When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Shanghai Terrace
Why Shanghai Terrace is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Shanghai Terrace, located inside the luxurious Peninsula Hotel on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, offers an elegant and refined Chinese dining experience perfect for meeting up with friends or celebrating special occasions. The ambiance recalls a 1930s Shanghai supper club with rich gold-and-vermilion interiors and mahogany quatrefoil screens, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a semi-private dining room that accommodates up to 30 people for more intimate gatherings, or during warm weather, dine and sip cocktails on the outdoor terrace that boasts remarkable views of Chicago’s skyline. The menu showcases elevated Chinese cuisine crafted by Chef Elmo Han, with highlights including expertly prepared Peking duck served with traditional accompaniments, lobster, chicken and truffle dumplings, and the flavorful Dong Po pork belly. The restaurant also features unique dishes like the "Happy Red Rice," a delightful fried rice with pistachios and egg, praised for its surprising simplicity and flavor. The venue accepts reservations, offers valet parking, and public Wi-Fi, ensuring convenience alongside luxury. This blend of exceptional food, classy decor, and a stunning cityscape backdrop makes Shanghai Terrace a distinguished destination for dining out with friends in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Shanghai Terrace
As of recent, Shanghai Terrace holds a 4.5-star rating based on 432 reviews.
Reviews of Shanghai Terrace generally praise the luxurious setting and high quality of food, especially highlighting the Peking duck and several signature dishes such as the lobster-truffle dumplings and Dong Po pork belly. Reviewers appreciate the attentive and courteous staff as well as the unique experience of dining on the outdoor terrace with panoramic city views. Positive reviews emphasize the sophisticated ambiance and elevated Chinese cuisine that successfully combines traditional flavors with refined presentation, making it a memorable place for both casual dinners and special occasions. On the other hand, some critiques mention inconsistencies in certain dishes, such as noodles that were described as bland or lacking in texture, and concerns about pricing, particularly in light of the restaurant’s hotel location which can lead to higher menu costs. A few diners found some items, like dim sum, less impressive or stodgy compared to expectations. Despite these reservations, the overall consensus is positive, with many recommending Shanghai Terrace for its elegant environment and exceptional culinary offerings. In conclusion, while there are occasional critiques regarding specific dishes and pricing, the restaurant’s unique atmosphere, exquisite signature dishes, and excellent service establish it as a top-tier dining option in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lacey Mizell
Needless to say, the Peninsula does an amazing job of creating a wonderful dining experience at this spot, located on the 4th floor of the hotel. Cocktails, wine and a curated sale menu complement the traditional Chinese dishes perfectly. This is a great place to share some dim sum and a plate of delicious meats, fish or fried rice. You won’t be disappointed.
Christina Huynh
This is a high end Chinese restaurant, as you would expect. The patio was really nice, shaded. I was disappointed by the seabass but would come here to try more dishes in the future. The mango Peninsula dessert was very good!
Nan Zhu
The food is delicious. Peking duck is hands down the best you can find in town. Our server is great! We enjoyed our dessert a lot too and Mango pudding is a must try!
Eric Skooglund
The staff was excellent! I booked it for an anniversary and the staff wished us happy anniversary multiple times throughout the dinner, gave is very special treatment, and provided complimentary desserts. The Peking Duck and Beef Tenderloin were amazing as well.
Dee P.
My first time having lunch at Shanghai Terrace. Let’s start with the sparkling water, it was warm. We sat outdoors and the temperature was 87 degrees Fahrenheit! Our waiter ignored me several times trying to flag him down for ice. I finally got another waiter to bring a bucket of ice over. It was not even busy. The food came and I thought I was eating food served in China town in a 2 star restaurant. The presentation and the taste of food were horrible. I am a foodie. Never again. And I mean never!! The Halibut was decent but I could steam it myself and throw crushed ginger and sliced red pepper on top, nothing special. The mixed vegetables were bad because the way they cut the different vegetables were as though a child did it and all I tasted was salt, I asked them to leave out oyster sauce and replace with garlic but I did not taste any garlic. The duck soup was bland with too much noodles that my aunt had to remove half of it. The beef fried dumplings had bad meat and tasted salty. This is my honest opinion and I eat out a lot.
How to reach Shanghai Terrace
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Why Shanghai Terrace may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Shanghai Terrace with your friends?
Gathering with friends is all about sharing memorable experiences in an environment that encourages connection, laughter, and enjoyment, and Shanghai Terrace effortlessly delivers this. Nestled inside the luxurious Peninsula Hotel on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, Shanghai Terrace brings an upscale yet inviting ambiance that sets the stage for an exceptional social outing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a stylish spot for a weekend get-together, the venue’s elegant 1930s Shanghai-inspired décor—with its rich ebony, gold, and scarlet tones—creates a chic backdrop that impresses from the moment you arrive. The restaurant’s seamless balance of impeccable service and exquisite cuisine ensures everyone in your group will feel pampered and pleased. Its versatility in atmosphere caters to groups looking for a relaxed lunch on the terrace soaking in spectacular city views or a more refined dinner indoors. The warm hospitality combined with thoughtfully curated dishes that highlight Shanghainese, Cantonese, and Szechuan flavors makes it a place where friends can bond over shared plates and cocktails in an unforgettable setting. Ultimately, Shanghai Terrace offers more than just a meal—it's a place to create lasting memories with your friends in luxury and style.
What activities can you enjoy at Shanghai Terrace that make it perfect for a group meetup?
