Oriole image

Oriole

Restaurant Fine dining restaurant

One of the Top rated Fine dining restaurants in Chicago


Address

661 W Walnut St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

Website

www.oriolechicago.com

Contact

+1 312-877-5899

Price rating

$$$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (468 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 5 to 11:30 pm
  • Saturday: 5 to 11:30 pm
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 5 to 11:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 5 to 11:30 pm
  • Thursday: 5 to 11:30 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: experience (31) Oriole (26) wine (21) great (19) dining (16) service (14) restaurant (14) flavors (12) pairing (12) staff (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Josh B. 10 months ago on Google
    Absolutely phenomenal experience - instantly one of the best meals we've ever had. Everything about our experience made us feel like Noah and the team were welcoming us into their home. The decor and furniture were warm and inviting. The provided amenities in the restrooms help carry that welcoming nature all the way through your time here. The staff was friendly and instinctively moved to help guide you through the space. Every dish was delightful, and the pacing was comfortable. The movement at the beginning of the meal was novel and a great way for guests to spend some time in each space instead of wondering what they missed out on following their meal. As a person who doesn't tend to like foie gras, I must admit that the foie gras dish we were served here was the best use of the ingredient I have ever had. If you're taking a trip to Chicago specifically for the food scene like we were, Oriole is a must-go destination.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kara S. 2 years ago on Google
    Came here for our engagement anniversary. The last time we were here was before the remodel, and we didn’t even recognize the space anymore, but it’s still fantastic. There’s now a bar, and the kitchen is open and beautiful. Food and service was impeccable. Also tried the non-alcoholic drink pairings (since we came on a Tuesday), and they were fun and tasty. Love the special occasions when we have an excuse to come here; and looking forward to coming back.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shane O. 1 year ago on Google
    I don't have words to describe some of the dishes we had tonight. I've had great meals in my life and I can't think of a single one that I would even put in the same tier as any dish I had at Oriole. The whole experience is well worth the price. I couldn't stop smiling and laughing everytime I tried the next dish, it was absolutely incredible.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 luis c. 1 year ago on Google
    The experience begins upon arrival. You’re transported into a different place - which is as elegant and understated as it is unexpected. That basic tasting wine paring menu is extraordinary and I can’t wait to taste their special wine paring menu. The food is outstanding and the service staff is well trained and obviously loves what they do. Outstanding and very worthwhile!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brooke E. 11 months ago on Google
    04/20/2023. This restaurant was amazing. We spent over $500 a person, and I wouldn’t of traded the experience. Some of these flavors were incredible, and really made you open up your pallet and think about all of the different types of flavors it is opening. I do recommend the reserve drink paring. I definitely think it was worth the $300. The environment was amazing, all of the staff members were nice, which made the experience even better. They were knowledgeable about everything they brought out, which I really I appreciated. One of my favorite part about this experience was that we went to four different rooms in total. When he first walked in, it was like a speakeasy, kind of hidden. Then we were brought inside and officially started off at the bar, ended up in the kitchen, and then finally the dining room. There were three dishes that stood out to me the most, the second course, was incredible with five different flavors, and as you chewed, the flavors started to change, incredible! I had three favorite alcohols on the reserve tasting. The first, second, and the riesling wine, also one of the red wines was excellent. They did amazing appearing the food with the drinks.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Evan H. 2 years ago on Google
    Oriole is a definite home run when it comes to innovation and flavor. Their multi course gastronomic menu is a delightful literal moving experience once you step into their newly renovated space. Let their host guide you through different areas of the restaurant as you eat your way through the 2 Michelin Star menu. I'd highly recommend any serious foodie to make a detour here on their journey through Chicago. It is well worth the trip.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katherine M. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best restaurants in the country, by far the best restaurant in Chicago imo (this was my third trip). I’ve been to Alinea four times, but the food at Oriole just taste better. All my favorite foods and delicious every time. Chef Noah is always around making sure things run smoothly. A fantastic team and friendly wait staff. I can’t wait to go back.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marc 2 years ago on Google
