Planning a large gathering in Chicago? Finding a restaurant that can comfortably accommodate your group and deliver a memorable dining experience can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide highlights 20 top-notch Chicago restaurants ideal for large groups, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether it's a corporate event, family reunion, or a celebratory dinner with friends, we've got you covered. We'll cover everything from spacious venues to delectable menus and exceptional service, ensuring your large group dining experience in Chicago is nothing short of spectacular.
Finding the Perfect Venue: Factors to Consider
Before diving into our top 20 list, let's consider some key factors when choosing a restaurant for a large group in Chicago:
- Group Size: The most obvious factor! Restaurants have varying capacities for private dining rooms or sections. Be sure to specify your exact headcount when making reservations.
- Budget: Chicago offers a vast range of dining options, from upscale fine dining to casual eateries. Determine a per-person budget to narrow your choices.
- Cuisine: From Italian to Mexican, steak to seafood, Chicago boasts diverse culinary scenes. Choose a cuisine that appeals to the majority of your group.
- Ambiance: Consider the atmosphere you desire. Do you envision a sophisticated setting, a lively pub, or a relaxed, family-friendly environment?
- Location: Chicago is a sprawling city. Choose a location that's convenient for your group members, considering parking and public transportation access.
- Private Dining Options: For larger groups, inquire about private dining rooms or the ability to reserve a large section to ensure privacy and comfort.
Top 20 Chicago Restaurants for Large Groups: A Diverse Selection
This list showcases restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, atmospheres, and price points, all capable of handling large groups comfortably.
Upscale Dining:
- RPM Italian: Known for its stylish ambiance and sophisticated Italian menu, RPM Italian offers private dining spaces perfect for large gatherings.
- Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: A Chicago institution, Gibsons is renowned for its prime steaks and lively atmosphere. They accommodate large groups effectively.
- The Signature Room at the 95th: This iconic restaurant offers breathtaking city views alongside elegant dining and private room options.
Mid-Range Options:
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This stylish steakhouse provides a sophisticated yet approachable ambiance, with the capacity to handle large groups.
- Chicago Cut Steakhouse: Another excellent steakhouse choice, Chicago Cut provides both a luxurious feel and ample space for larger parties.
- Monteverde: A popular Italian restaurant known for its delicious pasta and welcoming atmosphere. They can usually manage larger group bookings.
- RPM Steak: Sister restaurant to RPM Italian, RPM Steak offers a similar high-quality dining experience with a focus on premium cuts of meat.
Casual & Lively Venues:
- Harry Caray's Tavern: A classic Chicago sports bar with multiple locations, perfect for a casual and boisterous gathering.
- Andros Taverna: A lively Greek restaurant offering generous portions and a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for large groups.
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: Combining craft beer with delicious pizza, Piece is a relaxed choice for groups who prefer a more casual setting.
- Big Star: This popular taco joint offers a lively atmosphere and a fantastic selection of tacos and margaritas. They handle large groups well.
Unique Experiences:
- Rosebud on Rush: A classic Italian-American restaurant with a long history and a reputation for excellent food. They often accommodate large parties.
- RPM Seafood: Focusing on fresh seafood, RPM Seafood offers a refined experience in a stylish setting, adaptable to larger groups.
Diverse Cuisines:
- Smyth: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative tasting menus, perfect for a truly special occasion (may require advance booking for larger groups).
- Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's highly acclaimed restaurant features global flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. They can sometimes accommodate larger groups.
- North Pond: Known for its elegant setting and award-winning seasonal American cuisine. They accommodate large groups in their private dining space.
Budget-Friendly Choices:
- Lou Mitchell's: A Chicago institution, Lou Mitchell's is a classic diner that can cater to large groups, particularly for breakfast.
- Portillo's: A Chicago hot dog institution, perfect for a casual and fun gathering, they have several locations that can manage larger parties.
Breweries with Food:
- Half Acre Beer Company: A popular brewery with a casual setting and a food menu that complements their selection of craft beers. They accommodate groups.
- Revolution Brewing: Another excellent brewery choice with a great atmosphere and a menu suited to larger groups.
Table: A quick comparison of some of the above restaurants:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Ambiance | Price Range | Group Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPM Italian | Italian | Upscale, Stylish | $$ | Large |
| Gibsons | Steakhouse | Lively, Classic | $$ | Large |
| Bavette's | Steakhouse | Stylish, Approachable | $$ | Large |
| Big Star | Mexican | Lively, Casual | $ | Moderate |
| Lou Mitchell's | Diner | Classic, Casual | $ | Large |
Note: Always call ahead to confirm group accommodations and make reservations well in advance, especially for larger parties. Specific group menus and pricing may also be available.
Remember to factor in your group's preferences and budget when making your selection. Enjoy your amazing dining experience in Chicago!
