41 Best Wine Bars near River Forest

“Rented the private room for a party. The food was great, appetizers and main dishes.....amazing salmon & chicken parm, and the BEST antipasto salad ! Very good service as well for a large group. Parking is a little limited, shame can't share parking with dentist next door“

“First timers and now we will be regulars! The hospitality, atmosphere and fare were outstanding! From the knowledgeable staff, the welcoming management and the hostess that went WAY above and beyond to be sure my disabled husband was accommodated from when we booked our reservation to the end of our dining experience - we couldn’t have been more delighted! See you again soon, Lardon!“

“We loved our experience at Giant! We’ve been wanting to eat here for a while and thought what better time than to go out for my birthday. My wife and I can’t say enough great things about the food, our server Bailey and the whole experience. Bailey was the best server ever! We love her and will definitely be back.“

“Gather is simply my favorite restaurant in Chicago. Every dish is incredible: the ricotta-honey spread and buttery toast, citrus cured salmon with fried egg, carmelized brussels sprouts with aioli...and that's before you even get to the entrees. Truth be told, I've never actually made it to dessert here because I'm already so stuffed from everything else.The decor is classy but comfortable; you'll dine by candlelight with a list of appealing cocktails ready to hand. If you're lucky, you can sit with a direct view of the kitchen where you can watch the magic happen.Incredible spot--if this place ever closes, you can rest assured that I will weep bitter tears for it. Please go eat here so that doesn't happen.“

“Few months late! Came to Penumbra for Valentine’s Day and it was such a great choice. Ambiance set was really intimate, requested the private curtain area ahead of time and it felt like we were on our own place. Felt like a family owned place. The food and service were equally as good and on our way out an employee handed us a small rose shaped soap and thanked us for dining in. We had the bocaditos quesadilla which was the best version of a quesadilla we’ve had, shadow shrimp, a flat iron steak, and surf and turf. We ate/loved everything.“

“Nice cozy atmosphere with great service. The wine selection is HUGE and there's something for everyone's liking. Wait time was long for a Friday night but it was totally worth the experience. Waitstaff is excellent - friendly, and professional. The fried almonds were so good and can be a great pairing for the wine.“

“Ivonne was a fantastic waitress and the food was immaculately put together. The flavors and textures were incredible and I'm glad to have ventured out of the downtown area to explore. I loved that they attempt to do farm-to-fork on a micro scale... how cool and clever.“

“I would probably go 4.5 but I'll round up because we did have great service. We came during restaurant week and got the four course meals. In all we got: Crab croquettes: 4/5 Kale apple salad: 5/5 Burrata: 4/5 Bok choy: 4/5 Steak dish: 5/5 Agnolotti: 4/5 Crème brûlée: 3/5 Chocolate dessert: 4/5 The salad and steak are must orders! Everything else was tasty too! The agnolotti was on the sweet side which was different but still good. The bok choy was a bit too smoky for my taste but still good. The crème brûlée lacked some flavor but the salted caramel ice cream and crispy bits on the chocolate dessert was delicious and I'm not even a chocolate person. For wine, I got the orange wine (mellower one) and the still rose. Both were good! My husband got the Chianti which was also good. We would def come back! They also have a good happy hour specials so we will try to come for that.“

“Robert the owner of Apero wine bar made our experience SO beyond amazing. He taught us all about wine and gave us a great wine tasting. The yummy fresh sourdough bread and little snacks were superb and next time we will definitely be ordering some food too!Could not recommend this wine bar enough. You can tell how much love is in it! Thank you again“

“Very kind and careful staff cared about our experience from the moment we booked all the way till we left feeling happy and fat. My beautiful bride and I enjoyed their tasting menu with obvious tweaks to her vegetarian diet. Everything was delicious, surprising, and fun. The NA drink pairings were wonderfully inspired and amazing. 11/10.“

“The atmosphere was more casual & rustic than expected (basically a heated garden shed), and the menu is small, but the food was amazing. The brussel sprouts were delicious. The trout was very good, but could have used a heartier veggie pairing like potatoes. Their Bad Romance cocktail was one of my favorites. I probably wouldn't return for a while since the majority of their menu is red meat and cheese (which I don't eat) but perhaps when their menu is updated seasonally, if they have a different seafood option. The back patio looked nice for warmer weather. (Note it is quite a small venue with only 1 bathroom.)“

“This is an amazing grocery store in the heart of Lincoln Square. They have a great selection of groceries, the second floor adds in a large wine liquor and beer selection, and finally the butcher can't be beat. From fresh cut lamb chops, to as many brat varieties as you can think of, to freshly made pasta salad, they have it all. A must visit if you are in the area!Parking: Limited amount of spots available in the front of the store.“

“Tonight, the Wife and I asked for a table of 4, saw multiple tables open. Host replied with "Looks like we're not going to have table free for the rest of the night." Our 2 friends walked in about 5 minutes after us for a table, Host proceeds to not automatically deny them and asks the servers. Servers apparently had a problem with having another table until another server came worked it out. Finally, Wife and I walk back in to join our friends and overhear 2 servers discussing with the host about not seating anyone after 9pm (they close at midnight btw) Great to know that you wanting to close early is more important than actually doing your jobs and making easy money (we only got drinks and 2 apps) Pathetic, will not come back. Sayonara!“