    To put this in perspective, we a friend and myself are used to excellent food coming from food-town Toronto. We went to dinner 3 days ago. Location is unique and the change from an old factory to a 2 star restaurant is very well done. Food: Incredible food experience, delicious, original, spectacular. There was not a single course we didn't love. Wine: we had the lower end wine pairing which was excellent and very very good. Service: Impecable. Atmosphere: Fantastic. Overall I would rate this place as a top restaurant and I would more than recommend Oriole. We went back now after some time due to the Pandemic. They renovated the restaurant and it looks different. it kept its charm and it is still lovely. The process, small drink when you come in, first 3 amuse bouche at the bar, then a course in the kitchen and then off to your table. The pics are out of order but it was as amazing as it was when I was there the first time. Creative, delicious, impeccable, mazing flavours, great service, and wonderful wine pairing. Easily one of the best dinner in North America.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joshua J. 11 months ago on Google
    Absolutely incredible! I don’t want to ruin any of the experience with too many details so I’m going to keep it vague. Highly recommend a premium wine pairing to go with your dining experience.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sayak D. 8 months ago on Google
    Oriole in Chicago is an absolute culinary wonderland! From the moment you enter, you are transported into a world of exquisite flavors and impeccable service. The tasting menu at Oriole is an extraordinary journey, carefully curated with passion and precision. Each dish is a stunning work of art, showcasing the chef's mastery of flavors and textures. The attention to detail in both presentation and execution is unparalleled. The staff's knowledge and enthusiasm add an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience, making you feel truly pampered. The ingredients are thoughtfully sourced and perfectly complement each other, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes. What sets Oriole apart is its ability to surprise and delight diners with unexpected combinations and innovative culinary techniques. The intimate setting adds to the sense of exclusivity and makes the meal feel like a private affair. If you are a true food enthusiast looking for a transformative dining experience, Oriole is an absolute must-visit. For its impeccable cuisine, outstanding service, and unforgettable memories, Oriole deserves nothing less than 5 stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yunan Z. 2 years ago on Google
    perfect experience. The renovated space makes the experience full of interesting twists. Every course is quite complex even in fine dining context. I enjoyed the raddish crudo the most. We somehow don't get the fancy looking Petit fours consist of a hexagon cake and three other bites. That's the only part i am a little disappointed. the wine pairing also works well and is quite generous. We get a grand chu and severalpremiere crus.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ana C. 1 year ago on Google
    Outstanding experience and food. Very worthwhile. The ambience and staff were great. If you don’t drink alcoholic beverages, they have a great variety of non-alcoholic alternatives.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Casey A. 6 months ago on Google
    Without question, the best dining experience I've had. It is incredible how the team at Oriole can make you feel as if you're the only customer in the restaurant. The food, drinks, and ambiance are first-class...yet, somehow, the service and attention to detail, are even better. I'd like to personally thank Daniel for making it a night I will not soon forget. He was a truly wonderful host. From the "Duck of Death". Ha.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adriana H. 9 months ago on Google
    Oriole was the BEST date I’ve ever been on! From the minute we were greeted by Maggie with fragrant chrysanthemum tea, I knew I was in a special place. Jason was behind the magical door when we first walked in, and he graciously led us to the bar to begin our fabulous adventure with Jake. The first tastings set a lovely tone, and the unique liquor brands behind the bar were a great conversation starter. My favorite course was the foie gras brioche which left a glittery residue on my finger tips. Watching the chefs work in their native environment was a wonderful treat. Next, Daniel greeted us with his mischievous Ricky Gervais smile where our 5th anniversary dinner truly began. When we sat down, a cute card signed by the staff faced us, and of course the mini table for my clutch followed me from the kitchen so that I was perfectly comfortable and at ease. Ian and Daniel connected with us in their own unique ways, and I was so thankful for their easy going conversational anecdotes as they led us through each course. Ian reminded me that each person tastes wine differently and Daniel laughed appreciatively when I told him his favorite course: the capellini & Barbaresco pairing tasted like kvass from Eastern Europe. Aaron brought a vast knowledge of wine with a couple of jokes to keep the high caliber of the setting feel effortless and fun. We ended the night with a couple more signatures on our Oriole card sanctioned by Jason. Both Daniel & Jason made us feel like high profile guests as they recounted stories and took selfies while they led us back to Maggie where our journey began. A huge thank you to Oriole and the staff for helping Jeremy take me out on the best date ever. We can’t wait to come back some day, and in the meantime we will tell all of our friends what a great time we had!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sunny H. 4 months ago on Google
