art & metal. Best Restaurants Travel & Leisure, Bon Appetit, Esquire, Town & Country, Chicago magazine, 3 stars Chicago Tribune. Unpretentious, bold flavors, with substantive real food. No precious overpriced bites. Botanic "Herb & Spice" & "Ode to Chicago" cocktails, nonalcoholic drinks. boutique global wines. Omnivore fare galore & over 15 vegetarian/vegan dishes. Vermilion is woman-led & champions women as the founder of Let's Talk Womxn, an action movement of 900+ women restaurateurs across 15 cities. Founder/Chair of the James Beard Foundation Women's Program for a decade.
A photo of The Berkshire Room restaurant
7. The Berkshire Room
4.5
Awesome(52)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)
Booked 12 times today
The Berkshire Room is a standout cocktail bar in Chicago. With its upscale lounge ambiance and a team of talented bartenders, it's a must-visit for cocktail lovers. The 'dealers' choice' feature, where guests can customize their drinks, has received rave reviews. Plus, the reviews praise the perfect cocktails, the cool and relaxed environment, and the knowledgeable staff. It's a perfect place to unwind and enjoy great drinks before or after dinner.
A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
8. Alla Vita
4.8
Exceptional(2323)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Italian • West Loop
Booked 156 times today
Serving a casual, family-style menu, Alla Vita is a place to gather and enjoy comfortable Italian cuisine. Alla Vita means “to life” in Italian which recognizes overcoming life's challenges and creating a space for shared meals and memorable experiences. Executive Chef Lee Wolen shares his passion for fresh, delicious Italian food made simply with the best ingredients. Follow @allavitachicago to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings.
A photo of Summer House - Chicago restaurant
9. Summer House - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7923)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lincoln Park
Booked 283 times today
Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Summer House is the place for sunshine all year round. Enjoy seasonal specialties, market-driven pasta, artisan pizzas, and fresh antipasti from Chef Ben Goodnick’s California-inspired menu. Reserve your table today and be transported to the West Coast by the beach house decor, retractable glass ceiling, and all-season courtyard. For parties of 9 or more, email shsbparties@lettuce.com. Carryout and delivery are available, or visit The Cookie Bar for a selection of fresh-baked goods, sourdough English muffins, Summer House's renowned oversized cookies, small-batch coffee, and specialty espresso drinks.
A photo of Mon Ami Gabi restaurant
10. Mon Ami Gabi
4.8
Exceptional(8110)
Price: Moderate
• French • Lincoln Park
Booked 113 times today
Honoring classic French cuisine, Mon Ami Gabi is a traditional French bistro located in the heart of Lincoln Park. Our menu features simple French food including Steak Frites, fresh seafood, exquisite bites, and French rolling wine carts. Valet is located at the corner of Lincoln Park West and Belden for $17 cash or Zelle. During the holiday season, for all parties of 9 or more, we ask our guests to call the restaurant directly to book a reservation.Did you know that you can use Lettuce gift cards for carryout and delivery? Just place your order through Lettuce website, the LettuceEats app or any Lettuce restaurant website.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Near North

Discover a curated selection of dining gems in Near North, Chicago that are truly "worth the drive." Nestled in one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods, these eateries stand out for their unique culinary experiences and exceptional service. Whether you’re seeking innovative dishes, classic comfort foods, or exquisite fine dining, the restaurants in this area cater to every taste and occasion. Each establishment boasts a distinct ambiance, from cozy, intimate settings to lively, upscale venues, making them perfect spots for both casual outings and special celebrations. The dining scene in Near North is characterized by its eclectic mix of cuisines and its ability to offer both trendy new spots and cherished, longstanding favorites. These restaurants not only provide memorable meals but also embody a commitment to quality and creativity, ensuring every visit is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary adventure. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these dining destinations in Near North, Chicago are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable gastronomic experience that's absolutely worth the drive.

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