When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Dearborn
Why The Dearborn is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Dearborn in Chicago stands out as a delightful urban restaurant and tavern perfectly positioned in the Loop, near prominent theater venues such as the Goodman and Chicago Theater. Offering a richly diverse American menu that satisfies a wide array of palates, The Dearborn combines an expansive yet cozy space of 8,000 square feet with 225 seats to cater comfortably to both large groups and intimate gatherings. Its atmosphere is a seamless blend of classic Chicago styling and modern warmth, making it an excellent meeting spot for friends and families alike. The menu features innovative and comforting dishes, from creative takes like the Burger Wellington to classic favorites such as fish and chips, Amish chicken, and thin-crust tavern pizza. The professional and friendly staff are known for their attentive service, creating a welcoming dining experience whether you are stopping by for a business lunch, a casual meal after sightseeing, or a lively dinner before a theater show. Its convenient location and diverse offerings have made it a beloved spot for locals and visitors, making it an ideal place to share memorable meals with friends in a vibrant yet inviting setting.
Here's what people think of The Dearborn
As of recent, The Dearborn holds a 4.7-star rating based on 6888 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise The Dearborn for its inviting atmosphere and versatile menu, which caters well to various dining occasions. Many reviewers highlight the restaurant’s rich, flavorful dishes and its innovative menu options that go beyond typical American fare, such as the unique Burger Wellington and excellent pork belly appetizer. The outstanding service and knowledgeable staff receive repeated commendations, with specific mention of the warm welcome and efficient attention from servers. The restaurant’s location near major theaters is frequently noted as a perfect complement to a night out, and the well-appointed dining spaces, especially large booths deeper into the venue, are appreciated for comfort despite occasional noise due to crowds. On the positive side, reviewers also enjoy the good value of their pizzas and commend the quality of dishes like fish and chips, burgers, and Amish chicken, along with well-executed salads. However, some reviews express concern over the wine list’s limited selection and relatively high prices for certain drinks such as Chardonnay and cocktails. A few mention that the noise level can detract from intimacy if seated near busier areas. Overall, the reviews affirm The Dearborn as a consistently reliable and enjoyable dining choice in downtown Chicago, praised for its flavorful American cuisine, great location, and attentive service, making it an excellent venue for meeting up with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Liela James
The food was fresh and flavorful, with a good variety of choices on the menu. The portions were just right and everything came out nicely presented. The atmosphere was relaxed, which made it easy to sit and enjoy the meal. Service was friendly and attentive, and the prices felt fair for the quality.
Renata Steenland
My husband and I had a lovely dinner at The Dearborn. Fantastic service, beautiful ambience, and delicious food. It doesn't get any better... We had the Prosciutto and White Cheddar Croquettes, Fish and Chips, and Stuffed Miller Amish Chicken. All of our dishes were fantastic; very tasty and great portion size. Usually with a higher quality restaurant like this, you need to order a few sides to accompany your mains as the portions are so small. But not this place, which was a nice surprise! For dessert we had the Strawberry ad Rhubarb Trifle. Again - perfectly balanced, not too sweet, and not too heavy. A perfect finish. This is definitely a must-do restaurant if visiting Chicago.
Jay
Disappointing restaurant for what it is hyped up to be. I saw their fish and chips was award winning from the Beat Bobby Flay competition and while the fish and chips were decent, the other dishes were quite disappointing. The fish and chips were good but I expected more from an award winning dish. The Chicago made hot honey and pepperoni pizza was probably some of the best tavern style pizza I’ve had with a small exception. The crust was incredible, but the pizza itself was just so oily and greasy. The honey was overpowering and overused, it was basically a sweet dessert pizza with no heat at all. The worst was the Brussels sprouts, which were basically just mouthfuls of grease, almost inedible. My favorite was the market salad, which was light and refreshing. The Burger Wellington was decent, crust (puff pastry) was great, but the inside was a basic burger patty. Overall quite a disappointing meal.
Kesha W
Visiting from out of town for my Twin sister & I Birthday and we had a great time! Jose was our server and he was awesome!! We had a pleasant visit and will definitely return. The food was good! We absolutely love the personalized menu and Birthday cookie!
Chiburbanfoodie
Came here before a concert at the Chicago Theater and it disappoint. Order the fish and chips and a tavern style pepperoni and hot honey pizza. Both dishes were amazing! The fish and chips were light and packed with flavor. I’d easily get that again! The pizza was a surprise! Much better than expected.
How to reach The Dearborn
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Why The Dearborn may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Dearborn with your friends?
Choosing The Dearborn as your meetup spot offers a perfect blend of ambiance, culinary delight, and convenience that makes gathering with friends an unforgettable experience. Located in the vibrant heart of Chicago’s Loop, The Dearborn provides a warm and inviting atmosphere that is both spacious and cozy, ideal for groups wanting to relax and connect without feeling crowded. Its classic Chicago-style urban tavern aesthetic adds a touch of old-world charm to your social experience, making it stand out from typical city eateries. Beyond just a place to eat, The Dearborn is a bustling hub conveniently located near theaters, museums, and shopping centers, supporting a full day or evening outingplan. Whether you are catching a show or just looking for a lively spot to unwind, its proximity to famous venues and the Chicago River adds to its appeal. The staff’s hospitality is consistently praised for being professional and welcoming, creating an environment that encourages repeated visits. With a strong rating reflecting thousands of glowing reviews, it’s clear that The Dearborn is not just a restaurant but a favorite destination for meaningful social gatherings and celebrations.