    My wife and I celebrated our anniversary at Oriole, and it was an exquisite dining experience that left us utterly impressed. From the moment we stepped in, the ambiance was enchanting, setting the perfect tone for a special evening. The menu, a symphony of flavors and textures, showcased the culinary prowess that earned Oriole its well-deserved two Michelin stars. Each dish was a work of art, meticulously crafted with precision and creativity. The attention to detail in both presentation and taste was unparalleled, making every bite a delightful journey for our senses. The staff, true professionals, elevated our dining experience with their warm and attentive service. They seamlessly guided us through the menu, offering insightful recommendations that complemented our preferences. Oriole's commitment to excellence was evident in every aspect of our evening, from the carefully curated wine selection to the impeccable timing of each course. The chef's dedication to sourcing top-quality ingredients shone through, making this anniversary celebration truly memorable. While the price reflects the restaurant's status, the value derived from such an extraordinary culinary adventure makes it worth every penny, especially for special occasions. Oriole is not just a meal; it's a celebration of culinary artistry that will linger in our memories for years to come. Five stars without a doubt – Oriole has earned its stellar reputation, and we can't wait to return for another gastronomic journey!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Fred T. 4 months ago on Google
    I liked many of the courses, especially some of the mushroom and fish based dishes. Unfortunately, nothing blew me away and for the price + Michelin rating, I was expecting more unique flavors profiles or techniques compared to dining at similar restaurants. The spirit free tasting was a nice complement to many of the dishes; the standard pairing was okay. The lowlight was that service was also surprisingly slow, with a gap of almost half an hour between two of our courses. The ambiance is nice and the interior is well decorated with a nice open view of the kitchen. Everyone was very friendly, but I think the amount you pay for the experience set the bar higher than was met for our dinner.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anway D. 5 months ago on Google
    If you’re someone who frequents michelin star restaurants, then this is another good one. If not, then prepare to have your mind blown with an exquisite dining experience! I loved how the full course involved different locations, including a view of the kitchen, until we were at our tables. We added the non-alcoholic pairing and were celebrating a birthday, and they gave us a card, hand signed by people working there and that was so sweet! My qualms, however, lay with the fact that the food was not as great I was hoping it would be. Quite a few of the dishes were a bit heavy on the ginger-y flavor, the wagyu was good but not great, and although some of the drinks complemented the food really well, others didn’t. Keep in mind though, that my expectations are really high from a place like this. Other than that, as usual, the service was impeccable, the ambience was great, the food was quite filling and I liked how everything was entirely pre-paid. Would definitely recommend people to try it out!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bill B. 2 years ago on Google
    Chicago friends that love food and wine, Run!, don’t walk, Run! to Oriole. Fantastic!!! Amongst the top 5 food experiences of my life. The food was extraordinary, the wine pairings incredible and a team that was like watching a beautiful ballet of engaging, charming and knowledgeable professionals working together. 5 Stars is not enough!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Ryan M. 4 months ago on Google
    I had very high hopes and expectations for this visit. The initial drink and bite at the bar reels you in with a feeling of excitement but there were few highlights after that. The food was very middle of the pack relative to other Michelin restaurants. Nothing was exciting or stood out. More disappointing than that, however, was sitting at the kitchen table and watching Chef drink Miller Lites and text on his phone all night while not touching a single dish. I thought it was pretty disrespectful to everyone who took the time and paid the money the did to dine there that night.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Avijeet S. 6 months ago on Google
    Visited in Aug 2023 A fantastic overall dining experience from start to finish. Every dish was fantastically prepared, beautifully presented, and meticulously explained - basically all that you would expect of a 2 star place. The restaurant was also kind to cater to my shellfish allergy. For drinks, I went with the non-alcoholic pairing which was really good. Service was absolutely top notch. A definite recommendation for people visiting or residing in Chicago area
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eugenio Padilla (. 2 years ago on Google
    Here is my one-sentence review: Oriole is one of, if not the top, culinary experiences money can buy in Chicago. I recommend going in fresh and enjoying the sensory spectacle! For the rest that want more details, I will try my best to convey my experience, however impossible. You need to experience yourself. When first escorted into the dining space by our waiter, we saw the magnificent kitchen, designed by chef Noah Sandoval himself (we learned that from our knowledgeable and excellent waiter). The ceiling immediately caught my eye, a colorful collage of print media. It was a tribute to the history of the building (it once was a printing press, another fact we learned). After we finally finished gazing at everything and settled in, the first few bites arrived. The first bite, a Miyazaki Tartare, played on duality: it was crispy and chewy, fatty and fresh. It was a tiny view of things to come, earning the gold medal from me of the three initial bites. The other two were great also, but that first bite lingers on my mind. After the small bites came one of my favorite dishes of the night: the Hudson Valley Foie Gras. It was almost too mesmerizing to eat. Edible gold artfully decorated the leaf garnish with confidence. The richness and sweetness of the dish lit up my entire tongue with flavor, and the freshness of the greens was cooling, cleansing my palette and prepping me for the next plate. It was perfect. We resumed our journey through several delightful dishes, each highlighting a myriad of flavors, aromas, and techniques. And then we arrived at the squab. I have had okay experiences with squab, and it is not a highlight of mine from previous tasting menus. My wife's mood, inversely, went