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Chicago

North Pond is highly regarded for its exceptional service, innovative cuisine, and picturesque setting. Guests frequently commend the restaurant's ambiance, attentive staff, and the quality of the tasting menu. Some reviewers note that parking can be challenging, and the dress code is casual despite the upscale setting.

Discover North Pond in Chicago's Lincoln Park Neighborhood: A Culinary Gem by the Lakefront.

Nestled next to the tranquil waters of North Pond within Chicago's vibrant Lincoln Park, this restaurant offers a modern American dining experience that delights foodies and locals alike. Known for its creative use of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, North Pond is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable meal in a peaceful, picturesque setting.

Ambiance and Service That Feels Like Home

Guests consistently praise the warm and personal hospitality that makes every visit special. Whether dining inside the cozy interior or outside in the serene garden overlooking the pond, the attentive staff ensures a welcoming atmosphere. Personalized touches, such as custom notes on menus for special occasions, elevate the experience to something truly unique.

Culinary Delights: A Seasonal Tasting Menu to Savor

North Pond's menu showcases inventive American cuisine with dishes that highlight the best of local and seasonal produce. From silky scallop tamales and beautifully presented pork belly with coffee crumble to whimsical creations like duck meat in a donut, each plate is a thoughtful composition of flavors and textures. The wine pairings are expertly curated, enhancing each bite and making it a true feast for the senses.

 - A delightful start that surprises and pleases the palate.

 - Silky and elegantly presented with subtle garnishes.

 - A beautifully designed dish combining rich flavors and textures.

 - A whimsical, unexpected treat that works surprisingly well.

 - Locals and visitors alike rave about North Pond’s exceptional service, stunning seasonal menus, and scenic lakeside ambiance. The cozy yet elegant environment inspires repeat visits, making it a beloved spot in Lincoln Park.

Frequently Asked Questions about North Pond

 The dress code is casual, despite being a Michelin-starred restaurant.

 Parking is limited; street parking around Lincoln Park can be challenging depending on the time of day.

 Yes, North Pond offers a three-course prix fixe brunch on Sundays.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, North Pond is a premier restaurant located at 2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614. This charming eatery is renowned for its modern American cuisine, crafted with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. With its picturesque setting beside the tranquil North Pond, North Pond offers a unique dining experience that combines culinary excellence with breathtaking views of nature and the Chicago skyline.

At North Pond, guests can indulge in a thoughtfully curated menu that changes seasonally, showcasing the best of what local farmers and artisans have to offer. Highlights include:

House-made rolls with beet butter, a delightful starter that sets the tone for the meal.

Seasonal main courses such as scallop tamale and pork belly with coffee crumble, each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavor.

An exquisite dessert menu that includes innovative options, ensuring a sweet ending to your dining experience.

Conveniently located in Lincoln Park, North Pond is surrounded by some of Chicago's most beloved attractions. Guests can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the scenic Lincoln Park Zoo or take in the beauty of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, both just a short walk away. The restaurant's proximity to these landmarks makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration after a day of exploring.

Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner with friends, a romantic evening, or a memorable celebration, North Pond's enchanting ambiance and exquisite cuisine make it a must-visit destination in Chicago.

Modern, creative American fare made with local ingredients in a peaceful locale inside Lincoln Park.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bVo3LUN3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJt2vvlXTTD4gRHTP-0F3Hnyg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bVo3LUN3EAE

Our visits to North Pond have been nothing short of phenomenal every single time. From the warm & personal hospitality, the thoughtful touches like personalized congratulatory notes on the menus, and the meticulously prepared dishes made with from local & seasonal ingredients, every detail feels special.

Our recent experience was no exception. Our server, Charmian, was incredibly warm and attentive, making us feel right at home. The meal was filled with delightful surprises, such as the house roll with beet butter, a flavorful duck wrap, and comforting eggnog. The main courses were equally stunning: the scallop tamale, the pork belly with coffee crumble (beautifully presented), and the sablefish all showcased incredible thought in both design and flavor. Every dish reflected a deep appreciation for the seasonality of ingredients, which added to the charm.

North Pond remains one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago and deserves endless praise. Its cozy ambiance, nestled beside the serene North Pond in Lincoln Park, makes every visit feel truly special. I can’t wait to return again and again to experience their ever-changing, whimsical seasonal menus.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYOEtpcklREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJt2vvlXTTD4gRHTP-0F3Hnyg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYOEtpcklREAE

We had an amazing anniversary dinner at North Pond. We ate outside, in a quiet garden with a view of the city reflected in the water. The food and service were outstanding! They even personalized our menu and dessert plate. We loved our waitress and all the other waiters. It was a very special experience that will go down in our list of great restaurant memories.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIX3JiWFhnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJt2vvlXTTD4gRHTP-0F3Hnyg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIX3JiWFhnEAE

Went here for my friends birthday and we had such a special experience!! The staff were incredibly welcoming, thoughtful, and friendly. We ordered different things for the most part.
Favorite dishes from the current menu include the crab and corn starter, the pork dish in the second course, and the chicken main. Dessert was extraordinary as well!
The cocktails are thoughtful and well made, the wine list offered lots of great options. I would absolutely return for another special occasion.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYOEptVmxnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJt2vvlXTTD4gRHTP-0F3Hnyg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYOEptVmxnRRAB

This place BLEW. MY. MIND. 🤯 🤯🤯 One of the best tasting menus and wine pairings I’ve had. Treat yourself and get the wine pairing!! Quality wine that made the dish different when you took a sip. The ambiance and service was also amazing. Every dish was thoughtfully curated and stunning.

