Chicago, Food, Illinois, Thanksgiving

18 Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Chicago – Perfect for Celebrating in 2022!

October 23, 2022

Are you looking for the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago? If so, keep reading!

There are some awesome restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, perfect for celebrating and enjoying some great food on Turkey Day.

Here we’ve put together a list of our top 18 restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, with something for every taste and budget!

Hopefully, you’ll absolutely love these suggestions for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago…

We’ve tried to include different choices for different budgets, and we’ve even thrown in some non-traditional places too!

Because not everyone wants to celebrate Thanksgiving with an uber-traditional Thanksgiving meal!

Oh, and as a quick tip – it’s always best to book as early as possible when it comes to restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Chicago is always busy during Thanksgiving, so if you can try and book ahead, we’d always recommend it.

Anyway, let’s get into it and find out the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago!

Please note: Things are always subject to change, especially in hospitality. Please always double-check directly with the restaurant, just in case their hours or menu has changed since the time of writing.


Here are our favorite restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago!


Gene and Georgetti

Gene and Georgetti is one of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago. However, this joint is actually quite new to the Thanksgiving game.

This restaurant started serving dinner on this special date in 2020, and after a rousing success, they felt it was only right to give diners the opportunity to experience their delicious food once again!

Serving up a selection of main dishes that include roast turkey, beef tenderloin, and Atlantic salmon, you’ll be spoiled for choice at Gene and Georgetti.

This is one of those restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, that you have to try!

Aside from excellent mains, this is also one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago with a great dessert menu.

With pumpkin pie and tiramisu topping the list of dishes to try, you’re unlikely to find a better sweet treat in all of Illinois!

Read more about Chicago during the holidays: Top 12 Christmas-themed restaurants and bars in Chicago

Image credit: www.instagram.com/gene_georgetti

The Smith – Chicago

Another one of the finest restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago is The Smith.

Their incredible Thanksgiving menu consists of three courses, and though it’s not cheap, it certainly won’t break the bank. What’s more, kids under 12 eat half-price! 

Among the gorgeous starters available are butternut squash soup and ricotta gnocchi.

Bursting with flavor and promising to warm your cockles, these two dishes are certainly standouts. However, the mains are where things get really special.

There’s everything from turkey pot pie to braised turkey drumsticks on offer, so you’ll certainly get your fill of bird at The Smith!

If you prefer beef, why not try the famous red wine braised short ribs? Whatever you choose, this is one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that’s ready to welcome you with open arms. 

Read more Chicago restaurant recommendations: Top 18 restaurants for Christmas Eve dinner in Chicago

Image credit: www.instagram.com/thesmithrestaurant

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

If you love steak, then you’ll love the next entry onto our list of the top 15 restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Chicago Cut Steak is a staple around these parts, and it’s one of the best restaurants open in Thanksgiving when it comes to great meat, shellfish, and seafood.

The menu isn’t enormous, but this place knows what it does well and always delivers. The only downside to the Thanksgiving experience here is that you will be allocated a dining slot of 1.5 to 2 hours.

Hey, demand is high so it’s only fair!

However, this should be more than enough time to eat your fill. Another perfect choice for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Read more about Thanksgiving: 21 fast food restaurants open on Thanksgiving!

Image credit: www.instagram.com/chicagocutsteakhouse/

The Signature Room at the 95th

Image credit: The Signature Room at the 95th

Next on our list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, it’s The Signature Room at the 95th!

This popular restaurant in Chicago will be open from 11am – 5pm on Thanksgiving, and they will be serving up all the wonderful Thanksgiving classics as part of their 3-course menu.

This place has incredible views over the city, so if you’re only visiting Chicago for a short time, this is the place we’d recommend spending Thanksgiving Day!

You’ll find Caesar Salad and Roasted Butternut Squash & Coconut Bisque on the starters menu, and entrees such as Roast Pastured Turkey Breast with Turkey Confit, Green Beans, Mushroom Gravy.

And for dessert? You’ll find delicious choices such as Pumpkin Pie, Mutsu Apple Crisp, Crème Brûlée and Local Pecan Tart. Delicious right?