even higher, as she loves it. Despite my hesitance, I took my first bite, and to my gleeful surprise, it was good! It was a BBQ-lite dish, getting that flavor from the squab as it hit my tongue, with a side of black-eyed peas further cementing the theme. I can't say I'm a squab convert, but given I enjoyed the flavors earns Oriole even more kudos from me. The last of the hearty dishes was a mic drop. It was a flawless Miyazaki Wagyu garnished with freshly grated wasabi, morel mushrooms, and white asparagus. It delivered an explosion of flavor. The fattiness of the steak was uniquely balanced by the spicy punch of the wasabi, while the mushrooms and asparagus complemented the two-punch combo with a left hook of earthiness that knocked me to another dimension. This was a fine dining twist on steak with sides of vegetables, but it is the most elevated version of this pairing that I have had. The worst part was when I took my last bite, knowing what was coming: the finale. I wished I could prolong my indulgence in this gastronomic masterpiece. Alas, all good things must come to an end, and the first of the desserts signaled the beginning of the end. Of the dessert trilogy closing the night, the lemon and sesame souffle was particularly brilliant. The bright citrus of the lemon cut through the cheesiness. Sesame seeds within the souffle provided a crunch to what could have been a minimalistic texture. Do I even need to mention the bake on the souffle? It came straight out of the oven, piping hot, but once cooled, was a mouthful of clouds. Light, fluffy, cheesy, citrusy, slightly crunchy, we were in a dream. The very last dessert concluded our meal intimately, with “Happy Anniversary!” inscribed with chocolate on the plate. Oriole went above my expectations to celebrate us, for which I am super thankful and appreciative! In closing, thank you to the Oriole staff for the exciting evening made even more special with the recognition of our anniversary! The food was creative, outstanding, and downright delicious. The wine pairings were thoughtful. The service was exemplary. Oriole has set the bar for me of what fine dining can be and should be. I cannot recommend them enough to anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or an amazing adventure in food.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sammi C. 2 years ago on Google
    We celebrated our birthday with Oriole's tasting menu & wine paring. Everything was lovely and we had a wonderful time. Towards the end of the meal, we were offered a choice of coffee or tea - and was later served a bill of ~$12 for the coffee/tea. It's a nominal amount compared to what we have paid for the tasting menu; however, it left a question mark in us on the overall experience we expected from Oriole.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shakil A. 2 years ago on Google
    DELICIOUS!! So much good, quality food for a great price. I'm so sad I got full half way through because everything was delicious. Definitely recommend to anyone. Simply excellent. I understand why it is difficult to get a reservation. Finally got one and the food (tasting menu) and service were perfect!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 B. H. 2 years ago on Google
    Oriole's chef and team made our 25th Anniversary such a fun and special evening. From the moment we walked into the newly remodeled space we knew we were in for something extraordinary! The team seemed genuinely happy to have us celebrate there. Our meal began at the bar for three of the first courses, or bites as they called them. Those came with a lovely yuzu elixir meant to be sipped with all three. When you start with an amuse bouche of king crab and white truffle, I'm doing a happy dance! After was a langoustine w-asian pearl and coconut, and then a lobster dumpling. Then you're escorted to the kitchen area where you stand for a beautiful foie gras & huckleberry course paired with a lovely glass of white wine. I didn't get the name of that one. After that you move over to the dining room and spend the remainder of your evening at your table. We had a total of 11 savory courses and 2 desserts. Walked out absolutely and perfectly satiated. All of the savories came with their own wine (&1 sake) if you do the pairing--which i would absolutely recommend! It was absolutely lovely. Aaron, Sommelier extradinaire, paired everything beautifully. His excitement to share each wine, and his vast knowledge of them was apparent. It's nice to feel the excitement someone has for their craft. He also changed my mind about chardonnay! I never drink it. Hate it. We had a beautiful white burgundy from France, a Meursault, Domaine Bachey-Legros 2017 that was beyond lovely. I'm on the white burgundy train now! Thank you Aaron for helping me realize what we call Chardonnay in the U.S. is piss compared to what the French enjoy! Everything was exquisitely prepared and an explosion of complimenting flavors in your mouth. Delicious and so so good. The stand-outs were the kaluga caviar w/razor clam & smoked butter; the sablefish with microplained koshihikari rice, pumpkin amazement & genmai! That came with a beautiful Japanese milk bread and Koji butter & a belly croquet and smoked roe--to die for! Lastly, the Japanese A5 Miyazaki Wagyu w-black garlic, black trumpet mushroom & Wasabi was heaven on earth. The deserts were perfect, as was the beautiful little end of hazelnut nougat & gianduja. The cappuccino was even perfectly crafted. We also have bon bons we took home! Can't say enough about this great restaurant-- Chef Sandoval also has great taste in music! We were pleasantly surprised when we began to hear Mulatu Astatke, an Ethiopian artist, being played. Music is an important part of the experience and so many places treat it like an after-thought. The music posters on the ceiling in the kitchen show his great and eclectic taste in music. The entire vibe was just cool. Loved being in the space. Thank you for a beautiful evening in every way! We look forward to coming back. In our book, you deserve 3 Michelin stars.

