When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Dearly Beloved
Why Dearly Beloved is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dearly Beloved is an exceptional cocktail bar and restaurant that offers a unique and immersive experience, making it a wonderful place to meet up with friends. Located near Moody Bible Institute, this venue combines a dark gothic fantasy aesthetic with an intimate atmosphere, perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. The establishment's decor includes a decorative gazebo and striking art that creates an appealing backdrop for socializing or taking memorable photos, making it a hit among Instagram influencers. The menu is crafted to surprise and delight the senses, with creatively prepared cocktails and delicious food that elevate the experience beyond the ordinary. Its location away from the hustle of major thoroughfares ensures a relaxed vibe without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. The staff's dedication to providing a remarkable sensory journey enhances the overall charm of Dearly Beloved, making it a gem that offers more than just drinks or meals — it provides a memorable outing for friends and companions looking to indulge in a captivating setting and unique flavors.
Here's what people think of Dearly Beloved
As of recent, Dearly Beloved holds a 4.6-star rating based on 347 reviews.
Reviews of Dearly Beloved highlight a generally positive and memorable experience. Many guests praise the quality and creativity of the cocktails and food, noting that the artfully crafted flavors justify the somewhat higher price point. The ambiance, described as a beautiful mixture of gothic fantasy and intimate charm, is frequently mentioned as a major draw, enhancing the sensory experience of the visit. Positive reviews emphasize the welcoming and attentive staff as well as the appealing setting, which makes it ideal for photography and social occasions. However, some reviewers point out the expense of the offerings as a potential downside, and the location being slightly off the main streets may be less convenient for some. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus remains very favorable, with guests recommending Dearly Beloved for its unique concept and quality. This cocktail bar and restaurant stands out as a sophisticated place that balances artistic presentation with excellent service, earning it a solid reputation among visitors.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kisha Johnson-Smith
My 1st experience at Dearly Beloved was absolutely top notch. Friendly staff, Beautiful decor, Good Food & Creative drinks! This is a cocktail bar so don’t look for any extensive food menu. The drinks are the focus with creative names to boot. It is a great experience and I will be back soon!
Chad Kowalewski
Came in here for my girlfriend’s birthday and it definitely exceeded expectations. The drinks were very different and exciting. They were unlike drinks you can get anywhere else in the city, our waiter also did a fantastic job explaining what each drink was. Also gave us suggestions based on flavor profiles we like and not just the specific alcohols in the cocktails. The food was solid. I had a burger and she had the French onion ramen. Both were tasty but not the stars on the show. The decor around the restaurant was spot on and had a romantic darkness to it even though the sun was still shining outside. We were leaving just as a DJ sporting some vinyl records showed up, would definitely come back to enjoy that.
Kiera A
Recently visited this restaurant and here is my experience: Beautiful atmosphere; they did a great job on the aesthetics. The food tastes phenomenal, however, the portions are ridiculously small. We paid $40 for a piece of branzino that was smaller than my hand. As a branzino lover that visits restaurants often, they served half the size of what you would typically get. Because of this, I had to order 2, just to get somewhat full. (I took pics just to show the size in comparison to my hand). I also ordered steak frites. Those were great, but they barely give you any fries, so we had to order more of those. (There was a lot of space on my plate before I started eating.) We also ordered the burger and there was more bun than meat. The waitress did mention that it shrinks if we order any temperature higher than medium, but I like my burgers medium well and it was definitely small. So maybe, add more meat for higher temperatures?..and lastly, no refills on anything but water. I can't remember the last time I've been to a restaurant where juice and soda costs to refill, and I eat in the West Loop weekly. When we first sat down I had to ask someone to clean the table. There were crumbs, but that was no biggie. Again, the food tastes great, but we had to order 2xs as much just to get full. The aesthetics were beautiful, but we were there to eat and the prices didn’t match the portions.
Steph G
What a dope place to go to! It is decorated beautifully and the cocktails are perfectly crafted. We didn’t have the food there, but the menu looked delicious! The cocktails are strong which is never a bad thing. Our server was incredibly nice and helped with suggestions.
