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Exterior - The Dawson, Chicago, IL

The Dawson

4.7 (2932)
$31 to $50
American
730 West Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Make a reservation

A photo of The Dawson restaurant

The Dawson

4.7
$31 to $50
American
River West

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 30 times today

About this restaurant

  • Charming
  • Good for groups
  • Good for special occasions
The Fulton River District is home to The Dawson, an expansive indoor/outdoor, multi-level space providing a multitude of dining experiences. The Dawson includes one of Chicago’s best patios conveniently found in the middle of the city.

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    American, Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, Farm-to-table
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–2:30 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Private party facilities
    The Dawson is the gathering place in River West for globally-inspired American cuisine, award-winning libations and inviting decor. Featuring multiple spaces on two levels, including an expansive courtyard, The Dawson offers many options and is an event host's dream location.
  • Private party contact
    Events Manager: (312) 372-4001
  • Delivery & takeout
  • Neighborhood
    River West
  • Cross street
    Grand Avenue and Halsted Street at the Grand/Halsted/Milwaukee intersection
  • Parking details
    Street Parking
  • Public transit
    CTA Blue Line - Grand Avenue stopCTA Bus - Grand Avenue/Halsted Street stopCTA Bus - Milwaukee Avenue / Halsted Street stopCTA Bus - Halsted Street / Grand Avenue stop
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Beer Garden, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Outdoor Firepit, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Private dining

Offers

  • Happy Hour

    1 - 12 people

    Multiple dates available
    Tue - Fri - 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    Join us every Tuesday - Friday 4-6pm for happy hour for special features including $10 cocktails, $10 wines, $6 beers, and specially priced bites.

    Happy Hour Photo

Concierge
AI Beta

Our AI assistant, Concierge, is here to answer your questions about this restaurant.

Videos

Shared by creators who recently dined at this restaurant.

  • Profile image

    misskren

    If you’re looking for an AMAZING brunch in Chicago you have to check out @thedawsonchi in River west . They had such amazing cocktails and delicious brunch options that will take your weekend to the next level !! . . . #riverwest #chicagobucketlist #chicagobrunch #brunch #sundayfunday☀️ #chicagofood #chicagofoodanddrink #chitown #chicagoinstagram #chitowneats #chicagoeater #312food #chicagorestaurants #brunchwithfriends #brunchchicago #bottomlessmimosas

  • Profile image

    mrsouthloop

    Chicago Date Night Idea: Dinner at The Dawson @thedawsonchi If you’re looking for the perfect date night spot, The Dawson has you covered. Amazing service, delicious food, and a cozy patio space that’s perfect for warmer nights. Honestly one of my favorite patios in the entire city. Trust me—you’re going to love it here! Make sure you stop by this weekend and enjoy their St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations! #chicago #thingstodoinchicago #thedawson #chicagorestaurants #chicagopatio

  • Profile image

    sophinchicago

    10/10 brunch spot! Offering brunch on the weekends from 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM! Bottomless mimosas for $36, the best avocado toast, an amazing banana bread and I will not stop thinking about the chicken fried lobster…incredible!! . . . #sophinchicago #chicago #chicagogram #chi #chicagobar #chicagofood #chicagofoodauthority #chicagoeats #chicagofoodie #chicagolife #choosechicago #eaterchicago #chicagostyle #downtownchicago #chicagorestaurant #foodie #chicagobucketlist #explorechicago #chitown #chicagofoodscene #312chicago

  • Profile image

    itsrebeccainthecity

    All of life’s problems could be solved over brunch and a deep dive into The Traitors with a bestie—especially at @thedawsonchi 📍730 W Grand Ave The decor is adorable, the service is stellar, and the food? Absolutely worth plotting your next brunch move over. We sipped on a Bloody Marys and Mocktaiks, ndulged in Ricotta Pancakes and balanced it out with bright fresh salads—but the real game-changer? The biscuits with pimento cheese, aka the condiment I never knew I needed and now can’t live without. Consider me a faithful #chicagobrunch #chicagorestaurants

  • Profile image

    fajrflightsfood

    Something told me check to see if they’re part and of course @thedawsonchi was. To get reservations for brunch or dinner for their specialty priced restaurant week menu, go to choose Chicago and scope out the dates. Then simply book on open table via The Dawson’s website to get reservations for your chosen meal! Happy eating 🍽️ #restaurant #restaurantweek #chicagorestaurantweek #chicagofoodie #chicagorestaurants #thehustleprincess 😍

  • Profile image

    mrsouthloop

    Happy Hour at The Dawson and soaking in all of this August Sunshine! Whether it’s the delicious food or the beautiful patio, The Dawson never disappoints. The Dawson recreates the pioneering, artistic, and straightforward attitude of William and Henry Dawson by providing a restaurant, bar, and gathering place that celebrates the craft of food, drink and hospitality. The Dawson Happy Hour menu is available: Tuesday-Friday 4-6pm. Enjoy $10 select cocktails and glasses of wine, $6 beer selections, and delicious bites! The Dawson is located at: 730 W Grand #chicago #thedawson #chicagohappyhour

Videos are powered by Seekeasy. How this content is generated

Reviews

OpenTable reviews from verified diners

Reviews from people who have dined at The Dawson.

