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A dining room with giant windows and tables covered with white tablecloths.
Tre Dita offers steaks cut for sharing, spectacular views and several private party areas.
Eric Wolfinger

The Best Restaurants for Group Dining in Chicago

Take the stress out of dining with a large party

by Samantha Nelson and Eater Staff Updated
View as Map
Tre Dita offers steaks cut for sharing, spectacular views and several private party areas.
| Eric Wolfinger
by Samantha Nelson and Eater Staff Updated

Scheduling a big family gathering, office party or other celebration is a hassle between figuring out a date that works for everyone and a restaurant that has both crowd-pleasing food and room enough to gather without being cramped. Luckily Chicago has plenty of great options for a lively dinner based around sharing duck and giant steaks or a bash big enough to require booking a private space. These 20 spots for group dining will deliver a memorable meal.

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Sun Wah BBQ

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The Cheng family, founders of this James Beard-recognized Hong Kong barbecue and Cantonese restaurant, designed the space with group gatherings in mind. As such, the larger round tables can seat up to 12 guests and long tables can be put together for up to 16 guests. Big appetites will come in handy as the favorites here — such as roasted pig and Peking-style spare ribs, as well as the signature Beijing duck dinner with all the fixings — are quite sizable. Advanced reservations are recommended and there’s a three credit card maximum per group.

5039 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 769-1254
(773) 769-1254
A plate of baos filled with duck skin and garnishes.
Sun Wah BBQ’s Peking duck feast is perfect for groups.
Sun Wah BBQ [Official Photo]

Also featured in:

Irazu

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Bucktown’s beloved Costa Rican restaurant provides a warm and hospitable environment for groups. Get ready for empanadas, meat and shrimp plates, and sandwiches including the pepito — steak or chicken, sautéed onions, cheese, beans, and Lizano sauce. The creamy oatmeal milkshake is a favorite way to cap off a meal, though you can also take advantage of their new cocktail menu. Make a reservation here.

1865 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 252-5687
(773) 252-5687

Also featured in:

Frontier

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Comfort food goes hogwild at this Noble Square restaurant and bar. Chef Brian Jupiter’s whole animal service is a must for larger parties and includes a selection of wild boar, alligator, free-range pig, and goat. A medley of crowd-pleasing sides accompanies the proteins, along with the option to add desserts and pitchers of cocktails. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(773) 772-4322
(773) 772-4322

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Alegrias Seafood

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Mexican seafood served in large quantities reels in diners at this bustling West Town spot. Start with ceviche while perusing the rest of the menu, which includes Nayarit-style prawns, octopus, mussels, crab legs, and combination platters meant to be shared among several people. The BYOB policy is also ideal for groups, with sangria and margarita mix available to add spirits to.

1024 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 252-7200
(773) 252-7200

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Gemini Grill

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The new River North sibling of Lincoln Park favorite Gemini has a pair of semi-private spaces for 28 to 48 that can be combined for larger celebrations. Groups also gather in the dog-friendly courtyard for bottomless brunch on the weekend and dinner emphasizing live-fire grilled fare including harissa-spiced jumbo shrimp served with white cheddar grits and hanger steak with chimichurri. Book a table through Resy.

748 North State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60654
(773) 569-3522
(773) 569-3522

Quartino Ristorante

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A perfect place for a boisterous group, Quartino won’t bat an eye at a reservation for 20, though there are three private party spaces that can be combined for larger gatherings. Everything on the menu is meant to be shared, from the plates of salumi to the sangria and Aperol spritzes served by the liter. The prices are affordable, meaning there won’t be any arguing about how to split the check. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

626 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 698-5000
(312) 698-5000

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Labriola Chicago

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This Mag Mile restaurant attracts both big groups and dinner dates for a sprawling selection of Italian fare — all of which can (and should) be shared. Once the table gets through essentials such as spaghetti and meatballs and cacio e pepe, the housemade pizza takes center stage. Four types are available — signature artisan pies, Chicago thin crust, deep dish, and skinny deep dish — so ordering several is highly recommended. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

535 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 955-3100
(312) 955-3100

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Yardbird

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Tear into fried chicken served with honey hot sauce, spiced watermelon, a sharp cheddar cheese waffle, and bourbon maple syrup at the comfort food restaurant, which serves plenty of other big proteins such as sweet tea-braised short rib and St. Louis ribs. The River North space has plenty of room upstairs for private parties, including a bourbon room that houses Yardbird’s extensive collection of bottles. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

530 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 999-9760
(312) 999-9760

