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Best Restaurants for Foodies in Lakeshore East

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43 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval – Chicago restaurant
1. Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval – Chicago
4.4
Awesome(163)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Latin American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 55 times today
Toro Chicago, from critically acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval, is a vibrant Latin restaurant known for seamlessly blending bold Central and South American flavors with the innovative culinary techniques of Chef Sandoval. We offer a bespoke dining experience that celebrates the rich histories of Latin cuisine through a diverse menu, all hosted within a dynamic and lively environment. From tantalizing tapas to inventive entrees, each dish at Toro is crafted with a passion for excellence and a commitment to quality.
A photo of Sugar Factory - Chicago River North restaurant
2. Sugar Factory - Chicago River North
3.6
Very Good(4825)
Price: Moderate
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 52 times today
Sugar Factory American Brasserie is bringing something SWEET to Chicago’s famed River North area, just off the mag mile. Created by a team of world-class chefs, the menu selections include everything from pancakes and sweet and savory crepes to salads, burgers, steaks and shakes, all available throughout the day. This celebrity favorite is sure to satisfy any sweet-tooth craving. Signature treats include famous Couture Pops, Smoking Goblet Cocktails, Candy-Infused Martinis, and the one-and-only King Kong Sundae. Please dine with us and let Sugar Factory deliver an unforgettable guest experience. A 20% Service Fee will be added to every check. This goes to the service staff, and no extra tip is expected. Also please beware that we have limited booth seating, there is no guarantee that you will be sat at a booth.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
3. il Porcellino
4.8
Exceptional(4345)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 117 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 Mercadito - River North restaurant
4. Mercadito - River North
4.6
Exceptional(6365)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 85 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 Hubbard Inn - River North restaurant
5. Hubbard Inn - River North
3.9
Excellent(199)
Price: Expensive
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 28 times today
Located among an ever growing number of River North restaurants in Chicago, Hubbard Inn creates a unique dining experience with delicious options for brunch, dinner, late night dining and everything in between.Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner for two, a table for a large group, or a late night restaurant, Hubbard Inn is the perfect option for out-of-town guests and locals on the hunt for dinner and drinks or a quick bite to eat!
A photo of Proxi restaurant
6. Proxi
4.6
Exceptional(2460)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 24 times today
Proxi offers Modern American Cuisine with cooking that reflects the diversity, innovation, and openness of American culture. Proxi showcases seasonal ingredients in an elegant setting, emphasizing open-fire cooking. Located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood along Restaurant Row, Proxi, designed by award-winning Meyer Davis, unites an award-winning team to transport its guests around the world, beginning with cuisine and extending to an eclectic beverage program focused on worldly inspirations and diverse, exotic ingredients. Casual, yet fast-paced service guides Proxi’s international culinary experience, with fine-dining standards and in-depth product knowledge leading the charge, balanced by genuine energy and enthusiasm.
A photo of avec West Loop restaurant
7. avec West Loop
4.8
Exceptional(921)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • West Loop
Booked 86 times today
avec, a wine-focused restaurant in Chicago, features Midwestern takes on Mediterranean classics. Inspired by the sun-drenched wine regions of the Mediterranean, avec West Loop has been a Chicago favorite for over 20 years. Originally conceived as a wine bar, avec is the second concept from celebrated one-off hospitality, with communal and bar seating—it is a high-energy, intimate, and interactive experience.For parties of 6 or more, please call us at 312-377-2002.
A photo of Sunda New Asian – River North restaurant
8. Sunda New Asian – River North
4.6
Exceptional(7470)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Asian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 76 times today
Located in the bustling River North dining scene, Sunda offers a vibrant Southeast Asian dining experience, blending the flavors of Japan, China, the Philippines, Thailand, and beyond. We elevate culturally significant dishes using high-quality ingredients and modern techniques. Our beverage program includes signature handcrafted cocktails, a robust sake and wine selection, and Asian whiskies and beers. Join us for weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 2pm, or stop by during happy hour Monday to Friday from 4-6pm featuring $6 bar bites, handrolls, and beer, $9 cocktails and wine, and $10 sake. Our venue hosts private events for occasions from corporate outings to rehearsal dinners, and we also offer catering services.
A photo of The Omakase Room at Sushi-san restaurant
9. The Omakase Room at Sushi-san
4.9
Exceptional(82)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • River North (Chicago)
