Deep dish isn’t the only thing Chicago lets you do your way, when it comes to parties, this city’s full of spaces that hand over the reins. Planning your own menu? Want to bring in nonna’s pasta, a taco truck, or a dessert table loaded with local favorites? No worries. Chicago's best self catering venues make room for you, your food, and your celebration, no strings or overpriced platters attached. From lofts in West Loop to event spaces near the lakefront, there’s a venue for birthdays, weddings, or just a good old get-together. Bring the food, bring the fun, and scroll down to find the space that fits it all.
The cost of self catering venues averages around $175 hire fee per hour. The final price will depend on location, size, amenities, and demand. Some venues also offer additional packages that include catering, AV equipment, or additional services. Take a look at the usual price ranges in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data:
| From $100 | to $300 | hire fee per hour |
| From $750 | to $2500 | hire fee per day |
| From $1500 | to $3000 | minimum spend per event |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated September 2026), the best options include:
Private Party Room at Claddagh Ring Pub
in Ravenswood - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘Place was very clean (few guests mentioned this), including bathrooms.’
Spacious Loft at Lofty Wicker Park
in Wicker Park - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘The space was beautiful! And our host was so accommodating even letting us come in earlier to set up!’
Entire Venue at Centre Court Productions
in West Loop - rated 4.7/5
Our user said: ‘This venue was perfect for my daughter's high school graduation party!’
You'll find self catering venues in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Chicago, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (September 2026):
| Small | up to 30 guests | prices average $115 hire fee per hour |
| Medium | between 50 and 80 guests | prices average $250 hire fee per hour |
| Large | over 100 guests | prices average $250 hire fee per hour |
These are the venues within 1 mi from central Chicago, available to book on Tagvenue:
Smaller self catering venues usually fit up to 30 guests seated. Here are some great options in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data as of September 2026:
Conference Room at Mox.E Coworking, rated 5/5 - meeting room for 6 guests
Our user said: ‘Beautiful space! This was the perfect meeting room for a small team gathering.’
Meeting Room at The Time Gallery - meeting room for 14 guests
Venue said: Its adaptability, combined with its prime location, makes it a choice destination for those seeking a unique and convenient event space in the heart of Chicago.
Whole Venue at Addington Gallery - gallery for 30 guests
Venue said: Located in Chicago, Addington Gallery is a stylish and intimate space, perfect for hosting small events that feel special and personal. With a capacity of up to 30 people, it’s ideal for keeping gatherings cozy and ensuring...
Cheap self catering venues in Chicago start from $75 hire fee per hour or $300 hire fee per day. Check out these budget-friendly spaces you can book through Tagvenue, as of September 2026:
Private Party Room at Claddagh Ring Pub, from $75 hire fee per hour
(up to 50 guests seated)
Our user said: ‘This place was great. There was no cost to booking the party room and the staff and drinks was amazing.’
Bright & Modern South Commons at TeamWorking by TechNexus, from $300 hire fee per day
(up to 90 guests standing)
Venue said: The South Commons is a versatile space designed to make your event experience even better! It features extra tables suitable for catering services or setting up drinks and snacks, providing flexibility for various event needs.
Relaxing Spa at INA Chicago, from $1200 minimum spend per event
(up to 250 guests standing)
Venue said: INA Chicago is a spa center, located at 308 W Erie St suite 100. There is a lot of street parking nearby, as well as a metro station. INA is a great venue to relax, whether on your own or with friends.
Page last updated in September 2026
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