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The views are to die for, the selection has led me to return a second time within six weeks and the service each visit is better than the last. I had the pleasure of being served by Conner during my last visit and he was very personable and extremely attentive. Add to that I stepped in without a reservation and dining alone, and the hostess, was extremely accommodating and placed me at a table with an absolutely breathtaking view. I have the carrots which were served with feta and pistachio. And I also had the crab fried rice and dessert. I'd order all three again and even had a little to take home as leftovers.
The food at The Kitchen was overall really good. The Park House Rolls are a MUST. Hands down some of the best rolls I've ever had. The inside of them was sooooo soft and flaky and buttery. They were like if a croissant and traditional dinner roll had a baby - perfection!!!!! The gnocchetti was amazing too. Very small, but very rich. It was also very soft and pillowy and came in a creamy pesto sauce. The salad was just okay, I wouldn't recommend. Although the food here was great, the service was absolutely horrible. We came in around 4:30/5 on a Saturday and it wasn't busy at all. There were plenty of open tables outside, but when we asked to sit out there they said there was a wait even though the restaurant was basically empty. There was 1 person in front of us at the host stand and it still took 20 minutes to be seated AND the host was rude when we asked her about sitting outside.
Everything about this place was amazing. The decor the food the service. I've been here for a restaurant week and I had the four course that began with butternut squash soup that was magnificent. The second course was rigatoni with a Bolognese and it was divine. The third course was short rib with vegan kimchi and oh my gosh I have never had a short rib like this. The fourth course was blueberry, compote cheesecake, and it was heavenly the wait staff had wonderful wine pairings for each course and they were very attentive and pleasant. They invited us to come back for brunch and we made reservations immediately. If you're looking for parking RPM has valet and then there's limited parking within the block, but you should definitely get here before 6 February because they are closing, but you will not be disappointed.
Walked in here for lunch and my party was seated and served promptly. You can't see the river from the indoor seating, but that's ok the inside of the restaurant is nice. Wish the river was part of the view though. I had the southern fried chicken sandwich and it was very crunchy with a good sauce and yummy fries. My sister got the black kale caesar salad, and it includes smoked trout and the whole salad tasted a little smokey. We liked that, but beware it's not everyone's taste. Overall: positive lunch experience, a little pricey because of location but the food is decent.
Had dinner here for New Year's Eve and it was definitely a great way to close out the year. The cocktails are incredible and do a fantastic job of complimenting the delicious food. Highly recommend the Ahi Tuna Crudo and Shrimp A La Plancha.
This place was great! Perfectly situated on the river, close to lots of the action. We came at an "off time" on a Friday for their happy hour and small bites which is from 3-5. They only offer a few small plate food items during this time which was actually perfect for us to snack while we grabbed a few cocktails. For drinks we tried their happy hour margarita and old fashioned. Both were fresh and delicious! Then we ordered x2 espresso martinis (not on happy hour but worth ordering!) these espresso martinis were one of the best I have had! They use REAL, freshly brewed espresso!! Highly recommend. Our bartender was so pleasant and nice (I feel bad I don't remember his name). Ambiance is classy but cozy. Highly recommend! The fries came with this delicious sauce! Sliders were yummy. The lolipop wings were not my favorite, very fatty. Wouldn't order those again.
The ambiance was great. We went with a group of 6 and felt the service was attentive. The burger was quite amazing. Food was better than expected and the location was in a good part of the city. Had reservations due to the under 4 star rating on yelp but felt it was much better than expected.
This place was a HIT! The Kitchen American Bistro was such an astounding VIBE! Views of the riverfront, beautiful skyscrapers, while the tourists sightseeing the beautiful historical buildings and their architecture on boat tours. People just plainly out and about enjoying their gorgeous Friday afternoon. Typically, just an another beautiful day in downtown Chicago! Reservations are highly encouraged but not required. Although, for the patio seating with the great view, I will most definitely make reservations for a secured seat. Parking was also valet which I love the convenience. A little spoiled in that terrible manner. Lol!! I was immediately acknowledged by the staff with her gracious hospitality didn't catch her name. I checked in and was given my complimentary water as I walked to my reserved patio seating. I ordered the lobster roll, and their homemade focaccia along with my tasty Raspberry Beret margarita. Everything was delicious. Menu was simple for lunch and my order had a zero wait time! Couldn't been more happier! Portions and prices were decent for lunch. I just really enjoyed myself. The weather was great, in the presence of good company, great drinks, delicious food with a phenomenal view, YOU just can't beat that! Check em out!!
