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Top Special Occasion Restaurants in Chicago, IL
Thinking of renting a restaurant to celebrate your special occasion? You’re in luck: Chicago’s dining scene is to die for! So, whatever you’re envisioning for your celebratory meal, you’ll most likely find it in one of the city’s countless fabulous eateries. Choose something from the sophisticated menu of a Michelin-starred restaurant in Logan Square or grab a bite with your friends at one of the trendy eateries located in West Loop’s converted warehouses – there’s something to suit all tastes and styles! Scroll through our list of special occasion restaurants in Chicago and start planning your celebration.
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![Dining Area at Elephant + Vine near Lincoln Park in Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL]()
from $40
per person / per sessionCheck availabilityDining Area
31 guestsElephant + Vine near Lincoln ParkLincoln Park, Chicago, ILEE.j. R.
“The team was fantastic and food awesome. We rented out the main dining room and appreciated the opportunity.” -
![Bar Room at Port and Park Bistro in Lakeview, Chicago, IL]()
from $1000
minimum spend / per sessionCheck availabilityBar Room
60 guestsPort and Park BistroLakeview, Chicago, IL
#Supervenue
TTyler N.
“The food, provided by the restaurant, was all excellent.” -
![Private Party Room at Bar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln Park in Lakeview, Chicago, IL]()
from $35
per person / per sessionCheck availabilityPrivate Party Room
45 guestsBar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln ParkLakeview, Chicago, IL
#Supervenue
DDeborah W.
“Great venue! Food was delicious! Service was great and the staff I worked with to plan my event were fabulous!” -
![Private Party Room at Bar Cocina West Town / West Loop in East Village, Chicago, IL]()
from $35
per person / per sessionCheck availabilityPrivate Party Room
45 guestsBar Cocina West Town / West LoopEast Village, Chicago, IL
#Supervenue
NNick O.
“Staff was amazing and space was perfect” -
![Bistro Room at Port and Park Bistro in Lakeview, Chicago, IL]()
from $2000
minimum spend / per sessionCheck availabilityBistro Room
75 guestsPort and Park BistroLakeview, Chicago, IL
#Supervenue
MMax D.
“The Bar room was very cool and was more than enough space for everyone. Food and drinks were great as well.” -
![Party Bar at Bar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln Park in Lakeview, Chicago, IL]()
from $35
per person / per sessionCheck availabilityParty Bar
20 guestsBar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln ParkLakeview, Chicago, IL
#Supervenue
DDemi G.
“They brought out the food promptly and labeled everything. There was a live DJ playing great music.” -
![Semi-Private Downstairs at Tandoor Char House - Lincoln Park in Sheffield & DePaul, Chicago, IL]()
from $35
per person / per sessionCheck availabilitySemi-Private Downstairs
12 guestsTandoor Char House - Lincoln ParkSheffield & DePaul, Chicago, ILRRaquel R.
“Portions were good and I didn't have to worry about not having enough. Service was exceptional.” -
![Izakaya Room at Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar in River North, Chicago, IL]()
from $120
minimum spend / per sessionCheck availabilityIzakaya Room
25 guestsUnion Sushi + Barbeque BarRiver North, Chicago, ILLLainy K.
“Excellent everything! From planning to the end of the event.” -
![Ambar Outdoor Dining at Ambar Chicago in River North, Chicago, IL]()
from $35
per person / per sessionCheck availabilityAmbar Outdoor Dining
20 guestsAmbar ChicagoRiver North, Chicago, ILAs summer is approaching, make sure you book our stunning Outdoor Dining space for your next special event! -
![The Skyline Loft at Chicago Chefs' Table in Near North Side, Chicago, IL]()
from $550
minimum spend / per sessionCheck availabilityThe Skyline Loft
70 guestsChicago Chefs' TableNear North Side, Chicago, ILChicago Chefs' Table is an intimate dining space offering a unique opportunity to engage with our culinary team in a loft-style setting. Our versatile space can accommodate various events, from a cozy gathering of 10 guests -
![Summer Outdoor Couches at Bar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln Park in Lakeview, Chicago, IL]()
from $30
per person / per sessionCheck availabilitySummer Outdoor Couches
20 guestsBar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln ParkLakeview, Chicago, IL
#Supervenue
MMorgan C.
