The Best Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants Right Now
If you're looking for the top Chicago Riverwalk restaurants, here's a quick overview before we dive in:
Top 5 Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants to Try:
- Chicago Brewhouse - Local craft beer and Chicago neighborhood street food on a massive waterfront terrace
- City Winery - Wine garden with a pet-friendly patio, skyline views, and a retractable all-weather enclosure
- River Roast - Contemporary American tavern with dramatic whole-roasted dishes right on the river
- Taco Rio - Authentic Mexican tacos and fresh cocktails with a dog-friendly open-air patio
- Perilla Steakhouse - Chicago's only Korean BBQ and steakhouse fusion with table-side grilling
The Chicago Riverwalk is one of the most visited stretches of public space in the entire Midwest, drawing over 3.7 million visitors every year. Running along the south bank of the Chicago River through downtown, it blends stunning architecture, waterfront views, and a growing lineup of restaurants and bars that make it hard to walk past without stopping.
Whether you're after a cold local craft beer, a glass of wine with a skyline backdrop, or a full sit-down dinner watching boats drift by — the Riverwalk delivers. And with over 20 restaurants, bars, and cafes now operating along its length, the hardest part is choosing where to stop.
One visitor summed it up perfectly: "The patio is incredible. You're literally right on the river."
That feeling is exactly what makes Riverwalk dining special — and why so many people keep coming back.
Why Dine at Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants?
Dining along the Chicago River is more than just grabbing a bite to eat; it is a full sensory experience. The Riverwalk has undergone a massive transformation, seeing a 40% increase in foot traffic and dining visits since its major expansion. Today, these waterfront establishments generate an estimated $50 million in annual revenue, proving that both locals and tourists can't get enough of this unique dining corridor.
When you choose to dine at chicago riverwalk restaurants, you are treated to front-row seats of the city's world-renowned architecture. Watch the historic drawbridges lift, marvel at the reflection of the Wrigley Building and Marina City on the water, and enjoy the gentle breeze of the river.
Beyond the views, the culinary ecosystem here is deeply tied to the city's culture. Many of these spots actively support local businesses by highlighting locally brewed beers, neighborhood-inspired menus, and regional ingredients. Whether you are looking for a casual beer garden to relax in after work or a polished sit-down dinner, the diversity of Chicago Riverwalk Dining ensures there is a perfect spot for every mood, season, and craving.
5 Must-Try Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants
The dining options along the water span everything from quick-service taco windows to high-end steakhouses. To help you navigate the stretch, we have highlighted five of the absolute best spots that offer incredible food, stellar service, and unmatched views.
Comparison of the Top 5 Riverwalk Restaurants
| Restaurant | Cuisine Type | Key Vibe & Highlight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Brewhouse | Chicago Street Food | Casual, vibrant, local craft beer focus | Beer lovers & casual hangouts |
| City Winery | Wine Garden & American | Relaxed, scenic, retractable enclosure | Wine enthusiasts & pet owners |
| River Roast | Contemporary American Tavern | Lively social house, dramatic carved roasts | Group dinners & weekend brunch |
| Taco Rio | Authentic Mexican | Sunny, energetic, fresh margaritas | Post-kayaking bites & quick drinks |
| Perilla Steakhouse | Korean BBQ & Steakhouse | Upscale, modern, table-side grilling | Date nights & unique dining |
Chicago Brewhouse: A Highlight of Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants
For a true taste of the city’s culinary history, make your way to the corner of Wacker and Wabash. Chicago Brewhouse | Neighborhood Street Food celebrates the diverse flavors of Chicago's historic neighborhoods all in one spot on a spacious waterfront terrace.
The menu is a love letter to local street food classics. You can sample Pilsen-inspired street tacos, a classic Maxwell Street hot dog or Polish sausage, Greek Town gyro sliders, and even an Argyle Avenue beef bánh mì. To make the experience even richer, the venue features an educational exhibit on the history of beer making in Chicago, complete with a historical timeline. Pair your neighborhood eats with a local craft beer brewed right here in the city or a classic Vintage Chicago Bloody Mary for the ultimate local experience.
City Winery: Waterfront Wine Garden
If your idea of a perfect afternoon involves a chilled glass of rosé and a beautiful view, City Winery at the Riverwalk | Restaurant, Wine Garden and Private Events with Skyline and River Views is the place to be. Located right in the heart of the Riverwalk action, this riverfront wine garden offers a sophisticated yet entirely relaxed atmosphere.
City Winery features unique wine-on-tap technology, serving fresh, locally produced wines alongside artisanal cheese plates and seasonal shareable bites. One of its best features is its climate-controlled, retractable glass enclosure, which allows for comfortable dining rain or shine. They also offer dockside ordering for those arriving by water, and the entire outdoor patio is completely pet-friendly, making it a favorite stop for dog owners strolling along the path.
River Roast: Contemporary American Tavern
Located slightly further west where the main branches of the river meet, River Roast: Welcome to Chicago's Premiere Riverfront Restaurant offers a dramatic, high-energy dining experience. This contemporary American tavern is famous for its show-stopping, table-side carved roasts, including whole roasted chicken, slow-roasted beef, and whole roasted fish.
