We are from Kansas City and are extremely huge foodies. We have been trying to dine at Alinea since COVID first started. We are huge fans of Grant and the Alinea Group. They create and maintain excellent food and a dramatic experience. Finally, in April, we were able to visit Alinea for our anniversary. It did not disappoint!From the moment you walk into Alinea, you arr greated and taken care of like your family. The restaurant and the staff are not stuffy nor snobby, which is likely hard to do because of the level of food you're enjoying. The food is like a full culinary experience. Think of it like a movie. Thr staff is trained to truly understand every single element. They take the time to explain the dish, the region it's from, and even help you walk through how the chef intended it to be eaten.The experience blew our minds!If you can have the time, the money (it's not cheap), and an open mind, you will NOT REGRET dining at Alinea.Vegetarian options: You can request anything ahead of time and they will accommodate.Dietary restrictions: You can request anything ahead of time and they will accommodate.Parking: Street parking is limited, and the building has no sign, so you likely could miss it.Kid-friendliness: Ahhh, no, I would say not. Unless your children are amazing.Wheelchair accessibility: Stairs everywhere are so likely not easy to do.
I may be a little late on my post but WOW what an incredible experience. From the moment you set foot into the restaurant, it becomes a different world. My group and I reserved the large room by the kitchen. We enjoyed the synchrony and organized chaos of the staff as they prepared meals. Food, visual, texture…on point!Will be back again
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Anna Remos
Alinea is such a fantastic experience. What surprised me most was how fun it was, I was expecting it to be stuffy but the staff, presentation and meals themselves are so fun and inviting. It's a very warm environment. I've sat in the Salon and the Kitchen and both were phenomenal experiences. Getting to see the kitchen was definitely a (probably!) one-in-a-lifetime type of experience.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Our experience at Alinea was absolutely amazing and unforgettable! From the moment we stepped in, we were treated to exceptional service and an extraordinary culinary journey. The attention to detail in every dish and the creativity behind the presentations were truly impressive. It's a dining experience that we will cherish forever. Highly recommend Alinea for anyone looking for a culinary adventure!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
William Taylor
Yup, if you know you know
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Steven King
Food was awesome, staff were super cool, and the experience was way worth the price. Most really expensive food places are just that, expensive and good food. But the price is never really justified. Alinea is definitely that next step up.Huge bonus - I'm allergic to fish, which my work didn't tell them about before hand. So I showed up and just said I was, thinking I'd just miss out on a few courses. The chef actually just wiped up some alternate options for each course that included fish. Even printed me out a custom menu at the end with what I ate vs what everyone else ate.10 out of 10. It is very expensive but totally worth it.Dietary restrictions: I am allergic to fish. They offered alternate versions of every course with seafood in it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Keva Li
Alinea is an inventive American restaurant in Chicago. Dining here is akin to eating art pieces in a museum. Reservations open 3 months prior and I was lucky to snag one on the first day I landed. It is the only 3 Michelin star restaurant in Chicago and befits its title. Each dish was crafted by Chef Chaz with perfection, capitalizing on delivering an explosion of flavors. My most favorite of the night was their Auberdines and Osetra Uni preparations. They ended the course with a Jackson Pollock painting where the entire table becomes the Chef’s canvas as he festoons with his delights. You can’t help but indulge in the culinary delight before you. You also get a very sweet tarty balloon filled with helium and seal it with a kiss to absorb its contents. The meal was especially filling and creative, perfect for any foodies cravings.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Bardia Khanfekr
Dining at Alinea was an experience like no other. From the moment we stepped in, the service was impeccable, setting the stage for an extraordinary culinary journey.The courses were not just about the food; they were a masterpiece of flavors, textures, and creativity. Each dish was meticulously crafted and presented, showcasing a blend of ingredients that delighted the senses in unexpected ways.What sets Alinea apart is not just the food but the entire experience. The attention to detail, the innovative presentation, and the seamless flow of each course made for a truly memorable dining adventure.But it wasn't just the food that impressed; it was the entire atmosphere and service. The staff were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, ensuring that every moment was enjoyable and personalized.Overall, Alinea is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that leaves a lasting impression. If you're looking for an exceptional dining experience that goes beyond just great food, Alinea is a must-visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Justin Garabedian
For the price point and the hype, I expected flawless execution at Alinea. The restaurant notified us prior to service that the meal starts promptly at the scheduled time. To ensure timeliness, we were dropped off by our driver 12 minutes prior to service. What they didn’t tell us is that we would be left outside more than 5 minutes past the start of service in the cold (December 2022) without cover. To add insult, service started 25 minutes late as there was clearly a couple they were waiting for. For a restaurant that prides themselves in perfect execution, they forgot our table twice when delivering food to the tables. The meal was good, pairings were well done. Several dishes were magical - but the service left much to be desired and didn't make up for the clear service failures. Not a 3-star level of service.