“The staff was great and super accommodating to our party!” -
![Private Dining Room at India House Restaurant in River North, Chicago, IL]()
from $50
per person / per sessionCheck availabilityPrivate Dining Room
50 guestsIndia House RestaurantRiver North, Chicago, ILThe private dining room at India House Restaurant offers a versatile and elegant space perfect for hosting intimate gatherings, special events, or business meetings.
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Throw a Jolly Christmas Dinner at One of Chicago’s Best Restaurants
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Host a Memorable Bridal Shower in One of Chicago’s Charming Restaurants
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#Supervenue
“Great venue! Food was delicious! Service was great and the staff I worked with to plan my event were fabulous!”
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Popular Restaurants to Book for Your Upcoming Baby Shower
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FAQs about Top Special Occasion Restaurants in Chicago, IL
In Chicago, prices of special occasion restaurants average $40 per person. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data from September 2025:
| From $35 | to $60 | per person |
| From $1200 | to $9000 | minimum spend per event |
| From $150 | to $250 | hire fee per hour |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated September 2025), the best options include:
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Bar Room at Port and Park Bistro in Lakeview - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘The Bar room was very cool and was more than enough space for everyone. Food and drinks were great as well.’ -
Private Party Room at Bar Cocina West Town / West Loop in East Village - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘staff was amazing and space was perfect...’ -
Private Party Room at Bar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln Park in Lakeview - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘Great venue! Food was delicious!’
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.
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 Brewing. 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.
Your Guide to Renting Special Occasion Restaurants in Chicago, IL
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.
Top Restaurants to Book for a Special Occasion
The Dandy Crown — West Town
A two-level venue with a heated patio and a cosy upstairs perfect for semi-private dinners. It transitions well into a party setting if you want to celebrate into the evening.
Tanta — River North
Peruvian food, rooftop dining, and a colourful space that feels festive without being forced. The staff are used to hosting birthdays and group dinners, so they know how to make it smooth.
Port and Park Bistro — Lakeview
Solid pick for family-style dinners or milestone birthdays. Service is friendly, the wine list is sharp, and the private room doesn’t feel like an afterthought.
Sushi by Bou — West Loop
An omakase experience where you can book out the entire bar. Great for small groups that want high-impact food in a short, polished experience.
Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar — Andersonville
A relaxed neighbourhood spot with a well-built wine program and a private room tucked in the back. Works well for intimate dinners or brunch celebrations.
Everything Bar — West Town
A space that feels like someone’s private studio-bar combo. You can decorate it, play your music, and treat it like a private hangout that just happens to have full bar service.
Wake 'n Bacon — Lakeview
Wild colours, over-the-top decor, and perfect for daytime events. Brunch birthdays, baby showers, or any celebration that needs to look good in photos.
The Ivy Hotel — Streeterville
Polished but not overdone. Their rooftop lounge is a solid pick for engagements or post-dinner drinks. Can be reserved for private groups.
Barcocina — Lakeview & West Town
Go here for fun, flavour, and flexibility. Custom taco bars, signature cocktails, and space to stretch out. Works especially well for groups that don’t want something too formal.
Pinstripes — Streeterville
Eat, drink, bowl. Great for multi-age events or groups who don’t want to just sit through dinner. Private dining areas available.
Handy Tips to Choose the Right Special Occasion Restaurant
- Lakeview side streets have great spots without the crowds—Clark and Southport especially. Walk-ins are easier and noise levels are lower.
- West Loop books fast for weekends. If you want a spot here, lock it down early or go for a Monday/Tuesday.
- Want a relatively peaceful place ? Try Ravenswood or Andersonville. Plenty of great options, fewer influencers.
- Ask about outdoor options even in cooler months—lots of spots have heated patios that aren’t listed online.
- Parking? Avoid driving in River North unless the venue has valet. Seriously. Use rideshare.
Questions to Ask Before You Booking a Restaurant Room
- Can I bring my own cake or dessert?
- Is the space fully private or semi-private?
- Can we use our own playlist or bring decorations?
- Are there time limits on the reservation?
