• Posted byby Elle-Rose
  • 11 minute read

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

Look, not everyone wants to spend Thanksgiving in their kitchen. If you’re anything like me, you might be looking for restaurant options!

Maybe you’d make a terrible chef, maybe you just can’t be bothered, or maybe you’re stopping in a hotel, with no access to a stove!

Whatever your situation, if you’re like me, and don’t plan on home-cooking this Thanksgiving, then hopefully, my list of restaurants in Chicago that are open on Turkey Day will help.

I’ve tried to include lots of different options, including budget places and luxury places – but also plenty of different types of cuisines too, because not everyone wants the super traditional Thanksgiving feast.

So, if you’re looking to dine out this Thanksgiving, hopefully you’ll find something appetizing on this list of restaurants!

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.

Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago

Here’s a handy map of all the restaurants featured below…

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

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.

Gene and Georgetti

Image credit: www.instagram.com/gene_georgetti

Gene and Georgetti is one of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.

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.

Aside from excellent mains, this is also one of the restaurants featured that has an outstanding dessert menu too, because it’s not all about the turkey, you know!

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

River Roast

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

River Roast is my next suggestion for delicious places to grab Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago.

This is one of the most generous options on my list – because this place offer the most indulgent Thanksgiving buffet imaginable!

River Roast offers both dine-in and carry-out options, but for their famous dine-in Thanksgiving dinner, reservations can be made from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The dine-in Thanksgiving experience is priced at $75 per person (which is a great price considering the quality and quantity of food on offer here). They also offer complimentary dining for children aged 10 and under, which I love.

The Thanksgiving menu includes a delightful “welcome” Charcuterie Board, Baby Kale Caesar Salad, and Arugula Squash Salad.

The main course features herb-brined and roasted turkey with gravy (of course, it’s a classic!), accompanied by sides like Honey Glazed Carrots, House Cranberry Sauce, Turkey Brioche Stuffing, Mac & Cheese, and Crispy Brussels Sprouts.

There is so much delicious food to mention here, and I know you’ll love it if you choose it for your Thanksgiving feast.

The Smith – Chicago

Image credit: www.instagram.com/thesmithrestaurant

Another one of the finest options when it comes to restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago is The Smith.

Their incredible Thanksgiving menu consists of three courses, and although 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, I think you’re going to be impressed.

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

Pearl’s Place Restaurant

Image credit: www.pearlsplacerestaurant.com/photogallery

Pearl’s Place Restaurant is another wonderful choice for Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago.

Pearl’s Place Restaurant are mainly known for serving up delicious Southern-style comfort food, so you can totally see why this place is an amazing option for Thanksgiving celebrations!

Pearl’s Place serve up a delicious Thanksgiving buffet on Turkey Day, and it’s a winner all around.

Their food is the epitome of comforting, which is exactly what you want on Thanksgiving. Their festive buffet is filled to the brim with comfort food classics, and you’ll leave feeling stuffed and satisfied!

This place oozes soul, and it’s a place that’ll make you feel like one of the family. You’ll probably leave your Thanksgiving dinner with a few new friends too!

Ascione Bistro

Image credit: www.instagram.com/ascione_bistro

Ascione Bistro, a charming Italian-focused restaurant nestled in the vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, and it’s a wonderful choice for Thanksgiving dinner.

Their aim is to delight diners at Thanksgiving with a delectable three-course meal, so if that sounds like your kind of thing – then maybe this is a great choice.

Immerse yourself in the flavors of the season with their traditional Thanksgiving menu, featuring classic offerings such as succulent roast turkey, flavorful stuffing, creamy sweet potatoes, and indulgent pumpkin pie.

It’s a perfect opportunity to savor the warmth of Italian hospitality combined with the quintessentially American holiday delights.

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

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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. It’s another great choice, and if you don’t mind the limited seating time – this is a perfect choice.

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

Maple & Ash

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

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 that shouldn’t be missed. 

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

Etta 

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

Serving up a perfectly roasted turkey dinner, Etta has been one of the best places to grab Thanksgiving dinner 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.

Prime & Provisions

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

Prime & Provisions is a gorgeous choice for Thanksgiving, and let me tell you why.

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!

Shaw’s Crab House

Image credit: www.shawscrabhouse.com

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. 

Bistronomic

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

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 restaurantsfor Thanksgiving, but the décor and vibe here is perfect too.

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. 

The Lobby at the Peninsula

Image credit: www.peninsula.com

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

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

Next on my 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.

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

Coco Pazzo

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

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!

WoodWind

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

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

Devon Seafood + Steak

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

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. 

Tzuco

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

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!

Luella’s Southern Kitchen

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

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!

RPM Steak

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

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.

Cafe Robey

Image credit: www.caferobey.com

Cafe Robey is a culinary gem that exudes a contemporary and chic ambiance.

Situated in the Wicker Park neighborhood, it’s known for its fusion of American and French-inspired cuisine, bringing a unique culinary experience to its patrons.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Cafe Robey is preparing to elevate the holiday experience with a specially crafted Thanksgiving menu.

Indulge in a buffet feast that captures the essence of the season. Their menu promises an array of options to cater to diverse palates, ranging from traditional favorites to innovative dishes.

On this special occasion, diners can anticipate classics like succulent roast turkey, accompanied by savory stuffing and velvety mashed potatoes.

For those craving a taste of autumnal flavors, options such as maple-glazed sweet potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts may grace the table.

I hope that my 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! 

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