12 Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago – Find the Luxurious Dining Destinations

Chicago is well known for its high-end, luxurious dine-in restaurants, celebrity chefs, and culinary arts. Many expensive restaurants in Chicago run fully reserved for months. With the dedication to providing classy, artistic cuisine to their diners, they have won many James Beard Awards and Michelin Stars.

Since fine dining requires consistent, quality service, unparalleled taste of food, and a comfortable yet luxurious atmosphere, these restaurants give tough competition to any other world-class restaurants.

We have curated a well-researched list of top restaurants that are not only expensive but have gold-quality service as well.

Top 12 Expensive Restaurants You Should Know About

Following is the list of the top 12 most expensive restaurants in Chicago that are carefully selected on the basis of Michelin Star ratings, TripAdvisor ratings, awards they have won, and what customers have to say about them.

You can get an idea of each restaurant’s service, ambiance, and food quality by the TripAdvisor ratings below.

So, let’s dive in!

Read Also: 10 World’s Most Expensive Food Only Millionaires Can Afford!

1. Alinea | 1 Fine Dining Highest-Rated Restaurant

Even if you have the slightest interest in checking out expensive and high-end restaurants, you must know this one. Or better, you must have seen its most viral dessert – the edible Helium Balloon (that costs $210, by the way!), which was even loved by Justine Timberlake.

The most exquisite and lavish Alinea Restaurant is located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago and is the ultimate go-to place for elites. The reason is not just the exceptional quality of food and hospitality, but the immersive experience that it offers is unmatched. This fancy restaurant in Chicago is run by Grant Achatz, who is an American chef known for his contributions to modern and progressive cuisine.

Signature Cuisines: Apple Balloons, Table Dessert, Peanut Butter and Jelly

First-hand review by its diners: A must-visit restaurant that offers artistic and immersive ambiance. It felt like a fun tourist attraction. The food was impeccable and filled with surprising ingredients.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 3
• Awards Won: Outstanding Restaurant in James Beard Awards, Best Restaurant in the World by Elite Traveler
• Cost Per Person: $295-$475
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Ambiance: 4.5

2. Oriole | Unparalleled Gastronomic Experience

Located in Chicago’s WestLoop neighborhood, Oriole restaurant offers a minimalist style theme without any extravaganza. It is an extended testing menu of executive chef & owner Noah Sandoval so that you will get a selection of his expertise.

According to the customers who have dined there, this is situated in a street-like area with no prominent signs of a high-end restaurant. But, the ever-changing menu and diversity that it offers is unmatched. From Asian cuisines to Italian, you will get a multi-course menu in this unique restaurant in Chicago. It’s like a hidden getaway from mundane life where you can spend some quiet time with your loved ones.

Signature Cuisines: Norwegian king crab and Maine sea urchin, lobster dumpling, New Zealand langoustine

First-hand review by its diners: Without any show-off and boasting, the staff gracefully presents the food in a mature manner. The vibe was some sort of Scandinavian.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 2
• Awards Won: Restaurant of the Year by Jean Banchet Award, AAA 5 Diamond rating
• Cost Per Person: $178
• Food: 5 |  Service: 5 |  Value: 4.5

3. LH Rooftop | Luxurious Rooftop with First-Class Cuisine

Chicago is widely known because of its spectacular skyline. So why not experience it from the LH rooftop while having your favorite cuisine? With the view of Chicago’s iconic infrastructure as your backdrop, you can enjoy peaceful meetings or parties in a soothing environment. Along with the deck, it also has a fine indoor setting where you can unwind and relax.

With some of the most exquisite and classic cocktails, you will find delicious foods that are served in substantial portions.

Signature Cuisines: Loco Moco, Chicken Skewers, King Crab Benedict.

First-hand review by its diners: They have high-quality fresh produce cuisines. Plus, everything was Instagrammable.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 4
• Awards Won: Smart Stars’ Winner Of Smart Meetings 2023
• Cost Per Person: $200
• Food: 3.5 | Service: 3.5 | Value: 3.5

4. EL Ideas | No-boundary Intimate Dining Experience

Chef Phillip Foss, with his team, offers a great deal of unique extended-tasting menus. El Ideas has a low-key ambiance away from any overwhelming fashion. The sleek and artistic interior with modern decor is perfect for intimate parties, anniversaries, and dates.

