
Unparalleled Ambience: Since opening in 1965, Geja’s Cafe in Lincoln Park has earned its status as Chicago’s ultimate destination for a romantic dinner, with cozy candlelit booths and live flamenco and classical guitarists helping to create the ultimate atmosphere for a fondue meal. Throughout its history, countless first dates, anniversaries and marriage proposals have taken place inside Geja’s wine bottle-lined walls.
What to Order: The four-course Premier Dinner starts with dipping breads, fruits and vegetables into a pot of melted Gruyere cheese followed by a salad with Geja’s Dijon vinaigrette. Move on to an entree fondue of beef tenderloin, chicken or seafoods (lobster, shrimp and scallops)—or any combination thereof—served with vegetables and eight house-made sauces for dipping. A third fondue awaits for dessert, consisting of Belgian chocolate, marshmallows and other sweets for your dipping pleasure.
And since no romantic night is complete without wine, Geja’s has a vast selection of European, domestic and South American reds, whites, rosés and champagnes available by the bottle or glass. Geja’s is hosting its 44th Annual Champagne Festival featuring Louis Roederer Champagnes and sparklings through February.
Not Just for Love: For all its reputation as the place for dates and couples’ nights, the communal nature of fondue dining means that Geja’s is ideal for any special occasion, like old friends or family members visiting from out-of-town or co-workers celebrating a recent success. And there’s never a need to rush through the meal. Guests are encouraged to take their time through the meal, relax, listen to the music and enjoy each other’s company.
Local Institution: Geja’s Café is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025, having started in Old Town and moving to the Lincoln Park space it has called home since 1971. It’s adapted to the times by adding vegetarian options and seasonal fondues in recent years, while retaining the essence of what has made it a mainstay of the North Side’s dining scene, fantastic food and wine in a one-of-a-kind setting.