“Quaint spot with friendly staff and an excellent selection of wine that's served even at half glass portions. If you like a laid back spot with good wine and an unassuming ambiance come here.Dietary restrictions: They have gluten free rolls“

“We did our first of many double dates at Frasca's in Lakeview. Couldn't recommend coming here more. The food was really good, the service was so friendly and fun, and the ambience is neighborhood gem. They do substitute for gluten free pasta and the nood was perfectly al dente. Perfect place to bring parents when they come to town and date night.“

“I recently visited Volo Wine Bar and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations! The ambiance of the patio was simply amazing, providing a perfect setting to enjoy a glass of wine. The happy hour deals were fantastic, offering a wide selection of wines at great prices. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend Volo Wine Bar for anyone looking for a cozy and inviting spot to unwind and enjoy quality wine. A definite 5-star experience!“

“If I could give more stars, I would! I have not only visited their establishment, but have also utilized their catering/event services. Service has always been amazing, the food is very delicious, and Carissa and Judy are so responsive and helpful! If you're looking for event catering services reach out to this awesome team! You will be in the best hands.“

“Love love love this place! The bartender is incredible-she asks you what you typically like and can recommend/give samples of several different things on the menu you’d like. I’ve loved what I got each time. The place is also just so cozy and atmospheric. It is BUSY so make a reservation but this is one of my favorite wine bars I’ve been to.“

“Burger and wine by the Glass for $21! Burger and Old fashioned cocktail for $21. We went to Webster Wine bar because it made the top 15 Chicago burger list. We were not disappointed! On Wednesdays there is a special for the burger and any drink for $21. What a deal! Our burgers came out quick and were delicious. They used Slagel Farm’s beef, and SHARP cheddar cheese instead of American. I love cheddar over American cheese any day. First time to Logan square and it was charming with the wide boulevards. Wine bar looks over the park and is very sophisticated. The wine list was impressive. Classy little place! Great for date night.“

“Diana made our anniversary dinner special. Seasons 52 holds a special place in our heart as the last place we had dinner with one of our beloved grandparents who passed. Our food was delicious and the service made us feel cared for. Thank you for making our night exquisiteDietary restrictions: We’re dairy intolerant and they were accommodating“

“The food here is beyond exquisite. Homemade gnocchi and table side polenta steal the show, but everything is amazing. Make sure to ask for a table outside in the wine garden in the back. You will pass through this tiny restaurant into a true oasis in the back. The unassuming front of the restaurant wouldn’t make you think the food is as incredible as it is.“

“I popped in just to meet my friend but then I had a dirty martini and now I am OBSESSED with it. You don’t expect much from a dirty martini right? It’s dirty. That’s it. Yum. And this was…… so good. Something about this dirt. Cuz I asked the bartender and he was saying something about the brine, it was somehow floral? He said the brine - not the vermouth. Idc. I just want another one. And then there’s the story: which I never got right, so I will irresponsibly spread it around here to generate more sensation. Something about… the original owner was tragically shot and died on the premises, in the bar. The wife shuttered the place and went upstairs for sixty years. The new owners kept the interior, the bar has original wood work and features. It is o. L. D. In a good way. I have no idea if that story is accurate or true. But I loved believing it while I was in there. What a great thing to be so surprised by a bar on division in wicker park! I love Chicago!“

“Our party of three arrived at 4:30 pm on a Thursday, after attending a wake nearby. We were seated promptly near a floor length window that opened up to the outside. We ordered cocktails and a wonderful cheese and meat plate with crackers, fruit and jam for $22, a bargain that easily fed three people. We were also served complimentary french bread with salted butter, a nice bistro touch. We then ordered three entrees and a wonderful bottle of a Cruze-Hermitage red wine for $75, another fairly priced item. The entrees were all below $30 and each of us brought home enough for another meal. We then split the bread pudding which was also large enough to bring some home. We spent a little over 2 hours. We were never rushed and the service was well paced. During our meal, live music was played which was a ice background noise but not too loud where it interfered with our conversation. It was a wonderful meal and I high recommend this restaurant.“

“We always ask for Giovanni to be our server, but we were told that he's on vacation in Peru (good for him!). Stephanie was our server and she was AMAZING! Giovanni had put notes in the computer system on what we like and Stephanie relayed that to us. We were so impressed!! My husband and I are both in the service industry (he's a server at Sophia Steak in Wilmette and I'm a hairstylist). We appreciate all that you guys do for us! Thank you, Stephanie, and the rest of the staff for a great experience!“

“Food was pub style but just what you want if you want pub style. Wings, nachos, burgers, and fries were all very good. Beers are good and cold, mixed drinks are very, tall? Very friendly staff. Wishing them all the best in business. Did I mention the prices are so low you almost feel guilty? Could use better lighting and decor, perhaps in time.“

