Chicago is a top destination for many reasons. As the third-largest city in the U.S., this multicultural mecca attracts approximately 86 million visitors a year. Known as The Windy City, it is home to 100 neighborhoods, 36 annual parades, 40 film festivals, 74 music festivals, 600 parks, 500 playgrounds, and so much more, according to Chicago.gov. It is a city ingrained in America’s heartland, and while it has a big-city vibe, it is very much in tune with its Midwest roots.

Chicago is known for its appealing architecture and history. It’s a town that Frank Sinatra sang about and for good reasons. From the museums to gangster walking tours, parks, and sports, this city is exciting and has something for all. Chicago is also a great place for dining. Exceptional cuisine is at your fingertips here, and dining at the unique waterfront along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River is a pure treat for anyone who wants those skyline views alongside some great food.

According to Chicago.gov, the Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile path with four districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and the Esplanade. The walk takes you right up and close to the Chicago River, offering spectacular sights and a perfect place for dining on the water. As for Lake Michigan, there’s the Navy Pier, which is full of parks, shops, attractions, and great restaurants on the water.

Waterfront Dining in Chicago Starts on Lake Michigan

For some of the top places to eat on the water in Chicago, City Cruises stands out among the rest. Start off right with the Chicago Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan. Gather friends and family for a picturesque day as you dine on Lake Michigan. You will enjoy a chef-prepared buffet meal of sweet and savory classics, including Scottish smoked salmon and French toast for early risers and salads, pasta, and Birria-style chicken for late risers.

The two-hour cruise also features bottomless mimosas and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline, including Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium. You will enjoy top-notch service as you take in your surroundings from the comfortable indoor spaces and open-air decks aboard the vessel while listening to the sounds of our live DJ.

If it’s a delectable dinner you crave, take the Chicago Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan. This is where you and your friends will delight in a memorable evening under Chicago’s night sky and stars. The highlight of the evening is the amazing backdrop of the city skyline. You will indulge in a chef-prepared buffet that includes oven-roasted salmon, baked orecchiette pasta, and Greek salad, along with other dishes.

Enjoy the views from the climate-controlled interior decks and take in sights such as the John Hancock Building and Navy Pier. The two- to three-hour cruise also features a fully stocked cash bar, live DJ entertainment, games, and an open-air deck.

For other dining on the lake, try The Lakefront Restaurant. According to its website, it is open year-round and located in the historic theater on the lake building at Fullerton. Known as an upscale tavern, the restaurant has 125 intimate tables, a seasonal skyline patio, and “stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.” Try the Annatto cauliflower tacos, chicken tinga tacos, or poblano beef stew. For dessert, indulge in the sour cream chocolate caramel cake.

Get Onboard with City Cruises and Dine on the Chicago River

For something just a little different, try the Premier Plus Architectural Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River. It’s a mix of fine dining and unrivaled skyline views that will keep you talking about it with your friends well after you’re back on land.

Delight your palate with delicious plated lunch specials, including butternut squash and kale salad, cauliflower and leek chowder, Atlantic striped bass, and potato gnocchi with tomato ragu. Pair with our craft cocktails. Your eyes will be amazed by Chicago’s iconic architecture as you take in the views from our glass-enclosed vessel. Landmarks include Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Old Chicago Post Office. Enjoy the narrated tour with ambient music as well as the onboard DJ entertainment and superb service.

Take your next dinner to the next level by sailing on board the Chicago Premier Plus Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River. You and your friends will indulge in an exquisite evening filled with gourmet dining, spectacular skyline views, and exciting entertainment. The menu includes everything from cauliflower and leek chowder and Italian sausage ravioli all’amatriciana for starters to cioppino and potato gnocchi with tomato ragu for your main course.

This 2.5-hour cruise is everything you imagine for a night along the water with the sights of Chicago’s iconic architectural marvels that you’ll see from our glass-enclosed vessel. Enjoy creative cocktails from a fully stocked cash bar, live DJ entertainment, and a night you will remember as you dance the night away with Chicago as your backdrop.

For a land-based restaurant with great views of the Chicago River, check out Beatnik on the River, “An exotic neighborhood escape with globetrotting cuisine, tropical cocktails and bohemian interiors in Chicago’s Loop,” according to the website. This dining oasis is “an exotic escape with maximalist interiors and lush gardens.” The food and drink bring together Eastern Mediterranean, Northern Africa, and Mexican flavors to bring your tastebuds alive. Try the beet mutabbal, mole verde gnocchi, or the shrimp esquites. Mouthwatering desserts include pumpkin cheesecake and dark chocolate tart.

City Cruises Can Host Private Waterfront Events in Chicago

Need a great venue for a special private event? Our Chicago Group & Private Events can assist you with events from corporate functions for small or large parties. We can also help with your wedding, engagement party, shower, or bachelor/bachelorette party. Have a special anniversary on the calendar, a family reunion, or a birthday? City Cruises private events will help you plan the perfect party within your budget. We also offer education events and holiday parties.

Explore our Chicago Fleet to find the venue that best suits your needs. Whether it’s a larger event or a more intimate gathering, City Cruises has seven venues from which to choose, including:

• Odyssey Lake Michigan: The largest vessel in the Chicago fleet offers stunning panoramic views from four decks and includes an open-air rooftop.
• Spirit of Navy Pier: The newest vessel in the Chicago fleet, this four-level yacht has three interior dining decks, two exterior observation decks, and three bars.
• Chicago Elite: This luxury yacht is a private charter vessel that boasts stunning skyline views from climate-controlled decks or the open-air sky deck.

Book Your Chicago Waterfront Dining Experience Today!

Chicago is everyone’s kind of town and the perfect city to enjoy dining on the water or along Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. No matter what you’re looking for in your next dining experience, City Cruises has it. You and your guests will love every minute on board with us. We can’t wait to see you!