Gee Riley
I can’t rate the food, we didn’t eat.. the wife and I stopped by after dinner and decided to have a few drinks. Very beautiful space, the decor and ambiance is very sleek and modern.. some of the dishes looked really good as I observed the servers bringing various dishes to tables that was near us.. the music in the overhead was ok I just wished it kinda stuck to one genre but all in all we had a good time.. I want to comeback and sample the food menu
How to reach Dearly Beloved
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Why Dearly Beloved may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dearly Beloved with your friends? If you seek a place that combines an intimate atmosphere, artistic flair, and exceptional culinary experiences, Dearly Beloved is an unrivaled choice to gather your group. Nestled in a quiet, charming neighborhood near the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, this venue stands apart from the usual hustle, offering a serene yet vibrant hideaway for friends and family to enjoy meaningful time together. Its ambiance, rich with Gothic fantasy elements—complete with a decorative gazebo and striking art installations—creates a unique environment that enhances social bonding and offers endless opportunities for memorable photos and shared experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a night out where conversation flows easily amidst creatively crafted cocktails and quality dishes, Dearly Beloved crafts a diverse sensory journey that keeps guests returning time and again. With a strong reputation reflected by a robust 4.6 rating from 347 reviews, it guarantees a blend of comfort, surprise, and delight that makes every gathering feel both exclusive and easily enjoyable.
What kinds of activities does Dearly Beloved offer for group meetups? Dearly Beloved seamlessly combines the best elements of a cocktail bar and restaurant, creating a versatile setting that caters to both relaxed and festive occasions. Guests can indulge in artfully crafted cocktails with flavors designed to surprise and delight the palate, ideal for groups who appreciate adventurous drink menus and unique concoctions. The carefully curated drink selections encourage sharing and conversation, making it perfect for those who enjoy exploring new tastes together. For groups centered around dining, Dearly Beloved offers a thoughtfully prepared menu that complements its beverage list, ensuring that food enhances the overall experience without overpowering it. Beyond eating and drinking, the ambiance itself invites lingering; the dark, gothic fantasy décor sets a moody yet inviting tone, perfect for taking photos to share on social media or simply appreciating the immersive environment. The seating, including a distinctive gazebo, allows for intimate group arrangements that feel both private and engaging, facilitating close conversations or lively celebrations.
Why is Dearly Beloved ideal for social gatherings and group bonding? The atmosphere at Dearly Beloved fosters a sense of connection that many venues strive for but few achieve. Unlike larger, noisier bars or restaurants, it offers a quieter, thoughtfully designed space that allows friends and family to reconnect without the distractions of crowded tourist hubs. The attention to sensory detail—from the visual art to the cocktail ingredients—creates talking points and shared enjoyment that naturally encourage interaction. This focus on the senses is a key part of its appeal, making each visit a memorable event rather than just a standard night out. The staff’s dedication also enhances the experience; the management prefers a location away from the busiest areas, avoiding overwhelming crowds so the service can remain personal and attentive. Additionally, the venue has become a favored spot for happy hours, where groups can unwind from their day while enjoying moderate pricing and high-quality offerings. This combination of exclusivity, creativity, and hospitality makes Dearly Beloved a prime choice for those wanting to make the most of their time together.
How does the food and cocktail selection contribute to the group experience at Dearly Beloved? Food and drink at Dearly Beloved are more than just sustenance — they are part of the shared artistry that shapes the overall experience. The menus feature artfully prepared dishes meant to harmonize with the cocktail offerings, enabling groups to pair plates and drinks thoughtfully. The cocktails deserve special mention; each is crafted as a journey of the senses with unexpected flavor combinations that invite conversation and curiosity. Whether your group prefers something classic with a twist or bold experimental flavors, the bar has options that suit varied tastes, allowing everybody in the group to explore something new. The food portion sizes and options make it easy to share plates, turning the meal into a communal experience that increases group bonding. Moreover, the visual presentation of the drinks and food is often Instagram-worthy, adding a modern social media dimension to the gathering—perfect for friends who enjoy documenting their outings.