“This was such a pleasant surprise and hidden gem for the neighborhood. The whole meal was amazing, portions were good and the flavors were on point. Service was great and they even gave us the most amazing cheesy soft chewy hot out of the pizza oven bread on the house when we asked for extra bread to sop up the sauce in the mussels. Everything at this place is delicious and unique! We would highly recommend Buona Terra Ristorante for a genuinely next level, Italian dining experience.“

“Truly such an amazing spot. Whether you’re looking for a bottle to take home or gift, a place to have a nice solo glass of wine, a night out with friends, or a date night - Deep Red is perfect for it. Great wine by the glass choices and a really wonderful vibe. Can’t recommend enough.“

“Our server ruined our experience!! We always come here!!! And Rachel V was so rude, so brief, so not helpful or engage at all!!!! Never asked if we were Ben wanted any more drinks, we had to ask the busser for bread and boxes. She was awful - we normally love it here too bad the friends we brought never want to go back because of her !!“

“Double Stars for Atmosphere, very cool space and esoteric board games-WoW- they use Dark Matter here and made an excellent Cortado, no points for artwork ? but made up in taste ?. Also support Rare Tea Cellers.Wheelchair accessibility: Ramp“

“This shop is an anchor of the community in every sense of that word. Every customer is treated like a regular from the moment they walk in, and those that are true regulars are treated as family. The staff are deeply knowledgeable and fundamentally relatable, a combination that is hard to find, particularly in wine. That we are recognized by the folks at Wine Goddess is a point of pride in our lives that we are overjoyed to share with friends and family. This review may seem overzealous but it is, if anything, understating the quality of this store and its wonderful staff.“

“The ambiance, staff, and food remain exceptional. The surprise birthday celebration was highlighted by the chef. A wonderful experience nestled in an unlikely place. This is my third or fourth visit with consistency over decades.Dietary restrictions: Let staff know in advance. They were great with the lactose intolerant guest.“

“Yesterday was a beautiful day to eat outside so my daughter and I stopped here for lunch and enjoyed a table outside. Boris was our wonderful server. Between his presence, the beautiful weather, and the delicious food it made our dining experence perfect. I had the Lasagna and it was outstanding. Will definitely be back!! I highly recommend Via Carducci La Sorella.5 star Service (Boris)“

“Why don't I come here more often? I think my wife wants to keep all the wine to herself. Every time we stop in here I promise myself I will come back more often. Stop by and check it out. Great selection of wine and accessories and a few light plates to keep you fueled up.“

“This place consistently delivers some of the most original and divinely delicious small plates anywhere in the City. The price point is insanely reasonable & the atmosphere is unpretentious. I keep coming back & there is always something item on the menu i have never eaten before and it is oh soooo good!“

“Looking for a spot with a wide variety of wine and spirits then flight 22 is your answer! They also serve charcuterie boards and Waterworks pizza! Monday-Friday from 3-7 is happy hour which includes $2 off all glasses of wine, 10% off all bottles of wine as well as $2 off all craft/import beers as well as daily specials! Their bartenders are some of the friendliest in the area! If gaming is your thing then they offer 5 machines that will keep you entertained! On Wednesday nights and select Friday and Saturday evenings they have live music as well! If you want a quiet, yet fun spot to hang out, check them out!“

“My boyfriend and I went to Tannins for his birthday and ordered a flight of wine. It was awesome, the bartender was really nice and super great about suggesting menu items to try. We tried one of the cheese plates and loved it! We will definitely be back :).“

“A perfect environment for student entrepreneurs or just to have a coffee with a very friendly team, I visit many coffee shops around Chicago, and I can assure you that the coffee is of high quality.A negative point that is now in the past is the arrangement of the food, there was often no food on the display, and I kept dreaming of something delicious to go with the coffee, and I had no choice. After two visits, the food problem was already in the past.Normally I visit the place 3 times before posting my experience with the place, but I can guarantee that the place is ready for all types of public.“

“Nice atmosphere; good pizzas with decent vegan options! Great restaurant to enjoy before seeing a show at SPACE. Delicious cocktails too!Vegetarian options: Lots of vegetarian options; fewer vegan options but there are some.Dietary restrictions: Have gluten free crust too.“

“Cesar. I was having the worst day because I found out my mom needed emergency surgery so I was rushing to get to Scottsdale and stopped for a glass of wine. (Or two) I realize I was late for my flight and ran to my gate. I of course left my laptop there. Thank you for reporting it because I was screwed if not. Somehow the laptop ended up at my gate and an attendant brought it to me. Great service. Great man and great vibes. Thanks for the wonderful service.“

“This bar has been the bar of choice for a while now, being there often enough where they know what i drink when i walk in, and know my name. you cannot beat the price, and everyone there is friendly. if you're looking for a fancy mixed drink this isn't your place, but there's always cold beers and the shots keep flowing.“

“We LOVE Union and eat here all the time. This week my brother, who has celiac, was visiting. They were so accommodating, and he said it's the best pizza he's had since he was diagnosed and that he'll be dreaming about coming back again. Thank you for helping a pizza lover be able to enjoy pizza again!“