We went here twice on recent trip as we were staying up the street. First time for happy hour at bar. Cold beers and ordered salad w strawberries & assorted goodies and an order of their drenched chicken wings. Salad was dressed w amazing lemon zest vinaigrette and a happy hour portion was enough for 2 to share. Wings are in a chili type sauce and equally amazing. We went back 2 days later and sat outside overlooking the river. Split the salad and a small gnocchi dish. Bartenders were awesome and gave us their dive bar food and drink reqs.
I went here for some lunch with my sister the other day and we got the crab rice and the burger with fries. Food was pretty good. The rice has a big portion so we had some leftover. Server was also very friendly and nice. Inside is very unique looking and modern too. I definitely recommend if you go to Chicago, seems like a great place to grab drinks as well!
In town for some doctor visits and Thanksgiving and looking for a fun new place to try and a Kimbal Musk restaurant was the definite move. The restaurant website lets you choose a day and time. It even asks of any special occasions and/or dietary restrictions. I marked down my restrictions and that it was my birthday and they were well versed. I really appreciated that they actually read what I submitted ahead of time. You walk in to the restaurant and it is so spacious and open. We had a high top by a window looking out over the river. Awesome view! The menu was so descriptive with the main ingredients and the dietary restrictions. We got a couple appetizers and WOW! I'm glad we got the Crispy Cauliflower. Excellent flavor. Definite crispness. The broccolini had a fun garlic flavor to it, a pleasant surprise! Then our entrees came and wow!! My mom really likes crab and the fried rice had a wonderful flavor blend with crab. She enjoyed it just as much on day two! And my roasted chicken came. At first glance, could be seen as underwhelming. I take a bite and wow; I am someone who has ketchup or Barbeque sauce with chicken. It didn't need it. It was great on It's own. Again, on day two, did not lose any tenderness or flavor. The fries were the same. A high quality potato, no extras necessary. The non alcoholic drink I had was good. A bit heavy on the non alcoholic spirits for my liking. I will definitely be back!! Bringing family, friends and the like. Kimbal and his team are amazing.
The inside is really cute and they were able to accommodate a larger party for brunch. It's also on the river, which is really nice! But the food itself was very bland with very few options, especially for meat substitutes - which there were none. The food and drinks are both a bit pricey for the food quality.
My girls and I came here during happy hour, and we're pretty pleased with the place. This is the cutest restaurant off the river. Sadly, we weren't able to sit outside by the river - they said 30 minute wait. However inside was just as beautiful. We ordered the lollipop chicken, sliders (the comeback sauce is amazing!), baby lettuce salad, lemon drops and a pineapple mocktail. Everything was amazing! Unfortunately, we were seated by a window and my friend was stung by a bee so just be aware if you're by the window! read more
1 year ago
Had a beer, sliders and their wings Honestly their wings and how they prepare them are some of the best wings I have tried... the sliders were really good but IMO the wings are where it's at. Came during happy hour and the prices were not horrible. Only thing is if you are here during happy hour, you have to sit at the bar Definitely worth checking out for sure if you are in the area! read more
Stopped by The Kitchen American Bistro on a sunny Saturday and couldn't have picked a better spot. You can sit right next to the river and watch boats pass by while you eat. It's such a relaxing, scenic way to enjoy a meal in the city. I had the lamb kofta and garlic fries, and both were so good -- full of flavor and perfectly cooked. Even better, they offer happy hour on Saturdays, which is a rare and awesome find! Between the great food, unbeatable views, and chill vibe, it made for a perfect day in this beautiful city. Highly recommend for a laid-back but elevated riverfront dining experience. read more
The views are to die for, the selection has led me to return a second time within six weeks and the service each visit is better than the last. I had the pleasure of being served by Conner during my last visit and he was very personable and extremely attentive. Add to that I stepped in without a reservation and dining alone, and the hostess, was extremely accommodating and placed me at a table with an absolutely breathtaking view. I have the carrots which were served with feta and pistachio. And I also had the crab fried rice and dessert. I'd order all three again and even had a little to take home as leftovers. read more
The food at The Kitchen was overall really good. The Park House Rolls are a MUST. Hands down some of the best rolls I've ever had. The inside of them was sooooo soft and flaky and buttery. They were like if a croissant and traditional dinner roll had a baby - perfection!!!!! The gnocchetti was amazing too. Very small, but very rich. It was also very soft and pillowy and came in a creamy pesto sauce. The salad was just okay, I wouldn't recommend. Although the food here was great, the service was absolutely horrible. We came in around 4:30/5 on a Saturday and it wasn't busy at all. There were plenty of open tables outside, but when we asked to sit out there they said there was a wait even though the restaurant was basically empty. There was 1 person in front of us at the host stand and it still took 20 minutes to be seated AND the host was rude when we asked her about sitting outside. read more
Everything about this place was amazing. The decor the food the service. I've been here for a restaurant week and I had the four course that began with butternut squash soup that was magnificent. The second course was rigatoni with a Bolognese and it was divine. The third course was short rib with vegan kimchi and oh my gosh I have never had a short rib like this. The fourth course was blueberry, compote cheesecake, and it was heavenly the wait staff had wonderful wine pairings for each course and they were very attentive and pleasant. They invited us to come back for brunch and we made reservations immediately. If you're looking for parking RPM has valet and then there's limited parking within the block, but you should definitely get here before 6 February because they are closing, but you will not be disappointed. read more
1 year ago
Walked in here for lunch and my party was seated and served promptly. You can't see the river from the indoor seating, but that's ok the inside of the restaurant is nice. Wish the river was part of the view though. I had the southern fried chicken sandwich and it was very crunchy with a good sauce and yummy fries. My sister got the black kale caesar salad, and it includes smoked trout and the whole salad tasted a little smokey. We liked that, but beware it's not everyone's taste. Overall: positive lunch experience, a little pricey because of location but the food is decent. read more
Had dinner here for New Year's Eve and it was definitely a great way to close out the year. The cocktails are incredible and do a fantastic job of complimenting the delicious food. Highly recommend the Ahi Tuna Crudo and Shrimp A La Plancha. read more
This place was great! Perfectly situated on the river, close to lots of the action. We came at an "off time" on a Friday for their happy hour and small bites which is from 3-5. They only offer a few small plate food items during this time which was actually perfect for us to snack while we grabbed a few cocktails. For drinks we tried their happy hour margarita and old fashioned. Both were fresh and delicious! Then we ordered x2 espresso martinis (not on happy hour but worth ordering!) these espresso martinis were one of the best I have had! They use REAL, freshly brewed espresso!! Highly recommend. Our bartender was so pleasant and nice (I feel bad I don't remember his name). Ambiance is classy but cozy. Highly recommend! The fries came with this delicious sauce! Sliders were yummy. The lolipop wings were not my favorite, very fatty. Wouldn't order those again. read more
The ambiance was great. We went with a group of 6 and felt the service was attentive. The burger was quite amazing. Food was better than expected and the location was in a good part of the city. Had reservations due to the under 4 star rating on yelp but felt it was much better than expected. read more
This place was a HIT! The Kitchen American Bistro was such an astounding VIBE! Views of the riverfront, beautiful skyscrapers, while the tourists sightseeing the beautiful historical buildings and their architecture on boat tours. People just plainly out and about enjoying their gorgeous Friday afternoon. Typically, just an another beautiful day in downtown Chicago! Reservations are highly encouraged but not required. Although, for the patio seating with the great view, I will most definitely make reservations for a secured seat. Parking was also valet which I love the convenience. A little spoiled in that terrible manner. Lol!! I was immediately acknowledged by the staff with her gracious hospitality didn't catch her name. I checked in and was given my complimentary water as I walked to my reserved patio seating. I ordered the lobster roll, and their homemade focaccia along with my tasty Raspberry Beret margarita. Everything was delicious. Menu was simple for lunch and my order had a zero wait time! Couldn't been more happier! Portions and prices were decent for lunch. I just really enjoyed myself. The weather was great, in the presence of good company, great drinks, delicious food with a phenomenal view, YOU just can't beat that! Check em out!! read more
We went here twice on recent trip as we were staying up the street. First time for happy hour at bar. Cold beers and ordered salad w strawberries & assorted goodies and an order of their drenched chicken wings. Salad was dressed w amazing lemon zest vinaigrette and a happy hour portion was enough for 2 to share. Wings are in a chili type sauce and equally amazing. We went back 2 days later and sat outside overlooking the river. Split the salad and a small gnocchi dish. Bartenders were awesome and gave us their dive bar food and drink reqs. read more
I went here for some lunch with my sister the other day and we got the crab rice and the burger with fries. Food was pretty good. The rice has a big portion so we had some leftover. Server was also very friendly and nice. Inside is very unique looking and modern too. I definitely recommend if you go to Chicago, seems like a great place to grab drinks as well! read more
2 years ago
In town for some doctor visits and Thanksgiving and looking for a fun new place to try and a Kimbal Musk restaurant was the definite move. The restaurant website lets you choose a day and time. It even asks of any special occasions and/or dietary restrictions. I marked down my restrictions and that it was my birthday and they were well versed. I really appreciated that they actually read what I submitted ahead of time. You walk in to the restaurant and it is so spacious and open. We had a high top by a window looking out over the river. Awesome view! The menu was so descriptive with the main ingredients and the dietary restrictions. We got a couple appetizers and WOW! I'm glad we got the Crispy Cauliflower. Excellent flavor. Definite crispness. The broccolini had a fun garlic flavor to it, a pleasant surprise! Then our entrees came and wow!! My mom really likes crab and the fried rice had a wonderful flavor blend with crab. She enjoyed it just as much on day two! And my roasted chicken came. At first glance, could be seen as underwhelming. I take a bite and wow; I am someone who has ketchup or Barbeque sauce with chicken. It didn't need it. It was great on It's own. Again, on day two, did not lose any tenderness or flavor. The fries were the same. A high quality potato, no extras necessary. The non alcoholic drink I had was good. A bit heavy on the non alcoholic spirits for my liking. I will definitely be back!! Bringing family, friends and the like. Kimbal and his team are amazing. read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Anthony!…
1 year ago
The inside is really cute and they were able to accommodate a larger party for brunch. It's also on the river, which is really nice! But the food itself was very bland with very few options, especially for meat substitutes - which there were none. The food and drinks are both a bit pricey for the food quality. read more
1 year ago
What a phenomenal experience! I highly recommend the outdoor seating. You will be seated right along the river and it's a great view to accompany your meal. We absolutely loved the food, it was just hit after hit. If I had to pick my favorite I'd pick the Grilled Oysters. It was just so unique, the oysters float in this sweet rich broth that's just nothing like anything I've had before! Also if you're going to have dessert you have to have the Pot au Chocolat. 10/10 one of the best desserts I've had in Chicago. read more
1 year ago
A hidden gem by the Riverwalk! Natalie was a total star .. super helpful with our gluten-free needs and made sure everything was safe and delicious. We had the chicken, pork chops, and peanut-free crab fried rice (yes, they will modify!). But the real winner? The pork chops. If you're in DT Chicago, don't sleep on this spot. The view anywhere you sit is spectacular! read more
The atmosphere here at night is truly remarkable! The lighting both inside & outside the restaurant creates a lively ambiance that enhances your dining experience. The seats & tables are cleverly positioned so you can enjoy the views through the windows while you dine. Although we were there during a quiet time with only a few other patrons, the food service was a bit slow. We were a large group tho, 14 of us, so perhaps that contributed to the delay. We reserved to come for an early dinner on a weekday & were seated at a long table right in the center of the dining area. Our wait staff appeared to be new, but they were polite & attentive. The food itself was standard American fare, nothing really stood out. Some dishes were underwhelming, others a bit bland. It would be great if they could refresh the menu, as it's a missed opportunity to enjoy the stunning views if the food doesn't match the quality and taste we hoped for. We had a great time & fully enjoyed the company & the views! read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Thanks so much for taking the time to give us some feedback Donna, we…
2 years ago
The place itself is really nice and large, so if you're coming with a big party it'll definitely be easier to accommodate you. Unfortunately I just felt like something was lacking with the food. My family came in for a brunch moment. I ordered the quiche, which was advertised as having mushrooms in it, but I couldn't taste any mushrooms. The quiche itself was fine, but it didn't taste fresh, and was served to me somewhat lukewarm. The lettuce leaves were lovely and crisp, though, and I enjoyed the dressing that came on it. read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Morning Victoria,…
I recently tried The Kitchen American Bistro with my folks to celebrate my mother's birthday and it was sucha good choice! We ordered a bunch of apps for the table - Asparagus Tostada, Gnocchetti, and burrata. Everything was a chef's kiss! I also shared a spicy summer tequila drink with my dad and it was a perfect balance to the food that we ordered. Gnochetti was our favourite of the entire lot! The chef gave us burnt toast along with burrata initially but they fixed it pretty quickly when feedback was provided. The server also gave us a cheesy cake desert complimentary when we shared that we are celebrating a birthday. The Kitchen should be on your list to try good American cuisine, and enjoy Chicago river views on a beautiful patio! read more
Friendly staff that made our reservation super enjoyable. We picked from a buffet and had plenty of good food. It was a super fun place to watch the river being turned green. My only complaint would be how expensive everything was for the reservation and the drinks. read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Good morning John!…
We love coming to the Kitchen for special occasions. Service is always very friendly, decor is inviting, and it's never too loud. Some highlights: - The Tiradito is a MUST, I could drink the sauce by itself - Desserts are always unique and never too sweet - I appreciate the flavorful mocktail options read more
Business owner information
Marley B.
Thank you so much for the fabulous feedback Kathy! We hope to see you…
2 years ago
I have been to the kitchen twice and have absolutely loved the experience. In particular, I went for restaurant week. The menu was a great value and every course was delicious. The service was also great--the manager/sommelier took so much time in helping my group pick out an orange wine to try and explained how it was made and everything! Highly recommend for date nights, catching up with friends, or business dinners alike. The location on the river is unbeatable and the ambiance is great! read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Thank you so much for the beautiful review Allison! We can't wait to…
This is an absolute must-try if you're visiting Chicago. The dining room has a nice ambience with candles and soft music so you're able to have conservation. The staff are so kind and friendly! I wasn't feeling the best so the staff brought over a kettle with mugs and lemon! The carrots were so delicious and tasted roasted/sweet similar to a sweet potato taste. The cauliflower was good with large sharable portion sizes and had delicious mango and mint chutney. The gnocchi was my favourite as it melts in your mouth and had delicious parmesan with mushrooms. Definitely would come back! read more
3 years ago
So, funny story, I booked a reservation here on what I thought was St. Patrick's Day (Saturday celebration) and ended up being the ACTUAL St. Patrick's Day. I didn't plan to go back into River North after the shenanigans of St. Paddy's Day, but there's a booking fee if you cancel, so I came. I had a delightful brunch here! Great atmosphere. Good view of the river. Seating was not the most comfortable thing of my life, but that's literally my only complaint (and quite minor). I'd come back! read more
Business owner information
Marley B.
We look forward to having you back Marissa! Thanks so much for the…
1 year ago
The carrots are delicious. Outside patio is a perfect for a sunny fall day. Waiter was very knowledgeable. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Mocktails here are delicious and the one I ordered for sure was one of my favorites I've ever had! I had a crispy chicken sandwich and enjoyed it! A great place for a quick lunch by the river. I sat inside, but the view outside is incredible. The menu wasn't very special, very typical and nothing spoke to me. But, still a great place with fast and kind service. read more
Kimbal Musk does it again!! Amazing meal. We made our reservation on Open Table and our server was informed about our gluten free choice and was very informed about the menu options. We had the broccolini which had miso butter and black garlic breadcrumbs. I never knew there was even a black garlic!!! Enough to share with the table. We also enjoyed the crispy cauliflower that is made with carrots, mango, herb salad, coriander chutney (had to google this one too!), pickled red onion, tamarind chutney, and chickpeas all piled high on the plate. Then I had the crab fried rice with Thai lime-nam jim, crushed peanuts, and normally topped with a crispy fried egg that I eliminated. Not an egg fan except for scrambled well. I loved everything except my dirty vodka martini. For some reason I wasn't having it. The view of the Chicago River was spectacular. Too cold to sit out there today just to people watch. read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Thank you so much for the great review and feedback Cindi! We very…
3 years ago
A walk along the Riverfront in the morning would not be complete without having breakfast at The Kitchen American Bistro. We ate outside overlooking the Chicago River and enjoyed a real hearty, fresh breakfast as we watched the Kayaks, tour boats and people below walking along the river. The menu offers everything but must enjoy the Brioche Donuts made fresh here. We split the Passion Fruit Curd with a Lemon Zest Donut after a real hearty breakfast. I had the Farmers Breakfast with over medium eggs, whole wheat sourdough toasr, bacon and fruit. Added a side of avocado beautifully sliced. My wife had the Turkish egg breakfast with 2 poached eggs with a spicy yogurt sauce. What a great healthy breakfast after a healthy walk and one of the best views of the Riverfront. I'd do it the exact same way on our next Riverfront walk. read more
it was a very nice, low light restaurant. we got a window seat with a breeze, which was very nice considering the heat at the time (mid-september). the servers were very nice and helped guide us through fan favorites, etc. however, one thing that i wish they noted was how small of a plate the gnocchetti was. i thought it just meant small gnocchi balls, not "small serving of gnocchi". safe to say, i was not satisfied after my plate of gnocchetti. all other dishes were good tho, no complaints! we almost considered dessert, but eventually decided to walk up/down the river walk area instead. read more
Business owner information
Emma H.
Morning Kimi! Thanks for the review, and for the feedback. We would…
1 year ago
11 months ago
came here for the views of the river and to have brunch, we were sad to find out that it is closed for the season but regardless we had a wonderful visit. the restaurant is beautiful & gives such a "city" atmosphere yet warm ambiance and luxury - but no, we did not have to wait months on a reservation list if that makes sense lol the kitchen is open, and you can see the chefs preparing/ cooking meals fresh! we ordered from a non-brunch menu & it did not disappoint, the food was amazing, delicious & with their own little twist on a traditional american burger or chicken sandwich, probably the best ive ever had! our waitress was professional, courteous and friendly (i forgot her name but she had short blonde hair & i think some cool piercings too) i would definitely come back and visit when in chicago again & highly recommend, fit for any occasion or person. read more
9 months ago
These carrots were absolutely amazing. Fancy American dinner option. I recommend for new year's because it's right by the river so for 2024 fireworks we were able to walk behind the restaurant right by the water and have a front row view to the fireworks. read more
2 years ago
Business owner information
Emma H.
Thank you so much for all the feedback Valerie! We hope to have you…
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More info about The Kitchen American Bistro
316 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60654
River North, Near North Side
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(312) 836-1300
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https://www.thekitchen.com
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Ask the Community - The Kitchen American Bistro
Would the patio accommodate party of 6?
Is there a patio?
Hi there! We do have a patio located on the Riverwalk. It is primarily two person table tops with one 4 person table at the end. The patio is first comer first serve, however you can let us know if you would like outside seating on the patio and we…
Do they have Brunch menu or is this place good for brunch? Also, how is the noise level here and is it lively or cozy?
Yes, there is a brunch menu. It is noisy even when its not full. If noisy means lively to you then yes. There are no quiet spots.
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