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Best Fun Restaurants in River West

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433 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Dawson restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2732)
Price: Expensive
• American • River West
Booked 46 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 Piccolo Sogno restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6984)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River West
Booked 71 times today
Piccolo Sogno is a blast! With its fresh, rustic Italian cuisine, it's like a taste of Italy in Chicago. Customers rave about the outstanding service and wonderful ambiance. The al fresco dining in the hidden garden patio is a particular hit. It's the perfect place for a fun, casual dining experience with friends or family. Plus, their impressive all-Italian wine list is a treat!
A photo of Recess restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1465)
Price: Expensive
• American • West Loop
Booked 9 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 Guinness Open Gate Brewery - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(111)
Price: Expensive
• Brewery • West Loop
Booked 47 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
4.8
Exceptional(174)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 15 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
4.7
Exceptional(1693)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • River North (Chicago)
Booked 90 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
4.6
Exceptional(7600)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 216 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 il Carciofo restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(95)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 173 times today
Located in the historic Fulton Market district of Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets in one of Chef Joe's favorite cities, Rome. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of elevated yet familiar Italian fare with traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas produced daily in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains that highlight the season's bounty.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1586)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 157 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
4.8
Exceptional(14934)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 200 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Hilary
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The 1910 burger was great and the cider was fabulous too! My son got the schnitzel and he absolutely loved it! Both of our plates were clean! Definitely going back when weather is warmer to sit outside
    More info
    Guinness Open Gate Brewery - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Brewery• West Loop
    4.5
  • Chrysa
    Chicago / Illinois •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Everything was wonderful! I noted food allergies in my reservation, and the waiter was aware when we arrived. He made careful suggestions for those diners and worked with the kitchen to ensure their food was safe. Overall a fantastic dinner.
    More info
    Piccolo SognoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River West
    4.7
  • Sarah
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    My mom and I had a great night out at the Dawson! Loved that the festive lights were still up. The chicken fried lobster and sourdough toast started us off on a delicious note, followed by the cavatelli and the roast pork chop. Those cheesy grits tho! Can’t wait to return again.
    More info
    The DawsonPrice: Expensive• American• River West
    4.8
  • John and Jen
    Chicago / Illinois •154 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 22, 2024
    Our recent visit to Erie Cafe was nothing short of spectacular. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, setting the perfect tone for an enjoyable evening. We indulged in their Chicken Parmesan and Fettuccine Alfredo, both of which were absolutely delicious. The chicken was perfectly breaded and tender, while the Alfredo was creamy and flavorful. To complement our meal, we sipped on expertly crafted Negronis, which added just the right touch to our experience. The service was impeccable, with attentive staff who made us feel right at home. Erie Cafe is definitely a gem in the city, and we can’t wait to return for another outstanding meal. Highly recommend!
    More info
    Erie CafePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • Gabrielle
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 30, 2024
    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
    4.7

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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