Ресторан · Chicago · ⭐ 9.3/10 · 5658 reviews · $$ · updated: 2026-06-30 19:39:23
Address: 315 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
River Roast: Dinner Arrives Whole and Gets Carved Before Your Eyes
Few Chicago kitchens commit to one idea as boldly as River Roast. The centerpiece here is the roast itself — a burnished whole chicken, a whole fish, a hulking cut of beef — brought to the table and carved in front of you while the Chicago River glides past the windows.
The Concept
River Roast opened in 2014 inside the century-old Reid Murdoch Building on the river’s north bank, a Levy Restaurants project whose concept was originated by James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Mantuano of Spiaggia fame. The mission: revive the communal pleasure of the Sunday roast and stage it in a big-city tavern.
What to Order
The wood-smoked whole roasted chicken is the undisputed star — mahogany-crisp skin, juicy meat, carved tableside and paired with roasted potatoes fried to a dark crust. The whole roasted fish and the slow-roasted beef follow the same theatrical script, while the roasted pork shank rewards serious appetites. Most plates are built for sharing, so bring a group and order across the menu.
The Space
Two floors of a landmark brick warehouse with tall windows facing the LaSalle Street bridge. The patio sits right at the water’s edge and ranks among the best in the city, live blues fills the room on weekends, and the long bar pours local drafts and craft cocktails.
Who It’s For
Business dinners that need to impress, visiting parents, and anyone stepping off a river architecture cruise hungry for something substantial.
Good to Know
Do I need a reservation? Strongly recommended for dinner and weekend brunch; window tables go first, so book early and request one.
Is there brunch? Yes — Saturday and Sunday from late morning to early afternoon, with live blues setting the mood.
How does patio seating work? The riverfront patio is seasonal and first-come, first-served — arrive before the after-work rush.
What should I wear? Smart casual fits best; the crowd runs from business suits to weekend visitors.
Can it host private events? Yes — dedicated riverfront event spaces make it a popular pick for corporate parties and weddings.
Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11:30–21:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:30–21:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:30–21:00 |
| Thursday | 11:30–22:00 |
| Friday | 11:30–22:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00–22:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00–21:00 |
Photos
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Visitor reviews
Reviews last updated: 2026-06-30 19:39:23
Data is refreshed monthly. Sources: chicago-trend.com and editorial picks based on reviews.
Went to River Roast to celebrate me and my partners anniversary. It truly was a wonderful experience. From the moment we arrived the host and the staff were very welcoming and sweet. Our server was Hozell and he was amaz…
On our last day here we had a wonderful breakfast. The menu was simple and compact, but everything we chose was tasty: from the burger to the fried chicken sandwich to the kids' cheeseburger. The fries were perfectly cri…
In a nice place, with a nice view of the river and downtown, tasty cuisine, especially tasty meat, a big selection of beer.
Had a wonderful time at River Roast. The food was filling and tasty (4★), the dishes well cooked, if not too memorable. The atmosphere is really impressive — the beautiful waterfront views and the vibrant setting make it…
A nice patio overlooking the river, if you can get a table.
Happy hour from 4:00 to 5:45pm applies only in the bar area. 50% off appetisers, cocktails and wine. The service could be improved, but they're friendly when y…