Me and my friend ordered different dishes and tried each others. Every dish was delicious, but here’s my ranking of the 10 dishes

1. Carrot, leek. Hear me out. It’s not easy to make carrots inventive and delicious. I’m still thinking about this dish. Yummmm.
2. Scallop, green beans. Besides a gorgeous presentation, the scallops were silky and the garnishes fun.
3. Corn, raspberry. Dessert hit big with these fun flavors.
4. Crab, corn. Jalapeño churro? Say what? But somehow it worked with the sweetness of the crab.
5. Wagyu, huckleberry. Wagyu is wagyu, meaning delicious, but the “cheesecake” brought something different.
6. Duck, duck, squash. Anyone who puts duck meat in a donut is absolutely insane, but it really worked!!
7. Lamb, cauliflower. Tender meat, smooth puree. What’s not to like?
8. Apple, hazelnut. This dessert was good! But it just ranked down because I loved the corn, raspberry one more.

Sure, it cost a pretty penny, but it felt so worth it. If you’re a foodie and can appreciate the work and ingredients that go into a tasting menu, this restaurant is for you! We walked around the lake afterward because we were so full, and just in awe of this place. BRAVO 👏🏼

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuenJHT05BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJt2vvlXTTD4gRHTP-0F3Hnyg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuenJHT05BEAE

Thanks to the staff at North Pond for a fantastic birthday dinner with the family! From start to finish every morsel was an incredible work of art..and taste! Staff could not have been more accommodating for the few food restrictions we had. We enjoyed a great Savignon Blanc and Barbera with dinner as well.

Experience Luxury Dining at North Pond in Lincoln Park, Chicago

North Pond is housed in a historic building originally constructed in 1912 as a warming shelter for ice skaters in Lincoln Park. The structure has been redesigned in the Arts and Crafts style, providing a unique and charming dining environment.

North Pond: A Historic Culinary Gem in Lincoln Park Chicago 

Nestled beside the serene North Pond within Chicago's picturesque Lincoln Park neighborhood, North Pond restaurant offers more than just exquisite modern American cuisine. This unique dining destination is steeped in history, blending a rich past with innovative culinary artistry to create an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Originally constructed in 1912, the building that houses North Pond was designed as a warming shelter for ice skaters enjoying the Lincoln Park ponds during chilly winters. This charming structure was crafted in the Arts and Crafts architectural style, characterized by its emphasis on handcrafted details and natural materials, lending the space a cozy and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the surrounding parkland.

Transformation into a celebrated restaurant

In 1998, this historic building was thoughtfully reimagined as the North Pond restaurant, maintaining its architectural charm while creating a refined setting for diners. The restaurant embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, focusing on creative American fare crafted with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that celebrate the vibrant flavors of the region.

The restaurant's dedication to quality and innovation reached a pinnacle when Chef Bruce Sherman, the visionary behind North Pond's seasonal menus, was honored with the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes in 2012. This accolade reflects the exceptional culinary artistry and passion infused into every dish, elevating North Pond to a must-visit destination for food lovers and trend-conscious travelers seeking an authentic taste of Chicago's vibrant dining scene.

Building constructed as a warming shelter for ice skaters in Lincoln Park.

Building reimagined as North Pond restaurant.

Chef Bruce Sherman awarded James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes.

Set against the backdrop of sprawling Lincoln Park and the serene North Pond, this dining gem invites guests to immerse themselves in a culinary experience as vibrant as the city that surrounds it. At North Pond, every meal feels like a celebration, as seasonal ingredients from local farmers find their way into artfully crafted dishes. The meticulously designed interior is complemented by sprawling windows that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors, allowing diners to delight in the picturesque views of the lush greenery and the shimmering waters of the pond. North Pond captures a unique blend of culinary artistry and natural beauty that makes it a must-visit destination.

North Pond

A selection of seasonal dishes crafted by Chef César Murillo, featuring locally sourced ingredients and global influences.

Tuna Tartare with Chicharron

Agnolotti with Maple-Sunflower Cream

Wagyu Beef with Buttermilk Cream and Shiso Sauce

North Pond Menu

Nestled in the serene Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, North Pond offers a stunning culinary experience that fuses modern American creativity with the freshest local ingredients. Chef César Murillo's seasonal menu is a celebration of thoughtful design and bold flavors, perfectly suited for discerning foodies and trend-conscious travelers seeking an unforgettable meal.