What makes the ambiance at Dearly Beloved stand out for hosting meetups and celebrations? The atmosphere is one of Dearly Beloved’s most distinctive qualities, presenting a mix of gothic fantasy and modern art that captivates immediately upon entering. The space’s dark yet elegant interiors create a sense of privacy and exclusivity, making it feel like a hidden gem. Unique architectural elements such as the decorative gazebo add distinct character and serve as an attractive centerpiece for both dining and socializing. This setting appeals to Instagram enthusiasts who enjoy capturing their experiences, while also appealing to guests who simply want a cozy, artistic backdrop for deep conversations and celebratory toasts. The venue manages to balance ostentation with intimacy so that even larger groups feel comfortably mingled without sacrificing the room’s charm. This makes it suitable for a wide range of events—from casual get-togethers and birthdays to more formal celebrations—offering a versatile environment that feels special every time.
How does the location of Dearly Beloved enhance its appeal as a meetup spot? Dearly Beloved’s location away from Chicago’s busy Michigan Avenue corridor means it offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s noise and crowds, which is a rare find for a cocktail bar and restaurant with such high quality. Being near the Moody Bible Institute gives it a neighborhood vibe that feels welcoming and grounded, rather than frenetic or tourist-driven. This tranquility helps small to medium-sized groups to enjoy conversations without shouting over ambient noise—a common complaint in more commercial areas. Moreover, its slightly hidden nature adds an element of discovery and exclusivity, making get-togethers feel like insider events. This sense of being a "secret spot" known among those who value quality and ambiance enriches the group experience with a feeling of shared privilege. The location also offers enough privacy to host meaningful events without outside interruptions, which increases its suitability for more intimate or special occasions.
Why is Dearly Beloved recommended based on customer reviews and ratings? With an impressive user rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 347 reviews, Dearly Beloved consistently earns praise for delivering on promises of quality food, creative drinks, and a memorable atmosphere. Guests commend the uniqueness of the cocktail menu and the way the bar surprises and delights with innovative flavor profiles. Reviewers often mention the venue’s Instagrammable aesthetics and the warm, attentive service that makes each visit feel personalized. Although the place is considered on the expensive side, most agree that the high level of craftsmanship and experience justifies the cost, especially for groups looking to turn a regular night into a special occasion. The consistent positive feedback on atmosphere, customer care, and sensory experience emphasizes why many repeat guests choose Dearly Beloved as their go-to spot for meetups. Overall, the reviews position it as a premier destination for groups who appreciate creative culinary arts paired with intimate social settings.
What makes Dearly Beloved a versatile venue for different kinds of group events? Whether the gathering is a casual after-work happy hour, a festive birthday celebration, or a quiet night out with old friends, Dearly Beloved adapts to your group’s needs with grace. Its flexible seating arrangements—from cozy booths and tables to the signature gazebo—allow groups to find their perfect nook, whether for a small cluster or a slightly larger assembly. The multi-faceted nature of the venue—as a cocktail bar, restaurant, and sensory experience—ensures that everyone in the group can find something to enjoy, regardless of individual preferences. The ambiance supports both lively and intimate moods, making transitions in tone easy as the night progresses. This versatility, combined with excellent service and carefully crafted offerings, makes Dearly Beloved a reliable choice for a variety of group dynamics and social intentions.
How do social media and visual aesthetics at Dearly Beloved enhance the group outing experience? Dearly Beloved has cultivated an environment that is a magnet for Instagram influencers and social media enthusiasts alike, thanks to its visually striking décor and beautifully presented drinks and dishes. For groups that enjoy capturing and sharing their experiences online, the venue provides a perfect backdrop filled with artistic and gothic-inspired elements. This feature adds value to the meetup, giving attendees not just memorable moments but also shareable visual content that enhances their social connections beyond the event itself. The artistic vibe encourages guests to engage more deeply with their surroundings and each other, boosting the overall enjoyment and making group outings there feel genuinely special. This emphasis on aesthetics positions Dearly Beloved as more than just a place to eat or drink—it becomes a creative space where friends and family can celebrate in style.
In summary, Dearly Beloved is a standout destination for anyone looking to rally with friends or family in a setting that combines artistry, excellent service, and a sense of intimacy away from the city's chaos. Its wide range of activities—from cocktail tasting journeys to shared meals in a gothic fantasy environment—makes it perfect for groups looking for a place that caters to diverse tastes and social needs alike. With consistently high customer ratings, a quiet yet accessible location, and a dedication to sensory delight, it offers a compelling reason to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories together.