The 28 most romantic restaurants in Chicago

On the northern end of the North Pond Nature Sanctuary sits a lovely farm-to-table restaurant that’s every bit as charming as it is delicious. Housed in a building that was constructed in 1912 to be a warming shelter for ice skaters, North Pond now serves as one of the most romantic dining rooms in town. Chef Cesar Murillo highlights what’s in season with a Michelin-starred tasting menu each night but for a more affordable option, opt for the Sunday prix fixe brunch, which is priced at $49 per person. The skyline views are the cherry on top.

Brendan Sodikoff’s vaguely French steakhouse is a departure for the restaurateur. While his other spots (Gilt Bar, Au Cheval) have their charms, the appeal of this spot—decked out with jazz-era decor and music—is practically universal, and perfect for a cozy evening with your significant other. Diners need not be huge steak fans to get a good meal—in fact, as good as the steak frites is, both the fried and roasted chicken are even better. Elegant cocktails begin meals here, and if you really feel like treating your date, you can split one of the seafood towers.

Helmed by chef-owner Erick Williams, Virtue specializes in Southern cuisine and seriously sexy vibes. The lights are turned down low, the playlist is always on point, the food is filled with soul and the menu boasts some excellent wines by the glass and bottle. Couples are best suited ordering a few appetizers and sides to share plus their own entrees. Save room for banana pudding studded with Nilla wafers, and request a round of Champagne with Williams.

This dimly lit fondue den is a reliably romantic date destination. The four-course Prince Geja Combination, while pricey, allows couples a chance to get cozy while experimenting with various dips. A cheese fondue appetizer with bread, grapes and apples is followed by a house salad. Then, beef tenderloin, chicken breast, lobster tail, jumbo shrimp and sea scallops are brought out to be cooked in the tableside hot oil pot. Lastly, a Belgian chocolate fondue served with sweet treats caps things off. We consider that dinner and a show!

A furniture store might not seem like the most logical place for a romantic dining experience, but the in-house restaurant at RH’s Gold Coast location is a pleasant surprise. Push past the furniture to an atrium dotted with leafy trees and tables situated beneath chandeliers. The kitchen serves contemporary American fare like shrimp cocktails, steaks and lobster rolls. Pair your food with a glass of wine and relax in the soft candlelight after dark—and don't let the lush surroundings distract you from your date.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city by heading to Piccolo Sogno’s lush, fenced-off garden oasis when weather permits. No, it’s not quite the Tuscan countryside but it’s the closest you can get without a half-day flight. Tony Priolo showcases the rustic flavors of Italy through pastas, pizzas and other staples such as bistecca alla griglia. Pair it with a bottle from the extensive Italian wine list for an impeccably romantic experience.

Boka Restaurant Group’s original restaurant has long been a paradigm of fine dining in the local scene. The warm and elegant space is fit for both a romantic date night and a special occasion. Culinary maestro Lee Wolen is the mastermind behind the menu, which focuses on seasonal American cuisine. His talents are on full display with the whole roasted dry-aged duck, a remarkable dish featuring juicy, tender meat under crisp skin that's entirely shareable.

There’s no better reason to get dressed to the nines than having a swanky dinner at BLVD Steakhouse. The beautiful and opulent space is inspired by Hollywood’s Golden Age so expect touches like crystal chandeliers and a grand staircase. Culinary director Joe Flamm complements the sophisticated setting with luxuries including caviar service, seafood towers, lobster thermidor and dry-aged cuts of beef. If you’re really looking to impress your date, splurge on foie gras or truffle upgrades for your steak.

Talk about romantic! S.K.Y. owner Stephen Gillanders named his Pilsen restaurant after his wife's initials. The sweet vibes don't stop there either: The dining room is sophisticated and intimate, with jewel-toned chairs and a booth that stretches the length of the room. Better yet, the menu is infinitely shareable, with plates like Maine lobster dumplings in jade butter and black truffle croquettes with aged white cheddar.