4.7

4.7
(2932)
  • 4.5Food
  • 4.6Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
The Dawson offers "phenomenal service" and a "beautiful outside area" perfect for special occasions or casual outings. Guests praise its "amazing vibe and ambiance" with a "stunning canopy of trees" on the patio. While some dishes could improve, the "exceptional service" and "friendly staff" create a memorable dining experience.
2,932 Reviews
  1. Brianna Gold

    Chicago10 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Brunch is absolutely phenomenal. The duck enchiladas were the star.

    Is this helpful?

  2. Sarai Gold

    Chicago31 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on October 18, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Came for a celebration of several friends and my birthday had a good time. The food was good, it was our first time we have to come back and try other menu items.

    Is this helpful?

  3. Connie Gold

    Detroit3 reviews

    3.0

    Dined on October 11, 2026

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 3
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 4
    The restaurant was understaffed and service was very slow as a result

    Is this helpful?

  4. Amy

    Chicago1 review

    2.0

    Dined on October 9, 2026

    1. Overall 2
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 4
    Service was good , ambiance nice but food was not great and it was very expensive. Chicken and steak overcooked and dry. Frites seemed frozen not fresh , and too large ( not French frites). Vegetables rubbery and stringy on hummus plate, mushroom pasta sauce lacked flavor. Molten lava hot cocoa cake was dry, dense and not molten - at all. Disappointed !

    Is this helpful?

  5. Stephanie

    New York City2 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on October 4, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Phenomenal service. Owner onsite and engaged with the patrons. Beautiful outside area. Spacious interior with great lighting. Accommodating on special occasions and perfect for a cozy night or casual weekend morning. You cannot go wrong.

    Is this helpful?

  6. Cindy

    Chicago9 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on September 27, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Always a pleasure- dishes are fresh, creative and consistently well executed! Staff is super - friendly and attentive. They have not rested on their laurels.

    Is this helpful?

  7. Viktoria

    Chicago1 review

    5.0

    Dined on September 16, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Went for dinner on a weekday, not busy at all, impeccable service by Victoria, quick and attentive, clearing the table and making space without us even noticing.

    Is this helpful?

  8. Essies

    Chicago4 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on September 12, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Our waiter was so sweet and attentive. Had such a lovely dinner!

    Is this helpful?

  9. Juan

    Unspecified1 review

    5.0

    Dined on September 7, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The Dawson was an amazing experience it was my first time and Nicholas is to thank for the great time! His customer service and his attentiveness was above and beyond made me and my partner feel so comfortable

    Is this helpful?

  10. Steven Gold

    Washington DC6 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on September 5, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great brunch experience on the patio, and the bottomless mimosa deal is a great bargain.

    Is this helpful?

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    American, Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, Farm-to-table
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–2:30 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Private party facilities
    The Dawson is the gathering place in River West for globally-inspired American cuisine, award-winning libations and inviting decor. Featuring multiple spaces on two levels, including an expansive courtyard, The Dawson offers many options and is an event host's dream location.
  • Private party contact
    Events Manager: (312) 372-4001
  • Delivery & takeout
  • Neighborhood
    River West
  • Cross street
    Grand Avenue and Halsted Street at the Grand/Halsted/Milwaukee intersection
  • Parking details
    Street Parking
  • Public transit
    CTA Blue Line - Grand Avenue stopCTA Bus - Grand Avenue/Halsted Street stopCTA Bus - Milwaukee Avenue / Halsted Street stopCTA Bus - Halsted Street / Grand Avenue stop
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Beer Garden, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Outdoor Firepit, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

FAQs

The Dawson’s weekend brunch is a lovely bet, brunch runs Saturday and Sunday (10:30 am–2:30 pm) and guests frequently praise the food and the patio for this service.

Weekend brunch (Sat–Sun 10:30 am–2:30 pm) is a guest favorite at The Dawson, reviewers specifically praise the brunch and the patio experience.

Yes, The Dawson accepts private parties, and guests regularly book large groups and special arrangements for celebrations.

Yes, The Dawson is a popular choice for special evenings; guests report anniversary and date-night visits and praise the warm, inviting ambiance and attentive service.

Yes, The Dawson is an expansive indoor/outdoor, multi-level space with a much‑praised patio; guests repeatedly describe eating and celebrating on the patio for brunch and dinner.

The Dawson feels warm and inviting across its multi-level indoor and outdoor spaces, reviewers praise its great vibe, pretty rooms, and a gorgeous backyard patio, and note that volume can build as the night goes on.

Smart casual is the guide, think polished but relaxed; many guests also treat The Dawson as a place to dress up a touch for anniversaries and special celebrations.

Many dishes at The Dawson are served to share, guests frequently mention ordering food to share and visiting with large groups.

How FAQ content is generated

  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Chicago / Illinois
  4. Chicago
  5. River West

Make a reservation

A photo of The Dawson restaurant

The Dawson

4.7
$31 to $50
American
River West

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 30 times today
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