Valentine's (or Galentine's) Restaurant Recs

Feb 13

Feb 13 Valentine's (or Galentine's) Restaurant Recs

However you choose to celebrate February 14th, it should definitely involve great food and good vibes. Check out some of our favorite spots in Chicago, from the perfect places to grab drinks with friends, to the chicest joints in town if you're planning to go all out for someone special.

Something Fancy

💖 If you're really gunning for a memorable experience, there's no place like The Aviary. While the prices are steep, this Fulton Market/West Loop bar is famous for its inventive and impeccably presented drinks. Think of it as a Michelin rated restaurant, but for drinks only.

💖 Swing by RM Champagne for incredible cocktails, an extensive wine list and desserts like macarons and mini cakes. The intimate cocktail bar gets pretty crowded, so expect to fight for a seat if you don't make reservations ahead of time. Afterwards, head next door to Green Street Meats for late night burgers and fries.

💖 Head on over to Gilt Bar for incredibly rich American and Italian-style food, from truffle pasta, ricotta gnocchi and bacon cheeseburgers, to more adventuresome options like charred Spanish octopus. Try to book a room downstairs for a candle-lit, speakeasy vibe near the bar and don't forget to snap a few photos in their black-and-white photo booth!

Something Fun

💖 You really can't go wrong at Mindy's Hot Chocolate. Prepare your stomach in advance to go overboard, whether you choose to indulge in their delicious mac and cheese or famous burgers. Definitely don't forget to save space for one of their many decadent desserts and of course, a cup of steaming hot chocolate!

💖 If you're looking for inventive and delicious takes on classic Mediterranean fare, look no further than Beatnik. Whether you plan to dine with someone special or your closest friends, be sure to book a table as this popular spot is bound to fill up quickly!

💖 For fun speakeasy vibes and a bustling crowd, Scofflaw is the perfect atmosphere to relax, indulge in some parmesan garlic fries and taste test all of their deliciously inventive cocktails, from the popular "Air Swizzle #23" (New Western gin, Cocchi Americano, Luxardo bitter, lemon and honey) to the rainbow colored "Whitehall Garden" (rye whiskey, Luxardo Maraschino, passion fruit, lemon, orgeat and Peychaud's).

Something Casual

💖 If you're looking for the perfect spot to grab drinks, Lost Lake tiki bar should become your new go-to. From flaming drinks, to creative rum-based cocktails and Asian fusion inspired sides, check out this Logan Square bar for great music, great drinks and a great time!

💖 For a blend of Portuguese and pan-Asian style cooking, Logan Square staple Fat Rice offers an entirely unique take on dim sum and street food. If you're looking for something experimental and authentic at the same time, this is the place to be.

💖 Who isn't ever in the mood for life changing tacos? Big Star in Wicker Park offers amazing tacos at decent princes in addition to plenty of beer, whiskey and tequila/mezcal options. Stop by for loud music, friendly crowds and plenty of food!