River North

Chef Rick Bayless celebrated Frontera Grill's 30th Anniversary in March of 2017, and we respectfully credit him with starting what is today's River North restaurant scene. This casual spot will satisfy cravings for authentic Mexican food and introduce you to regional variations of Mexico's cuisine.

Frontera Grill's upscale sister restaurant, Topolobampo just took home a James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. It offers a refined, elegant take on Mexican cuisine with dishes organized into three tasting menus (two 5 course options and one 7 course option). Don't miss the equally impressive wine list by sommelier Jill Gubesch.

Thirteen years after the debut of Naha, Carrie and Michael Nahabedian opened their second restaurant, Brindille, in the heart of River North. The atmosphere and menu both reflect Chef Carrie's love of France, each month focusing on a particular region. The wine list is also exciting, as it follows the regional path of the menu in addition to highlighting versions of French classics from around the world.

Known for his noodles, Michelin-starred Chef Takashi opened his casual Japanese comfort food spot, Slurping Turtle, in the heart of River North. He strives to recreate his childhood culinary experiences in Japan with delicious Ramen and fresh sushi, salads and buns. A great little spot to stop in for lunch (the bento boxes are tasty) or enjoy a relaxed dinner.

GT Fish & Oyster opened in March of 2011, and gave the American seafood restaurant a much needed face lift. Michelin-starred Chef Giuseppe Tentori has developed a menu that’s half-traditional and half modern in an ever-changing small plates format. Depending on what you order, stay away from the heavy reds that dominate the wine list and opt for a clean Sancerre, Muscadet or interesting Riesling.

The latest project from Chef Giuseppe Tentori definitely focuses on meat - beef, lamb, buffalo and venison - but we would definitely refrain from calling GT Prime a "steakhouse." Small portions of tender prime cuts are served medium-rare, boneless, and in 4 or 8 ounce portions. Have fun exploring the creative starters and sides as well. 

We can't tell you who makes the best doughnut in Chicago, but we can point you in the direction of some of the hot spots. The Doughnut Vault, part of the Hogsalt Restaurant Group (Au Cheval, Gilt Bar and Bavette's, to name a few), definitely makes the list. This place might have long line, but the menu is short and sweet - don't miss out on the Old Fashioned, especially if they're offering a daily/seasonal special. 

This trendy River North bar and restaurant features classic craft cocktails and contemporary American cuisine. The tenderloin steak tartare is a must-try, and the cocktail menu showcases classic favorites, offering an array of Negronis, Mules, Manhattans, Martinis, and Old Fashioneds. 

Think classy French decor meets timeless steakhouse menu. This is a sexy atmosphere to enjoy seafood towers, flavorful ribeyes, classic side dishes, and house made desserts. The cocktails are strong and the international wine list will have something to please everyone at the table.