The Top 5 Restaurants for Date Night in Chicago, IL
When planning an evening out with your significant other, you want to make sure that things go perfectly. Whether it’s your first date or you’ve been together for a while, selecting a restaurant that shows you considered their needs and wants expresses an appreciation for their company and an understanding of their person. Chicago, Illinois, has a wonderful selection of fine establishments ideal for an unforgettable date night. Read on to learn about the top five restaurants we suggest for date night in Chicago.
Virtue Restaurant
Waiting for dinner by Sheila Sund is licensed with CC BY 2.0
Located in Chicago’s Hyde Park, Virtue Restaurant and Bar specializes in America’s Southern cuisine with classic flavors and inventive concepts. Having just won recognition from the James Beard Foundation, chef and owner Erick Williams has created a thoughtful menu sure to fill your bellies and warm your hearts.
When you go, we suggest you begin your meal with gumbo. It’s a delectable dish of chicken, andouille sausage, and Carolina gold rice seasoned to perfection. Then try the salmon, served with red kale, sweet peppers, and baby potatoes. Finish off your meal with something sweet. Customers love the peach cobbler made with Stover’s Farm peaches served with a sweet biscuit and vanilla bean ice cream.
Virtue Restaurant and Bar is at 1462 E. 53rd St. Business hours of operation are from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Virtue is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Make things easier on yourself and plan your romantic evening by booking a reservation online via the website. For more information or to learn about hosting your next special event at Virtue, call 773-947-8831.
S.K.Y.
Adding a personal touch to his business and craft, Chef Gillanders at S.K.Y. used his wife’s initials to inspire the restaurant’s name. After a decade of experience in various high-quality restaurants, Gillanders decided to establish his own space and chose a location in Pilsen, Chicago. Upon entering, you’ll notice that the decor is meticulously chosen to create a relaxed yet romantic vibe. The staff is highly professional and attentive, ensuring your romantic evening goes smoothly.
For starters, up the romance level by sharing something off the appetizer menu. You can’t go wrong with the Maine lobster dumplings. Many loyal customers rave about the heirloom tomato salad served with warm corn pudding and a basil vinaigrette. If you like seafood, order the grilled swordfish steak with green chickpeas. If you prefer Southern-inspired meals, try the S.K.Y. fried chicken. This satisfying meal is crisped to perfection and served with fermented hot sauce and creamed corn.
S.K.Y. is at 1239 W. 18th St., right here in Chicago. Hours of operation are from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday and Monday and from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Brunch is also served on the weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, call 312-846-1077.
Porto
This Michelin-starred restaurant is the ultimate way to bring the romance of Spain and Portugal to Chicago. Porto specializes in wild-caught and imported seafood, gourmet tinned seafood, and exclusive wines. The decor and ambiance are reminiscent of the Atlantic coast, and a meal here feels like a mini vacation. Soft velvet chairs and a romantically lit room illuminated with a fire add to the ambiance.
The food is equally impressive. Options include seasonal specials and a tasting menu. Order the fired-roasted oysters if you’re lucky to catch them on the menu. Often regarded as an aphrodisiac, these delectable little bites come with six per order and are served with a housemade sauce for dipping. If you want to try a bit of everything, consider sharing a meal by ordering off the tasting menu. The tuna is an option that won’t disappoint.
Porto is at 1600 W. Chicago Ave. Regular business hours are from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Thursday through Sunday. Porto is closed Monday through Wednesday. For more information or to learn about hosting your next birthday, anniversary, or special event, call 312-600-6336.
Mon Ami Gabi
Nothing says romance like French food. Mon Ami Gabi is located in the trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood and has brought a new level of cuisine to this already wonderful area. As you enter this restaurant, your senses will be surrounded by the delicious aromas of French cuisine and elegant decor. Executive Chef David Koehn brings his lifetime of experience and inventive style to the menu for truly creative and authentic flavors.
The diverse menu is ever-changing but includes items such as duck confit with red cabbage and bacon, trout almondine with fresh green beans, and roast chicken with mushrooms. Classic French flavors reimagined give the traditional a new life.
Mon Ami Gabi is at 2300 N. Lincoln Park West. The restaurant is open from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday. On Sunday, brunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner is from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information or to learn about their catering service for your next private event, call 773-348-8886.
The Bristol
The Bristol is an elegant and sophisticated location in Bucktown serving American cuisine featuring seasonal flavors. Chef Larry Feldmeier was born and raised in Chicago, understands the value of responsible consumption, and has established a gardening program. Menu options include traditional flavors but often swap out various seasonal vegetables to give a fresh twist to each option.
The Bristol presents an ever-changing tasting menu. Check the website for updates and availability. The restaurant is at 2152 N. Damen Ave. It is open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. For more information or to learn about the private dining experience, call 773-862-5555.
So, there you have it. Spot Migration Co. has enjoyed sharing our suggestions for the top five restaurants for date night in Chicago. We think these places are ideal locations to boost your relationship’s romance, spark, and connection. They offer spectacular food in a romantic setting. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite place for a romantic meal and intimate conversation? If we did, please leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we’ll be happy to check out your ideas. You might even find your suggestion featured on our list in the future.
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