River Roast Social House Spring Showcase in Chicago, Illinois
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13 River North Restaurants in Chicago for Your Chic Rehearsal Dinner

River Roast Social House Spring Showcase in Chicago, Illinois

River North attracts locals and tourists alike with its iconic architecture, hip art galleries, and dynamic nightlife. This bygone-warehouse district now ranks as Chicago’s most fashionable, trend-setting neighborhood — complete with converted lofts and sleek skyscrapers. Dinner at any of the eclectic mix of stylish and best restaurants in River North Chicago often includes dramatic views of the Chicago skyline, as well as lively people watching. With so many chic settings, it’s no wonder couples love to host their rehearsal dinners in this vibrant neighborhood.

While rehearsal dinners are an opportunity to run through the wedding timeline and practice walking down the aisle, they are also a chance to connect with your family and closest friends before the wedding day. It’s a time for intimate talks, shared laughs, and plenty of walks down memory lane. And of course, a great celebration deserves a great venue. We’ve searched PartySlate to bring you 13 of the best River North restaurants in Chicago for your stylish rehearsal dinner. They say “practice makes perfect,” but it also makes for a great excuse to celebrate.

*In no particular order…

Intimate Rehearsal Dinner for up to 25 Guests

1. Siena Tavern

The Cellar Space at Siena Tavern in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of Siena Tavern

For a fine-dining experience where rustic-Italian market meets modern-industrial tavern…

Chicago, IL

  • The Cellar space at Siena Tavern is designed as 100-year-old Italian winery with mood lighting, reclaimed wood accents, and separate sound system
  • Reviewers love delectable, from scratch cuisine — like house made truffle-cream gnocchi and pasta Bolognese — by world-renowned Top Chef and DineAmic Hospitality Partner Fabio Vivani
  • Off-Site catering menu also available for at-home celebrations, while other private and semi-private dining options allow for larger celebrations
  • 4 event spaces available, or full-restaurant buyout accommodates 16 – 150 guests
Siena Tavern

Siena Tavern

Chicago, Illinois

2. GT Prime Steakhouse

The Owl Room at GT Prime Steakhouse in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of GT Prime Steakhouse

For a sleek, contemporary design space and eco-conscious dining…

Chicago, IL

  • GT Prime Steakhouse’s The Owl Room features a secluded dining space overlooking the open kitchen as well as dark walls and dramatic lighting 
  • Reviewers love the intimate feel of this event space as well as the high-quality menu and impeccable service
  • Chef and Partner Giuseppe Tentori, along with Boka Restaurant Group, offer a meat-centric menu with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms
  • A full-restaurant buyout, along with two private event spaces, are available for rehearsal dinners and other milestone celebrations
GT Prime Steakhouse

GT Prime Steakhouse

Chicago, Illinois

3. Beacon Tavern

The executive table at Beacon Tavern in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of Beacon Tavern

For dramatic views of downtown Chicago, just steps from the Chicago Riverfront…

Chicago, IL

  • Beacon Tavern’s executive table offers family-style or plated cuisine, with views of the open kitchen and cozy fireplace
  • Chicago Tribune’s Phil Vettel calls Beacon Tavern a “hidden gem,” while reviewers love the flawless service and relaxed, yet upscale atmosphere
  • Menu features elevated takes on seafood-forward tavern classics — while the libation menu boasts contemporary cocktails, carefully-chosen wines, and a mix of local craft brews and international selections
  • 5 event spaces can accommodate up to 70 guests, with a verdant patio area that seats up to 50
Beacon Tavern

Beacon Tavern

Chicago, Illinois

4. RPM Steak

photo courtesy of RPM Steak

For an upscale Chicago steak house boasting ingredients of the highest quality and an award-winning wine menu…

Chicago, IL

  • RPM Steak’s elegant “P” space features semi-private dining on the mezzanine level with lively views of the first-floor restaurant 
  • Reviewers love the over-two-dozen cuts of quality-sourced beef, along with the rich array of sides appetizers that include oysters and rosemary-parmesan fries 
  • A Special Events team is available to curate menu selection, wine pairings and floral design for a custom dining experiences 
  • With 11,000-square feet of space, 5 event spaces are available — including the spacious main dining room
RPM Steak

RPM Steak

Chicago, Illinois

Moderate-Sized Rehearsal Dinner for up to 25 – 50 Guests

5. River Roast Social House

Semi-private dining space at River Roast Social House in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of River Roast Social House

For an exceptional event team that assists with everything from menu design to event décor…

Chicago, IL

  • River Roast Social House’s semi-private dining space features wine barrel décor and drapery for a more intimate dining vibe
  • Reviewers love the stunning city and waterfront views, attentive staff, and extensive menu selections
  • Contemporary tavern fair with roasted meats carved table side and imaginative drink menu that includes cold-brewed cocktails from slow drip infusion towers
  • 7 event spaces available, including the spacious Murdoch Room with its private verandah boasting spectacular views
River Roast Social House

River Roast Social House

Chicago, Illinois

6. Three Dots and a Dash

The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of Three Dots and a Dash

For a tropical paradise in the heart of the city…

Chicago, IL

  • The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash, known for its guided rum experiences led  by cocktail expert Kevin Beary, features dramatic lighting, exposed brick, and globed lanterns
  • Reviewers love the dark ambiance reminiscent of “Honolulu at night on the beach” and innovative, tiki-style cocktail menu
  • Cocktail menu boasts seasonal and fresh fruit, homemade syrups, and imaginative cocktail creations
  • 4 event spaces available, including The Lagoon with its unique bamboo wall and textured paneling
Three Dots and a Dash

