While some people might prefer cooking together while sipping wine, others adore leaving their house and finding a cozy place for two. You do cook all week, after all. It’s time to add these romantic treasures of Northern Illinois to your list to surprise your beloved with the ideal meal out.

Milwalky Taco, Libertyville, IL

Let the Milwalky Taco restaurant professionals do all the cooking tonight! The Mexican-inspired food exudes a “special date” atmosphere. Tacos, excellent tortillas, and other Mexican-inspired foods perfectly match this modest neighborhood restaurant’s warm, comfortable decor. This is the place to be, whether on a first date or marking a significant anniversary.

Adalina, the Gold Cost neighborhood

The upscale Italian eatery Adalina, which serves homemade pasta, exudes the grandeur one would expect from a location in Chicago’s famed Gold Coast district. It’s made for special nights out, particularly those who want to look their best. You can reserve a space in the Rose Lounge, which is smaller for a more private experience tailored to cocktail-loving couples. The speakeasy-inspired space exudes exclusivity and secrecy, and the menu offers inventive takes on traditional drinks like margaritas.

Brass Heart, Uptown

Brass Heart Eatery in Uptown is a secret treasure. With only 20 tables, it is an intimate setting for natural interaction. The eight-course tasting menu features seasonal ingredients and toast-worthy drinks like Tequila Sunrises.

Steakhouse BLVD, West Loop

BLVD Steakhouse is ideal for celebrating a special occasion because it offers a large selection of sparkling champagne and wines. In other words, there are many options when you wish to raise a glass. The atmosphere is chic and refined with whitewashed walls, long, sophisticated drapes, and subdued gray chairs.

Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, The Loop

Bazaar Meat is a place to go for special occasions because it has an elegant atmosphere and pricing to match. Dine at tables beneath glistening chandeliers. As you may infer from the name, the surf ‘n turf menu is a meat lover’s dream. There are different variations of rib eyes, steaks, and tenderloins. The staff will continue serving you until you inform them everything is fine.

Bistro Campagne, Lincoln Square

The French are the masters of fusing romance with beauty. In Lincoln Square’s Bistro Campagne, a classy French restaurant, the seasonal menu’s source of inspiration is undoubtedly France. Simply said, it’s one of Chicago’s most stunning eateries. Dark wooden furniture and white tablecloths provide a warm, inviting, and beautiful atmosphere in the tiny, private space. You can request to sit outside on a warm day on the courtyard patio, elegantly lighted with shimmering string bistro lights.

Il Porcellino, River North

Delicious food is the norm at this restaurant in the center of downtown River North. Il Porcellino is an awe-inspiring yet approachable location for a first visit, and it’s perfect for any date night. The kitchen staff focuses on traditional Italian dishes like calamari and homemade spaghetti with meatballs.