Pinched on the River

443 E Illinois St, Chicago
(312) 526-3883

Recent Reviews

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Gio M

Food was delicious, service was slow, place was full and the hostess was not helpful. Our server in the other hand was really profesional and attentive!

Robbie Matthew

I’ve never been pinched this hard.

Brandy Nogueira

The make your own bowl was amazing and sitting outside on the patio right next to the canal is the cherry on top.

Keyur Doshi

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pinched on the River is an underrated gem with a view to match the flavors.

Tucked away by the water near Streeterville, this place has become one of my go-to spots — not just for the food, but for the consistently warm and thoughtful service. Major shoutout to the waiter with the tattoos (sorry I never got your name!) — you are top tier. Always attentive, always kind, and your recommendations for vegetarian dishes and sauces are spot on every time. You make every visit feel personal, like we’re being taken care of by a friend who just happens to know great food.

The Mediterranean flavors are fresh, satisfying, and never too heavy. Combine that with a peaceful riverside setting and it’s honestly hard to beat.

If you’re in the area and haven’t tried Pinched — go. And ask for the guy with the tattoos. He’ll make sure you get something you’ll love.

Jezenia Diaz

Had the chicken porta bello mushroom with pesto pasta and loved it. Not heavy at all. Delicious, light. Great if you enjoy clean eating. Followed by the beignets. Chocolate, raspberry, and caramel sauce with sliced apples. Absolutely delicious!

David Fagan

Chicken skewers and especially the pita bread that came folded warm and steamy was amazing. Very healthy. The chicken wings weren’t great, kind of hard or tough otherwise 5 stars. I’d easily go back just for the outdoor eating on the water

Eugene The Pearcrab

Loved this place! The staff was super friendly and helpful with suggesting items off the menu for my partner and I! The drinks and food were great! Thank you to the staff member with short blond hair who was very welcoming.

I would visit again!

Allyson Stoops

There used to be a location in Lombard that closed a couple of years ago, I remember it being way better than this was. It was just ok!! Great location right on the water, but probably not worth $150 for three people.

Norma

We were celebrating my husband's Birthday and Hostess Shina made sure we had a great time! She was very, friendly and came back several times to ensure we were having a good time. The ambience and the food was very good. We were going to Winters Jazz Club to see Dee Alexander afterwards so it was a perfect evening!

MaryAnn

First time here post-Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Limited menu, but offerings were very fresh and delicious. Excellent Mediterranean fare. Mezze plate was enough for two. Mushroom flatbread was delicious! Wine prices were very reasonable. We look forward to returning to try other menu options. Service was excellent!

Thomas

The menu has a variety of outstanding dishes as well as small plates. The service is excellent, and the surroundings are tasteful and quiet compared to many restaurants.

Shari

Really good! We had lettuce-based salads with shawarma and sausage links, plus ample extras like feta, olives, etc. The salads were huge! Nothing negative but for $24 per salad it's not a deal but is a fair price for the location along the river. It was a nice evening to sit outside. Service was good.

Paige

Delicious Mediterranean food, with something for everyone. Superb service. The “build your entree” options are unique and everyone at our table enjoys their choices- pita and rice bowls alike. Especially enjoyed the fish tacos.

Joanne

Everything about Pinched on River is amazing. Food, service location and ambiance amazing!

Amie

Absolutely loved our experience here!!! The food was fantastic and the view from the outside patio area absolutely lovely!! Highly recommend!!

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