It offers a communal experience with a visible kitchen area so you can engage in conversation with the chef and team members.

Signature Cuisines: Potato, Leek, Vanilla french fries, and ice cream

First-hand review by its diners: With comfortable dining space, the environment is really American. Michelin-level creativity and taste of cuisines. The aura is so homely, and the facility of hanging coats by the entrance as you walk into the restaurant gives really intimate vibes.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 1
• Awards Won: Best Molecular Gastronomy Restaurants in the U.S.A., Best Chicago Chef’s Table Restaurants
• Cost Per Person: $195
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Atmosphere: 4.5 | Value: 4

5. Mastro’s Steakhouse | A Classic and Elegant Steakhouse

Mastro’s Steakhouse is famous for its world-class and tasteful steaks that are unmatched. Combined with the live entertainment and energetic vibe, the polite and professional service fully satisfies the visitors. The menu does not only list the variety of best steaks, but they have fresh seafood options as well. Especially oysters. The grand and overwhelmingly decorated interior compliments the variety of cuisines and wines they offer.

What impresses many diners is the dimly lit environment with lazy jazz music playing in the background. The place does not seem cramped, which enhances the fine-dine experience.

Signature Cuisines: Butter Cake

First-hand review by its diners: Many visitors say that “you should visit it at least once in Chicago restaurants”, depicting the quality of food and service they provide.

• Awards Won: Grad Award Winner 2023, Best of Scottsdale Ocean Club Award 2023
• Cost Per Person: Their cost per person varies from menu to menu. Starting from $48 and rising up to $190.
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Atmosphere: 4.5 | Value: 3.5

6. Cherry Circle Room | Classic Environment in a Modernistic Appearance

Located on Michigan Avenue at the Chicago Athletic Association, the Cherry Circle Room is famous for its intricate historic designs blended with modern interior decor techniques. They have high-quality French and American wine collections to choose from. The open bar area with intimate dining spaces and lounges to have a fun time with your loved ones.

The historic designs go well with the menu, which includes various types of roasted meat. The impeccable service and ambiance make it one of the most expensive restaurants in Chicago.

Signature Cuisines: French-style epis baguette with goat butter.

First-hand review by its diners: With a fantastic walk-through, it has a luxurious vibe. The cocktail and vine selection, truffle pasta, and burrata appetizer are the favorite among its customers.

• Awards Won: James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant Design (Over 75 Seats)
• Cost Per Person: $180
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Value: 4

7. Brindille | Experience French Cuisines in Fine-Dine

Decorated with earthy tones and soothing soft lighting, Brindille has something unique to offer. A classic French restaurant that has a traditional menu, perfect for parties, birthdays, and anniversaries. From plates to decor, they have maintained professional attention to detail so customers can experience one of the most luxurious yet fun places to eat in Chicago.

The friendly and quick staff make the experience more unique. You can get a tasting menu if you want. Plus, they have exceptional drink pairings, too.

It is headed by the award-winning chef Carrie Nahabedian and her cousin, Michael Nahabedian. They became famous through their first venture, Naha restaurant, and then opened Brindille, which is exclusively a French restaurant.

Signature Cuisines: Lobster drenched in butter, foie gras, and almond clafoutis.

First-hand review by its diners: Most people found the prices adequate for the services and quality of food that they got.

• Awards Won: James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant Design (Under 75 Seats), Best Chicago Special Occasion Restaurants, Best Chicago Wine List Restaurants, Best New Restaurant in 2013 by Chicago Tribune
• Cost Per Person: $175
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Atmosphere: 4.5 | Value: 4

8. Maple & Ash | Traditional Yet Innovative American Steakhouse

Maple and Ash has elevated the level of entire Gold Coast restaurants. Decorated with exquisite leather couches and dimly lit kitchens, it gives off a soft, soothing vibe. Walls covered with curtains and tables decorated with single long-stand candles feel really inviting. No doubt why it always finds its way on the list of Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago.

All of their menu is a diverse variation of firewood dishes served with a collection vine. Plus, another thing that is grabbing everyone’s attention is the high-standard home-made pasta.

Signature Cuisines: Coal Roasted Seafood Tower, hazelnut hummus.

