5 Chicago Birthday Dinner Spots Under $200
Finding a solid dinner spot in downtown Chicago that doesn’t leave your wallet gasping for air is actually doable if you know where to look.
Last time, Labriola hit the sweet spot for value, but if you want to mix it up with some Korean or pasta options, there are a few places that come to mind.
For Korean, Ahjoomah’s Apron in Chinatown is a sleeper hit—good portions, flavorful, and you can get out for under $40 a head if you don’t go wild on drinks.
For pasta, Quartino is a crowd-pleaser with shareable plates and a lively vibe, and it’s not crazy expensive. If you’re watching the budget, skip the appetizers and focus on mains, or check if they have early dinner specials. I usually check menus online before booking anywhere to avoid sticker shock.
Another trick: BYOB spots are a lifesaver if you want to celebrate without the markup on drinks. Chicago’s got a bunch of them, especially around River North and West Loop. Planning ahead and making a reservation can also help avoid last-minute pricey places. At the end of the day, you can have a memorable dinner downtown without overspending, just takes a little research and flexibility.
#Food knowledge #ChicagoEats #BudgetDining #BirthdayDinner #FamilyMeals
