The J Parker rooftop on the North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of & venue: The J. Parker
The Best of | Chicago | Weddings

7 Restaurants on the North Side of Chicago for Your Close-to-Home Rehearsal Dinner

The J Parker rooftop on the North Side of Chicago.

Head North from the bustle of Downtown Chicago and you’ll find neighborhood after neighborhood of quiet residential streets and close-knit communities — not to mention plenty of theaters, museums, and Michelin-star restaurants. Starting at the Second City theater in Old Town and reaching past iconic neighborhoods such as upscale Lincoln Park and vibrant Wrigleyville that’s home to the Chicago Cubs, the North Side offers the glamour of the city without all the commotion.

For those looking to celebrate, there’s no need to venture far from home. The North Side plays host to several chic event spaces that are perfect for an intimate or vibrant rehearsal dinner. These 7 restaurants on the North Side of Chicago capture the unique spirit of each neighborhood — while also showcasing delicious cuisine that makes Chicago a destination spot for foodies world-wide. From rooftop cocktail bars with dramatic skyline views to dynamic music halls, these best restaurants on the North Side of Chicago await you and your loved ones as you prepare to celebrate your wedding day.

*In no particular order…

Intimate Rehearsal Dinner for up to 25 Guests

1. Mordecai

Hush Money at Mordecai on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of Mordecai

For an elegant cocktail bar in the heart of Wrigleyville…

Chicago, IL

  • Hush Money at Mordecai, located in Wrigleyville, gets its namesake from Cubs pitcher Mordecai “Three Finger Brown” —and boasts three-finger vintage whiskey pours, along with a geometric bar and vintage glassware
  • Reviewers love the knowledgeable bar staff and elegant ambiance in a neighborhood known for sports bars and large crowds
  • The cocktail bar and restaurant features three event spaces, as well as a second-floor patio with dramatic views of Wrigley Field 
  • Three total event spaces are available, including an outdoor Patio with dramatic views of Wrigley Field
Mordecai

Mordecai

Chicago, Illinois

2. Coda Di Volpe

La Tavola at Coda Di Volpe on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of Coda Di Volpe

For an intimate rehearsal dinner that offers Southern Italian cuisine close to home…

Chicago, IL

  • La Tavola at Coda Di Volpe, located in Lakeview, offers a semi-private and mid-century event space with views of the open kitchen and main dining room 
  • Reviewers love the fresh pizzas from the Stefano Ferrara wood-fire oven, along with pastas “cooked to perfection” and the knowledgeable service team
  • Chef Thompson creates seasonally-inspired homemade dishes to complement the award-winning wine list and delectable desserts by Pastry Chef Marjorie Easley
  • Five event spaces are available, including a full-restaurant buyout for over 100 guests
Coda Di Volpe

Coda Di Volpe

Chicago, Illinois

Moderate-Sized Rehearsal Dinner for 25 – 50 Guests

3. Blue Door Farm Stand

Upstairs at Blue Door Farm Stand on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of Blue Door Farmstand

For a season-focused menu and fresh produce from Midwest farms and local farmer’s markets…

Chicago, IL

  • Upstairs at Blue Door Farm Stand, located in Lincoln Park, evokes an upscale farmhouse with brass chandeliers, exposed wooden beams, and stylish round-back seating
  • Reviewers love the “trendy atmosphere” and floor-to-ceiling windows — along with the various fresh salad options
  • A private events team collaborates with clients to create a personalized dining experience and made-from-scratch menu
  • Three bright and cheerful event spaces are available, with accommodations for up to 50 guests
Blue Door Farm Stand

Blue Door Farm Stand

Chicago, Illinois

4. Hotel Zachary

Alma Room at Hotel Zachary on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of Hotel Zachary

For a sleek, modern space in an award-winning boutique hotel…

Chicago, IL

  • The Alma Room at the boutique Hotel Zachary, located in Wrigleyville, features exposed brick and metal fixtures for a nod to Wrigley Field’s iconic architecture
  • Reviewers love the sleek design of the building that “just might lure in business from the Fulton Market & West Loopers”
  • Guests can stay overnight in one of the stylish hotel rooms with modern amenities and views of Wrigley Field
  • Three event spaces are available, including the intimate Library space with seating for up to 20 guests
Hotel Zachary

Hotel Zachary

Chicago, Illinois

5. Joe’s on Weed Street

The Red Room at Joe's on Weed Street on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of Joe’s on Weed Street

For a lively celebration that captures the spirit of a sports bar and music hall…

Chicago, IL

  • The Red Room at Joe’s on Weed Street, located in Old Town, features bright red walls, full-screen TVs, and exposed piping for a modern and industrial vibe
  • Reviewers love the friendly staff, impressive sound-quality and lighting, as well as the elevated pub food
  • An array of package options — from basic to premium — are available for a customized dining experience, while an event coordinator is on hand to guide in the planning process 
  • Six event spaces are available, including VIP Loft Lounge and The Rooftop with accommodations for up to 120 guests
Joe's on Weed St.

Joe’s on Weed St.

Chicago, Illinois

Vibrant Rehearsal Dinner for 50 – 75 Guests

6. The J. Parker

The rooftop at The J. Parker hotel on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of The J. Parker

For unobstructed views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan…

Chicago, IL

  • The Rooftop at The J. Parker, located in Old Town, boasts a fully-retractable glass atrium for year-round dramatic views — and endless photo ops
  • Reviewers love the spectacular views of this indoor/outdoor space, as well as the “warm, cozy, and inviting” ambiance during colder months
  • A dedicated serving staff will take care of your semi-private section comprised of standing highboys, lounge seating, and mingling space
  • Full atrium buyout is available for up to 125 guests, while full-rooftop buyout is available for up to 225 guests
The J. Parker

The J. Parker

Chicago, Illinois

Dynamic Rehearsal Dinner for More than 75 Guests

7. Swift & Sons Tavern

The Second Floor Buyout at Swift & Sons Tavern on North Side of Chicago.
photo courtesy of Swift & Sons Tavern

For an elegant tavern and oyster bar with neighborhood charm…

Chicago, IL

  • The Second Floor Buyout at Swift & Sons Tavern, located in Wrigleyville, features elegant and modern décor, along with floor-to-ceiling windows for dramatic views of Wrigley Field 
  • Reviewers love the experienced staff of Boka Restaurant Group and delicious dishes prepared by Chef Chris Pandel
  • The combination of tavern fare and oyster bar adds a new element to a dynamic neighborhood known for its lively bar scene
  • Four event spaces are available, including a full-restaurant buyout for up to 300 guests
Swift & Sons Tavern

Swift & Sons Tavern

Chicago, Illinois