Celebrate the New Year at Chicago's Best Restaurants

Planning a New Year’s getaway to Chicago? Along with its iconic skyscrapers and holiday markets, the city offers an incredible culinary experience to ring in the season. Chicago, known for its diverse food scene, has many restaurants that will make the holiday season even more unforgettable. Here’s a selection of top dining spots to enjoy delicious food and festive atmosphere of the city.

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The Walnut Room, located on the 7th floor of Macy’s on State Street, is one of the country’s oldest continuously operating restaurants, opened in 1907. It is known for its massive 45-foot Christmas tree displayed during the holidays. The menu features favorites like the signature chicken pot pie, slow-roasted prime rib, and seasonal desserts. The Walnut Room also offers holiday-themed drinks and kid-friendly options, making it a popular choice for families during the festive season.

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Santa Baby Bar is a holiday pop-up bar located in Wrigleyville. Known for its extravagant Christmas-themed décor, including floor-to-ceiling lights, ornaments, and holiday displays, it creates a playful and immersive experience. The menu features holiday-inspired cocktails like spiked hot chocolate, candy cane martinis, and creative seasonal bites. With multiple themed rooms, photo opportunities, and a lively atmosphere, Santa Baby Bar is a popular spot for those looking to celebrate the holidays with drinks and fun.

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Asador Bastian in Chicago is a refined steakhouse located in the River North neighborhood. Known for its focus on Spanish-inspired cuisine and premium meats, the restaurant offers expertly prepared cuts of steak, including aged beef cooked over an open flame for exceptional flavor. The menu also features seasonal sides, housemade charcuterie, and fresh seafood options, showcasing top-quality ingredients. 

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Cindy’s Rooftop, located atop the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, offers stunning panoramic views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. Known for its elevated seasonal American menu, the restaurant features dishes crafted with local ingredients. Highlights include hearty shared plates, brunch options, and seafood offerings. The rooftop bar is equally popular, serving craft cocktails, wines, and local brews perfect. With its location and impressive menu, Cindy’s Rooftop is a go-to destination for those seeking great food and breathtaking scenery in downtown Chicago.

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Brindille, at 534 N Clark Street in Chicago, is a fine-dining destination celebrated for its modern interpretation of French cuisine. The menu highlights exquisite dishes such as foie gras, roasted chicken with truffle jus, and fresh seafood like scallops and lobster, prepared with seasonal ingredients. Desserts, such as a delicate tarte Tatin or decadent chocolate soufflé, offer a perfect conclusion to the meal.

The restaurant’s interior blends elegance with intimacy, featuring soft lighting, plush seating, and carefully curated décor that echoes the charm of a Parisian bistro. Brindille also has an extensive wine list with French vintages and champagne, paired expertly with its culinary offerings.

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Fioretta, located at 318 N Sangamon Street in Chicago, is a modern Italian steakhouse that blends classic Italian flavors with steakhouse favorites. This upscale eatery offers a menu featuring dishes like hand-cut steaks, lobster ravioli or creamy truffle risotto.

Fioretta’s starters include innovative takes on Italian classics, with options like burrata with fresh tomatoes or crispy calamari. For dessert, the tiramisu and house-made gelato are must-tries. The drink menu includes an impressive selection of wines, craft cocktails, and Italian aperitifs to complement the meal.

Holiday Offers at Fioretta

    Christmas Eve Dinner:
        Date: December 24, 2024
        Price: $110 per person
        Enjoy a special multi-course dinner that showcases the restaurant's Italian-American steakhouse cuisine, featuring seasonal ingredients and festive dishes.
    New Year’s Eve Dinner:
        Date: December 31, 2024
        Price: $25 per person (prepaid)
        Celebrate the New Year with a menu that includes a selection of delicious dishes prepared by Chef Joe Rizza.

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Housed in a restored Victorian building dating back to 1897, Chicago Chop House has been a symbol of fine dining in the heart of Chicago for over a century. The restaurant is famous for its ambiance, blending vintage charm with modern touches.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the steaks. Each cut is hand-selected and cooked over an open flame to preserve its natural, juicy flavor. However, Chicago Chop House offers more than just exceptional steaks. Fresh seafood, exquisite salads, and desserts crafted from signature recipes are also highlights of the menu.

With its elegant interior, soft lighting, and soothing music, the restaurant exudes luxury and tranquility. Chicago Chop House is the perfect venue for a celebratory dinner, a romantic date, or a business meeting, offering a setting that complements its outstanding cuisine.

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NoMI Kitchen is a fine dining restaurant located on the 7th floor of the Park Hyatt Chicago, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the cityscape. Executive Chef Terence Zubieta and his team craft modern twists on Midwestern classics, using the finest local ingredients. The seasonal menu is complemented by cocktails and an exclusive selection of wines.

Holiday Offers at Chicago Chop House

    Christmas Eve Dinner:
        Date: December 24, 2024
        Hours: 4 PM to 9 PM
        Guests can enjoy a special holiday menu featuring their legendary hand-cut USDA prime steaks, fresh seafood, and house-made sides in a festive setting.
    Christmas Day Dinner:
        Date: December 25, 2024
        Hours: 1 PM to 9 PM
        The restaurant will offer a similar holiday menu on Christmas Day, allowing families to celebrate with a delicious meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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Pizzeria Portofino is a pizzeria located in the heart of Chicago, along the Chicago Riverwalk. This spot combines delicious Italian cuisine, excellent service, and stunning views. The restaurant is known for its classic Neapolitan pizza, each made using traditional recipes with thin crust and a delicate sauce.

The menu extends beyond pizza, featuring a variety of Italian dishes, such as pasta, antipasti, salads, soups, and desserts.

Pizzeria Portofino also has a bar offering a selection of Italian wines and classic cocktails, making it the perfect pairing for pizza or other dishes. The restaurant frequently hosts events or special offerings, adding a unique touch to every visit.

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Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a popular upscale steakhouse located in the River North neighborhood of Chicago.

The menu at Bavette's is centered around high-quality steaks, including cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, and bone-in sirloin, all cooked to perfection. In addition to steaks, the menu includes a variety of seafood dishes, such as oysters and lobster, as well as sides like truffle fries, creamed spinach, and mac and cheese. The restaurant also offers a selection of handmade cocktails and an extensive wine list, perfect for pairing with its rich and flavorful dishes.