50 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants River Forest

“I was excited to see that First Watch was finally open and we did not have a long time to wait before we got a table. The place was packed so we chose to eat outside where the wait was shorter. The food was amazing in the atmosphere was very chill. I had a meal full of sides that were all delicious. And my cousin had one of the specialty meals. Everything was seasoned and cooked to perfection. I highly recommend First Watch.“

“Good food lots of variety fine in or take out litter tickets“

“I was visiting Chicago for the first time and Goose Island brewery tour was one of the best activities I’ve done.

Jonny was extremely knowledgeable about what he does not just about his own brewery but the craft beers scene of the America in general.“

“The food sounded fancy and tasted SO good! Our server, Andrew, came up with the most delicious drinks! Superb service! We’ll be back!!“

“Delicious, big portions, great service.“

“I'm from Iowa, took a little weekend trip to Chicago. A friend told us we HAD to try Lula's. SO thankful we did. I will be traveling back to Chicago just to take my mom here. Outstanding service from every single employee, incredible food, and just overall 10/10. Absolutely recommend.“

“my best friend and I just had the BEST experience at the whale! Our waitress taylor was incredible and the manager (so sorry but we never got his name because he was just being so nice to us) was incredible as well. We will definitely return with friends and recommend anyone to try it out! classy, but not snobby, cool decor, warm kind and accommodating staff, and great food and cocktails are just the cherry on top! try the carrot cake after your meal :) Thank you again to taylor and the manager again <3“

“We’re huge fans of The Bear, which steered us here on our Chicago trip - so glad we found this place! We loved the mushroom adobo and longnanisa breakfast sandwich! The mango tarts were amazing, as were our lattes. We left with an apple hand pie to eat the following morning, which was still had perfectly crispy pastry. Definitely worth the hour wait to get in.“

“Red Hot Ranch is amazing. I appreciate the staffs and managers kindness to me even though I have autism and their food is amazing and really good. Owner Brad is very nice. The restaurant is in good condition. Chicago style hot dog is wonderful. Must come back. 10/10.“

“good food and good service“

“This place is the coolest bar I have been to in a long time, hip and fun but not pretentious. They paid attention to every detail when building and designing. The white marbel bar has clean lines and looks fresh. All of the hardware finishes look sharp and clean. The patio is large and inviting with a fire place and plenty of tables to sit at. The drink menu is creative and refreshing and the staff is kind and welcoming. I cannot say enough good things about this gem of a bar. I am excited to hang out this fall on the patio by the fireplace with good drink in My hand.“

“Great atomosphere cool concept like how they call out the alcohol and food orders when Ready. The pimento Mac was great flavor, as was the mashed and gravy. Very unique to have boneless breast thighs wing and leg portions battered and fried. Was very good. I just think the sauces were way to pricey at $1.45 a sauce wow even 99 cents seems a lot but would feel better lol. At least give one with the order or reduce the sauce price. But overall they need to spread this concept into more areas for sure out side like in the suburbs“

“I have gone to Andros Taverna for many years now where I am never disappointed and always impressed with the service, the quality of food and ingredients, the atmosphere and the passion in general. Chef Doug Psaltis is a true expert and artist performing at the highest levels. The gyros are the best, best gyros in Chicago by far, the seafood world class, the homemade bread and pita are incredible. The foods and meats are cooked over wood fire, wood fire grilled. We had our daughters baptism catered from here which was excellent assortment of Greek food - this is a Greek restaurant you will go to for many years to come.“

“I had an outstanding experience with Day’s Hot Chicken in Chicago. The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was top notch. We ordered through DoorDash, and when we called the restaurant, they were incredibly generous. Since we loved the food so much, they went above and beyond by adding extra items like mac and cheese and additional fries. It was a thoughtful gesture that truly enhanced the experience. I highly recommend Day’s Hot Chicken for anyone craving delicious food and exceptional service.“

