7 Chicago restaurants for solo diners

As a food writer, some of my happiest moments are found in dining alone. It’s only then that I can be fully present to account for the joys before me—a sazerac’s bright zest of a lemon or a pappardelle cooked perfectly al dente. To be clear, I love enjoying such creations with company, too—but sometimes a meal just tastes better when I’m able to give it my undivided attention (and when I’m able to receive its undivided portions).

Thankfully, my hometown of Chicago has made the task a particularly easy one, with restaurants offering inviting bar seating and plates served at just-right sizes. And then, of course, there are the people—the servers, food runners, and adjacent diners you encounter along the way.

From a beloved small plates staple to a sky-high sushi stunner, here are some of Chicago’s best spots for solo dining.

Why it’s great for solo diners: Omakase bar seating, a la carte dining, and cozy vibes

I was excited to find my way to this vibrant sushi den, tucked deep within the West Loop’s bustling CH Distillery. Try to snag a seat at the custom-built omakase bar itself for face time with chef Patrick Bouaphanh and team, where you are encouraged to ask questions about the menu and culinary process throughout. There’s a spectacular 19-course omakase, filled with pristine cuts of yellowtail, salmon, and tuna, but many a la carte orders can be halved to accommodate solo diners and the onsite binchotan grill yields an array of yakitori (small portions with big flavors).

Why it’s great for solo diners: Coravin wine pours and chic bar seating

This glam steakhouse just opened its all-season patio, a sprawling space complete with whimsical string lighting and ample seating—including 20 spots at the bar, ideal for solo seating. Join well-heeled West Loop goers in sampling through a medley of starters from Top Chef winner Joe Flamm, including the tuna crudo and wedge salad, and enjoy a glass from their impressive wine list, which features a section dedicated to some prized Coravin pours so you don’t have to worry about springing for the whole bottle.

Why it’s great for solo diners: Small plates and aquariums to keep you entertained

Solo diners are in good company at this Lakeview hangout, thanks to a fleet of underwater friends—the marine-inspired lounge holds eight saltwater fish tanks filled with exotic fish and coral for your viewing pleasure. Settle in at the bar, then check out the small plates—options like the cold noodle-drop salad, filet mignon carpaccio, or roasted beet hummus are great for one.

Why it’s great for solo diners: Lots of bar seating and stellar views

The recently opened St. Regis Chicago was one of the city’s most anticipated arrivals—and this restaurant, located on the 11th floor, sparked just as much excitement. Solo travelers and Chicagoans alike are in luck—30 seats at the bar and nine seats at the sushi counter ensure a resting place for an array of Japanese dishes (think bluefin tuna crispy rice and hamachi-ponzu maki). Don’t miss the drinks—the Shiso Fancy, with gin, ginger shochu, lemon, and mint is a refreshing choice that can be done spirit-free, as well.

Why it’s great for solo diners: Premiere people-watching and breakfast

Whether at our office desks or on-the-go, breakfast is that meal of the day that is often enjoyed solo—but rarely in such lovely environs. This lobby-level restaurant challenges that norm, offering all-day brunch in a sun-soaked space that functions equally as a quiet retreat and, with its Six Corners–proximity, a great spot for people watching. My favorite spot in the house is at one of the corner window seats—try to settle in here, where you can take your time enjoying orders like the bright and tangy egg sandwich or the breakfast tacos, with crispy pork belly and potatoes.

Why it’s great for solo diners: Cozy bar seating, delicious dates, and a hefty wine-by-the-glass menu

Since opening 20 years ago, this James Beard Award–winning restaurant has been a fixture in the city for cozy bar seating and reliable, late-night eats—all created with globally inspired twists. Expect to see food lovers in-the-know alongside several from the restaurant industry lining up for longtime go-tos perfectly portioned for one: chorizo-stuffed medjool dates with bacon, crisp short rib hummus with sumac, and salted cod brandade, among others. You’re in good hands with the team drinks-wise, too, thanks to a wine list with upwards of 30 options by the glass so you can try a couple varietals without breaking the bank.

Why it’s great for solo diners: Moody vibes and bar seating in the middle of the action

I felt like I was stepping back in time when entering this luxe restaurant, housed within the tony Chicago Athletic Association—especially when sidling up to one of the 24 seats of the long, curved bar. The full menu is on offer there, which means solo guests have access to all of chef Mari Katsumura’s flavor-packed creations. Try a couple of the signatures, from salsa verde-laced beef tartare to the whole stuffed artichoke, a hearty nod to autumn.