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Tre Dita

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The wood-fired steaks at Tre Dita are all sliced for sharing along with other Italian fare from chef Evan Funke such as the fluffy focaccia sprinkled with rosemary and sea salt and the rigatoni and tagliatelle diners can watch made in the pasta lab they pass by before getting to their table. The sprawling space within the St. Regis Chicago offers five rooms for private parties, including a mezzanine overlooking the main dining room. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

401 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601
(312) 725-1724
(312) 725-1724
A sliced steak around a bone
Tre Dita specializes in wood-fired steak.
Eric Wolfinger

Also featured in:

Aba

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Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Mediterranean-inspired spot is always a popular attraction, especially when it’s patio season. Chef CJ Jacobson’s menu is built for sharing, featuring an assortment of hummus, spreads, and mezze. Large parties can collaborate with the restaurant to create a sumptuous feast of passed appetizers, kebabs, and more. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607
(773) 645-1400
(773) 645-1400

Also featured in:

Carnivale

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Latin-inspired cocktails and cuisine are the draws at this cavernous and colorful establishment that has a knack for entertaining large groups. Book a table for up to 10 through Tock or reserve one of the restaurant’s eight private event spaces. And then, of course, there are the shareable dishes — try the seafood paella or the Argentinian-style grilled meats platter filled with beef tenderloin, chicken, morcilla, short rib, chorizo, sirloin, and bone marrow.

702 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 850-5005
(312) 850-5005

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BLVD Steakhouse

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For glammed-up group dining, it’s all about this luxe modern American steakhouse in the West Loop. Whether it’s a special occasion or a girls' night out, it’s best to come dressed to the nines. Large parties can book the private Champagne room or gallery upstairs, where they’ll be treated to seafood towers, caviar service, and steaks from celebrity chef Joe Flamm. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

817 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 526-3116
(312) 526-3116

Also featured in:

Beatnik on the River

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One of the most scenic spots in the city is also welcoming for groups. Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s boho-chic restaurant next to the Chicago River is decked out with lush greenery, long tables, comfy daybed seating, and other ornate touches. The Mediterranean-tinged menu touts dishes like oyster mushroom kebab, lamb shoulder with dill tzatziki, and hummus with octopus. They’re paired with inventive and colorful cocktails. Book a table through Resy.

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 526-3345
(312) 526-3345

Also featured in:

Bambola

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The Restaurant Row spot inspired by the Silk Road features multiple large-format dishes perfect for groups such as pomegranate tea-brined whole roasted duck served with housemade duck fat steamed buns, and a 50-ounce dry-aged tomahawk steak. The 10,000-square-foot space provides plenty of options for gatherings including a 30-seat table and a bar area that can be reserved for up to 60. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

1402 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 526-3983
(312) 526-3983

Also featured in:

Cindy's Rooftop

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The Chicago Athletic Association’s rooftop destination offers plenty of dishes designed to be shared, from cheese and charcuterie platters to a whole fried branzino with house pickles and a 22-ounce ribeye with oxtail jam. The restaurant is able to reserve tables for up to 10 in the main dining room. Booking well in advance through Resy is recommended, though walk-ins are still welcome.

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 792-3502
(312) 792-3502

Also featured in:

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The X Pot

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The X Pot in the South Loop’s Roosevelt Collection Shops is the premier way to experience a traditional Chinese method of dining. The sleek and stylish restaurant and lounge specializes in hot pot, but unlike most places, guests can order their own individual pots. The all-you-can-eat menu features sushi, wagyu and kimchi, with upgrades including bone marrow and seafood platters. Add on a tower of cocktails or beers. Make a reservation here.

1147 S Delano Ct East, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 585-8655
(312) 585-8655

Also featured in:

Chicago Firehouse Restaurant

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Situated inside a former Chicago Fire Department firehouse, this South Loop steakhouse is an elegant place to gather over prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and classic American fare. There are four private dining rooms that can host special events, plus a lovely patio. Book online via Resy.

1401 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 786-1401
(312) 786-1401

Also featured in:

Pilsen Yards

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The bar- and music-centric venue sports an inviting heated patio, which is open year-round, and big booths to accommodate groups. Guests can enjoy tacos and an extensive collection of mezcals and tequilas while listening to live DJ sets. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 243-2410
(312) 243-2410

Also featured in:

MingHin Cuisine

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Spanning more than 20,000 square feet, this contemporary Cantonese restaurant (with multiple locations) has enough space to seat more than 700 people. A visit here isn’t complete without sampling the Beijing duck, a two-course communal meal comprised of duck skin and meat served with bao and duck stir fry. The all-day dim sum menu is a big hit with groups, too.

