Chicago is arguably the best-looking city in the country. And when you want to pair a killer meal with a look at that skyline, you have options.
You want a spot that delivers on the food and the scenery without feeling like a tourist trap.
We asked our Facebook page of locals where they send friends when they want a meal with a view that impresses, and there were some clear favorites.
If you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a big date, here’s where Chicagoans go when they want dinner with a backdrop.
1. LondonHouse Rooftop
If Chicago had a single spot that defines “night out in the city,” this is it.
Located right at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, locals call it the best overall experience for soaking in the architecture—you are practically eye-level with the iconic Wrigley Building clock tower.
The cocktails are sharp, but for a full meal, the LH Burger or the Miso Salmon are the way to go. It’s the kind of place you go to lock in a second date.
Pro moves: Reservations for the outdoor terrace disappear weeks in advance. If you can’t snag a table, try for an early drink right when they open to catch the sunset hitting the river.
📍85 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 (The Loop)
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2. Gibson’s Italia
Located in the West Loop where the river branches, this is the refined, modern brother to the classic Rush Street steakhouse.
It sits right at the bend of the water, giving you a vantage point that feels cinematic.
People rave about the Gold Extruded pasta and the 7-year aged Parmesan, but it’s the floor-to-ceiling windows that steal the show.
It’s perfect for when you want the “real Chicago” feel but with more gloss than the old-school joints. Expect a “dressed up” crowd here—leave the sneakers at the hotel.
📍 233 N Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606 (West Loop)
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3. Tre Dita
Tucked inside the St. Regis in Lakeshore East, this place is stunning. A lot of locals now rank this near the top because it feels incredibly high-end without being stiff.
You get sweeping views of the river and Lake Michigan from a perspective most tourists never see.
The Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Tuscan steak) is the move here. It’s a massive, wood-fired cut meant for sharing. If you want a room that feels like a major event, this is it.
📍401 E Wacker Dr, 2nd Fl, Chicago, IL 60601
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4. Miru
The outdoor terrace has an incredible view of Navy Pier. Via mirurestaurant.com
Also in the St. Regis, but bringing a totally different energy. While Tre Dita is moody and rich, Miru is bright, airy, and focused on incredible Japanese food.
The outdoor terrace here is arguably one of the best in the city for viewing Navy Pier. Locals love it for the Crispy Rice Tuna and the Black Cod.
It’s not just about dinner, though; watching the morning light hit the lake from here over breakfast is a pro-level Chicago move.
📍401 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
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5. Terrace 16
Located on the 16th floor of the Trump International Hotel & Tower, this spot offers a similar stunning view to LondonHouse but often with a slightly more relaxed pace.
The outdoor patio is massive, but even in February, the indoor seating offers huge windows that frame the Wrigley Building perfectly.
It’s the one locals mention when they want a reliable winner where the food—specifically the Duck Confit—is actually the star, not just an afterthought to the scenery.
📍401 N Wabash Ave, 16th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
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6. North Pond
This is the opposite of the downtown skyscrapers. Tucked away in the middle of Lincoln Park, it looks back at the skyline over a quiet pond.
It feels like a secret cabin, just with Michelin-level food.
Tourist Note: This one is tricky to find. You’ll need to have your Uber drop you at the edge of the park (near Cannon Dr) and walk the path to the restaurant.
📍 2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
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7. Pizzeria Portofino
Pizzeria Portofino has a water level patio which offers a different perspective than rooftop views.
Right on the Riverwalk at Clark Street, this place has a killer patio and spritzes that never disappoint.
Being right at water level gives you a different perspective than the rooftops—you’re watching the boats float by while eating Charcoal-Crusted Pizza or the Spicy Tuna Fusilli.
It’s loud, it’s fun, and it feels like a vacation. Great for a group of friends or a more casual date night.
📍 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
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8. Smith and Wollensky
Smith and Wollensky offers floor to ceiling views and you can watch the river boats go by. Via Smith & Wollensky’s IG page.
You go here for the lower-level windows in the winter. It sits right on the river in the Marina City complex (the “corncob” buildings).
There is something satisfying about eating a massive dry-aged ribeye while watching the city move just outside the glass.
Locals say it’s perfect for people who want aggressive American seasoning and a view that screams “Old Chicago.”
📍318 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
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9. NoMi
Perched above the Park Hyatt, NoMi offers a view of the city’s energy—specifically the Water Tower and Michigan Avenue—rather than just the river.
It’s sophisticated, polished, and very “Gold Coast.”
The sushi platters are always excellent, and the service is some of the best in the city. It’s great for a classic vibe without feeling stuck in the past.
📍 800 N Michigan Ave, 7th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
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10. Bazaar Meat
Located in the Bank of America tower at the edge of the river, this isn’t just a steakhouse; it’s a meat temple by José Andrés. The dining room has massive windows overlooking the river and the Civic Opera House.
It’s dramatic, theatrical, and the food is wild. You have to try the Cotton Candy Foie Gras or the Vaca Vieja (Spanish-style aged beef).
If you want a view paired with a meal that feels like a Broadway show, this is your spot.
Bottom line? You’re not going to have a bad view at any of these places. Chicago’s dining scene is deep. But if you want the ones locals are willing to fight over for a Valentine’s reservation—these are them.
📍120 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606 (The Loop)