Begin your dining journey with vibrant starters that set the tone for the meal. The Tuna Tartare with crispy Chicharron offers a delightful contrast of fresh, tender tuna paired with crunchy pork skin for an inventive twist. Another standout is the Agnolotti with Maple-Sunflower Cream, a harmonious blend of delicate pasta parcels enriched with a subtly sweet and nutty cream sauce that showcases the kitchen's skill in balancing flavors.

For main courses, North Pond elevates classic ingredients with imaginative pairings and refined techniques. The Wagyu Beef is an absolute must-try — richly marbled and tender, it is served with a luscious buttermilk cream and a vibrant shiso sauce that adds an aromatic freshness, turning each bite into a complex interplay of creamy, herbal, and savory notes. This dish exemplifies North Pond’s dedication to both texture and flavor innovation.

While the menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest local bounty, patrons rave about creative desserts that balance playfulness with elegance. Signature specials often include unexpected combinations such as corn paired with raspberry or innovative takes on classic pastries, earning praise for their artistry and flavor harmony. The kitchen's adventurous approach ensures that each visit brings new delights to discover.

Complement your meal with North Pond’s thoughtfully curated drink selections, featuring a diverse wine list and expertly crafted cocktails that highlight seasonal ingredients and classic techniques. Their beverage program pairs seamlessly with the menu’s flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

 that delight the palate with unexpected combinations.

 that makes every guest feel welcome and valued.

 beside the peaceful North Pond lake, perfect for memorable dining experiences.

Savor exquisite dishes at North Pond in Chicago—an enchanting lakeside restaurant in Lincoln Park. Experience fine dining today!

Experience Fine Dining at North Pond, Lincoln Park

Cook County

A four-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons, showcasing the freshest local ingredients.

Seasonal Tasting Menu

A three-course prix fixe brunch available on Sundays, offering a more affordable way to experience North Pond's cuisine.

Sunday Brunch

Discover North Pond in Chicago's Lincoln Park Neighborhood - A Seasonal Culinary Gem by the Water's Edge.

Nestled beside the tranquil waters of the North Pond in Chicago’s picturesque Lincoln Park, North Pond restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience that marries modern American cuisine with the freshest seasonal ingredients. This vibrant eatery is a coveted destination for food enthusiasts and trend-aware travelers seeking a refined yet warm atmosphere to savor thoughtfully crafted dishes.

 define every plate here, with dishes such as scallop tamale, pork belly with coffee crumble, and sablefish that showcase both innovation and a deep respect for nature’s bounty.

Seasonal tasting menu: a culinary journey through the year

At the heart of North Pond’s appeal is its exquisite Seasonal Tasting Menu, a four-course experience that celebrates the changing seasons and the best local ingredients available. Guests delight in a rotating selection of dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful, including inventive starters like a house roll with beet butter or a duck wrap, followed by main courses that highlight the chef’s creativity and precision.

This tasting menu is a must-try for foodies

 seeking a thoughtfully curated and whimsical dining adventure that changes with the seasons.

For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, North Pond’s three-course Sunday Brunch offers a prix fixe menu that allows guests to enjoy the restaurant’s acclaimed cuisine at a more accessible price point. Dine al fresco in the serene outdoor garden seating area, where the city skyline reflects on the pond’s surface, creating a captivating backdrop for your meal.

North Pond is renowned not only for its cuisine but also for the attentive, warm hospitality that makes every guest feel special. Staff members often personalize menus and dessert plates for memorable occasions, enhancing the intimate, cozy vibe of the restaurant. Whether celebrating an anniversary or a birthday, guests consistently praise the thoughtful service that complements the culinary artistry.

 – Scenic dining next to the peaceful North Pond in Lincoln Park, Chicago.

 – Modern American fare crafted from seasonal and local ingredients.

 – Seasonal tasting menu and a prix fixe Sunday brunch, both highlighting fresh, local produce.

 – Cozy indoor seating with peaceful outdoor garden dining overlooking the pond.

 – Thoughtful cocktails, curated wine list, and specialty coffee.

 – Reservations recommended; free street parking available; credit cards accepted.

Illinois

Discover North Pond in Lincoln Park—experience seasonal American cuisine in a serene lakeside setting. Book your unforgettable dinner today!

North Pond: Chicagos 5-Star Lakeview Dining

Explore essential tips for dining at North Pond, from menu highlights to making reservations. Ensure your experience is truly memorable!

Insider Tips for Dining at North Pond

Learn about North Pond's rich history and unique ambiance, nestled in Lincoln Park. Discover why this restaurant is a must-visit!

North Pond Menu Highlights

Starters

Mains

Desserts and Specials

Drinks

Why North Pond Stands Out