2168 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 808-1999
(312) 808-1999

Also featured in:

Pearl's Place

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South Side soul food icon Pearl’s Place makes it easy to enjoy a meal with companions by offering a Southern-style buffet. Devour fried chicken, mac and cheese, rib tips, meatloaf, and more. The restaurant is also a full-service caterer so can provide the food for a group at home.

3901 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60653
(773) 285-1700
(773) 285-1700
A bowl of shrimp and grits.
Pearl’s Place delivers Southern comfort.
Pearl’s Place [Official Photo]

Also featured in:

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Sun Wah BBQ

5039 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640

The Cheng family, founders of this James Beard-recognized Hong Kong barbecue and Cantonese restaurant, designed the space with group gatherings in mind. As such, the larger round tables can seat up to 12 guests and long tables can be put together for up to 16 guests. Big appetites will come in handy as the favorites here — such as roasted pig and Peking-style spare ribs, as well as the signature Beijing duck dinner with all the fixings — are quite sizable. Advanced reservations are recommended and there’s a three credit card maximum per group.

5039 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 769-1254
(773) 769-1254
A plate of baos filled with duck skin and garnishes.
Sun Wah BBQ’s Peking duck feast is perfect for groups.
Sun Wah BBQ [Official Photo]

Irazu

1865 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Bucktown’s beloved Costa Rican restaurant provides a warm and hospitable environment for groups. Get ready for empanadas, meat and shrimp plates, and sandwiches including the pepito — steak or chicken, sautéed onions, cheese, beans, and Lizano sauce. The creamy oatmeal milkshake is a favorite way to cap off a meal, though you can also take advantage of their new cocktail menu. Make a reservation here.

1865 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 252-5687
(773) 252-5687

Frontier

1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Comfort food goes hogwild at this Noble Square restaurant and bar. Chef Brian Jupiter’s whole animal service is a must for larger parties and includes a selection of wild boar, alligator, free-range pig, and goat. A medley of crowd-pleasing sides accompanies the proteins, along with the option to add desserts and pitchers of cocktails. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(773) 772-4322
(773) 772-4322

Alegrias Seafood

1024 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Mexican seafood served in large quantities reels in diners at this bustling West Town spot. Start with ceviche while perusing the rest of the menu, which includes Nayarit-style prawns, octopus, mussels, crab legs, and combination platters meant to be shared among several people. The BYOB policy is also ideal for groups, with sangria and margarita mix available to add spirits to.

1024 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 252-7200
(773) 252-7200

Gemini Grill

748 North State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60654

The new River North sibling of Lincoln Park favorite Gemini has a pair of semi-private spaces for 28 to 48 that can be combined for larger celebrations. Groups also gather in the dog-friendly courtyard for bottomless brunch on the weekend and dinner emphasizing live-fire grilled fare including harissa-spiced jumbo shrimp served with white cheddar grits and hanger steak with chimichurri. Book a table through Resy.

748 North State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60654
(773) 569-3522
(773) 569-3522

Quartino Ristorante

626 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654

A perfect place for a boisterous group, Quartino won’t bat an eye at a reservation for 20, though there are three private party spaces that can be combined for larger gatherings. Everything on the menu is meant to be shared, from the plates of salumi to the sangria and Aperol spritzes served by the liter. The prices are affordable, meaning there won’t be any arguing about how to split the check. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

626 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 698-5000
(312) 698-5000

Labriola Chicago

535 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

This Mag Mile restaurant attracts both big groups and dinner dates for a sprawling selection of Italian fare — all of which can (and should) be shared. Once the table gets through essentials such as spaghetti and meatballs and cacio e pepe, the housemade pizza takes center stage. Four types are available — signature artisan pies, Chicago thin crust, deep dish, and skinny deep dish — so ordering several is highly recommended. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

535 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 955-3100
(312) 955-3100

Yardbird

530 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Tear into fried chicken served with honey hot sauce, spiced watermelon, a sharp cheddar cheese waffle, and bourbon maple syrup at the comfort food restaurant, which serves plenty of other big proteins such as sweet tea-braised short rib and St. Louis ribs. The River North space has plenty of room upstairs for private parties, including a bourbon room that houses Yardbird’s extensive collection of bottles. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

530 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 999-9760
(312) 999-9760

Tre Dita

401 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601

The wood-fired steaks at Tre Dita are all sliced for sharing along with other Italian fare from chef Evan Funke such as the fluffy focaccia sprinkled with rosemary and sea salt and the rigatoni and tagliatelle diners can watch made in the pasta lab they pass by before getting to their table. The sprawling space within the St. Regis Chicago offers five rooms for private parties, including a mezzanine overlooking the main dining room. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

401 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601
(312) 725-1724
(312) 725-1724
A sliced steak around a bone
Tre Dita specializes in wood-fired steak.
Eric Wolfinger

