Special Occasion Restaurants for Rent in Chicago

Chicago is a foodie’s dream destination, with a plethora of restaurants to discover. Whether you’re looking for a friendly, neighborhood eatery or a high-end place, you’re about to be spoiled. Read our handy rental guide and browse our listings to find the perfect space for whatever occasion you’re celebrating.

Why should I book a restaurant for my special occasion?

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary, throwing a birthday party or hosting a wedding reception, you can’t go wrong with a dinner party. It can be as elaborate or as low-key as you want: book an intimate private dining room for a small gathering or rent out an entire restaurant and invite everyone you know. With Chicago’s rich dining scene, you’re bound to find a space that matches your preferences.

But what are the benefits of booking a restaurant for your event? One of the obvious advantages is, of course, the food. The city’s diverse offer of international restaurants enables you to choose whatever cuisine you’re craving. And the best part: you don’t have to worry about anything when it comes to shopping for the ingredients, preparing and serving the meal. It’s a huge relief if you’re not big on cooking and a major time-saver! Plus, you can fully focus on being with your guests.

The simple fact of going out to celebrate makes the occasion even more special. It doesn’t matter if it’s just a small dinner for the closest family and friends or a bigger celebration – renting a nice restaurant will help you create the right ambiance and put everyone in the perfect mood. If you’re unsure where to find the perfect dining spot, check out Tagvenue’s listings and see if anything catches your eye!

How do I choose the ideal Chicago restaurant for my special occasion?

We know that choosing the perfect space from so many great options, that’s why we’ve prepared a checklist of things to consider when choosing the perfect Chicago restaurant for your event. Once you figure out all the important details, use Tagvenue’s smart filters to narrow your search and find a restaurant that ticks all of the boxes.

• What are you celebrating? One of the most important questions is: what is your special occasion? Are you celebrating a milestone birthday, throwing an engagement party or organizing a baby shower for someone in your life? Think about what type of restaurant would be the best match for your event. Would you prefer a sleek and elegant interior or perhaps a space that’s a little bit more hip and artsy? Your choice may also depend on who you’re inviting.

• How many people are you inviting? Speaking of guests, make a list of everyone you’d like to see at your event, then send out the invitations and ask people to RSVP. It’s important to know the estimated number of guests so that you can choose a space that has the right capacity. Depending on the size of your event, you could book a private dining room or opt for an entire restaurant buyout.

• What is your budget? Another important factor when choosing the perfect restaurant is your budget. Think about how much you’re prepared to spend on your event. Remember to include venue rental fees, the costs of catering and any extras such as decorations or party rentals. Once you’re clear on that, you can set your price range on Tagvenue and browse Chicago restaurants that meet your criteria.

• Which Chicago neighborhood are you considering? You can further narrow your search to a specific area. Many Chicago neighborhoods are known for their culinary delights. Whether you choose the buzzing downtown area, diverse Albany Park or industrial West Loop, prepare to be spoiled by the rich offer of dining spots. When picking the location for your event, also make sure it’s convenient for your guests. Is it easy to access? Are there enough parking spaces? Is it near any public transport hubs?

• What kind of mood are you going for? Pick a place with the perfect ambiance. Pay attention to details such as decor and lighting: would you prefer a minimalistic, open-floor space with plenty of natural light or a dimly-lit interior with ornate wallpapers?

• What type of cuisine would you like to serve? One of the core points of almost any event: is the food. Luckily for you, Chicago boasts an array of multicultural restaurants that can make all of your culinary dreams come true. You could go for sushi, burgers, the famous deep-dish pizza or countless other options. While selecting the food, it’s worth considering whether you’d like to serve it in the form of a sit-down meal or an open buffet. Also, don’t forget to ask your guests if they have any dietary restrictions and find a restaurant that can cater to all your requests.

• Do you need any extra facilities? Think about everything you’ll need to run the event smoothly. Are you hosting any guests with disabilities? Then make sure your chosen restaurant has the appropriate facilities. Would you like to play your own music during the evening? Check whether the restaurant has a sound system and ask the venue manager if you can bring your own playlist.

Special Occasion Restaurants in Chicago FAQ

How much does it cost to book a Chicago restaurant for a special occasion?

Prices for renting a restaurant for an event in Chicago range from as low as $25 per person to as high as $1,000 per person. A lot will depend on the restaurant’s standard and prestige. Many places combine the rental fee with a food and beverage minimum. This simply means that you agree to spend a given amount of money on food and drinks on the day of your event. The F&B minimum in Chicago typically starts at $1,000 and can reach up to $15,000 per session, depending on the number of guests. (All data from Tagvenue.)

Where in Chicago can I find the best restaurants?

You can find great eating spots pretty much all over the city! There are plenty of fabulous options in West Loop, especially on Randolph Street a.k.a. the famous Restaurant Row. Nearby Fulton Market also offers some great dinner places. The downtown area, known as The Loop, is always a good place to look if you’re into international cuisine. Even more multicultural restaurants can be found in Albany Park. For water views, check out the waterfront restaurants located along the Chicago Riverwalk.

Which Chicago restaurants are the best for celebrating a special occasion?

Have a look at some of our top recommendations:

• Stix n Brix Wood Fired Pizza. Nestled just south of Armor Square, this charming Italian restaurant, perfect for families, is a delightful blend of comfort and elegance. While it may not be the zenith of fine dining, it's undeniably a wonderful location to mark those special occasions in life. Enjoy the authentic taste of Italian pizza as well as sandwiches, pasta, salads and more. Savor the fresh and high quality ingredients as well as the warmth of a family-owned restaurant.
• Fogo de Chao River North. Tucked away in the bustling heart of Chicago's Entertainment District, River North, this venue is a true gem. Boasting impeccable service and world-class Brazilian cuisine, it's the perfect destination for those looking to add a touch of international flair to their special occasion.
• Pops for Champagne. Located in the chic River North neighborhood, it is the perfect place to celebrate any special occasion. With its elegant and original interior, complete with stunning cathedral glass doors, you'll feel like royalty as you sip on a glass of bubbly from their impressive champagne list. Whether you're looking to toast to a new engagement or simply want to indulge in a night of luxury, Pops for Champagne is the ideal choice.

Do Chicago restaurants have outdoor spaces for rent?

If you wish to celebrate your special occasion under the open sky, you can do so by finding a restaurant that features an outdoor seating area. Many Chicago eateries will offer patios or even rooftop terraces with sweeping city views. Some of our favorites include:

• Workbox - River North. Minimal decor, comfort food and a plethora of restaurants just as you exit the building. Not to mention the stunning views of the city’s skyscrapers. What more could you want? Located in River North.
• Pilot Project Brewery. Located in the bustling neighborhood of Logan Square, this space is a brewery incubator, tasting room and cafe that is nothing short of extraordinary. With a dedication to the art of brewing and a community-inspired approach, this venue is the perfect place to raise a glass and toast to special occasions.
• Ravinia Brewing Company Chicago. Situated in West Town’s West Diversey Avenue, Ravinia Brewing Company Chicago boasts a gorgeous beer garden with festoon lights. It’s the perfect spot if you’re planning a summer party!