Just blocks from Michigan Avenue, this neighborhood is filled with upscale restaurants for date night, casual eateries for you and your friends, and affordable, yet delicious, bites. Check out some of our favorite restaurants in the Gold Coast area!
Best restaurants for casual dining with friends
Somerset is a swanky restaurant filled with art deco designs and mid-century modern furniture, just right up the street from Mariano Park. Making brunch reservations is a must here, with an unbeatable ambiance, array of food and drinks, and highly-praised service, this spot books up fast! Another great restaurant for a casual day enjoying apps with friends is Luxbar. This two-level pub features outdoor patio seating and an upstairs lounge. At the corner of Rush and Bellevue, Luxbar is truly a great place for catching up while enjoying breakfast pizza or salmon sliders. Eduardo’s Enoteca is a cozy restaurant and wine bar serving Italian dishes that will easily impress your friends. Make sure to share a charcuterie board and crostinis while browsing their extensive wine selection during happy hour. This little slice of Italia just blocks from Lakeshore Drive is a must in Gold Coast!
Best date night restaurants in Gold Coast
Nothing beats date night in an intimate and old-school setting like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse. A wealth of history and a great atmosphere, this timeless restaurant offers food and service that is top-notch, just steps away from the happenings on Oak Street. The pianist keeps the mood and energies high, the atmosphere so grand it takes your breath away, and the oysters, lobsters, and steaks will make your mouth water beyond a doubt. Right up the street from Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is Maple & Ash. With over 3,000 – 4.8 star reviews, Maple & Ash is another perfect spot for a night out with your significant other. Full of sleek and modern decor, attentive service, and complimentary cocktails, this pick is truly exceptional. If you’re looking for a little classic Italian, look no further than Carmines. This lively supper club is famous for its hearty portions of pasta and a vast selection of meats. In this cozy club, the Chef personally greets every table, leaving you with the most intimate and personal experience. After dinner, walk a few blocks down to Oak Street Beach for a stroll along Lake Michigan.
Best affordable restaurants along State Street
If you’re looking for a fairly priced taco joint, make sure to try Velvet Taco. After hitting Michigan Ave, this unique twist on the traditional taco restaurant is a go-to for many locals. Right up the street from Velvet Taco is Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. This pizza and pasta hub is known for its friendly service, great atmosphere, and affordable prices. Their pies have the perfect ratios of cheese, sauce, toppings, and crust… and will fill you up for days as one reviewer said “One deep-dish slice and you’ve been fed for a week!” Across the street from Lou Malnati’s sits Goddess and Grocer, a not-so-ordinary sandwich spot. Goddess and Grocer feature a fresh and creative menu full of sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, and baked goods. The menu here has something for everyone, with selections inspired from regions all over the world.
