Where to Eat in River North Chicago
Every year my family and I take a trip to Chicago, it’s an easy getaway for us since we live in Michigan. We are big city lovers and we also love food (and desserts!) so it’s pretty much fitting for us to travel there when we want a change of scenery. There are a few restaurants that are ALWAYS on our list when we're trying to decide where to eat in River North Chicago. And I mean we drool about them when we aren’t in Chicago and can’t wait to go back so we can have more. Check them out below!
Best Breakfast in the Chicago River North
BEATRIX RIVER NORTH
Beatrix River North Location
Now, I wish I could tell you that I’ve had all the items on their menu, but that would be a lie. I’m the type of person who finds a really great meal and I don't stray away to try something new because I love it so much. So, if you're anything like me and you love the basics--eggs, toast, hash browns, and bacon--well, their Eggs Your Way is your best bet! And let me tell you, you won’t regret it (there is even a gluten-free version. It’s the best GF toast I’ve had)! Their bacon has brown sugar on it…enough said! Not only is the food great, but the atmosphere is very comfortable. A very trendy yet neighborhood vibe. Every time we've dined in, they have had great service and the staff is super friendly.
Eggs Your Way Breakfast (Gluten-Free version)
Beatrix River North
Did Someone Say Best Pizza in Chicago?
I personally can't eat a lot of pizza, I love it, don’t get me wrong–but my body, unfortunately, doesn’t. So it’s a very rare occasion when I can partake. With that being said, when we are in Chicago, I say, “When in Rome…or Chicago!” I pop a Pepcid and only for the best…
LOU MALNATI’S
That’s right! Their pizza is superior. The flakey pie-like crust, the ooey-gooey cheese, the sauce, I mean it’s the chef’s kiss. It’s so fresh and yummy. I’m drooling. Heads up, perfection takes time, you will wait about 45 minutes to get your pizza. That's the trade-off when you opt for made-to-order vs. ready-made pizza. Trust the process, it is worth it, I promise. I may be biased because it’s the only pizza that hasn’t given me a stomachache. But that, in itself, speaks volumes about this pizza and its quality and ingredients.
Every once in a while, my family and I will plan ahead and order the pizza frozen through Taste of Chicago. Yes, you can do that. It’s expensive, but if you love Chicago-style pizza, I highly suggest checking it out. You may even find a few other Chicago faves on the nationwide menu.
Where to Find Desserts in River North?
Sprinkles Cupcake ATM in Chicago, Illinois
SPRINKLES CUPCAKES
I’m not kidding you, when I go to Chicago I lose all inhibitions when it comes to this place. Sprinkles Cupcakes are my kryptonite. I can’t help it. We don’t have one in Michigan – if only we did! It’s like I forget these cupcakes are made with sugar. When we arrive in Chicago we immediately plan our trek to Sprinkles. Get a cupcake each, then go back on the last day of our trip to cash out before hitting the road. Like, really? Who am I? I don’t eat like that at home. But, “When in Rome…I mean Chicago,” right? The cake has such great flavor, you could do without the frosting if you wanted, but who does that? They have amazing cake to frosting ratio. Some of my favorite flavors are Red Velvet, Carrot Cake, and their seasonal S’more Cupcake. YUM! This time I left there with The Sprinkles Baking Book so I can make their treats at home…until I go back again of course ;).
FIRECAKES DONUTS
I'm going to let you in on a little secret, you must try the Apple Fritter. But if you do make sure there's enough left for me! We discovered Firecakes when we saw Tiffany Blue boxes being carried all around the city. Naturally, as sweet people, we were curious. After some investigation, we were led to our destination. A small corner bakery with a walk-up window and standing-only lobby. They had an assortment of delicious looking donuts. But when my eyes met this beautiful apple pastry, I knew where my heart lay. The cinnamon apple goodness. The layering of apples throughout the entire fritter--unlike most bakeries, iykyk. This apple fritter was frittering. Firecakes Donuts will definitely get another visit from me next time we are in town!
OTHER PLACES I RECOMMEND WHILE VISITING CHICAGO:
RPM Italian
We didn’t go this time around because we had our son with us, but this is a great date place with high-end Italian food. We have gone a handful of times and it has never been a disappointment, the service is wonderful.
52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654
Levain Bakery
These classic NY-style chunky cookies are to die for and they serve them warm. Who doesn't love a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven cookie?!
408 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
L.A. Burdick Chocolates
If you are a chocolate lover, this place will have you drooling as soon as you walk in. You can smell the coffee and chocolatey goodness, even through a mask.
609 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
Why stay in River North Chicago?
It’s centrally located where you can still walk everywhere, but it’s less congested. When my husband and I made our first couple of trips to Chicago, we stayed on Michigan Avenue. But in the last few years, we've discovered a love for River North because it allows you to explore more like a local. You can also enjoy the abundant nightlife scene with trendy clubs, bars, and music venues.
Where to stay in River North Chicago?
Hyatt Place Chicago/River North
Fairfield Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown/River North
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
River North is easily walkable to everything on Michigan Avenue and I recommend it. Not only will you save money but it's part of the whole experience. Just make sure you have your walking shoes.
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