First-hand review by its diners: Every layer of flavor has a significant difference. The service is extremely attentive and friendly enough to recommend good dishes.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 2
• Awards Won: “America’s Best” by Wine Spectator
• Cost Per Person: $300 per person (with tax & gratuity)
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Value: 4

9. Moody Tongue | Fancy Restaurant with Beer Pairings

Moody Tongue is a fancy and classy restaurant in Chicago that is famous for its beer variety combined with local cuisines. Executive Chef Jared Wentworth’s signature brews are the main attraction for people. Mainly, they have an ambient space decorated with leather sofas and intimate yet open seating. The main course varied with the seasons. It sometimes also contains the most expensive seafood options as well.

Interesting Fact: It is the world’s only two-starred brewery.

Signature Cuisines: Hudson Valley foie gras with burnt peach dash and lightly poached Maine lobster in spiced tomato water.

First-hand review by its diners: Many visitors find it not only aesthetic from the interiors but the exterior has a minimalistic yet grand feel as well. The menu and service are exceptional. Specifically, the staff is kind and professional. According to a local guide, this is perfect for people who love a little salty flavor.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 2
• Awards Won: Jean Banchet Award for “Best Bar” in 2019
• Cost Per Person: $285 (The Dining Room)
• Food: 4 | Service: 4.5 | Value: 4

10. Next Restaurant | Exquisite Dining by Alinea Group

Next Restaurant is one of the most acclaimed destinations for all food lovers. Menus change every few months, giving a fresh taste to global cuisines. With the understanding and attentive staff, you will feel lavish and exquisite.

The soothing atmosphere and stunning decor make it preferable for people looking for fine dining. You can get an open kitchen view upon request if you want a more immersive experience of how your food is carefully prepared.

Signature Cuisines: Sweet Shrimp, Roasted Banana, Salted Duck Egg.

First-hand review by its diners: Unbeatable service and atmosphere. Wine pairing with decor and soft music feels like heaven.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 1
• Awards Won: Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation, Best New Restaurant by Jean Banchet Awards
• Cost Per Person: $500
• Food: 4 | Service: 4.5 | Atmosphere: 4.5 | Value: 3.5

11. Vie Restaurant | Flagship Restaurant of Chef Paul Virant for Seasonal Dining

With the minimalist and clean decor, it does not overwhelm the customer. It is famous for sourcing fresh produce and keeping high standards from farm to plate. Chef Paul Virant experiments with classic recipes and comes up with innovative cuisines like never before.

Well-trained staff, homey decor, and a simplistic vibe, you can celebrate any occasion here, from parties to anniversaries. The atmosphere is soothing and welcoming, yet it is the most sophisticated option. Plus, you can enjoy a unique selection of wines and incredible cocktails.

Signature Cuisines: Butter Cake, Beet Salad, Wood Grilled Vie Burger.

First-hand review by its diners: Excellent food and service at a reasonable price. A beautiful, family-oriented place to go to have a relaxing dinner away from the noise.

• Michelin Star Ratings: 1
• Awards Won: 50 Best Restaurants, Chicago Magazine, 2023 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence
• Cost Per Person: $125
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Atmosphere: 4.5 | Value: 4

12. Aba | Trendiest Dining Experience

Aba restaurant is the best option if you want to get the best of both – the food and the scenery. The indoor seating echos warm, luxurious vibes, perfect for intimate dinners and luxurious romantic dates.

A variety of Mediterranean food is served with a full-fledged bar program of wines and spirits. According to many people who dine there find this place not only aesthetic and modern, but the visitors are always so finely dressed. Plus, the staff is super nice towards their guests. It speaks about the professionalism that they always practice.

Signature Cuisines: Muhammara, Heirloom Crispy Chicken Thigh, Smoky Garlic Hummus.

First-hand review by its diners: The local people who ate there say that it is a “hybrid of Lebanese and Greek cuisine with a California twist.” The seating is a mix of indoor and outdoor, making it perfect for summer.

• Awards Won: Best Chicago Father’s Day Restaurants, Best Chicago New Year’s Eve Restaurants
• Cost Per Person: $50 and above
• Food: 4.5 | Service: 4.5 | Value: 4.5

Conclusion

Whether you want to celebrate the birthday of your loved one, propose your date, or have a business dinner, these high-end and exquisite restaurants will make your day memorable. By just spending a few hundred dollars more, you can enjoy an exclusive experience.