Three Dots and a Dash

Chicago, Illinois

7. RPM Italian

The Stage at RPM Italian in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of RPM Italian

For a sophisticated, contemporary atmosphere with sleek lines and stylish décor…

Chicago, IL

  • The Stage at RMP Italian offers semi-private and elevated dining tucked behind the restaurant’s elegant main bar 
  • Reviewers love the sleek ambiance, as well as the generous servings of Italian favorites and the extensive wine list
  • An experienced events team is able to assist in wine pairings, floral décor, and menu selection — ensuring a stress-free planning process
  • A combination of four private and semi-private event spaces are available for up to 40 guests
RPM Italian

RPM Italian

Chicago, Illinois

8. GT Fish & Oyster

The Whale Room at GT Fish & Oyster in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of GT Fish & Oyster

For Michelin-star award-winning seafood cuisine…

Chicago, IL

  • The Whale Room at GT Fish & Oyster features an impressive 2,000 bottle wine cellar, a unique seafaring backdrop, and its own private entrance and restrooms
  • Reviewers rave about the fresh oysters and perfectly cooked fish, as well as the pleasant and attentive staff
  • Restaurant design evokes “an elegant stateroom” fused with the “relaxed atmosphere of the deck of a ship”
  • In addition to The Whale Room, which accommodates up to 40 dinner guests, a full-restaurant buyout is available
GT Fish & Oyster

GT Fish & Oyster

Chicago, Illinois

9. Gene and Georgetti Chicago

The Fireside Room at Gene and Georgetti Chicago in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of Gene and Georgetti Chicago

For a family-owned, old-school Chicago steakhouse with vibrant history…

Chicago, IL

  • The Fireside Room at Gene and Georgetti Chicago is a warm and inviting space that features built-in bookshelves, a working fireplace, and candle-bulb chandelier.
  • Reviewers love experiencing the rich history of this iconic Chicago venue, along with the high-quality cuisine and wine pairings
  • Private events include curated menus of family-style or plated dinners, along with complimentary valet services
  • Four event spaces are available, with accommodations of up to 110 guests
Gene and Georgetti Chicago

Gene and Georgetti Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

10. Kinzie Chophouse

The West Dining Room at Kinzie Chophouse in River North Chicago
photo courtesy of Kinzie Chophouse

For a female-owned and independent steakhouse in a historic Chicago building…

Chicago, IL

  • The West Dining Room at Kinzie Chophouse features large French doors that offer privacy from the main dining area — along with its own lighting and sound system
  • Reviewers love the delectable steaks, savory sauces, and award-winning wine list
  • Offers excellent service, impeccable food, and jazzy background tunes for an elegant and inviting atmosphere
  • Five private dining spaces are available, including the intimate Wine Huntress Room with a photo-worthy wine chandelier and accommodations for up to 20 guests
Kinzie Chophouse

Kinzie Chophouse

Chicago, Illinois

Vibrant Rehearsal Dinner for up to 50 – 75 Guests

11. Pacific Standard Time

Private Dining Room at Pacific Standard Time in River North Chicago.
photo courtesy of Pacific Standard Time

For an upscale atmosphere inspired by the relaxed energy of California…

Chicago, IL

  • Pacific Standard Time’s spacious Private Dining Room features breeze walls crowned with lush greenery, wooden details, and cheerful blue accents
  • Reviewers love the massive wood-fire ovens, extensive yet approachable menu, and easy-going California vibes
  • Private dining includes an ADA-accessible separate entrance area, auxiliary bar, and dedicated service and bar team
  • 4 event spaces with dramatic city views are available for up to 100 guests
Pacific Standard Time

Pacific Standard Time

Chicago, Illinois

12. Bub City Chicago

The Whiskey Bub & Corral at Bub City Chicago in River North.
photo courtesy of Bub City Chicago

For a country-style restaurant and unique barbecue dining experience…

Chicago, IL

  • The Whisky Bar & Corral at Bub City Chicago features a unique bar backdrop of the American flag crafted from individual beer cans
  • Reviewers love the lively atmosphere, vast beer selection, and attentive service
  • Hosts can also bring the party home with delicious off-site catering or “The Rig,” a mobile barbecue trailer
  • With 7 available event spaces, hosts can choose from a more intimate gathering in the Whiskey Room or a vibrant bash at the Main Bar
Bub City Chicago

Bub City Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

13. Celeste

Rooftop Garden at Celeste in River North Chicago
photo courtesy of Celeste

For a refined interpretation of the classic American drinking establishment…

Chicago, IL

  • The Rooftop Garden at Celeste offers a weather-proof, heat-controlled space with lavish plant décor and glittering chandeliers
  • Reviewers love the innovative cocktail program that features fresh ingredients and small-batch spirits pulled from a carefully-curated collection of over 350 bottles
  • Led by Bonhomme Hospitality, Celeste offers three floors of hospitality with serious cocktails and inviting cuisine
  • Party hosts can choose from four unique event spaces, such as The Pub (with its lively social atmosphere) and The Deco Room (with its glamorous and sexy old Chicago vibe)
Celeste

Celeste

Chicago, Illinois