Memorial Day on the Chicago River | Featuring Boat-In Restaurants
Treat yourself to an unforgettable outdoor meal at one of Chicago's best boat-up restaurants this Memorial Day. Between the different branches of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, there are plenty of options for waterfront dining—whether you’re looking for upscale seafood establishments, casual burger spots or even a brewery on the river where you bring your own food. Not sure where to start? Read on for our list of boat-in restaurants.
Boat-In Restaurant Guide
Smith & Wollensky
$$$
Situated on the Chicago River in Marina City and River North and just around the corner from the Kinzie, Smith & Wollensky provides the ultimate Chicago steakhouse experience. Enjoy an over-the-top dining experience featuring USDA Prime dry-aged steaks, premium seafood, and award-winning wine lists, all served with unparalleled hospitality. The large spaces offer picturesque views of the Chicago River, Riverwalk and skyline from the outdoor patio, spacious dining room and lower level grill/lounge.
318 N State Street
Chicago, IL 60654
Azul
$$
Located along the Chicago river in the burgeoning Goose Island neighborhood, Azul is an upscale mariscos (seafood) restaurant serving an expansive menu of Latin-inspired fare. The menu changes with the season, making Azul a year-round dining destination.
1177 N Elston Ave
Chicago, IL 60642
River Roast
$$
Situated on the iconic Chicago River with stunning views of downtown, River Roast is a lively social house and gathering place. The menu, led by Executive Chef Cedric Harden, features contemporary American tavern fare with dramatic presentations of whole roasted chicken, whole roasted fish, and slow roasted beef.
315 N La Salle St
Chicago, IL 60654
Gibsons Italia
$$$
Gibsons Italia is a modern Italian steakhouse in Chicago’s with three levels of lakefront views, outdoor dining, two fireplaces and a retractable roof . The menu consists of refined Italian dishes and American steakhouse classics, including a variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, risotto and gold-extruded pasta. Open for lunch and dinner Monday – Saturday, Gibsons Italia is a stylish downtown destination for an upscale dinner.
233 N Canal St
Chicago, IL 60606
Beatnik on the River
$$$
The boho-chic Beatnik on the River’s 50-seat terrace delivers creative cocktails and Mediterranean-influenced plates, and captures the essence of the original with lush plants, cozy couches, and prime views. In addition, the space houses an all-day café, dubbed Café Bonhomme, that serves coffees, juices, pastries, and sandwiches.
180 N Upper Wacker Dr
Chicago, IL 60606
Porter Kitchen & Deck
$$
Located on the Chicago River, features classic American cuisine in an elegant and relaxed setting. The expansive lunch, dinner and bar selections include entrées, fresh seafood, salads and sandwiches — including some of Four Corners' signature favorites. Additionally, the bar serves craft beers, wines and classic cocktails that pair perfectly with the cuisine.
150 N Riverside Plaza
Chicago, IL 60606
Café By The River
$
Get the José Andrés experience outdoors by heading to Café By The River, a casual soup and sandwich spot with a cozy partially-covered outdoor deck with the same river views. Taste José’s take on the classic American coffee shop and café with a touch of his signature Spanish flair.
City Winery
$$
The Chicago Riverwalk is rife with watering holes, including the second local outpost of City Winery. If you’re arriving by boat, reserve a spot at the dock and then climb up to the patio to sip rosé all day long. The drinking is best paired with light bites of meats and cheeses or a panini. Dogs are also welcome.
11 W. Riverwalk South
Chicago, IL 60601
Pizzeria Portofino
$$
Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched casual restaurant located directly on the Chicago riverfront offering hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an expansive patio and breezy decor that instantly transports you to the Italian Riviera. From the team behind RPM Restaurants and Lettuce Entertain You.
317 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60654
Beat Kitchen on the Riverwalk
$$
The Roscoe Village restaurant and music venue has opened up a second location on the Riverwalk for the summer. Enjoy a taco or pizza and a beer while you watch the river traffic float by.
91-95 E Riverwalk
Chicago, IL 60601