Booked 4 times today
The Omakase Room at Sushi-san is a culmination of Master Sushi Chefs Kaze Chan and Shigeru Kitano’s combined experience defining the Chicago sushi scene. While the menu and service are informed by tradition, guests can expect a transcendent experience that breaks down the formality and austerity usually accompanying omakase dining. Each dinner in the warm, modern, and intimate ten-seat space features luxury ingredients from around the world. Sophisticated and carefully curated beverage pairings are available to complement the meal.
A photo of River Roast restaurant
10. River Roast
4.5
Awesome(3352)
Price: Expensive
• American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 86 times today
Situated on the iconic Chicago River with stunning views of downtown, River Roast is a lively social house and gathering place. The menu features contemporary American tavern fare with dramatic presentations of whole roasted chicken, whole roasted fish and slow roasted beef; all carved table-side. The food is handcrafted, yet rustic, with many plates designed for sharing. The bar offers a large selection of local beer, craft cocktails, beer, and wine. With one of the best patios in Chicago, River Roast is a great place to enjoy dining outside on a hot summer afternoon or a crisp fall evening. River Roast Private Events offers six spaces, all with spectacular views, for parties from 10 to 1,000. Saturday and Sunday features our Brunch menu from 11:00AM-3PM. We are open Mon-Fri for lunch and daily for dinner.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Maria
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Overall our server was great…. I was taken by surprise that we were charge 20% service fee and told by the waiter that it doesn’t go to them. It goes to paying every hosts hourly wages and if we did extra tip he would then get that . Like WTH….. don’t be shady like that to the poor waiter. Also don’t tell me toward the end and why do i have to pay everyone’s hourly pay, prices are already high. I felt bad for the waiter because he was great and of course gave him extra . However Wouldn’t go again base on the companies ethics of charging us even more because they have to pay hourly wages not my fault.
    More info
    Sugar Factory - Chicago River NorthPrice: Moderate• American• River North (Chicago)
    •
    3.6
  • MackenzieVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    great service, great food, and great atmosphere. thank you, dan k. for the awesome service!
    More info
    il PorcellinoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.8
  • ELDARVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •59 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval offers a well-executed fusion of Latin and Asian flavors in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The ambiance is modern and inviting, with beautifully plated dishes that reflect the restaurant’s creativity and attention to detail. The ceviche was a vibrant start, with fresh seafood complemented by citrus, chiles, and herbs, offering a balanced mix of heat and acidity. The octopus was perfectly charred and tender, served with a creamy sauce that enhanced its smoky depth. The truffle mashed potatoes were rich and velvety, with crispy roasted potatoes adding a textural contrast. The sushi roll was visually appealing and packed with bold flavors, though slightly overpowered by the sauces. Service was professional and attentive, with staff ensuring a smooth dining experience. While most dishes impressed, a few elements—like slightly heavy-handed seasoning on some plates—kept this from being a perfect five-star experience.
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    Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval – ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Latin American• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.4
  • Champagne
    Los Angeles •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    It was a birthday celebration today and me and my family had good time…Michelle was a very good waitress
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    Mercadito - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mexican• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.6
  • KyleVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 6 Mar 2025
    Nice restaurant was a great vibe in a great location! We enjoyed our cocktails and they service was quick and very friendly! The lobster bites were amazing, sadly the potpie was just decent but thats a personal choice! I would recommend give this place a try! The Happy Hour looks great as well!
    More info
    Hubbard Inn - River NorthPrice: Expensive• American• River North (Chicago)
    •
    3.9

Discover best foodies restaurants in Lakeshore East

Discover the vibrant dining scene in Lakeshore East, Chicago, a true haven for food lovers. This eclectic area caters to all palates, featuring a range of restaurants that embody the spirit of Chicago's culinary diversity. Ideal for foodies, each establishment offers unique flavors and experiences, from innovative dishes that challenge the norm to comforting classics that feel like home. The neighborhood's commitment to quality and authenticity stands out, ensuring every meal is not just eaten but savored. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the restaurants in Lakeshore East promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey, marked by expertly crafted menus and welcoming atmospheres. Dive into this foodie paradise where every bite tells a story of culinary excellence and passion.

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