The 'Most Beautiful Restaurant' In Illinois Is A Bohemian Chicago Charmer
The Loop is the heart of Chicago, brimming with artsy charm, iconic attractions, and diverse dining. And the best way to immerse yourself in its culture is by booking a table at Beatnik on the River. This iconic restaurant delivers on all fronts: an extraordinary interior, creative menu, and phenomenal ambiance. The second you step in, the bohemian design carries you to the shores of the Mediterranean. The colors are reminiscent of Morocco's earthy terracottas and ochres, while the glamorous mystique is a nod to the other side of the sea, the Italian coast. Organic textures are omnipresent, transporting you to the rural Mediterranean. Beautiful is an understatement — Beatnik on the River is inventive, first-rate, and most importantly, evocative, both in its food and vibe.
The mastermind behind the restaurant's design is Maison Bonhomme. The studio opted for maximalist composition, with eye-catching pieces at every corner. Unique antiques and eccentric items define the space. In fact, the design studio had to disassemble a 1913 jewelry store in Nashville and set it back up in the restaurant. This is just one of the many meticulous efforts that went into curating the interior. The terrace features Indonesian daybeds with vibrant pillows; sparkling crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling; Persian rugs adorn the wooden floor; kaleidoscopic tiles remind you of Andalusia — every piece is an intentional choice.
Beatnik on the River's boho theme is incomplete without mentioning the lush greenery. Over 600 plants cover the area, adding a tropical touch to its sophisticated elegance. Riverside views accompany your meal, with every bite taking you on a gastronomic adventure. From the plant-forward flavors of the Levantine cuisine to bold North African seasonings and Mexican savoriness, this is a pilgrimage for your palate. If the decor didn't already enchant you, the mouthwatering dishes definitely will.
Beatnik on the River's menu is as innovative as its bohemian decor
While many say that deep-dish pizza is a must-have in Chicago (rightfully so), the culinary journey your taste buds will embark on at Beatnik on the River is unlike any other. Their starter spreads are a fusion of North African and East Mediterranean traditions with an original twist — the mutabbal is married with beets, and the hummus pairs surprisingly well with the octopus and Vadouvan curry. The baba ghanoush, though, is kept in its time-honored form. The Lebanese staple fattoush uses kale instead of lettuce, while the Caesar salad is reinvented with harissa garbanzo beans.
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The meat is where it's at. The Moroccan-style lamb is melt-in-your-mouth tender, paired with dill tzatziki and cucumber salad. The chicken musakhan, the centerpiece of a Palestinian dinner table, has that sumac tanginess that makes you go for seconds. The curry meatballs are succulent and juicy, presented on a bed of avocado hummus. The beef tenderloin kebab makes a flavorful explosion in your mouth, as the Aleppo tamari marinade ties the dish together. Those who can't decide between the beef, lamb, or grilled vegetables can order the feast to indulge in a skewer of each.
Vegetarians can relish the crispy za'tar fries that everyone raves about, roasted carrots glazed to perfection, and the wild mushrooms with confit egg yolk. The shawarma spiced cauliflower is delectable, as are the halloumi fries and stuffed dates. Finally, the cocktails are on par with the cuisine — with ingenious concoctions like Second Fiddle (with turmeric and sumac salt), Weight in Gold G&T (with a Apologue saffron liqueur kick), and Oaxacan Old Fashioned (infused with Szechuan chipotle honey). The restaurant has another branch in West Town, a Chicago neighborhood with culinary excellence that's further elevated by Beatnik's caliber.