Fine dining should encompass all five senses. The best chefs not only create delicious dishes, but ensure that the atmosphere matches their meticulous attention to detail. Chicago is home to a number of exquisite restaurants, both classic and innovative, that will enhance any special occasion or impromptu date night. Scroll on to view and experience our picks for the most aesthetically pleasing eateries in Chicago.
Avec River North
A bright and wine-focused restaurant featuring midwestern takes on mediterranean classics, taking its cue from the sun-drenched wine regions of Southern Europe. American studio Parts and Labor Design has used lush foliage, creamy white walls and varied tones of wood to create a uniquely coastal feel inside the location that previously housed the famed Pacific Standard Time restaurant.
141 W Erie St., Chicago, Illinois
Somerset Gold Coast
Somerset serves seasonal American cuisine in a setting that nods to American country-club culture in a fresh new way, where rich textures and richer flavors abound. The design team, led by AvroKO, derived inspiration from the 1960s and 1970s when the Kennedy-esque leisure set was in its heyday frequenting country clubs throughout America.
112 N State St., Chicago, Illinois
BLVD West Loop
BLVD is a classic American steakhouse inspired by Hollywood’s glamorous Sunset Blvd. From the glimmering lighting to the gold mirrors, luxe fabrics and decadent details, Studio K designed the space to have the alluring energy of a special occasion, setting the stage for guests to arrive in their finest attire.
817 W Lake St., Chicago, Illinois
Proxi West Loop
Proxi travels the world one boundary-blurring dish at a time. Inspired by street food but not restrained by it, its menu wanders freely across continents but still feels completely at home in its Chicago location— a former printing house that was transformed by Meyer Davis into a mid-century marvel with a dark, rich color palette and eclectic modernist furnishings.
565 W Randolph St., Chicago, Illinois
3 Arts Club Gold Coast
The 3 Arts Club Cafe features an ingredient-driven menu accompanied by a curated selection of artisanal wines and craft beers. Originally designed by Holabird & Roche (now Holabird & Root), this historic venue allows guests to dine beneath a glass-and-steel atrium amidst trickling fountains, heritage olive trees, and glimmering chandeliers.
1300 N Dearborn St., Chicago, Illinois
Siena Tavern Gold Coast
Siena Tavern presents upscale, classic Italian fares. Their extensive wine list and highly contemporary design by CBD Architects, interspersed with warm and rustic details, elevates the genuine Italian dining experience while simultaneously maintaining authenticity.
51 W Kenzie St., Chicago, Illinois
Ella Elli Lake View
Located in the heart of Lake View, Ella Elli is a charming space full of conversation and globally inspired cuisine. Interior designer Leah Ogden looked to the intimacy of Chicago’s early 20th Century speakeasies as well as the craftsmanship and artistry of the era, adding thoughtful details such as tufted banquettes, upholstered booths, and glowing arched alcoves perfect for intimate groups.
1349 W Cornelia Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
Travelle Near North Side
Travelle’s casual yet elegant dining experience is guaranteed to delight. Located on the second floor of an iconic skyscraper, Travelle was designed by the Rockwell Group to be immersed in imagery from the late 1960s, with warm materials that bring glamour to the enduring Miesian minimalism.
330 N Wabash Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