I drove in from out of town with my family of 8 and asked if they could take any walk-ins and they said no. My 2 and 3 year olds were screaming there heads off and they weren't very helpful. I asked if they at least had a kids menu with chicken nuggets and fries and they didn't even have that. They're also a little expensive. I think they charge about $300 a person, but I think the Olive Garden is usually like $15 a person (plus they have unlimited breadsticks).It's probably good food but not for a big family, walk-ins, or the $15 price range.
Vasilios Skoullos
The meal truly felt like a complete thought. Very cerebral and slightly provoking but fun all the way through! Thanks so much for having us and making my wife’s birthday
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
M G
Really awkward for me to confess...like someone would say - why would you go to Chicago just for a restaurant? Sigh! Now I can say it - YES! Just for Alinea!Well, in all honesty there were a few negatives, like the classic pretentiousness of high end restaurants and the fake small talk that's really unnecessary! But they took my request seriously to have a specific dining style as I prefer despite being fully booked. The first few courses were not up to the mark; they attempted to set a cadence but it kept going nowhere. I thought I was going to be disappointed. The eggplant under the guise of a sardine was not at all tasty...the expectation was to wow the diner. I was wowed until I tasted it...nah...let's move on...Then came the honey Mango and there was a sharp improvement overall! The chicken and the lamb were enigmatic...as I called it! Amazing food and beautiful music playing in the background - this was the time during the meal when my senses were stimulated with a warmth of nostalgia. Almost magical!The desserts were equally innovative...I was like wow, the chef must be really gifted to know his science! The paint was a work of art!Rightfully deserves it's 3 Michelin stars!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nolan Dresden
I can’t believe I never reviewed this place.I actually went within its first 6 months of opening back when I was living in Chicago.This wasn’t dinner, this was an experience.I still laud it as the best fine dining experience of my life and now living in NYC I have many to choose from.Get in ASAP.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
David Fenwick
My wife and I recently went to Coque in Madrid, which boasts 2 Michelin stars. Coque surpasses Alinea in every possible metric. The atmosphere at Alinea is boring, dull, grey. There are gaps in the ceiling between the moldings... It felt cheap. The servers, while friendly and very likeable, were too casual/folksy. They did not give the impression that this was a refined establishment. Our table was right next to where the staff convened. I had communal water bottles that the waiters were taking/replacing inches from my arm. For the price they charge, there should be no "bad" seat. I definitely had the bad seat. The minority of the dishes were passable, in my opinion. Most were not impressive in terms of flavor or presentation. The glass blown vessels were more interesting than the food. I'm sure the preparation of the food is technically impressive, but that couldn't be more meaningless if the flavors don't impress. The chicken dish was one of the most unappetizing I've ever been served (see photo).
We are from Kansas City and are extremely huge foodies. We have been trying to dine at Alinea since COVID first started. We are huge fans of Grant and the Alinea Group. They create and maintain excellent food and a dramatic experience. Finally, in April, we were able to visit Alinea for our anniversary. It did not disappoint!From the moment you walk into Alinea, you arr greated and taken care of like your family. The restaurant and the staff are not stuffy nor snobby, which is likely hard to do because of the level of food you're enjoying. The food is like a full culinary experience. Think of it like a movie. Thr staff is trained to truly understand every single element. They take the time to explain the dish, the region it's from, and even help you walk through how the chef intended it to be eaten.The experience blew our minds!If you can have the time, the money (it's not cheap), and an open mind, you will NOT REGRET dining at Alinea.Vegetarian options: You can request anything ahead of time and they will accommodate.Dietary restrictions: You can request anything ahead of time and they will accommodate.Parking: Street parking is limited, and the building has no sign, so you likely could miss it.Kid-friendliness: Ahhh, no, I would say not. Unless your children are amazing.Wheelchair accessibility: Stairs everywhere are so likely not easy to do.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Popcorn, Shaved Caviar, Kitchen, Balloon
I may be a little late on my post but WOW what an incredible experience. From the moment you set foot into the restaurant, it becomes a different world. My group and I reserved the large room by the kitchen. We enjoyed the synchrony and organized chaos of the staff as they prepared meals. Food, visual, texture…on point!Will be back again
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Alinea is such a fantastic experience. What surprised me most was how fun it was, I was expecting it to be stuffy but the staff, presentation and meals themselves are so fun and inviting. It's a very warm environment. I've sat in the Salon and the Kitchen and both were phenomenal experiences. Getting to see the kitchen was definitely a (probably!) one-in-a-lifetime type of experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Incredible experience, effortless hospitality, unforgettable cuisine.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Our experience at Alinea was absolutely amazing and unforgettable! From the moment we stepped in, we were treated to exceptional service and an extraordinary culinary journey. The attention to detail in every dish and the creativity behind the presentations were truly impressive. It's a dining experience that we will cherish forever. Highly recommend Alinea for anyone looking for a culinary adventure!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Yup, if you know you know