Aba

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607

Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Mediterranean-inspired spot is always a popular attraction, especially when it’s patio season. Chef CJ Jacobson’s menu is built for sharing, featuring an assortment of hummus, spreads, and mezze. Large parties can collaborate with the restaurant to create a sumptuous feast of passed appetizers, kebabs, and more. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607
(773) 645-1400
(773) 645-1400

Carnivale

702 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60661

Latin-inspired cocktails and cuisine are the draws at this cavernous and colorful establishment that has a knack for entertaining large groups. Book a table for up to 10 through Tock or reserve one of the restaurant’s eight private event spaces. And then, of course, there are the shareable dishes — try the seafood paella or the Argentinian-style grilled meats platter filled with beef tenderloin, chicken, morcilla, short rib, chorizo, sirloin, and bone marrow.

702 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 850-5005
(312) 850-5005

BLVD Steakhouse

817 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607

For glammed-up group dining, it’s all about this luxe modern American steakhouse in the West Loop. Whether it’s a special occasion or a girls' night out, it’s best to come dressed to the nines. Large parties can book the private Champagne room or gallery upstairs, where they’ll be treated to seafood towers, caviar service, and steaks from celebrity chef Joe Flamm. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

817 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 526-3116
(312) 526-3116

Beatnik on the River

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

One of the most scenic spots in the city is also welcoming for groups. Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s boho-chic restaurant next to the Chicago River is decked out with lush greenery, long tables, comfy daybed seating, and other ornate touches. The Mediterranean-tinged menu touts dishes like oyster mushroom kebab, lamb shoulder with dill tzatziki, and hummus with octopus. They’re paired with inventive and colorful cocktails. Book a table through Resy.

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 526-3345
(312) 526-3345

Bambola

1402 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607

The Restaurant Row spot inspired by the Silk Road features multiple large-format dishes perfect for groups such as pomegranate tea-brined whole roasted duck served with housemade duck fat steamed buns, and a 50-ounce dry-aged tomahawk steak. The 10,000-square-foot space provides plenty of options for gatherings including a 30-seat table and a bar area that can be reserved for up to 60. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

1402 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 526-3983
(312) 526-3983

Cindy's Rooftop

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

The Chicago Athletic Association’s rooftop destination offers plenty of dishes designed to be shared, from cheese and charcuterie platters to a whole fried branzino with house pickles and a 22-ounce ribeye with oxtail jam. The restaurant is able to reserve tables for up to 10 in the main dining room. Booking well in advance through Resy is recommended, though walk-ins are still welcome.

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 792-3502
(312) 792-3502

Related Maps

The X Pot

1147 S Delano Ct East, Chicago, IL 60605

The X Pot in the South Loop’s Roosevelt Collection Shops is the premier way to experience a traditional Chinese method of dining. The sleek and stylish restaurant and lounge specializes in hot pot, but unlike most places, guests can order their own individual pots. The all-you-can-eat menu features sushi, wagyu and kimchi, with upgrades including bone marrow and seafood platters. Add on a tower of cocktails or beers. Make a reservation here.

1147 S Delano Ct East, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 585-8655
(312) 585-8655

Chicago Firehouse Restaurant

1401 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Situated inside a former Chicago Fire Department firehouse, this South Loop steakhouse is an elegant place to gather over prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and classic American fare. There are four private dining rooms that can host special events, plus a lovely patio. Book online via Resy.

1401 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 786-1401
(312) 786-1401

Pilsen Yards

1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608

The bar- and music-centric venue sports an inviting heated patio, which is open year-round, and big booths to accommodate groups. Guests can enjoy tacos and an extensive collection of mezcals and tequilas while listening to live DJ sets. Make a reservation through OpenTable.

1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 243-2410
(312) 243-2410

MingHin Cuisine

2168 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

Spanning more than 20,000 square feet, this contemporary Cantonese restaurant (with multiple locations) has enough space to seat more than 700 people. A visit here isn’t complete without sampling the Beijing duck, a two-course communal meal comprised of duck skin and meat served with bao and duck stir fry. The all-day dim sum menu is a big hit with groups, too.

2168 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 808-1999
(312) 808-1999

Pearl's Place

3901 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60653

South Side soul food icon Pearl’s Place makes it easy to enjoy a meal with companions by offering a Southern-style buffet. Devour fried chicken, mac and cheese, rib tips, meatloaf, and more. The restaurant is also a full-service caterer so can provide the food for a group at home.

3901 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60653
(773) 285-1700
(773) 285-1700
A bowl of shrimp and grits.
Pearl’s Place delivers Southern comfort.
Pearl’s Place [Official Photo]

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