Chicago’s Most Splurge-Worthy Restaurants

There are a variety of ways to celebrate in a major metropolitan city like Chicago, and a fine dining experience is one of the best.

There are times when you circle a calendar date and start saving. There are special occasions where a dive bar and a Crave Case won’t cut it. And while spending a huge chunk of money isn’t a prerequisite for marking an achievement, there’s certainly no rule against it. Tasting menus are one vehicle for that — carefully plated courses that may use fancy ingredients or techniques mastered in culinary school. These dishes resemble art and are sometimes too pretty to eat. And the meals also ask for a time commitment. Usually, they take two hours or more, so plan accordingly.

Now, we know some folks will object. Tasting menus aren’t for everyone. Well, the city has plenty of steakhouses to satisfy carnivores. And there are spots ready to host large groups eager to spend. We’ve included a few different places with a la carte options as well. The latest update welcomes Valhalla and Kumiko.