When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Tree House Chicago
Why Tree House Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tree House Chicago offers a unique and inviting venue nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood, making it an excellent place to meet up with friends for a memorable dining and social experience. This chef-driven bar and restaurant emphasizes a high-quality, ingredient-focused approach to modern Italian cuisine, featuring elevated comfort food classics and three distinct styles of pizza, appealing to a wide range of tastes. The establishment's atmosphere is defined by its lush, nature-inspired décor that blends playful, organic elements with a lively nightlife ambiance, creating a vibrant space conducive to community connection and celebration. Their cocktail menu is carefully curated to complement the culinary offerings and enhance social gatherings. Beyond the culinary delights, Tree House Chicago offers outdoor seating with a captivating view of the River North area during warmer months, providing an inviting environment for casual hangouts or spirited evenings. The restaurant maintains a friendly yet professional service standard, fostering a welcoming space for groups and individuals alike. Its operating hours span late into the night, making it an ideal choice for evening outings or post-dinner drinks. Special promotions, such as the $5 pizza specials on select evenings, add value and reason to frequent visits. All these elements combine to make Tree House Chicago a desirable spot for both locals and visitors aiming to enjoy quality food, refreshing drinks, and a lively yet comfortable atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Tree House Chicago
As of recent, Tree House Chicago holds a 3.8-star rating based on 605 reviews.
Tree House Chicago has garnered a mixed response with a current rating of 3.8 from over 600 reviews, indicating a range of guest experiences. Positive reviews frequently highlight the restaurant's appealing ambiance, describing it as a flourishing, nature-inspired escape that successfully marries an organic aesthetic with a vibrant party atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the quality of the food, especially the modern Italian options and the variety of pizza styles, noting that the chef-driven menu offers well-crafted dishes and comfort food favorites. The cocktail selections are also praised for their inventiveness and flavor, complementing the overall dining experience. Furthermore, many guests value the outdoor seating option with views that enhance the convivial atmosphere, along with specials like affordable pizza nights which encourage repeat visits and group gatherings. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on issues such as inconsistent service quality, with reports of unprofessional behavior and occasional management challenges, including an incident recounted involving demanding bribes at the entrance, which is concerning though might be isolated. Others mention that the menu variety can sometimes be limited for certain dietary preferences, and wait times during peak hours or event nights have been a drawback for some patrons. Reservations also require timely adherence, which some find restrictive. Overall, while Tree House Chicago offers an attractive destination with a distinctive concept and appealing menu, potential visitors should be aware of these occasional service inconsistencies. The establishment's dedication to food quality and atmosphere remains a strong draw, positioning it as a worthwhile venue for those seeking a mix of dining and nightlife in a compelling setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Suvondal Taylor
What went well?! Everything! This spot continuously changes it’s themes but Wonderland has to be one of the best by far. The decor throughout makes it so fun. The staff were friendly and made great food and drink recommendations. I took so many pictures! Lbs! The chicken was delicious, the sliders were so good and I even enjoyed the pizza! What I thought was so nice (even though I don’t watch the show lol) they played Love Island on the big screen and you knew it was on because 80% of the customers eyes were glued to the TVs! It was cute 😂 Definitely a spot to try before the summer ends.
AL B
We went for the Alice in Wonderland pop-up and it was so much fun! The food was good and the drinks were delicious. Our server, Sabrina, was super sweet and very attentive. **Just know off the bat there is a 3% service charge, 8% for sales tax and 20% gratuity. So a total of 31% over what the menu price says.
Fred Johnson
The good- they did a great job with the decor. As you can see from the pictures, they were fun and bright. The bad- EVERYTHING else. 1). I’ve never been to a restaurant where the “chef” would only prepare eggs sunny side up or scrambled. When we asked for over medium - we were told it was not an option. 2). We came a brunch and were disappointed when we were told much of the menu was not an option until after 2 pm. We had less than 1/2 the menu to choose from. 3). We ordered our food at 1215 - an egg dish and chicken and waffles. As you can see from some of the pictures, the place was NOT busy. We were told 10-15 minutes for our food. We ordered OJ and it literally warm. After 25 minutes our server updated us that it would be another 5-10 minutes and our food would be there. I would love to show you a picture of our food- but when we hit 1pm and still didn’t have our food - we canceled the food order - paid for our OJ (including the auto add gratuity of 20%) and walked down the street for a much better experience. 4). IDK if it was a brunch time thing or not, but the staff was less then energetic- most of the time they sat at end of the bar as a group.
Akuba Erzumiah
Oh my goodness I need the Emerald City pop up to be an actual restaurant that is around all the time! This was one of the greatest experiences I've ever had. And it was so wonderful because it was a huge surprise that my partner sprung on me! I fear telling my friends about it because apparently no one knew about this and are now too late to experience this. Boys Town I'm telling you now if you want a bar that is going to make all the money make an Emerald City Bar that plays nothing but all of The Wizard of Oz and Wicked. And they also remixed the songs. I need this in my life always! I didn't get to try the amazingly themed food but all the cocktails were on point and strong. You definitely get a bang for your buck! Although I'm sorry you can't ask you anything now
Kathryn Underwood
It was an amazing atmosphere, the theme was on point. The food was well made and plentiful. Be aware that if you are a vegetarian or have a restricted diet, eating here may pose as a challenge. I do not recommend the salad, but it was super fresh. Everything else was amazing!