Shanghai Terrace is designed to cater to groups with diverse interests, making it ideal for lively gatherings, relaxed catch-ups, and even milestone celebrations. One of the key attractions is the outdoor terrace—a charming urban garden space that affords stunning views of Chicago’s skyline. In warmer months, gathering here allows friends to enjoy al fresco dining in an atmosphere both intimate and scenic, perfect for sharing dim sum platters or signature dishes like the renowned Peking duck. The terrace encourages a casual mingling vibe enhanced by the fresh air and ambient lighting, turning an ordinary lunch or dinner into a vibrant social occasion.
Indoors, the main dining room channels a seductive 1930’s Shanghai vibe, creating the perfect backdrop for those who prefer a more classic setting. The spacing of tables ensures an exclusive feel that respects privacy while still fostering a communal energy. For groups with up to 30 people, reserving the private dining room provides a more intimate space, ideal for celebrations, business dinners, or family reunions. This flexibility between outdoor, main dining, and private rooms accommodates a range of group sizes and moods, from serene conversations to spirited feasts.
Beyond the gorgeous setting, Shanghai Terrace offers a dynamic menu that supports interactive dining—a fantastic way to bond through food. Sharing dishes such as lobster, chicken, and truffle dumplings or the chili prawns with sweet and spicy notes provides a culinary experience full of flavors that prompt discussion and delight. The food’s elevated quality and creative interpretations mean there’s always something new to taste and talk about, sparking a unique kind of group engagement. Notably, the seasonal opening of lunch service on weekends with terrace seating adds another enjoyable option to mix up your meetup routine. This diversity of atmosphere and menu choice makes Shanghai Terrace a versatile destination perfect for friends’ outings.
What makes the food and service at Shanghai Terrace stand out for group dining?
Shanghai Terrace distinguishes itself through its culinary excellence and attentive service, both essential to a successful group dining experience. Under the guidance of Chef de Cuisine Elmo Han, the menu showcases contemporary takes on traditional Chinese recipes, blending Shanghainese, Cantonese, and Szechuan flavors into a harmonious whole that caters to diverse palates. This thoughtful fusion ensures that each dish—from dim sum to more elaborate entrées—delivers both authenticity and innovation. Signature items like the exquisitely crispy yet tender Peking duck wrapped with fresh julienned cucumber and hoisin sauce embody the restaurant’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship, ideal for sharing across a table of friends.
The presentation is meticulous—down to golden chopstick holders shaped like boats and carefully monogrammed warm towels at the start—that adds layers of refinement to every visit, enhancing the group dining ambiance. Such attention to detail is matched by the service: staff are consistently described as attentive, charming, and efficient, ensuring diners feel well cared for without being intrusive. This balance fosters a relaxed, luxurious atmosphere where friends can focus on enjoying their food and company.
For groups, this means a smooth dining experience where recommendations are thoughtfully offered, dishes are timed perfectly, and every guest’s needs are considered. Special requests, dietary preferences, or celebratory touches can be accommodated seamlessly, making Shanghai Terrace not just a restaurant but a venue that elevates social gatherings through exceptional food and hospitality.
Why is the ambiance at Shanghai Terrace ideal for making memorable group moments?
The ambiance at Shanghai Terrace both visually and sensorially invites groups to fully immerse themselves in the experience of togetherness. The dark tones of ebony, shimmering gold accents, and crimson details evoke a sophisticated yet warm environment reminiscent of 1930s Shanghai, setting the scene for a gathering that feels special and timeless. This rich décor is thoughtfully balanced with modern comforts and spacious seating arrangements, ensuring that conversations flow easily without the distractions common in noisy or overly crowded venues.
One striking feature is the terrace itself—a beautifully landscaped outdoor area elevated above the city’s hustle, where groups can connect against the backdrop of Chicago’s skyline, especially captivating during sunset or twilight. This outdoor garden space transforms meetups into celebrations of both friendship and the city’s vibrancy. For colder months, the restaurant’s adjoining lobby seating extends the charm indoors with dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows and majestic chandeliers, maintaining a grand yet inviting atmosphere year-round.
The subtle party vibe described by visitors ensures energy levels stay lively without overwhelming the conversation, making Shanghai Terrace flexible for various group moods—from intimate dinners to celebratory gatherings. This perfect harmony of elegance, comfort, and vibrancy fosters emotional connections, turning each meal into a memorable social occasion that guests long to repeat.
How do pricing and location enhance the appeal of Shanghai Terrace for a friend or family meetup?
Shanghai Terrace’s location within the Peninsula Hotel on the Magnificent Mile situates it in the heart of one of Chicago’s most prestigious and accessible areas, making it an easy and desirable destination for group meetups. Whether friends are coming from different parts of the city or visiting from out of town, the central location adds convenience to luxury, ensuring that arriving and departing feel as sophisticated as the experience itself.
While Shanghai Terrace is considered upscale and its pricing reflects a higher-end dining experience, the cost is balanced by the quality of food, service, and ambiance offered. This makes it an excellent choice for groups looking to mark a special occasion or simply indulge in a treat-worthy outing. Many patrons regard the culinary offerings and exceptional environment as worth the investment, especially for a gathering where the joy of connection and atmosphere matter as much as the meal.
For families or friends seeking a venue that elevates their time together beyond a routine dinner, the extra cost delivers a multifaceted experience: exquisite meals, stellar service, a beautiful setting, and ample room for conversation and celebration. Thus, the combination of prime location and pricing ensures Shanghai Terrace appeals as a destination that transforms group dining into an event to remember.
With its blend of luxurious ambiance, thoughtfully curated menu, exceptional service, and versatility across indoor and outdoor spaces, Shanghai Terrace stands out as a premier venue for group gatherings in Chicago. Whether soaking in the skyline views on the terrace, savoring innovative dim sum, or celebrating special moments in private dining, the restaurant’s carefully crafted environment makes every meal a shared treasure. If you want to rally with friends or family somewhere that turns a meal into lasting memories, Shanghai Terrace is an outstanding choice.