Happy Valentine’s Day! In honor of this day, I thought I’d make this week all about date night spots I’ve loved around the city. Valentine’s Day is a beautiful reminder to celebrate the kind of love that grows deeper with time—whether it’s with a partner, a best friend, or even a solo date. A lifelong love is built on countless memories, and some of the best ones happen over a good meal. Whether it’s a place filled with nostalgia or a new spot waiting to be discovered, the right restaurant can make any night feel even more special. Here are some of my favorite date night restaurants in Chicago
1. Bazaar Meat by José Andrés – The Loop - We had dinner at Bazaar Meats for Valentine’s Day two years ago, and it was nothing short of fantastic. Our server was incredible, and it made the night very memorable. The Valentine's day menu was inventive, and the meat was delicious. There were many unique dishes that we loved, too including "The Philly Cheesesteak" which is a playful and elevated take on the classic sandwich. It was made with ribeye and a rich cheese sauce, and served on a crispy, buttery roll. This vibrant, upscale spot never disappoints, whether for a special occasion or a night out.
2. Elina's - West Town - Elina's is a super intimate and cozy spot in West Town on the edge of Fulton Market. The restaurant brings the classic luxury of Carbone to Chicago with its romantic atmosphere and exceptional Italian fare. Elina's was established by chefs Ian Rusnak and Eric Safin, who bring extensive experience from renowned kitchens in Chicago and New York. I think Elina's is a great place for a quiet, romantic dinner that feels both elegant and really personal.
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3. Sushi by Bou (The Emily Hotel) – West Loop - This restaurant has a fun 90s hip hop theme and offers an omakase experience that’s both affordable and quite good. The sushi chefs are very interactive and fun, and serve up delicious, high-quality nigiri and hand rolls, all while creating a lively yet intimate vibe that makes it one of my most fun dining experiences in Chicago.
4. El Che - West Loop – This Brazilian steakhouse has a more casual yet still intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting that creates a really cozy, date-night vibe. The menu is centered around wood-fired meats, with some of their standout cuts being the bone-in ribeye and tender short ribs. All of their steaks are grilled over an open flame. The delicious meats are served in a traditional churrascaria style, make it a great choice for meat lovers looking for a relaxed evening.
5. Boka – Lincoln Park - A Michelin-starred favorite, Boka serves a seasonal, contemporary American menu that blends flavors and has beautifully plated dishes. Their dishes range from seafood and meats to creative veggie dishes, all made with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The tasting menu is a great way to experience the chef’s creativity, and the elegant, intimate ambiance makes it an ideal choice for a special night out.
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