How to reach Tree House Chicago
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Why Tree House Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Tree House Chicago with your friends? Tree House Chicago offers a unique and engaging environment that makes it an ideal destination for groups looking to connect and celebrate together. Whether you're a group of friends seeking a lively venue to unwind, catch live music, or participate in social events, Tree House Chicago stands out with its commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere that fosters togetherness. The venue's diverse range of events and spacious layout make it easy to accommodate groups without feeling cramped, helping everyone feel comfortable and energized. Known for its vibrant live cover performances and curated events, Tree House offers a dynamic mix of entertainment and ambiance, perfect for a memorable outing. In addition, the business supports community-centered experiences and charitable events, allowing groups not only to have fun but also to contribute to meaningful causes, amplifying the joy of rallying together. Spark your group’s spirit and build lasting memories in a location that blends fun, music, and community — this is why Tree House Chicago is a go-to spot to rally your friends and enjoy quality time.
What activities can groups enjoy at Tree House Chicago? Tree House Chicago hosts a variety of activities that cater to different tastes and interests, making it a versatile place for group meetups. One of its signature draws is live cover music, where talented performers bring popular songs to life, energizing the crowd and encouraging sing-alongs and dancing. These live shows are perfect for groups that love a vibrant nightlife atmosphere but prefer a setting that balances excitement with social interaction. Additionally, Tree House often features themed events, special wristband nights, and a curated lineup of entertainment that keeps the calendar fresh and appealing. These events create shared experiences that make gatherings more memorable and can serve as icebreakers for friends or family coming together. The venue’s ample space includes multiple rooms or floors often set up to facilitate mingling, relaxed conversations, or lively dancing, depending on the event. This adaptability ensures groups find their preferred setting within the venue, whether they seek a casual drink or an upbeat party environment.
Why is Tree House Chicago perfect for a group meetup? Beyond the variety of activities, Tree House Chicago’s layout and staff contribute to its suitability for group gatherings. The venue is designed to handle groups comfortably with open floor plans that avoid feeling overcrowded, allowing friends and family to stay together while still exploring different parts of the space. Friendly and attentive staff provide excellent service that helps groups feel welcomed and prioritized, from drink orders to seating arrangements. The venue’s location in Chicago also makes it accessible, a convenient spot for locals and visitors alike to meet up without hassle. Another factor making it perfect for group meetups is its dynamic event schedule—whether your group wants to enjoy a themed party, dance to live bands, or have a laid-back evening with cocktails, there’s something on offer regularly. Plus, the venue’s community events and charitable functions foster a positive atmosphere where groups can feel good about supporting causes while having fun. This blend of comfort, entertainment, and community makes Tree House Chicago a standout choice for assembling your friends for a joyful and inclusive experience.
What kind of social and community events does Tree House Chicago support? Tree House Chicago is deeply involved in community and charitable events, enhancing its appeal beyond just a typical social venue. It supports and hosts fundraising events, galas, and themed parties that often contribute to causes such as animal rescue and healthcare, with notable efforts raising significant funds to help local cats and other community needs. These events draw a committed crowd who appreciate the chance to socialize while making a positive impact. For groups, this offers an enriching dimension to socializing, transforming a fun night out into a way to give back together. Events like charity galas with unique themes or neighborhood bar crawls add variety and purpose to group meetups. Being part of these events connects attendees to a larger community, promoting a shared sense of fulfillment and camaraderie. Thus, rallying at Tree House Chicago means enjoying quality time while participating in meaningful outreach and community support.
How accessible and welcoming is Tree House Chicago for different types of groups? Tree House Chicago positions itself as an inclusive space where diverse groups feel comfortable and welcome. The staff’s emphasis on friendly, attentive service ensures that first-time visitors and regular patrons alike are treated well, making group gatherings smooth and enjoyable. Its commitment to creating a safe and inviting environment extends to accessibility considerations and catering to varying preferences—from lively nightlife seekers to those wanting a relaxed atmosphere. The venue’s location in Chicago means it is well-connected via public transportation and offers proximity to other restaurants and entertainment options, allowing groups to combine meetups with additional activities. Moreover, Tree House’s programming often appeals to a broad demographic, attracting a mix of ages and interests, which helps groups with varied tastes find common ground. This flexibility and openness enhance the venue’s reputation as the kind of place where groups of friends or family can feel at home, celebrate, and enjoy their time together.
What other experiences are nearby for groups to explore before or after Tree House Chicago? When planning a group meetup at Tree House Chicago, guests can also look forward to exploring a rich variety of nearby experiences that complement their visit. The venue is situated near notable Chicago attractions such as the American Writers Museum and the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s river cruises, ideal for daytime cultural outings that transition smoothly into an evening at Tree House. Other nearby options include engaging walking tours highlighting Chicago’s most Instagrammable spots or explorations centered on true crime mysteries—activities that encourage group participation and shared stories. For those inclined toward puzzles and teamwork, escape rooms like The Escape Game Chicago offer immersive adventures a short distance away. Combining these daytime or early evening events with a night at Tree House creates a well-rounded group outing, balancing sightseeing, interactive fun, and social energy. These adjacent experiences add extra value to your meetup, making Tree House Chicago not just a destination itself but part of a broader social itinerary in the city.