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Best Authentic Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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232 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(10977)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 156 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.
A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(928)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • River North (Chicago)
Booked 133 times today
Housed in Chicago’s Belle Époque building, the unique Art Nouveau-inspired space honors the iconic building’s legacy while providing guests with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere and menu. La Grande Boucherie blends the ambiance of an indulgent steakhouse with a refined Parisian brasserie charm, and fuses traditional French cuisine with Chicago’s River North culinary heritage. The two-story restaurant boasts custom curved stained-glass windows overlooking the bustling streets of Chicago. The interior features custom mosaic marble floors, authentic fixtures, and a racetrack bar sourced from France. Guests can lean into the view and take in all that Chicago has to offer.
A photo of RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(12241)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 114 times today
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, RPM Italian is modern in approach and Italian in spirit, featuring a contemporary menu with dishes meant to be shared. The sister restaurant to RPM Steak and RPM Seafood, RPM Italian marks the first collaboration between partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(6286)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 49 times today
We are the city’s top Mexican restaurant for authentic modern cuisine, specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails, located in the heart of River North. Our culinary team features popular Mexican dishes, including our signature tacos, as well as fresh salsa and guacamole, ceviche, esquites and more.Mercadito's lounge is nestled in the lower level of Mercadito. It offers a speakeasy-style experience with a chic and exclusive ambiance. The space features banquet-style booths and dim lighting that enhances the elegant wood furniture, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Once inside, guests can enjoy the full Mercadito menu, with the same delectable cuisine and beverages that our restaurant is known for.
A photo of Asador Bastian restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(183)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 10 times today
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR CHRISTMAS EVE!Asador Bastian is a Chicago chophouse with Basque influences from acclaimed ChefDoug Psaltis. Located in the iconic “Flair House” originally built in 1883, this historictownhouse has been revived and brought back to life with culinary inspiration from thegreat asadors of San Sebastián, Spain to serve the world’s best boutique beef withoutcompromise. The most remarkable dining experience comes from the purest ingredientsdelivered in the supremely thoughtful, welcoming and hospitable manner. This ethoshas directed every aspect of the experience at Asador Bastian, whether you’re joiningus for small bites and libations in our Bar Room or for a more intimate experience in ourDining Room.
A photo of Tanta restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5068)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 27 times today
Tanta is a well-loved Peruvian restaurant in Chicago that brings the flavors and culture of Peru to life. The menu, crafted by renowned chef, Acurio, and Chicago Chef Tito Rocha, takes guests on a culinary journey across Peru. Reviewers consistently praise the authenticity of the food, and the knowledge and attentiveness of the staff. One reviewer who is from Peru even confirmed the food's authenticity. The restaurant's commitment to sustainable farming and fishing practices also adds to its authenticity.
A photo of TAO Asian Bistro - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3222)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 36 times today
TAO Chicago offers guests a sensual trip through the cuisines of Asia. The design-driven restaurant and adjoining nightclub is inspired by the original TAO locations in New York City, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. TAO Chicago features multiple levels, creating dynamic spaces within the historic building’s shell, while adding TAO’s Asian-influenced DNA to the restaurant, lounge and nightclub including murals by artist Hush and TAO’s signature 16-foot-tall Quan Yin statue anchoring one end of the dining room. TAO Chicago’s restaurant menu, created by TAO Group Partner and Chef Ralph Scamardella , is complete with Pan-Asian offerings from the sea, sky and land including signature dishes like Satay of Chilean Sea Bass, Crispy Rice Tuna and a Wagyu Rib-Eye.
A photo of Olio e Più - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(956)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 89 times today
OLIO E PIÙ brings Italian tradition and true sense of Mediterranean liveliness to the vibrant neighborhood in Chicago.As an authentic trattoria, its cuisine is based on classic Italian dishes. As you dine at OLIO E PIÙ, you’ll be transported not just by the flavors of Italy but also by the authentic atmosphere that surrounds you. It’s a place where time slows down, and conversations flow freely, just as they do in a true Italian household. Here, the spirit of 1970s Italian elegance lives on, and every meal is a celebration of life, love, and the joy of shared moments, especially with the open kitchen concept.OLIO E PIÙ is more than just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a different time and place, where the essence of Italy’s rich culinary and cultural heritage is captured in every detail.