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food was awesome, staff were super cool, and the experience was way worth the price. Most really expensive food places are just that, expensive and good food. But the price is never really justified. Alinea is definitely that next step up.Huge bonus - I'm allergic to fish, which my work didn't tell them about before hand. So I showed up and just said I was, thinking I'd just miss out on a few courses. The chef actually just wiped up some alternate options for each course that included fish. Even printed me out a custom menu at the end with what I ate vs what everyone else ate.10 out of 10. It is very expensive but totally worth it.Dietary restrictions: I am allergic to fish. They offered alternate versions of every course with seafood in it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Alinea is an inventive American restaurant in Chicago. Dining here is akin to eating art pieces in a museum. Reservations open 3 months prior and I was lucky to snag one on the first day I landed. It is the only 3 Michelin star restaurant in Chicago and befits its title. Each dish was crafted by Chef Chaz with perfection, capitalizing on delivering an explosion of flavors. My most favorite of the night was their Auberdines and Osetra Uni preparations. They ended the course with a Jackson Pollock painting where the entire table becomes the Chef’s canvas as he festoons with his delights. You can’t help but indulge in the culinary delight before you. You also get a very sweet tarty balloon filled with helium and seal it with a kiss to absorb its contents. The meal was especially filling and creative, perfect for any foodies cravings.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Dining at Alinea was an experience like no other. From the moment we stepped in, the service was impeccable, setting the stage for an extraordinary culinary journey.The courses were not just about the food; they were a masterpiece of flavors, textures, and creativity. Each dish was meticulously crafted and presented, showcasing a blend of ingredients that delighted the senses in unexpected ways.What sets Alinea apart is not just the food but the entire experience. The attention to detail, the innovative presentation, and the seamless flow of each course made for a truly memorable dining adventure.But it wasn't just the food that impressed; it was the entire atmosphere and service. The staff were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, ensuring that every moment was enjoyable and personalized.Overall, Alinea is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that leaves a lasting impression. If you're looking for an exceptional dining experience that goes beyond just great food, Alinea is a must-visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
For the price point and the hype, I expected flawless execution at Alinea. The restaurant notified us prior to service that the meal starts promptly at the scheduled time. To ensure timeliness, we were dropped off by our driver 12 minutes prior to service. What they didn’t tell us is that we would be left outside more than 5 minutes past the start of service in the cold (December 2022) without cover. To add insult, service started 25 minutes late as there was clearly a couple they were waiting for. For a restaurant that prides themselves in perfect execution, they forgot our table twice when delivering food to the tables. The meal was good, pairings were well done. Several dishes were magical - but the service left much to be desired and didn't make up for the clear service failures. Not a 3-star level of service.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 2
Restaurantji Recommends
I drove in from out of town with my family of 8 and asked if they could take any walk-ins and they said no. My 2 and 3 year olds were screaming there heads off and they weren't very helpful. I asked if they at least had a kids menu with chicken nuggets and fries and they didn't even have that. They're also a little expensive. I think they charge about $300 a person, but I think the Olive Garden is usually like $15 a person (plus they have unlimited breadsticks).It's probably good food but not for a big family, walk-ins, or the $15 price range.
The meal truly felt like a complete thought. Very cerebral and slightly provoking but fun all the way through! Thanks so much for having us and making my wife’s birthday
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Really awkward for me to confess...like someone would say - why would you go to Chicago just for a restaurant? Sigh! Now I can say it - YES! Just for Alinea!Well, in all honesty there were a few negatives, like the classic pretentiousness of high end restaurants and the fake small talk that's really unnecessary! But they took my request seriously to have a specific dining style as I prefer despite being fully booked. The first few courses were not up to the mark; they attempted to set a cadence but it kept going nowhere. I thought I was going to be disappointed. The eggplant under the guise of a sardine was not at all tasty...the expectation was to wow the diner. I was wowed until I tasted it...nah...let's move on...Then came the honey Mango and there was a sharp improvement overall! The chicken and the lamb were enigmatic...as I called it! Amazing food and beautiful music playing in the background - this was the time during the meal when my senses were stimulated with a warmth of nostalgia. Almost magical!The desserts were equally innovative...I was like wow, the chef must be really gifted to know his science! The paint was a work of art!Rightfully deserves it's 3 Michelin stars!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I can’t believe I never reviewed this place.I actually went within its first 6 months of opening back when I was living in Chicago.This wasn’t dinner, this was an experience.I still laud it as the best fine dining experience of my life and now living in NYC I have many to choose from.Get in ASAP.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My wife and I recently went to Coque in Madrid, which boasts 2 Michelin stars. Coque surpasses Alinea in every possible metric. The atmosphere at Alinea is boring, dull, grey. There are gaps in the ceiling between the moldings... It felt cheap. The servers, while friendly and very likeable, were too casual/folksy. They did not give the impression that this was a refined establishment. Our table was right next to where the staff convened. I had communal water bottles that the waiters were taking/replacing inches from my arm. For the price they charge, there should be no "bad" seat. I definitely had the bad seat. The minority of the dishes were passable, in my opinion. Most were not impressive in terms of flavor or presentation. The glass blown vessels were more interesting than the food. I'm sure the preparation of the food is technically impressive, but that couldn't be more meaningless if the flavors don't impress. The chicken dish was one of the most unappetizing I've ever been served (see photo).
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 4