Looking to treat your partner to an elegant evening in celebration of Valentine’s Day but not sure where to go?
The Chicago area offers plenty of charming dining destinations – including four that were recently ranked among the country’s most romantic.
OpenTable recently released its list of 2026’s Top 100 Romantic Restaurants, highlighting spots across the country that the website says “know how to set the mood.”
In Chicago, three restaurants made the cut, and all happen to be in Lincoln Park.
Geja’s Cafe – An iconic fondue establishment that has been a Chicago mainstay since 1965, the restaurant attracts both Chicagoans and visitors alike.
“It’s a perfect way to kindle romance, celebrate a special occasion or simply join family and friends for a fun and unforgettable dining experience,” the description on its OpenTable page read.
Mon Ami Gabi – A traditional French bistro operated by Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, Mon Ami Gabi serves French classics including Onion Soup Au Gratin and Steak Frites — plus offers a vast selection of more than 80 boutique French wines, it website stated.
North Pond – The popular spot features menus that “celebrate the seasonal bounty provided by local farms and artisans,” according to its website.
A five-course tasting menu is available for dinner, while a three-course prix fixe brunch is offered on Sundays.
Meson Sabika in Naperville rounds out the Illinois establishments. Offering a “taste of Spain,” the award-winning restaurant, set inside a historic 1847 mansion, features eight dining rooms decorated in traditional Spanish décor.
Diners can explore the “rich culinary heritage of Spain” through tapas, Paella, classic Tortilla
Española and many more dishes, according to the restaurant’s website.
Looking to venture out of the area a bit?
These Midwest spots are also included:
Indiana
- Vida – Indianapolis
Michigan
- Leo’s – Grand Rapids
Missouri
- Charlie Gitto’s ‘On the Hill’ – St. Louis
Ohio
- BOCA – Cincinnati
- Butcher & Rose – Columbus
- Carlo & Johnny – Cincinnati
- Cento – German Village – Columbus
- Jag’s Steak & Seafood – West Chester
- Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – Columbus
- Lindey’s – Columbus
- Pier W – Cleveland
The full list can be found here.