With spectacular views of the downtown skyline, River Roast features a massive outdoor patio and a lively indoor tavern space. It is a fantastic spot for large groups, corporate events, or a weekend brunch before heading out on Riverwalk Boat Rides. The combination of soulful tavern fare, creative cocktails, and front-row river views makes it a staple of the downtown dining scene.
Taco Rio: Authentic Mexican on the Water
Brought to you by the team behind Urban Kayaks, Taco Rio | Authentic Mexican on the Riverwalk is a vibrant, sun-drenched oasis located on the eastern end of the Riverwalk. This open-air cantina is the perfect spot to refuel after spending a morning paddling on the water.
Taco Rio serves up exceptionally fresh, authentic Mexican street tacos—including carne asada, pollo, and rich quesabirria—alongside house-made guacamole and chips. Their beverage program shines with fresh-squeezed juice cocktails, featuring crowd favorites like the Spicy Margarita, Strawberry Margarita, and classic Palomas. The casual, walk-up-and-grab-a-table setup is highly dog-friendly, making it one of the most relaxed and welcoming spots on the water.
Perilla Steakhouse: Korean BBQ Fusion
For a truly unique dining experience, head to the L7 Hotel on the Riverwalk to experience Perilla Steakhouse | Korean BBQ & Steakhouse on the Chicago Riverwalk. As Chicago's only Korean steakhouse, Perilla beautifully marries the interactive, flavorful tradition of Korean BBQ with the classic elements of an upscale American steakhouse.
Diners can enjoy premium cuts of meat grilled table-side, delicious small plates, and a curated cocktail menu. Whether you are stopping in for a weekday power lunch, a weekend brunch featuring table-side grilling, or their popular pre-theatre prix fixe menu, Perilla offers an elevated and memorable meal. It is a standout option for those looking to explore the Best Restaurants Loop area.
Planning Your Waterfront Dining Experience
Because the majority of chicago riverwalk restaurants feature outdoor patios, dining here does require a bit of planning. The seasonal nature of the Riverwalk means that most outdoor-only spots operate from April through October, aligning with Chicago's peak warm-weather months. However, venues with indoor space or weather-protected enclosures remain popular year-round.
For a seamless trip, keep these tips in mind:
- Reservations vs. Walk-ins: While casual spots like Taco Rio operate on a first-come, first-served basis, popular sit-down venues like River Roast and Perilla Steakhouse highly recommend reservations, especially during weekend dinner hours.
- Weather Considerations: Chicago weather can change quickly. Spots like City Winery offer retractable enclosures, but it is always smart to bring a light jacket for breezy evenings by the water.
- Getting There: The Riverwalk is incredibly accessible. You can easily reach it on foot, by bike, or via public transit (the State/Lake or Clark/Lake CTA stations are just blocks away). For a classic Chicago experience, you can even arrive via water taxi or dock your own boat at designated spots along the path.
- More Waterfront Options: If you want to explore even more options along the water, check out the official guide to Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants & Bars Along the Water or enjoy upscale dining at the Restaurants & Dining | Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk - Marriott. For modern American bites and a fantastic happy hour, Chicago Restaurants | 320 RiverBar is another excellent riverfront choice.
Before planning your day, be sure to check out our Chicago Riverwalk Activities Ultimate Guide to make the most of your waterfront adventure.
New and Upcoming Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants
The Riverwalk dining scene is constantly growing and evolving. This season, DineAmic Hospitality is making waves with the debut of DineAmic Hospitality to Debut NAIA, a Pan-Mediterranean Restaurant on the Chicago Riverwalk | Chicago Food Magazine.
Led by Partner and Culinary Director Chef Athinagoras Kostakos, NAIA is a massive, 12,000-square-foot pan-Mediterranean destination located at 300 N. LaSalle Street. Boasting over 150 feet of direct river frontage, NAIA features three-season operability with heated pergolas and operable window walls. The menu draws inspiration from Greece, Southern France, Italy, Spain, and the Eastern Mediterranean, offering a fresh seafood raw bar, regional wines, and coastal cocktails that bring a slice of the Mediterranean straight to Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago Riverwalk Dining
Are Chicago Riverwalk restaurants dog-friendly?
Yes! Many establishments along the Riverwalk are highly dog-friendly. Spots like City Winery and Taco Rio warmly welcome leashed dogs on their outdoor patios, making the Riverwalk a fantastic destination for pet owners.
Do I need reservations for dining on the Riverwalk?
It depends on the venue. Casual beer gardens and walk-up cafes generally operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, for sit-down restaurants like River Roast, Perilla, or private dome experiences at City Winery, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak weekend hours and summer evenings.
When are Riverwalk dining spots open?
While a few hotel-adjacent restaurants operate year-round, the majority of seasonal Riverwalk restaurants and bars are open daily from mid-April through late October. Hours can be weather-dependent, so it is always a good idea to check a venue's social media or website if the weather looks questionable.
Conclusion
Living near the water means having dining, architecture, and community spaces nearby. The Alfred offers apartments in The Loop that place residents steps away from downtown Chicago. The historic architecture, amenities, and location make it easy to enjoy the city's energy every single day.
For those looking for Apartments Near Chicago River that blend style with convenience, the community is open for exploration. Discover a space that keeps residents connected to the city's experiences.
