7 Romantic Restaurants In Chicago To Enjoy An Intimate Dinner
Image Credit: Ciccio Mio, Chicago

Finding a romantic restaurant that creates a perfect setting to enjoy an intimate dinner without making it too overwhelming is difficult. But in Chicago, you will find the perfect restaurants lined up with cosy restaurants that will give you the perfect shared dining experience with your loved one.

Laced with intricate decor with moody lights, these restaurants set a perfect backdrop to spark feelings of love and passion. Whether you want to enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner or celebrate your anniversary, these restaurants will make the night a memorable experience for you and your partner.

From renowned restaurants like North Pond to longstanding establishments like Geja’s Café, Chicago’s romantic restaurants will make you feel the nostalgic feelings of your relationship. Inducing the warmth of shared moments, these restaurants embrace the passion of love like nothing else.

7 Romantic Restaurants In Chicago To Spark Love

1) North Pond

Situated within the serene green Lincoln Park sanctuary, North Pond is a renowned eatery that has been a revered date night destination in Chicago since 1998. The low-country cuisine features dinner and brunch dishes that keep changing with the season. Offering reasonably priced dishes, this restaurant is ideal for young couples wanting to spend some time in picturesque views of the Lincoln Park lagoon. The menu features seasonal dishes and also includes a tasting menu with selected items. The recommended dishes like corn soup, short rib pie, lamb meatballs, and squid ink pasta are a must-try.

Location: 2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

Timings: Mon-Wed: Closed; Thu: 5:30–8 pm; Fri-Sat: 5:30–9 pm; Sun: 10:30 am–1 pm, 5:30–8 pm

Must Try: Corn Soup, Short Rib Pie, Lamb Meatballs, Squid Ink Pasta

Price for 2: $100 approx.

Image Credit: North Pond

2) Geja’s Café

Geja’s Café, established in 1965, has been a most liked destination for romantic evenings in Chicago. Having been around for over half a century, this restaurant offers an enchanting dinner experience paired with delectable fondue creations. The indulging Prince Geja Combination which is a four-course meal featuring cheese fondue, savory meats and chocolate finale is a must-try if you are visiting for the first time. Their premium fondue dinners also feature vegetarian delights with tofu and assorted vegetables.

Location: 340 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Timings: Mon-Thu: 5–8:45 pm; Fri: 4:30–9:45 pm; Sat: 4–9:45 pm; Sun: 4–8:45 pm

Must Try: Chocolate and Cheese Fondue,  The International Fondue, Prince Geja Combination, Lobster Tail

Price for 2: $150 approx.

3) Adalina

Adalina stands out with its glittery decor featuring crystal chandeliers, vintage mirrors and sumptuous Italian cuisine. This sophisticated restaurant serves delectable handmade pasta dishes in a cosy setting. The fusion of Italian and New American flavours makes every item on the menu a favourable treat. The seasonal menu features recommended dishes like charred octopus, campanelle and gnocco fritto. Along with this, you will find a tasting menu with selected delicacies and a selection of cocktails to set the mood.

Location: 912 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States

Timings: Mon-Wed: 4–9 pm; Thu-Fri: 4–10 pm; Sat: 11 am–10 pm; Sun: 10 am–2 pm

Must Try: Charred Octopus, Campanelle and Gnocco Fritto

Price for 2: $200 approx.

Image Credit: Adalina

4) Bistro Campagne

At Bistro Campagne, the rustic French flavours meet upscale elegance. This spot is one of the most exquisite patios adorned with twinkling lights, perfect for romantic evenings. The cosy and intimate interior with wood accents makes the dining experience memorable. With an exquisite menu featuring delectable French onion soup, steak frites, mussels, Parisian gnocchi and escargot, every dish ensures a delightful dinner. These classic dishes are created from fresh and locally sourced ingredients which gives an enchanting French countryside feeling.

Location: 4518 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Timings: Mon-Tue: Closed; Wed-Thu: 5:30–8:30 pm; Fri-Sat: 5:30–9 pm; Sun: 5:30–8:30 pm

Must Try:  French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, Mussels, Parisian Gnocchi and Escargot

Price for 2: $90 approx.

5) Ciccio Mio

Upon entering Ciccio Mio, you will be blown away by the gothic interior decorated with dim lighting, ornate décor, and vintage artwork. This intimate eatery serves classic Italian dishes crafted to redefine the romantic dining experience. The indulging favourites like spicy vodka rigatoni, lasagna rolls and chicken parm when paired with expertly crafted cocktails make the meal unforgettable. Their antipasti selection features dishes like focaccia, meatballs and burrata along with an antipasti platter. Each meal is accompanied by elegant wines and cocktails.

Location: 226 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654

Timings: Sun-Thu: 4–10:30 pm; Fri-Sat: 4–11 pm

Must Try: Spicy Vodka Rigatoni, Lasagna Rolls And Chicken Parm

Price for 2: $90 approx.

Image Credit: Ciccio Mio

6) Penumbra

Penumbra is a  Latin-inspired steakhouse which is a perfect venue to enjoy a flavourful dinner. The restaurant’s name reflects the dimly lit interior, which exudes romantic vibes. The ethereal floor-to-ceiling drapes along with candlelit tables create a perfect setting for an intimate dinner. The menu features a selection of gourmet steaks, seafood and vegetarian delicacies along with desserts. Dishes like flat iron steak, shrimp creole, pork tenderloin and charcuterie make up for a wholesome meal that ensures satisfaction.

Location: 3309 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Timings: Mon-Tue: Closed; Wed-Thu: 5–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 5–11 pm; Sun: 5–9 pm

Must Try: Flat Iron Steak, Shrimp Creole, Pork Tenderloin and Charcuterie

Price for 2: $150 approx.

7) The Press Room

The Press Room is a hidden gem situated beneath a century-old West Loop building. This intimate and quiet wine bar, with its vintage charm and romantic backdrop, gives an ideal place to evoke deep conversations. The dark and cosy ambience gets even better with their delectable menu featuring cheeses, charcuterie, and small plates along with an exquisite selection of curated cocktails and wines.  Savoury bites like raw oysters, tagliatelle bolognese and burrata are recommended pairings for craft cocktails.

Location: 1134 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Timings: Sun-Mon: Closed; Tue-Thu: 4–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 5 pm–12 am

Must Try: Raw Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese and Burrata 

Price for 2: $80 approx.

Image Credit: The Press Room

These charming places with dimly lit interiors and mesmerising decor along with delectable dishes will make your anniversary or Valentine’s Day dinner a delightful retreat. Engage in a pleasant dinner and create beautiful memories together in these romantic restaurants in Chicago.