Whether you're getting to know someone new or want to celebrate an occasion with your significant other, it's always good to have at least one killer romantic restaurant in your back pocket. Here are five places around town where the vibe is relaxed, the lighting is dim, and the wine is flowing—creating an intimate atmosphere for two.
North Pond
Lincoln Park
For an upgrade on the classic picnic-basket-in-the-park move, bring your special someone to North Pond, which serves high-end fare from a charming lakeside Arts and Crafts building located right in the middle of Lincoln Park. With nine-foot-tall glass windows that offer a stunning view of the skyline, the atmosphere is hard to beat, whether you're savoring the $95 tasting menu at dinner, or enjoying brunch with a view on a warm morning.
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
River North
This steakhouse's dimly lit, speakeasy-like space sets the mood for a luxurious meal, complete with red leather booths and tufted sofas for cozying up to your special someone. Order a bottle of Champagne, a shrimp cocktail, and a 22-ounce dry-aged bone-in ribeye for two, and luxuriate in the old-school glamour. And be sure not to miss the sinfully rich chocolate cream pie for dessert.
Geja’s Cafe
Lincoln Park
There's nothing more intimate than sharing a fondue pot, and with more than 50 years under its belt, Geja's is the place to go to get your dip on. Whether you're twirling lobster tail, sea scallops, or beef tenderloin in the bubbling pots, the interactive element is fun, and the dimly lit room, curtained booths, and live guitar music help to set the scene. And it's hard not to love a meal that always ends with chocolate—in fondue form, of course.
Maude’s Liquor Bar
West Loop
For a rustic taste of France, look no further than this West Loop favorite, where the dimly lit environs are part speakeasy, part bistro, and all sex appeal. Split a bottle from the all-French wine list and some classic bistro fare, from foie gras pate to escargot to French onion fondue. And if you believe in the aphrodisiac power of raw oysters, Maude's has excellent ones, sourced from both the East and West Coasts.
Goosefoot
Lincoln Square/Ravenswood
With only 16 seats, this tiny Lincoln Square restaurant is as intimate as it gets, making it a favorite for anniversaries and other special occasions. Even better, it's BYOB, so if you've been meaning to share a long-awaited bottle, a meal here provides the perfect excuse. (Not a wine collector? Goosefoot also owns a wine shop next door, where you can grab a bottle before dinner.) The tasting menu runs a cool $220 (inclusive of tax and tip), but you'll be able to linger and enjoy the modern fare over the course of a long, intimate evening.
