It’s time to start planning your show floor outfit, because the National Restaurant Association Show is only a little over a week away. To help you make the most of your time visiting and venturing Chicago, the Show Talk Team put in the together another elite list of the best places to dine, wine and entertain in Gold Coast. That’s because deals don’t get done in conference rooms and opportunity isn’t seized on Teams calls.
In the list that follows, click on the names to get a lengthier look, or head straight to reading reviews and making reservations.
Restaurants & Bars
The Bellevue
1031 N. Rush St.
Chicago, IL 60611
With a name that translates to “beautiful view,” The Bellevue sets sky-high expectations. And with its luxurious ambiance and sophisticated socializing, The Bellevue follows through the promise its name provides. Here, there’s classy American fare and a patio fit for 100 people.
Maple & Ash
8 W. Maple St.
Chicago, IL 60610
Mixing a modern aesthetic and authentic service, Maple & Ash rises to the top of many lists of best steakhouses in Chicago. You’ll want to come in for the chef-crafted tasting menu (spiritedly named, ““I DON’T GIVE A F*@K”) and before 6pm for Tower Hour—a selection of seafoods and classic cocktails.
Luxbar
18 E. Bellevue Pl.
Chicago, IL 60611
With an atmosphere that seems imported from a simpler era, Luxbar is elegant without spectacular fanfare. Come here for delicious dishes like filet mignon sliders, double patty cheeseburgers made with Gibson’s Prime Angus plus caramelized onions, and a “Build-Your-Own-Manhattan” menu.
Brass Tack
11 E. Walton St. 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60611
Featuring American cuisine prepared with classic techniques and an extensive bar program outfitted with passionate mixologists, Brass Tack is both bold and laid back. It’s an intimate environment paired with impeccable service and located on the third floor of the Waldorf Astoria.
Le Colonial
57 E. Oak St.
Chicago, IL 60611
Candlelit tables. White tablecloths. Palm trees and inviting woven chairs. This French-Vietnamese spot is a one-of-a-kind restaurant softly perched above Oak Street and cozied in a corner of Gold Coast. It exudes timeless sophistication and a menu of unforgettable dishes like pho, cha gio (fried spring rolls) and sup do bien.
Nightlife
Hopsmith Tavern
15 W. Division St.
Chicago, IL 60610
This local hotspot is a popular destination for happy hours—with $5 you-call-it drinks and $20 appetizer towers. But it’s more than that. Hopsmith Tavern hosts trivia (for shows like New Girl or Schitt’s Creek), games nights (like a Euchre League) and private parties.
Dublin’s Bar & Grill
1050 N. State St.
Chicago, IL 60610
Character is the backbone of Dublin’s. People pack the patio and gather round the bar at all hours—because this destination serves food morning through late-night (4am, actually) and never stops pouring pints of Guinness (again, 4am). There’s no better place to enjoy pub fare faves.
Sparrow
12 W. Elm St.
Chicago, IL 60610
Sparrow is prestigious. Located in the lobby of an old Art Deco apartment building, it offers a relatively quiet and intimate space. It’s a common watering hole for professionals of all ages who want an old school aura and comfortable plush furnishings instead of rocky barstools.
Events & Entertainment
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 E. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
The Museum of Contemporary Art engages with audiences of today and promotes art for tomorrow. It’s a space for dialogue, learning and growth. Here, you’ll find a careful curation of exhibitions and events, as well as an opportunity for coffee, drinks and a bite at the restaurant, Marisol.
Magnificent Mile
Need athletic apparel or a tailored suit? Want to pick up a luxury handbag or some gourmet chocolates? The Magnificent Mile goes a long way (a mile long, even) to satisfy any shopping desire you could imagine. Even if you’re just window shopping, the view and the steps are worth it.
Chicago Murder Mystery Tour
806 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
Dive into the high-profile, true crime history of Chicago. See the streets Al Capone walked and stop by the Original Playboy Mansion. Then, solve the case causing this noir-inspired journey. Just don’t forget to bring a water bottle and sunscreen.
Looking for other local neighborhood recos? We’ve got you covered
Courtesy of Esrock Partners, a food marketing agency located near Chicago, Illinois that specializes in the food, beverage and foodservice industries and their current market trends. For a close-up of our capabilities, see our services.