Inspired by the French Riviera, La Serre serves elegantly plated Mediterranean- and French-inspired cuisine in a refined, intimate setting. Enjoy a solo meal at the bar, where you can enjoy elegant dishes like a truffle brie tart, silky pastas, and mains like a filet with frites. Round out your meal with a glass of wine or a refreshing, botanical-forward cocktail in the stylish space with floral wallpaper and lush greenery.

Grab a seat at one of avec’s long communal tables or at the bar for a cozy solo meal. The menu is packed with Mediterranean-inspired small plates like chorizo-stuffed Medjool dates and creamy hummus—ideal for sampling the menu as a party of one. Pair your meal with a glass from the deep wine list or an innovative cocktail in the lively, wood-accented interior.

Executive chef Lee Wolen’s Alla Vita is where you go for hearty Italian American cuisine in a stylish space with warm, rustic design touches. Grab a seat at the spacious bar for a solo meal of Italian favorites like housemade ricotta dumplings and wood-fired pizzas. The relaxed yet stylish interior, adorned with greenery and soft lighting, makes for an inviting solo dining experience.

Located inside The St. Regis Chicago, swanky Tre Dita is an elegant choice for top-notch solo dining. Celebrity chef Evan Funke celebrates the flavors of Tuscany. Enjoy a selection of small plates as well as exquisite handmade pastas and premium wood-fired steaks at the bar or in the jaw-dropping dining room with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River through dramatic 40-foot windows.

Adalina is where you go for classic and contemporary Italian dishes in a stylish Gold Coast space. Snag a seat at the elegant bar or lounge to enjoy rich, house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared meats by “Top Chef” alum Soo Ahn. The cocktail program is equally refined, with innovative drinks like a martini riff with mezcal. The modern, dimly lit interior adds to the intimate and sophisticated atmosphere.

Ramen bars are a solo diner’s dream, and Akahoshi Ramen delivers. The intimate, counter-style setup is ideal for enjoying steaming bowls of tonkotsu or miso ramen made with hand-pulled noodles and flavorful broths. Everything is made in-house, including noodles, seasonings and toppings. The compact but well-curated sake and beer selection complements the Japanese-inspired menu.

Steakhouse giant The Palm is an inviting spot for solo dining, especially at the well-stocked bar. Located inside the elegant Swissôtel, the dining room sets the scene for an unforgettable meal. Known for its prime steaks, jumbo Nova Scotia lobsters, and decadent chophouse sides, the menu is both indulgent and refined. The expertly crafted martinis and signature cocktails further enhance the meal.

Longtime Italian favorite Francesca’s on Chestnut is a warm and welcoming spot for solo dining. Traditional dishes like spaghetti pomodoro, risotto, and house-made tiramisu make the restaurant a go-to for comforting Italian fare. The attentive staff and cozy ambiance—complete with exposed brick and candlelit tables—make this a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.

A cozy, retro-style restaurant, Dove’s Luncheonette serves soulful Tex-Mex comfort food in a relaxed setting. Pull up a stool at the counter and enjoy dishes like chicken-fried chicken with chorizo verde gravy or smoked brisket tacos. The curated selection of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails pairs well with the food, while the vinyl soundtrack and friendly staff add to the welcoming, nostalgic vibe.

Mirra is a destination for its creative fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisine in a casual, counter-service setting, making it one of the best restaurants for solo dining in Chicago. Standout dishes include lamb barbacoa biryani and roasted bone marrow. Grab a seat at the counter in the colorful space to watch the culinary team in action.