Any excuse to dine out is valid, but sometimes a special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, or promotion is all the more reason to up the ante. Concierge love these six Chicago eateries are perfect to celebrate life’s greatest moments.
Ocean Prime
Mel Baker, Swissotel
Classic steak and seafood with a sophisticated, upscale vibe and a robust wine list make Ocean Prime a…well, a ‘prime’ spot to clink your glass. Choose from a variety of sushi rolls, indulge in the raw bar, and sink your teeth into a filet and some sides – smoked gouda tater tots anyone?
Carnivale
David Moore – Allegro Hotel
Carnivale’s festive, energetic vibe and incredible eats just scream ‘celebration’! There’s always something to see while you dine, like Salsa dancers and stunning artwork you don’t want to miss. Try the Rum Cured Salmon or the Lechon Asado and follow it up with one of their oh-so-’grammable desserts like the organic cotton candy or the Cuban cigar.
Maple + Ash
Matthew Carr – Viceroy Chicago
Sit back and relax at this posh Gold Coast go-to. Led by two-Michelin star Chef Danny Grant, Maple + Ash is a hotspot for wood-fired steaks and seafood like the 28 day dry-aged bone-in ribeye and the whole roasted branzino. Treat yourself to a Butcher’s Reserve that includes the Snake River Waygu Strip and the Eisenhower – a 40oz cut.
Cite
Shannon Boland – LondonHouse Chicago Hotel
Views on views on views! Head up to the top of Lake Point Tower to experience stunning panoramic, 360 degree views of the city and lakefront and enjoy upscale American food with French influences. From caviar service to the main course (try the Lobster Tail or the Maple Leaf Duck Breast!) Cite is an all-encompassing celebration haven.
Publican
Mat Chapman – JW Marriott
Celebrate with everyone at Publican, where global brews, communal tables, and creative seafood and pork-focused dishes are the name of the game. There’s something for everyone on the menu, from oysters, to veggie dishes, to seafood, and a bunch of meat options. Can’t decide? Let the chef make up an eclectic multi-course menu just for you!
North Pond Cafe
Andrea Behrstock – The Drake Hotel
A 2019 Michelin star winner, North Pond offers a gorgeous setting to complement locally-sourced menu items like halibut, pork tenderloin, and rabbit. Looking to try a little bit of everything? Indulge in their seasonal tasting menu where you can bite into five dishes with delicious flavor combos – don’t forget to add the expert wine pairing!