10 Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago That Only Elites Can Afford to Dine In

Luxury or fine dine restaurants mean you will not only get the greatest food and high-end taste, but the unmatched ambiance as well. The most expensive restaurants in Chicago have redefined what a lavish food means.

Exploring the most expensive restaurant in the world will make you realize the exclusive prices charged not only for signature dishes by celebrity chefs but for the service and ambiance as well.

Best Fine Dining Chicago Restaurants in 2024

These are the top 10 Chicago fine dining restaurants that has uplifted the food scene of chicago like no other.

1. North Pond

It is the most visually appealing high-end dining destination, where you will find everything from stunning views to locally inspired cuisines. You can see the Chicago skyline while having lunch or dinner in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

North Pond is one of the Fancy restaurants in Chicago with a view that offers a four-course tasting menu for dinner and a three-course prix fixe for Sunday brunch. You can enjoy the ever-changing menu of seasonal dishes prepared by professional chefs.

  • Cost per person: $49
  • Awards won: James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes
  • Rating: 4.6/5

2. Shaw’s Crab House

Shaw’s Crab House has been in the game for years. It offers a classic 1940s-style setting with two dining rooms: the casual and lively Oyster Bar and the sophisticated Main Dining Room.

They get their daily catches directly from fishermen and farmers, ensuring the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.

  • Cost per person: $50 and more
  • Awards won: Not won any notable award yet
  • Rating: 4.6/5

3. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf

This classic American-Style Steakhouse has attracted many people around the world. As for the ambiance and vibe, it is what a steakhouse should be. The dim lights with jazz music and dark furniture have made the warm environment suitable for juicy steaks.

Along with the food, you will get attentive yet unpretentious service, making this steakhouse a popular choice for both casual and special occasions.

  • Cost per person: Not available
  • Awards won: Top 10 Steakhouses in the U.S. 2013 and 2014, Best Romantic Restaurants in the U.S.A.
  • Rating: 4.8

4. Boka

Boka focuses on seasonal American dishes. It is one of the finest restaurants in Chicago that emphasizes beautiful ingredients and expert preparation. The menu includes à la carte options as well as a hyper-seasonal tasting menu.

The unmatched dining experience is more enhanced with statement lighting, decor and sophisticated ambiance. Boka also offers a cocktail program in a tree-lined, stunning back patio for outdoor dining.

  • Cost per person: $175
  • Awards won: “Restaurant of the Year” at the Jean Banchet Awards, “3 Stars” and “Chef of the Year” from the Chicago Tribune.
  • Rating: 4.7

5. Moody Tongue

It is the world’s first two Michelin star brewery. The dark decor and leather seating make the restaurant exactly what its name shows—Moody!

Their other famous dishes, like orange blossom Belgian blonde ale or lamb borek with a cassis lambic, perfectly complement the signature beers.

  • Cost per person: $285 (The Dining Room)
  • Awards won: 2 MICHELIN Guide stars in 2021, 2022 and 2023
  • Rating: 4.5/5

6. Maple & Ash

Maple & Ash is a luxurious and prominent steakhouse that has transformed the meaning of fine dining in Chicago. The restaurant has a romantic, elegant ambiance with white tablecloths, candlelight, and a theatrical presentation of dishes.

Apart from the appearance and ambiance, the food is presented with delicacy and professionalism. Menu highlights include 14 different steaks, seafood varieties, and the most outstanding wine selection.

  • Cost per person: $300 per person (with tax & gratuity)
  • Awards won: Wine Spectator Restaurant Award-2024
  • Rating: 4.5/5

7. Ever

It is established by the Michelin-starred chef Curtis Duffy reflecting his high culinary standards and innovative dining experience ideas. The stylish decor and a peaceful ambiance perfectly complements the menu.

Ever has quickly become one of Chicago’s top dining destinations since opening. The supreme quality of their beautifully plated courses can not be matched in the fine dining scene of Chicago.

  • Cost per person: $325
  • Awards won: 2 Michelin stars in the 2021, 2022 and 2023 Guides
  • Rating: 4.8/5

8. Oriole

The tasting menu of Oriole is crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Noah Sandoval. Dining at this one of the expensive restaurant of Chicago give you the contemporary American dining experience. Since there is no specific dress code, the vibe is relaxed yet elegant and deluxe.

The innovative flavors and artistic presentation of dishes, along with the high level of service provided by the staff, are unparalleled.

  • Cost per person: $360
  • Awards won: Jean Banchet Award for Restaurant of the Year
  • Rating: 4.8/5

9. BLVD Steakhouse

This one has a sophisticated yet luxurious vibe. Inspired by the glamour of Hollywood’s Sunset Boulevard, which specializes in steak and seafood, with a diverse menu that includes various cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and classic sides.

They also offer semi-private and private seating options so that you can get varied dining experiences. From plating styles to vibe and parking facilities, it drips opulence like no other.

  • Cost per person: Not Available
  • Awards won: Eater Chicago’s 2018 award for Best Design of the Year
  • Rating: 4.3/5

10. Alinea

You can experience the magic of Chef Grant Achatz in full swing here. It is one of the most famous Michelin Star restaurants in Chicago, known for its super-luxurious dining halls and unmatched vibe.

You can choose from the 3 distinctive dining experiences: Kitchen table with the intimate seating of 6 people, The Gallery where you can get a sensory menu, and the Salon. Getting a reservation here might be hard, but it is worth the wait and money.

  • Cost per person: $405 to $465 (gallery range)
  • Awards won: Outstanding Restaurant in James Beard Awards, Best Restaurant in the World by Elite Traveler.
  • Rating: 4.6/5

Conclusion

These most expensive restaurants in Chicago offer all things top quality, from cuisine to vibe and staff. So, if you have saved up some money and want to spend it on something worthy, try booking a table in these high-end restaurants to experience what a real luxury tastes like.

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