“First timers and now we will be regulars! The hospitality, atmosphere and fare were outstanding! From the knowledgeable staff, the welcoming management and the hostess that went WAY above and beyond to be sure my disabled husband was accommodated from when we booked our reservation to the end of our dining experience - we couldn’t have been more delighted! See you again soon, Lardon!“

“Great food/drinks Great service Great prices We will be back.“

“A must see if you go to Chicago. Burgers are the best in the city. Great vibes.“

“I came to Gretel in Chicago with a few friends and had such a great experience! The atmosphere was lively but still cozy — the kind of spot that feels perfect for catching up over good food and drinks. I ordered the Monarch cocktail and the signature Gretel Griddle Burger, and both were amazing. The Monarch was perfectly balanced — refreshing, smooth, and beautifully made. The burger absolutely lived up to the hype: juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right. Our server was friendly and attentive, and the food came out quickly even though the place was busy. Between the great service, relaxed vibe, and delicious food, Gretel definitely impressed me!“

“Every thing was amazing. But I have to talk about the the chocolate pecan pie. The pie’s flavors were so balanced and precise that it became an argument for the value of small, immediate experiences. We often think fulfillment must come from major achievements or profound discoveries, yet this dessert demonstrated that contentment can originate from something as ordinary as food prepared with intention. The heart is full.“

“A great new spot for brunch! My husband and I went and it was busy but we were able to sit right away. I'm gluten free and I LOVE that everything is labeled with an easy to read GF symbol so it helps me identify what I can and can't eat. The gluten free buttermilk pancakes were excellent. My husband had the corn beef skillet and he said his bloody mary was great as well! We'll definitely be back! Felisa was super friendly and made sure to answer my questions about gluten precautions.“

“Enjoyed my first Hot Toddy here!!“

“Moonwalker is our favorite neighborhood cafe! They have the best sandwiches both for breakfast and lunch and such delicious lattes, the banana bread latte is to die for. All only made better by their incredible staff!“

“Wonderful food and service.“

“loved everything about it!“

“Always loved their Greek pastries, they are the best, started going to them 60 yrs ago with my mom and dad. We were always going to Hellas for our parties baptisms and weddings. All our holiday needs were easily available for us. Unfortunately, we moved out to Poplar Grove, Illinois near Belvedere and have missed them greatly. Always love them and it brings a tears to my eyes, that they are still around. God bless them. My parents knew the owners personally.“

“I’ve been to Smoke Daddy multiple times now and everything I get is amazing (I’ve had about 6 different food menu items now - each awesome). I’m particularly writing this review because they saved our 4th of July friend get together. The service, food and atmosphere make this one of our favorite places in the city.“

“Great spot for live music.“

“My mother and I popped in here before work this morning, and we loved our lattes, pastry, and the service! I love the gothy-ness of the decor, the decent amount of seating, cool staff-made art for sale, and even the mildly lower lighting (in contrast to other coffee shops that feel retina-burningly bright). Very queer and alternative-friendly vibes, too.

Definitely stop by for a visit if you're in the area - I liked it a lot!“

“Fantastic restaurant in the neighborhood serves excellent food and donuts and takes care of the neighborhood and the world. So grateful for their presence in Rogers Park. Also the peach spicy Sammy is to die for.“

“A must try spot! Great food, coffee and atmosphere! Definitely recommend!“

“Amazing place and the staff are awesome“

“We had a delicious breakfast and the service was Excellent. Looking forward to coming back for lunch and mock tails.“

“I got the Philly Chicken Cheese sandwich and it was AMAZING. The chicken was so juicy and soft, and the seasoning tasted perfect not too spicy, just super yummy😋 The fries were also the best part because they were super crispy and well seasoned🍟Highly recommend“

“best service! And delicious chocolate pie!“

“Good food and lovely atmosphere“

“Sugar Moon is a charming bakery and café in Logan Square that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their pastries, cookies, and cakes are beautifully crafted and incredibly flavorful—everything tastes fresh and made with care. The coffee and espresso drinks pair perfectly with the baked goods, making it a great spot for breakfast or a mid-afternoon treat. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with friendly staff who make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in. A must-visit for delicious desserts and a relaxed, cheerful vibe.“

“Excellent service very clean very delicious food well recommended 100%“

“Friggin *phenomenal* !! 🍻
The beers are awesome pretty much across the board, and the inside is all exposed brick and coziness - definitely makes you want to sit a spell and tip a few beers back.