A photo of SUSHI-SAN - River North restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1308)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • River North (Chicago)
Booked 90 times today
Sushi-San serves up the best sushi in Chicago made with the freshest ingredients they can find, all served with a side of old-school hip-hop and ice-cold beer. The bar is kept stocked with rare Japanese whisky, sake, wine and inventive cocktails. Join them for lunch and dinner.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4227)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 80 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Paul
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The wait staff were amazing. Our server gave great descriptions and suggestions for ordering. The family style service provided a great opportunity to taste and try a very tasty variety of starters and main dishes. We had a large group of 12-6 adults and 6 kids ranging in age from about 17 months to 17 years of age. Drinks and food came out as they were ready and gave everyone plenty of time to enjoy. The venue has a warm and welcoming vibe in sync with the warm and welcoming staff. Looking forward to our next visit!
    More info
    Quartino - ChicagoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.5
  • Lyndsi
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    It was our first time dining at RPM Italian and it did not disappoint! From the moment we walked in to the moment we left was top notch. All the staff were friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. The drinks and food were outstanding. Make sure to get the meatballs as an appetizer and the carrot cake for dessert!! The meals are perfect portions for sharing with everyone at the table.
    More info
    RPM Italian - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.6
  • JamieVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Celebrated my boyfriend’s birthday last night. Our server Juan enhance our dining experience with his exemplary level of service and knowledge of Spanish cuisine. He guided us through the entire dining process from picking out the best steak for our tastes we anre heavy into dry aged steak. He suggested a steak that was a special for the evening and the sides to complement. I’m giving Asador Bastian 4 stars because I wish the portion of the steak tartare was larger. That was a disappointment. Otherwise, the service, ambiance, quality of cuisine was outstanding. Please request Juan to be your server.
    More info
    Asador BastianPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    4.6
  • NicoleVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •55 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The ambiance is so lovely during Christmas and so festive. We sat at the Bar with Our martinis with blue cheese olives waiting for a table as we wanted to be seated by the Christmas tree. We began with oysters and the wagyu carpaccio, pleasing aesthetic, but even more delish. My Husband had the ribeye, which was a special and we ordered 3 sides; Gouda macaroni and cheese served in a copper crock, the haricots verts and frites, all so delish. I tasted his ribeye, but enjoyed all of the sides. My Husband had the raspberry sorbet for dessert accompanied by an espresso martini which I had as well. The piece of resistance (not spelled as pronounced) was it was 1/2 price wine on the bottles. We enjoyed a bottle with dinner and even brought another bottle to Our hotel to enjoy.
    More info
    La Grande Boucherie - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• French• River North (Chicago)
    4.5
  • felipeVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    I’ve been a guest since the day they opened the doors and it’s amazing to see this place still be busy delivering some of the best food in the city. Great job to the team behind this operation.
    More info
    Mercadito - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mexican• River North (Chicago)
    4.6

Discover best authentic restaurants in River North (Chicago)

Discover the vibrant authenticity of River North's dining scene in Chicago, where the keyword 'authentic' truly comes to life. This bustling neighborhood offers an eclectic array of restaurants that brilliantly reflect the rich culinary diversity of Chicago. Whether you're craving the robust flavors of traditional Spanish tapas, the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, or the hearty comfort of an American steakhouse, River North caters to all tastes with genuine flair. The restaurants in this area are celebrated not only for their exceptional food but also for their commitment to providing a truly authentic dining experience. Each establishment has been recognized for its unique atmosphere, ranging from the casual elegance of American dining to the festive and stylish vibes of international cuisines. The consistent high ratings for food quality, service excellence, and inviting ambiances underscore their authenticity. Patrons of these restaurants often highlight the knowledgeable staff and the authentic recipes that transport diners to the origins of each dish, whether it's a seafood platter reminiscent of the Florida coast or a Peruvian culinary adventure. River North's dining scene is a testament to Chicago's reputation as a world-class food city, offering an authentic taste of global cultures right in the heart of Illinois. Indulge in a dining experience where each meal is not just eaten, but celebrated.

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