Top Picks for Chicago Restaurant Week Date Nights

Chicago food-lovers, rejoice! Chicago Restaurant Week is back and (maybe, just maybe) better than ever! Aside from the usual fixed price menus you have come to expect in years past, some restaurants now have other offerings like Restaurant Week to-go with carryout menus and additional cocktail courses for dine-in menus. Combine all those fun additions with the fact that this year’s “week” is actually two full weeks (running from March 19 - April 4) and we all have so much to look forward to in the coming days 🥂

There are PLENTY of restaurants and bars participating this year so we are organizing our picks by occasion, starting with the ever-important date night out. These dinners are the perfect excuse to get your fancy meal on, and these are just the spots to provide an intimate and delicious evening…

BLVD Steakhouse {817 West Lake Street, Chicago; 312.526.3116}: After being closed for some of the winter, BLVD is back in action and serving all your favorites like Steak Frites, Onion Soup Fondue and Sticky Toffee Pudding. Dig in under one of their iconic chandeliers while getting cozy in a corner booth and you’ve got the making of an epic night indeed.

Prime & Provisions

Prime & Provisions {222 North Lasalle Street; 312.726.7777}: Steakhouses are always a great bet for either a classic date night or an amazing Restaurant Week deal. Now you can get both in one meal of Filet Mignon, House-Flared Thick-Cut Bacon and Banana Cream Pie with Prime & Provisions.

Shanghai Terrace {The Peninsula, 108 East Superior Street, Chicago; 312.573.6695}: Not ready for a date night on the town just yet? No worries! You can bring The Peninsula home with Shanghai Terrace’s amazing carryout menu of Golden Shrimp, Spicy Wok-Fried Beef Tenderloin and White Chocolate Cake. Keep it simple and scrumptious on the sofa!

Aba {302 North Green Street, 3rd Floor, Chicago; 773.645.1400}: Small plate places like Aba are perfect for a double date during Restaurant Week because with the proper order planning, your small group can try a whole host of favorite dishes in a single meal. Not to miss for this year? The Slow-Braised Leg of Lamb Wrapped in Eggplant on the dinner menu * chef’s kiss *

Duck Duck Goat

Duck Duck Goat {857 West Fulton Market, Chicago; 312.902.3825}: Tables are booking up FAST for this Stephanie Izard restaurant and it’s easy to see why. With a menu that includes Xi’an Goat Slap Noodles, Veggie Fried Rice and Jiaozi potstickers, diners will be able to try an array of the very best at this hot spot, all in one decadent meal.

The Smith {400 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.312.5100}: Dates don’t have to just be for dinner! Make a lunch or brunch date this month too - because The Smith has you covered with a menu for every meal. The brunch menu does include Churro Waffles, though, so that might just be the winner 😍

Haisous Vietnamese Kitchen {1800 South Carpenter Street, Chicago; 773.999.1800}: Pick up their much-loved Lemongrass Braised Chicken or Dried Squid Salad for an amazing meal of creative dishes you won’t find almost anywhere else in the city. You can also have it delivered to make it extra easy on you!

Testaccio Chicago

Testaccio {2456 North California, Chicago; 773.661.6028}: Pasta for two please! From Bucatini Carbonara to Orecchiette di Cacio e Pepe, this cozy Logan Square spot is equally perfect for an anniversary celebration or family meal.

Swift & Sons Tavern and Oyster Bar {3600 North Clark Street, Chicago; 773.360.0207}: Get a more casual taste of your favorite steakhouse at their Wrigleyville tavern. They put a more creative twist on protein-packed dishes like Sticky Ribs with cilantro and chiles or Grilled Branzino Frites in a bright and welcoming interior.

Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio {1020 West Madison Avenue, Chicago; 312.888.3041}: Another great carryout menu from a truly exceptional team! Try their Whole Bird Chicken Parm and Spaghetti al Pomodoro, all from the comfort of home.

Make your plans and set your reservations ASAP to make the most of the next few weeks in our amazing food city!

By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor