Chicago Restaurant Week 2026 Preview: Get Your Reservations in Now!

Chicago Restaurant Week 2026 Preview: Get Your Reservations in Now!

Chicago Restaurant Week is back, and food lovers across the city are gearing up for one of the most anticipated culinary events of the year. Running January 23 – February 8, 2026, this citywide celebration brings together the very best of Chicago’s restaurants, offering exclusive prix fixe menus at unbeatable prices. If you’ve been thinking about trying that restaurant you’ve always wanted to visit, now is the perfect time to secure your table!


What is Chicago Restaurant Week?

Chicago Restaurant Week (CRW) is now in its 19th year and has become a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors. Over the course of 17 days, participating restaurants across Chicago showcase their culinary creativity with specially curated menus.

  • Brunch & Lunch: $30

  • Dinner: $45 or $60

These prix fixe menus give diners a chance to enjoy multi-course meals at a fraction of the regular price. (Note: beverages, tax, and gratuity are typically extra.)


Whether you love classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, upscale fine dining, or hidden neighborhood gems, CRW offers an opportunity to explore flavors you may not have tried before—all while enjoying great value.


Hundreds of Restaurants, Endless Options

This year, a record-breaking 500+ restaurants are participating in CRW, spanning every neighborhood from the Loop to Lincoln Park, River North to Wicker Park. The lineup includes long-standing Chicago favorites, acclaimed fine dining establishments, and exciting new culinary spots.


Some standout participants include:

  • Lula Café – Logan Square

  • Topolobampo – River North

  • Café Yaya – Lincoln Park

  • Gene & Georgetti – River North

…plus dozens of others across neighborhoods, cuisines, and dining styles. Whether you’re craving Italian, seafood, Japanese, or farm-to-table creations, CRW has something for every taste and budget.


For the full list of restaurants and menus, check their official website and start planning your culinary adventure now. Popular spots are filling up quickly, so early reservations are highly recommended.


Kick Off with First Bites Bash

Chicago Restaurant Week officially begins with the First Bites Bash on January 22, a ticketed tasting event held at Chicago’s iconic Field Museum. Guests can enjoy unlimited small plates from participating restaurants, along with wine, beer, and spirits. It’s a perfect way to sample dozens of flavors in one evening and get a taste of the excitement that’s coming to the city.


Tickets for First Bites Bash often sell out quickly, so don’t wait if you want to experience this kickoff event firsthand.


Tips to Make the Most of Chicago Restaurant Week

  1. Book Early – High-demand restaurants fill up fast. Make reservations as soon as possible.

  2. Plan by Neighborhood – Chicago is huge! Decide which area you want to explore and check participating restaurants nearby.

  3. Check the Menus – Many restaurants offer multiple prix fixe options. Browse in advance to pick the menu that excites you most.

  4. Bring Friends – CRW is perfect for groups. Try different restaurants with friends and compare your favorites.

  5. Stay Flexible – While reservations are recommended, some restaurants also accept walk-ins, so keep a backup plan handy.


Don’t Miss Out – Reserve Your Table Today!

With hundreds of restaurants, specially curated menus, and limited-time prices, Chicago Restaurant Week 2026 is not to be missed. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a solo culinary adventure, now is the time to make your reservations.


Visit the official Chicago Restaurant Week website to browse participating restaurants, view menus, and book your table before spots fill up.


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