These Chicagoland destinations transform dinner into something memorable

By Sophia Schiappa

2d Restaurant – House of Teriyaki

3155 North Halsted Street in Chicago

The first surprise at 2D – House of Teriyaki isn’t the food – it’s the feeling that you’ve walked straight into a comic book. Located in Lakeview, this restaurant is one of the first two-dimensional-inspired eateries in the United States. The entire interior was hand-drawn by award-winning designer Vanessa Thanh Vu. Thanh Vu and her husband, Kevin Yu, are partners in running the restaurant, with Yu being the kitchen’s executive chef. Customers flock from all corners of Chicago to try the Japanese mochi doughnuts. 2D – House of Teriyaki offers an immersive dining experience while also serving gourmet food inspired by Asian tastes.

Left: Photo courtesy of Dining in the Dark Right: Photo courtesy of Chicago Magic Lounge

Dining in the Dark

110 West Hubbard Street in Chicago

For those wanting a less conventional dining experience, Dining in the Dark is the place for you. Nestled in Chicago’s River North, guests are seated at their tables and blindfolded while the kitchen staff serves them a mystery three-course meal, including a starter, main course, and dessert. The menu consists of only three course options categorized by color, with each choice being curated differently to test the diner’s taste buds based on the chosen color. The restaurant is designed to enhance your other senses, creating a unique immersion.

Chicago Magic Lounge

5050 North Clark Street in Chicago

At Chicago Magic Lounge, dinner and drinks come with a side of illusion. Designed after a vintage speakeasy, the venue offers classic American bites and unique cocktails. Magicians roam from table to table performing hand tricks before audiences gather in the main showroom for larger stage acts that blend storytelling and impossible illusions. Combining theater, dining, and interactive performance, the Chicago Magic Lounge has become one of the city’s most distinctive destination experiences.

Left: Photo courtesy of Kura Sushi USA. Right: Photo courtesy of Pilot Pete’s

Kura Revolving Sushi

1755 West 22nd Street in Oak Brook

Kura Revolving Sushi is not your typical sushi restaurant. There are no waiters or waitresses – only a conveyor belt that serves your food, and a robot named Kur-B, the KuraBot, that serves your drinks and anything else needed. While the technology and novelty draw customers in, Kura emphasizes authenticity in its menu by only serving the finest Japanese ingredients to give customers a premium dining experience. The combination of innovative service, interactive dining, and authentic Japanese cuisine has made Kura one of the most popular sushi restaurants in the Chicagoland area.

Pilot Pete’s

905 West Irving Park Road in Schaumburg

At Pilot Pete’s, dinner comes with a front-row view of the runway. Located beside Schaumburg Regional Airport, the aviation-themed restaurant gives guests the chance to watch planes take off and land while enjoying classic American dishes. Known for its hearty menu and family-friendly environment, Pilot Pete’s serves everything from burgers, steaks, and seafood to weekend brunch favorites. Whether you drive in or fly in, everyone’s welcome at Pilot Pete’s.

Photo courtesy of 2Toots Train and Whistle Grill

2Toots Train and Whistle Grill

203 South Main Street in Bartlett and 450 North Main Street in Glen Ellyn

Nostalgia is served right alongside the burgers and fries at 2Toots Train and Whistle Grill. Catering to diners of all ages, 2Toots Train and Whistle Grill uses toy trains to deliver their delicious food. Owners Dale Eisenberg and Mike Ventre opened their first location in Downers Grove, but soon relocated to Bartlett to accommodate their increasing customer base. Combining classic American comfort food with interactive dining, 2Toots has become a destination for families, train enthusiasts, and anyone chasing a dose of childhood nostalgia. n