The Flatwater Grill tucked along the edge Chicago River in the River North area, offers something for everyone; an interior space with views of the Chicago River through large bay windows, a lower-level patio right on the river's edge, a terrace cafe, boat slips with on-craft service, and a 54-foot indoor-outdoor bar with a frozen drink focus.

This spot designed by Jay Vohra, the man behind swanky Narcisse, the decor here isn't as over-the-top; look for natural stone and warm wood accents instead. The menu features global choices like boneless jerk wings, coconut-cashew chicken curry, seafood ceviche and a Thai chicken wrap, plus American fare like burgers and a BLT.