I absolutely love that Maplewood now has *hop water* 🙌🏼 (several hop water flavors to choose from, actually) and a bunch of infused seltzers to choose from, in addition to the beer and spirits.
And I *adore* that Maplewood loves pugs!! I’ve yet to meet a pug there for some scritches over a brew, but we all gotta have goals amirite?? 🤭🐶

Fave beer of the day 2025 - Morbidly Obese Pug (Chocolate Mousse) 👌🏼😍🍻
It was straight choco pudding ✨ magic“

“Really good and fresh sushi at great prices. Love this place.“

“Can easily be my new go-to spot for pho. Tasty pho ga (chicken pho). Paid cash, but didn’t get coins back as part of the change, so I took off one star. They also accept card.

Plenty of free parking available in the lot next to the restaurant.“

“We were able able to make a reservation via Google, and when we arrived they were expecting us. The staff is really nice, took our drink order right away (coffee and waters) and then our food order soon after. I loved my endless cup of coffee and banana crepes. One person ordered chiquillas, which looked great. We added meat sides later, which came right away. The bill was totally reasonable (no separate checks tho, FYI), and everyone left full and happy.“

“I came in from out of state and I loved this place. My favorite bar in the neighborhood that I got to visit. Went back a couple times throughout my visit. They even changed one tv for me to watch my OKC Thunder game. Thank you for making me feel welcome.“

“Stopped off here for a few beers on my big 60th birthday brewery tour. Fab place, lots of great beers on, big choice of them. Loads of cans and bottles in the fridges. Loads of seating. Big shout out to Marcus for all his help and advice, hope you get to see oasis“

“Best Hot Dogs in Chicago! I drive from Indiana just for a Mighty Dog!“

“I LOVE Side Practice Coffee. The atmosphere and ambience create the perfect place to chill with a fantastic cup of coffee. The staff and customers are super friendly. I come here to write in my journal or plan out my projects for the week. I always feel inspired here.“

“First , the smoke and aroma comin’ out the roof exhaust pipes . Lol 😛 Known for their hamburgers , dogs , apparently everything else on their menu is good . Being a member of Chicago Italian Beefs fB page , I just HAD to try theirs . Pretty darn good ! 9.0/10 Sweet n hot , dipped , nice crinkly fries 🍟 comin’ for da ride , and a tamale 🫔 to wash it down . Nice job guys at the PP in Des Plaines !!!“

“Went yesterday to see what all the hype was about and boy was I blown away! The helado de coco is the best I have ever had and I am born and raised in PR!! Keep up the great work!“

“So delicious and so special to us!!! Black Dog Gelato is incredible - truly the best in Chicago. Every flavor is amazing and their team is impeccable. My husband used to live by their Damen & Iowa location and then we lived together near their Logan Square location when it was open. Our first date ended at Black Dog, and our dog is named Gelato (nicknamed Jelly). For our wedding this year, we had Black Dog in place of a wedding cake. They were so excellent to work with for this event. We had three of their standard flavors and one special flavor, which was “wedding cake” aka birthday cake without the sprinkles and with an added “Jelly” swirl. Everyone was obsessed!!! It was a perfect personal touch to the day and everything tasted SO good!!!“

“Great beers Great atmosphere. Friendly staff!!“

“great staff, super attentive & extremely friendly. thanks Neil ! highly recommend the tuna dish !“