What activities can you enjoy at The Dearborn for a group meetup?
The Dearborn offers a versatile environment that caters to a wide range of group activities, making it an excellent venue for gatherings of any size. First, enjoy a variety of dining experiences from casual lunches to sophisticated dinners. The menu features rich, creative dishes such as the famous Burger Wellington, shrimp and grits, and tavern-style pizzas including a prosciutto & fried egg specialty that patrons rave about. This diversity ensures that all tastes and dietary preferences are satisfied within your group. Beyond food, the setting near prominent theaters such as the Goodman and Chicago Theater makes it ideal for pre- or post-show meetups. Groups can savor cocktails, including a well-crafted Prosecco, in a lively, energetic atmosphere. The spacious layout with comfortable booth seating accommodates both lively conversations and intimate discussions, while also providing enough noise and buzz to keep the energy lively. The availability of curbside pickup and delivery also means groups can take the taste of The Dearborn home if they wish to continue their gathering elsewhere. Combined with attentive and knowledgeable service, it’s a place where friends and family can seamlessly blend delicious meals, drinks, and vibrant city energy.
Why is The Dearborn perfect for hosting meetups with friends or family?
The Dearborn's appeal as a meetup spot lies in its perfect balance between atmosphere, location, and hospitality. The large, well-designed space can seat 225 people but still feels warm and intimate, with booths tucked into quieter corners ideal for groups wanting privacy. It is known for an efficient and friendly staff who enhance the experience by engaging warmly with guests and anticipating group needs. Location-wise, it sits at a strategic spot in downtown Chicago’s Loop, only steps from iconic theaters and cultural institutions, making it a convenient gathering point before or after shows, museum visits, or shopping sprees. Pricing strikes a good balance between quality and value, with standout dishes and a solid wine list, although some drinks like the single glass of Chardonnay might be on the pricier side. The Dearborn’s commitment to safety and cleanliness, including enhanced air filtration and frequent sanitization, reassures groups who want a worry-free social experience during any time of the year. This combination of thoughtful infrastructure and high culinary standards means hosting a group at The Dearborn can be both effortless and memorable for all involved.
What type of food and drinks make The Dearborn a standout choice for group dining?
The Dearborn’s menu is a compelling mix of creative twists on comfort food and classic tavern fare that appeals broadly, making it an excellent choice for diverse groups. Signature dishes such as the innovative Burger Wellington and shrimp and grits highlight the kitchen’s expertise in delivering rich, satisfying flavors. The pizzas, especially the prosciutto & fried egg option, receive high praise and are perfect for sharing within a group setting. The variety extends from hearty fish and chips and Amish chicken to fresh salads with homemade dressings that can be easily split among friends or family. Drink options include a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and notably a well-liked Prosecco to celebrate special moments. While some drinks come at a premium price, the quality and flavor typically justify the cost. The Dearborn also offers bottled house-made ranch dressing and signature sauces available for purchase, allowing diners to bring a part of the experience home. This thoughtful food and beverage range ensures everyone in your party finds something delightful, enhancing the collective dining experience.
How does the atmosphere and service at The Dearborn enhance group meetups?
The atmosphere at The Dearborn is meticulously crafted to combine spaciousness with intimacy, fostering a lively yet comfortable environment perfect for groups. Despite having 8,000 square feet of space, the interior design maintains a cozy, inviting feel that encourages conversation and camaraderie. The layout includes both lively open areas and private booths, giving groups flexibility depending on their preference for noise and privacy. The service is frequently noted for being attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, contributing to smooth and enjoyable group experiences. Servers engage with guests, provide thoughtful menu explanations, and accommodate special requests efficiently, making each group feel individually cared for. Additionally, safety measures like superior air filtration and frequent cleaning reassure diners, allowing groups to focus on quality time together with peace of mind. This combination of warm ambiance and stellar service positions The Dearborn as a top choice for repeat group meetups in Chicago.
What logistical conveniences make The Dearborn ideal for hosting friends and family?
Convenience is a critical factor when choosing a spot for group gatherings, and The Dearborn excels in this regard with both location and operational features. Situated in Chicago’s Loop, it offers easy access for local residents and tourists alike, near public transit and major city attractions. The restaurant’s size and reservation system help groups avoid the frustration of long waits, important for coordinating large parties or tight event schedules. The availability of multiple dining options—dine-in, curbside pickup, and delivery through partners like GrubHub and Ritual—adds flexibility for groups with varying plans or preferences. This means your meetup can extend beyond the restaurant’s walls if desired, allowing for tailored experiences. Safety protocols, including hospital-grade air filtration and hygiene vigilance, add logistical peace of mind in crowded urban settings. All these factors combine to make your event planning simple, while ensuring every group member’s comfort and enjoyment.
In summary, The Dearborn is an exceptional venue for group meetups due to its strategic location, warm ambiance, exceptional food and drink, outstanding service, and logistical ease. Whether gathering before a theater show, celebrating a milestone, or simply catching up with friends and family, The Dearborn delivers a sophisticated yet approachable setting that enhances every social experience. Its balance of spaciousness and intimacy, rich menu offerings, and commitment to safety make it a reliable and popular choice for any occasion. For groups seeking a place to rally in downtown Chicago that meets high standards of quality, atmosphere, and hospitality, The Dearborn is a definitive recommendation.