Each year, The Congress Plaza hosts one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties in Chicago. More than 2,500 guests are anticipated to attend the celebration and partake in the exciting festivities held throughout the evening and into the early morning hours. Chicago’s NYE Party takes place in several oversized rooms within the hotel, including several dance floors, party rooms, and VIP areas. The party is only open to adults aged 21 and older and attendees must meet the dress code of upscale semi-formal.
When planning your weekend festivities, include a dinner out prior to the big celebration. Chicago is known for its wide array of top-rated eateries, from fine dining establishments to cheat eats. Here’s a look at our picks of where to eat before attending the Chicago New Year’s Eve Party.
Best Restaurants in Chicago
1. Luella’s Southern Kitchen
Enjoy traditional Southern favorites at Luella’s Southern Kitchen on North Lincoln Avenue. The casual restaurant is known for its amazing weekend brunch menu that includes tasty options like Chicken Gumbo and Shrimp and Grits. For dessert, you’ll want to request a pillowy beignet dusted with confectioners’ sugar.
2. Pat’s Pizza and Ristorante
If you’re in the mood for some tasty Italian before the NYE party, stop into Pat’s Pizza and Ristorante. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, as well as carryout and delivery. The family-owned business has received numerous rewards for its incredible pies, including its popular thin crust.
3. Taqueria Chingon
Try tasty Mexican cuisine at Taqueria Chingon in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood. The restaurant serves popular street foods, such as Chingon Nachos, Squash Quesadilla, and Duck Carnitas. You can also choose from several tasty desserts like churros and chef’s flan.
4. Redhot Ranch
Redhot Ranch has been featured in Chicago Magazine and it’s no surprise why. The restaurant dishes up some of the city’s best burgers, hotdogs, and fries with fresh toppings and their special sauce. You’ll also want to try their famous French fried shrimp and milkshakes.
5. Johnnie’s Beef
Johnnie’s Beef in Chicago is more than just a fast-food joint. This popular eatery serves up some of the mouthwatering sandwiches in the city. The no-frills, cash-only hot dog stand services beef and sausage, as well as fries, shakes, and Italian ice. It’s truly some of the best street food you can find in the city.
6. Rooh
While Rooh has only been around for a few years, it’s made a big impact on the Chicago restaurant scene. It is one of few options for upscale Indian food in downtown Chicago and has impressed many patrons with its familiar classics like achari monkfish and butter chicken.
7. Monteverde
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is one of the area’s premier Italian restaurants located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood. The eatery offers patrons a stylish environment and serves up refined Italian fare, including fresh pasta and international wines.
8. HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
At HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen on South Carpenter Street, you’ll find delicious family recipes, modern cocktails, and urban street food. The hip spot has been named “Best Restaurant” in Chicago Magazine and earned a top spot in the “21 Best Chicken Wings in America” list published by Thrillist.
Grab Tickets for the Chicago NYE Party
There’s no better way to start the new year than with good friends, tasty drinks, dancing, and the excitement of Chicago’s New Year’s Eve Party at The Congress Plaza Hotel. Grab your tickets now before they sell out and experience one of the city’s best New Year’s celebrations.