It’s a great choice for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.


Maple & Ash

Maple & Ash is a popular spot in the city, and it happens to be one of the top restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

The Thanksgiving menu here is extensive, and you’ll be able to feast on black tiger shrimp cocktail, salads, and plenty of farm-fresh turkey.

What makes the turkey at this establishment special is the fact that it’s stuffed with a signature herb butter.

Believe us when we say you’ve not lived until you’ve tried herbed butter.

With plenty to offer both adults and children, Maple & Ash is one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that shouldn’t be missed. 

Read more about Chicago: 20 of the best desserts in Chicago, you have to try!

Image credit: https://mapleandash.com/gallery/

Etta 

Serving up a perfectly roasted turkey dinner, Etta has been one of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago for years.

Although turkey is the main draw at this fabulous eatery, the mashed potato sides, mushroom jus, and roasted veg certainly compete to be the stars of the show.

Despite being a relatively up-market joint, Etta still manages to retain its signature charm.

Offering dine-in and takeout options, Etta is the perfect choice for anyone on the hunt for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago this year.

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/ettarestaurant/

Prime & Provisions

Next on our list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, it’s Prime and Provisions.

If you want to eat out this Thanksgiving, then we highly recommend paying the folks at Prime & Provisions a visit.

You can eat inside here if you wish, but the outdoor patio is a next-level dining experience that we highly recommend checking out.

With gorgeous lights and heating at every table, al-fresco in November has never looked so good! In terms of the food, the Thanksgiving prix fixe menu really can’t be beaten.

With free-range turkey and all the trimmings available, you’ll find plenty to love about this place, and it’s a great choice for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Read more about visiting Chicago: 28 fun things to do alone in Chicago!

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/primeprovisions/

Shaw’s Crab House

It may seem like an odd place to visit during that special Thursday in November, but Shaw’s Crab House has long been one of the top restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

As you might expect, this joint is known for its mouth-watering seafood. 

Although you can order herb-roasted turkey breast, we highly recommend trying the shrimp cocktail, Alaskan cod ceviche and Alaskan king crab legs.

Once you’ve tasted the best of the mains, finish things off with a delightful slice of pumpkin pie.

Trust us when we say this is a dining experience that you’ll never forget. 

This is a top choice for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.


Bistronomic

If you want to feel as though you’re enjoying Thanksgiving in the south of France, then we highly recommend checking out Bistronomic.

Not only is this one of the most delicious restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, but the décor is nothing to scoff at either!

Fully channeling ‘Parisian Chic’, vibes, this place is equal parts fancy and casual. 

If you decide to head here for Thanksgiving dinner, you’ll be treated to a delectable three-course prix fixe meal that features turkey breast, foie gras, and short ribs.

Although you can order off the a la carte, we highly recommend sticking to the set menu for variety and cost-effectiveness. Bistronomic is a perfect pick for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/bistronomicfood/

The Lobby at the Peninsula

Are you looking for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago with a four-course feast? If so, you can’t do better than The Lobby at the Peninsula.

Featuring elaborate dishes with top-quality ingredients, this is one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that aims to impress.

Offering everything from Peking duck to intricate desserts, there’s something for everyone at The Lobby! 

Read more about visiting Chicago: Christmas In Chicago! 20 festive things to do in Chicago at Christmas!


Cira

Next on our list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, it’s something a little different.

If you’re not really into the traditional Thanksgiving food, but you still want to head out and celebrate with some great food – this place might be a perfect choice for you!

Cira is a wonderful restaurant, specializing in modern Mediterranean cuisine.

Their menu is mainly made up of small shareable plates, and it’s seriously worth checking out if you want a festive and fun atmosphere, but don’t fancy the heavy traditional Thanksgiving food.

A wonderful pick for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Read more about Chicago: 17 restaurants open on Christmas Day in Chicago

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/cirachicago/

Coco Pazzo

Sometimes, you just want Thanksgiving dinner with a side of Italian goodness.

