Best Spots for a Romantic Dinner in Chicago

Alinea

Making the decision to have a romantic dinner at Alinea might lead to one of the strangest dining experiences you and your date will ever have. But of course, I mean strange in a good way. And when I use the word experience, I do mean experience. Because a romantic dinner at Alinea is not simply a meal, it is a chance to witness something new, a chance to taste art and science. Sort of a school for your mouth. And a bit of a field trip for you. Alinea is a sleek restaurant located in a inconspicuous town home. Its minimalist atmosphere would almost seem cold if it weren’t so beautiful. The almost bare rooms allow the attention to remain on the food though. The food comes two ways. Either as part of a 12 tasting course or 24 tasting tour. I could describe the food for you, but I think half the fun of having a romantic dinner at Alinea is in the anticipation. Just go knowing that your romantic dinner could last two to five hours and at times you might need instructions on how to eat your food. And whatever you do, just enjoy the experience. Oh, and you might need to check your bank account beforehand. A romantic dinner for two will run between $300 and $500. Alinea is located at 1723 North Halstead, Chicago, Illinois. You must make reservations: 312-867-0110. Alinea is open Wednesday through Sunday.

Signature Room at the 95^th

Located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center, the Signature Room offers one of the most romantic backdrops for a romantic dinner anyone could ever hope for. It is a lovely restaurant where you can easily enjoy a romantic dinner with the lights of Chicago dancing all around you. The Signature Room serves American cuisine with such menu items as Pekin Duck Breast, Double Cut Pork Chop, Slow Roasted Rack of Lamb, Springer Mountain Organic Chicken, and Seared Northern Pike. Entrée prices are around $30 to $40. Sides, such as White Cheddar Potatoes, are around $7. Appetizers, such as Warm Marinated Shrimp, are around $10 to $15. Desserts, such as White and Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake, are around $9. The Signature Room also has a nice wine selection. After your romantic dinner, you may want to head up to the Signature Lounge located on the 96^th floor and enjoy the view together as well as one of their signature cocktails. The Signature Room at the 95th is located at 875 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL. It is recommended that you make reservations several days in advance: 312-787-9596.

Everest

Located on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange, Everest offers fine dining, delicious French cuisine, and a spectacular view fit for any romantic dinner. For the best experience select the chef’s eight course degustation menu and try to be seated near a window. Expect to spend at least $100 on a romantic dinner for two. But know that the food actually is worth it. Everest is located at 440 South LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois. For reservations call 312-663-8920.

Café Matou

For appetizing French cuisine at a more affordable price, try having your romantic dinner at Café Matou. Café Matou is a comfortable restaurant, with a courteous wait staff, and a warm atmosphere. Menu items consist of such items as Roast Chicken stuffed under the skin with a panade of butter, tarragon, garlic, cognac, and onion; Lamb Shank braised with garlic, tomato, white wine, fresh rosemary, and citrus zest; and Poached Atlantic Salmon served with Chablis-horseradish cream sauce. A romantic dinner for two at Café Matou will most likely be around $50. Café Matou is located at 1846 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.