In its first three weeks, Bally’s temporary casino drew in $6.7 million and 80,000 visitors. With River North seeing more foot traffic, we rounded up what to know and other spots to check out in the neighborhood.
Once known as Smokey Hollow because of all the factory smoke at the turn of the 20th century, River North was transformed by developer Albert Friedman in the ‘70s. He renamed the area and rented cheap commercial spaces to artists and advertising agencies.
Today, River North has no shortage of trendy bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Julio Lyon, lead doughnut guy at the Doughnut Vault, has worked in River North restaurants for the past 10 years. Kevin Smith is a longtime resident. They shared their recs with Hey Chicago.
Something to eat
After going to the Doughnut Vault, get a spicy flamenco omelet and shakshuka at Meli Cafe. Check out James Beard finalist Obélix and the city’s oldest steakhouse Gene & Georgetti. Mr. Beef inspired "The Bear!"
Something to drink
The Drifter is a speakeasy that serves great cocktails with jazz or burlesque shows. Headquarters Beercade has vintage games served alongside drinks.
Something to see
Take the Chicago Architecture Center’s river cruise. Don’t miss Art on the Mart, a free art projection on the Merchandise Mart.
Something to do
Take in the sweet smells of the Blommer Chocolate Factory. Want to work out? East Bank Club covers more than two full city blocks with state-of-the-art equipment.
Boundaries of River North (Google Maps)
Julio and Kevin are longtime listeners and readers of the City Cast Chicago podcast and Hey Chicago newsletter. Want to help us pen a neighborhood guide?