  • 5/5 Elena G. 2 years ago on Google
    From beginning to end, atmosphere, drink, service, presentation and especially food was exceptional. Every bite unique and explosive with flavors. Wines paired up to complete each taste

  • 5/5 Alvin U. 2 years ago on Google
    The food is delicious and the specialty drinks spot on. The ambiance is fantastic for both a date and business. Service excellent.

  • 5/5 Brooks J. 2 years ago on Google
    Superb meal and a wonderful staff.

  • 4/5 David W. 6 months ago on Google
    Great experience. The wine pairing was great, I love when they use different types of drinks and not just wine. The dishes were all good, although a number of them were surprisingly really salty. I’d say in general great ingredients and some surprise. I wonder if a real chocolate dessert is sort of mandatory and they missed the mark there. In general good restaurant, a bit too salty, way too pricey :) (but I don’t rank based on price)

  • 4/5 Stephen 5 months ago on Google
    Only qualm was Menu. It felt too “safe” and featured too many sweets IMO. None of the dishes were particularly surprising/creative/inspiring - nothing blew me away. It lacked the “wow” factor you expect from a restaurant of this caliber. This isn’t a restaurant I’d be quick to revisit versus, say, Ever. Besides that, the overall experience was as expected and I very much enjoyed the wine pairing, service, and ambience.

  • 5/5 J S. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing dinning experience! The restaurant has its unique look with tasteful decorations and art pieces. The whole service was well-choreographed and attentive with light touches. The tasting menu showed off some great flavours with global influences as well as techniques. Definitely one of the greatest restaurants in Chicago!

  • 5/5 Dawn J. 2 years ago on Google
    Extraordinary experience for a special occasion with family. The caviar dish was spectacular followed by fresh creamy uni. The ham stick was our favorite... very delicate. Each course was unique and delicious. The wine pairing was great. Overall, I would definitely recommend Oriole as the best high end dining experience.

  • 5/5 Eva S. 2 years ago on Google
    The new kitchen explodes with personality with a modern, subtle elegance. The staff: attentive, knowledgeable, passionate and thoughtful. The food: Yet again, one of the best meals we've ever had in our lives anywhere, ever. The pairings (both alcoholic and spirit free): generous, unique and delightful. We cannot recommend this restaurant enough. If you've never been, come! If you have, keep returning. This is a culinary treasure of tastes, smells, textures and sights that needs to be around for decades so it can be experienced by as many food lovers as possible. Book well in advance to ensure a seat at one of, or perhaps the best, restaurant in the US!


Call +1 312-877-5899 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Dinner
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway

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