When you want to celebrate a special occasion, Chicago is certainly a perfect place to do so. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a special anniversary, a life-changing promotion, or an intimate get-together among good friends, you can always find the perfect restaurant to celebrate in Chicago.
In a city with a vibrant culinary landscape, you’ll have no shortage of finding the best place to dine. Check out this list of the finest establishments to celebrate any special occasion in Chicago.
Where to Celebrate Special Occasions in Chicago
Rose Mary Chicago
West Loop | Price: $$
Rose Mary is a fantastic place to celebrate a special occasion in Chicago. The West Loop-based restaurant is a bright and warm Italian-Croatian-inspired eatery with a chic atmosphere and a bold menu. Perfect for a special dinner occasion or entertaining guests from out of town, the restaurant offers favorite dishes catering to all dietary preferences, suiting the needs of vegetarians, vegans, and even carnivores.
.mfk Restaurant
Lakeview | $$
Celebrate your special occasion in Chicago with a touch of Spanish charm. .mfk Restaurant in Lakeview is an intimate restaurant that offers a rotating menu of seaside dishes. That’s right. This Michelin-Bob Gourmand restaurant menu items are subject to change. This means you can enjoy a limited-time dish and sample something different every time you visit. Honestly, who wouldn’t want that variety during a special occasion?
Maple & Ash
Gold Coast | $$$
Elevate your celebration at Maple & Ash, where opulence meets culinary excellence. The Gold Coast gem promises a grand experience with its lavish décor, prime cuts of steak, and indulgent sides—a feast fit for any special occasion. Everyone deserves a luxurious dining experience at once and their lifetime, and Maple & Ash is a place to experience that, especially for a special occasion. The Chicago Steakhouse offers a luxurious dining experience and great service that we continue to enjoy time and time again.
Aba Chicago
West Loop | $$S
Aba takes your celebration to new heights with its chic rooftop setting and a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a personal victory, Aba offers a stylish backdrop for you to celebrate a special occasion.
Galit Restaurant
Lincoln Park | $$$
Celebrate with a culinary journey through the flavors of the Middle East at Galit. This Michelin-starred gem in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago combines innovative dishes with a welcoming atmosphere, creating a memorable experience for your special occasion.
Tzuco
River North | $$$
Tzuco, located in River North, is a Chicago restaurant that is the perfect spot for a one-of-a-kind celebration. This hot spot is known for its culinary innovation with its unique fusion of French and Mexican flavors. The chic setting and creative menu make it an ideal spot for birthdays, anniversaries, date nights, and more.
MingHin Cuisine
Multiple Locations | $$
MingHin Cuisine has multiple locations throughout Chicago offering plenty of space for groups, large and small, to celebrate. The most popular options to enjoy are delectable dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes. Gather your loved ones for a lively celebration filled with dumplings and more.
Obélix
River North | $$$
Obélix brings a taste of Paris to River North with its charming ambiance and French-inspired dishes. This cozy spot is perfect for an intimate celebration with a touch of European flair.
Virtue Restaurant
Hyde Park | $$
Virtue, nestled in Hyde Park, offers a taste of Southern comfort and hospitality. With its soulful dishes and cozy ambiance, it’s a wonderful choice for a heartfelt celebration with friends and family.
Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar
River North | $$$
Step into the vintage elegance of Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar where the ambiance is as rich as the steak. Whether it’s a promotion or an anniversary, this River North steakhouse sets the stage for a classic celebration.
The Purple Pig Restaurant
Mag Mile | $$
The Purple Pig, located on the Magnificent Mile, invites you to celebrate with its vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The lively atmosphere and shared plates make it an excellent choice for a festive gathering.
Carnivale Restaurant
West Loop | $$
Carnivale Restaurant is a West Loop gem known for its Latin fusion and vibrant atmosphere. With colorful décor and a menu of deliciously shareable dishes, Carnivale ensures your celebration is a fiesta to remember.
How to Choose a Chicago Restaurant for a Special Occasion
When choosing a restaurant for a special occasion there are a few things you should consider before making your decision. Keeping these tips in mind will ensure you have a celebratory dinner or meal that is one to truly remember!
- Menu Variety: Look for a restaurant that offers a diverse and appealing menu to cater to different tastes and preferences.
- Ambiance: Consider the ambiance of the restaurant – whether it’s lively and celebratory, or more intimate and romantic, depending on the nature of the special occasion.
- Hospitality: Prioritize places with excellent customer service, where the staff is welcoming, attentive, and willing to go the extra mile to make your celebration memorable.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Utilize online resources like Google, Yelp, and reviews from fellow diners to gauge the restaurant’s reputation and get insights into the experiences of others.
- Personal Preferences: Consider any specific preferences or dietary restrictions of the individuals celebrating the occasion, ensuring the chosen restaurant can accommodate everyone’s needs.
- Location and Accessibility: Choose a restaurant that is conveniently located and easily accessible for all attendees, minimizing travel hassles and making it more convenient for everyone to join in the celebration.
Remember, the perfect Chicago restaurant for a special occasion should not only have great food but also provide an overall experience that enhances the celebration.
Whether you’re raising a glass to a birthday, toasting an anniversary, celebrating a promotion, or embracing a fresh start post-divorce, these restaurants ensure that your special occasion is not just a meal but an unforgettable experience.
