O'Briens Riverwalk: Casual American Dining with Delicious Fish & Chips

Location is right off the Riverwalk , which automatically gives Obriens a great atmosphere! We came for a late lunch on a Friday afternoon and were seated promptly. Our server was very nice and attentive. Wife ordered turkey sandwich while I tries the fish n chips. Both plates came out quick and were delicious. Prices are high for what you get , but not ridiculous. The lack of real silverware , glasses, or straws is a negative. I understand cost cutting but cmon.

Food was delicious. Served fast and fresh. Our main server was very friendly and attentive, all other staff we made contact with were amazing.

O'Briens Riverwalk Café in Chicago boasts a prime location with stunning views of the river, river walk and the city's magnificent architecture. While the service is adequate, there is room for improvement. The food, though of decent quality, tends to be portioned smaller than expected for the price. The menu is also quite limited. Despite these drawbacks, the café's excellent location remains a key highlight, offering patrons a unique and enjoyable dining experience amidst the beautiful surroundings.

This place is all about the view—you're really paying for the amazing riverfront scenery, watching kayakers and boaters go by, with lively tourists and passersby adding to the atmosphere. Sometimes there's live music, which makes it even better. It's a great spot for an evening or a nice warm day. Service was good, with friendly staff, but the food itself is pretty basic—think burgers and standard fare. Nothing special in terms of the menu, but again, you're here for the vibe, not the food. I’d still recommend checking it out for the experience, but there are other spots along the Riverwalk that might offer a bit more on both food and ambiance.

We stopped for lunch. My friend had chicken wings and I had a turkey sandwich. The view was nice. It was busy but if you want one leisurely, it is a nice place to dine. Staff were friendly and attentive.

Terrific atmosphere with outdoor dining under an umbrella and beside the river. Tasty food and good drinks.

I went here for the first time the other day after my river walk because I wanted a little me-time with a drink. I kept it simple and ordered chicken tenders and fries with BBQ and buffalo — nothing crazy. It was around 5 p.m. on a weekday, so people were just getting off work. The vibe was business suits, rich laughs, and after-work energy all around. The view alone makes this spot worth it — absolutely breathtaking, probably one of my favorites on the river. Everyone there just seemed to be enjoying themselves, having a good drink and a good bite, which is exactly what I did. Only heads up: shots are the same price as cocktails ($14–$17), so if you’re planning on drinking heavy, this probably isn’t the spot for that. But for a good vibe, solid food, and a view that hits? I’d definitely come back.

The food is okay but the service was great and the atmosphere is most likely what you will come here for. The menu is very simple and there is not a whole lot of beverage options. Keep in mind, most places on the river don’t have a full blown indoor kitchen or bar so they are not a fully functioning kitchen. If you come here it is most definitely to take in the views of the city from the river walk and grab a snack. They do serve sweet potato fries which is a big win in my book for bar food.