If you love bread, pasta, and quality meats, then you’ll adore the next entry onto our list of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Now, the turkey, fish, and soups here are amazing, but it’s the bakes that really set this place apart.

With mind-blowing focaccia, breadsticks, and desserts on the menu, it’s no surprise that Coco Pazzo is one of the most popular restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago year after year.

After all, everyone knows that carbs don’t count during the holidays!

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/cocopazzochicago/

WoodWind

Another restaurant on our list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that won’t disappoint. 

This place isn’t necessarily ‘traditional’ Thanksgiving cuisine, but if you’re looking for somewhere with a great setting, and you want some delicious food, you can’t go wrong with WoodWind, Chicago.

Another great thing about visiting WoodWind? The views! This place is located 18 floors above ground level, so you just know the views are crazy cool over Chicago.

It’s one of the perfect choices for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, especially if you want something stylish and delicious, but a bit different from the traditional choices.

Read more about Chicago food: 13 of the top pizza restaurants in Chicago

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/woodwindchicago/

Devon Seafood + Steak

Who doesn’t love an authentic American grill experience?

Known as one of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, this amazing steakhouse is not to be missed.

Although the steak here is incredible, you should definitely opt for some of Devon Seafood + Steak’s Thanksgiving specials.

You can pre-order one of their Thanksgiving carryout kits, or enjoy a special meal onsite with a three-course feast. The first course features Maine lobster bisque, baby greens, and a gorgeous butternut squash soup. And the mains?

Well, they’re all about classic roast turkey and sides. Once you’ve polished all that off, be sure to try one of the incredible desserts on the menu.

Whatever you choose to munch on, this is one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that won’t disappoint. 

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/devonseafood/

Tzuco

If you want somewhere fancy to dine out this Thanksgiving, then you need to reserve a table at Tzuco. Not only is this place beautifully decorated, but the food is super interesting.

Tzuco is one of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, as people love the fusion of Mexican and French flavors that the menu provides.

One of the top things on the menu during the holiday season is the Teloloapan turkey mole and bread stuffing with chorizo.

As aesthetically pleasing as it is indulgent, this dish is sure to be a veritable crowd pleaser!  Just remember to save room for dessert…

Another brilliant choice for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago!

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/tzucochicago/

Luella’s Southern Kitchen

Next on our list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, it’s Luella’s Southern Kitchen.

There’s nothing better than Southern comfort food, so if you’re looking to enjoy staples like mac and cheese, sweet potato pie, and smoked turkey this year, you’ve come to the right place!

This is one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that’s great for those on a budget, as a three-course meal will only set you back $40.

Although you may have to account for extras like drinks, you can definitely dine out at Luella’s without denting your pocketbook.

If you’d rather dine at home this year, these guys offer an amazing to-go box that’s excellent value for money. Score!

Image credit: https://www.luellassouthernkitchen.com/

RPM Steak

RPM Steak is one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that’s reliable, well-located, and oh-so-delicious.

This place is well-known by Chicagoans for its Thanksgiving menu, and you can either enjoy the food here in-house or to-go.

Featuring Slagel Family Farm Turkey and a host of amazing traditional accompaniments, this is a spot that books out every single year.

For this reason, we highly recommend booking in advance so that you don’t miss out. Another great pick for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/rpmsteak/

The Bristol

If you’re on the hunt for great food and even better service, then you should head over to The Bristol.

As the final entrant on our list of the top restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, we think this spot is pretty special!

Chefs at The Bristol serve up one of the most delicious three-course Thanksgiving meals around, and these guys are famous for their salad trio, smoked duck, and unbeatable sweet potatoes.

The food here is decadent, but it’s reasonably priced too. At only $85 for two, the set menu at The Bristol is certainly manageable money-wise. 

If you’re looking for restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago, this is a great choice!

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/bristolchicago/

We hope that our guide to the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago has been helpful!


There’s plenty to enjoy about the famous windy city, and amazing Turkey day opportunities can be found far and wide! 

There are plenty of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago to choose from!

Do you know of any amazing restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago that we’ve missed off our list?

Let us know about your favorites in the comments below.

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