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Best Fun Restaurants in River West

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459 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Dawson restaurant
1. The Dawson
4.8
Exceptional(2723)
Price: Expensive
• American • River West
Booked 42 times today
The Dawson is a fun restaurant due to its great ambiance and service. Reviewers love the 'beautiful atmosphere' and 'great cocktails'. The food is also praised for being 'unique and original', and the service is 'excellent'. The restaurant is said to be 'enjoyable whether seated inside or outside' and is 'super fun in the summer'.
A photo of Recess restaurant
2. Recess
4.5
Awesome(1465)
Price: Expensive
• American • West Loop
Booked 4 times today
Located in Chicago’s West Loop, Recess (838 W. Kinzie St.) offers a vibrant, playful, escape to the daily grind. Home of Chicago’s largest patio, Recess encourages guests to adult…like a kid, while serving up delicious American food and drink. The Recess menu taps into the cravings of everyday life, offering casually elevated dishes with playful Chicago swagger, while our beverage program takes a bright, ingredient-driven approach with cocktails both classic and original. In addition to the energetic adult playground vibes and menu offerings, Recess also offers a nostalgic array of indoor and outdoor activities including giant Jenga and Connect 4, all of your favorite board games.Recess is a 21+ establishment.
A photo of PERILLA fare - West Loop restaurant
3. PERILLA fare - West Loop
4.5
Awesome(410)
Price: Expensive
• Korean • West Town
Booked 29 times today
Located in the West Loop of Downtown Chicago, PERILLA fare offers Korean American cuisine centered around a communal dining experience inspired by classic Korean flavors and traditional ingredients. With an emphasis and focus on quality and premium selection of meats for Korean BBQ, Chef Andrew Lim and the team proudly works with local farms and quality importers to provide our guests with an adventurous culinary experience. We offer an expansive beverage list which includes handcrafted cocktails, craft beers, a curated wine list, and hand selected imported sojus and makgeolli. Our menu accommodates all dietary restrictions with a focus on vegetarian options including locally sourced mushrooms. We are excited to welcome you in to our warm and inviting space featuring artwork from local artists. Located in River West / Fulton Market area
A photo of Guinness Open Gate Brewery - Chicago restaurant
4. Guinness Open Gate Brewery - Chicago
4.5
Awesome(89)
Price: Expensive
• Brewery • West Loop
Booked 23 times today
Where 260 years of Irish Brewing expertise meets American beer creativity. Inspired by Chicago, crafted by Guinness. Look out, Chicago.The Guinness Open Gate Brewery Chicago features a Taproom, Restaurant, and the first ever Guinness Bakery, all located right in the heart of Chicago's West Loop. Come indulge both your curiosity and your tastebuds, while experimenting with a new world of flavor.
A photo of Erie Cafe restaurant
5. Erie Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(163)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 21 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 RPM Seafood restaurant
6. RPM Seafood
4.6
Exceptional(1604)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • River North (Chicago)
Booked 83 times today
Introducing RPM Seafood, a dramatic multi-level restaurant overlooking the iconic Chicago River featuring the truest expression of the world’s best fish and seafood.The sister restaurant to RPM Steak and RPM Italian, it marks the third collaboration between partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic.
A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant
7. The Walnut Room - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(6839)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 438 times today
For Large Parties 21 or more: please contact us at http://macysrestaurants.com/contact-us/ For Holiday Questions and Menu: http://macysrestaurants.com/walnut-room/holiday2024/The world famous Walnut Room has been a Chicago tradition since 1907. Located on the 7th floor of Macy's on State Street, the Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. Conveniently located in the heart of the Chicago theater district, the Walnut Room is an excellent choice to take a break from shopping or for a meal and a glass of wine before the show. Enjoy our Famous Mrs. Herring's Chicken Pot Pie and other well known favorites on the menu.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
8. Pizzeria Portofino
4.7
Exceptional(1484)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 171 times today
Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched casual restaurant located directly on the Chicago riverfront offering hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an expansive patio and breezy decor that will instantly transport you to the Italian Riviera.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
9. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(14839)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 154 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 Duck Duck Goat restaurant
10. Duck Duck Goat
4.8
Exceptional(5562)
Price: Expensive
• Chinese • West Loop
Booked 132 times today
Chef Stephanie Izard brings her take on Chinese-American cuisine to Chicago's Fulton Market District with Duck Duck Goat, her third venture with Boka Restaurant Group. The menu features hand-pulled noodles, house-made dumplings, wontons, fried rice, and more, ensuring no diner leaves hungry. On weekends, Duck Duck Goat also offers a delightful dim sum brunch menu, perfect for starting the day with a creative twist on classic favorites.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • John
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    My wife and I celebrated her her milestone birthday. We were greeted upon entering the building with enthusiastic staff that assisted us with taking our photo that we intend on using for our Xmas cards. I had the full Irish breakfast and didn’t leave a morsel on the plate. I recommend this place for anyone interested in Irish cuisine. My only complaint is that they didn’t have Barry’s Irish tea to accompany my wife’s birthday cake.
    More info
    Guinness Open Gate Brewery - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Brewery• West Loop
    •
    4.5
  • Tara
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great food and the service was wonderful. Parking isn’t so bad either
    More info
    PERILLA fare - West LoopPrice: Expensive• Korean• West Town
    •
    4.5
  • Gabrielle
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Had a lot of fun! It was our first time there and we didn’t know what to expect but it was definitely worth it! We’ll be back again for more brunch and possibly a happy hour or two.
    More info
    RecessPrice: Expensive• American• West Loop
    •
    4.5
  • Lawrencevip
    Chicago / Illinois •80 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Exceptional service, high quality food and great Verity, something for everyone. Plus, free valet parking
    More info
    Erie CafePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.8
  • Quinton
    Alabama •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 24, 2024
    I went for brunch. This was my first dining experience at the Dawson, and it was great! Amazing atmosphere, and all of the food was tasty. Before going, I did read that parking was difficult, but I didn’t have much trouble. Upon walking up to the restaurant, I also noticed a sign offering valet, so that will definitely be valuable next time
    More info
    The DawsonPrice: Expensive• American• River West
    •
    4.8

Discover best fun restaurants in River West

Discover an array of vibrant and enjoyable dining experiences in Chicago's River West neighborhood, perfectly suited for those searching for a "fun" culinary adventure. This bustling area is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants that offer not only delicious food but also engaging atmospheres that promise a memorable night out. Whether you're in the mood for innovative cocktails, unique and original dishes, or simply a lively place to dine al fresco, River West has something to excite every palate. The dining scene here is characterized by its creative flair and commitment to quality, making it a standout destination for both locals and visitors. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on excellent service and a beautiful setting, ensuring every meal is enjoyable. Perfect for gatherings with friends or family, these establishments cater to all looking for fun times and great food in a dynamic urban setting. Explore River West for an unforgettable dining experience where fun meets fabulous cuisine.

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