Lifestyle

Review: The Dearborn- An urban Chicago tavern rooted in legacy

by By Sujoy Dhar | @twfindia 18 Aug 2025, 06:15 am

Situated at 145 North Dearborn Street in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant Loop, The Dearborn occupies a commanding corner space where theaters, shops, and museums converge. Since opening its doors in 2016, the restaurant has offered both locals and visitors a stylish sanctuary for working lunches, pre-theater drinks, or dinner any night of the week. 

Anchoring its presence is a sprawling 8,000-square-foot dining room with seating for 225, featuring tufted leather booths, vintage-inspired lighting, and murals inspired by Chicago’s storied past.

I was excited to be dining there amid my hectic tourist attraction schedule and to have found some dishes that also - strangely I would say- resonates with the Indian palate despite The Deadborn being an American tavern.

A Family’s Hospitality Meets Midwest Flai

The restaurant is the vision of sisters Amy and Clodagh Lawless, Irish-born proprietors whose roots in family-run hospitality span decades. Their combined 40-plus years of experience infuse every facet of the operation with warmth, attentiveness, and personal care  . Executive Chef Aaron Cuschieri brings creativity without pretension, delivering Midwest-focused fare grounded in seasonal ingredients and classical technique.

Menu Speaks of Comfort and Craft

At its core, The Dearborn is an American tavern, serving up everything from sandwiches, salads, and seafood to pizzas and desserts—all crafted with intention and respect for tradition. Standout starters like Parker House rolls, croquettes, and Peruvian-style ceviche offer tantalizing beginnings, while mains such as Midwest fried chicken, Buffalo chicken sandwich, and fish & chips showcase both hearty flavors and refined preparation.

I would recommend you to definitely try their Parker House Rolls. It is a warm, buttery cluster of Parker House–style rolls served with a Boursin-cream cheese spread, topped with chives and a hint of sea salt.

I enjoyed a glass of wine Amish Chicken Curry, crafted with housemade coconut curry, spring peas, potatoes, sweet & spicy curry sauce, toasted almonds, cilantro, and housemade pita bread.

Atmosphere, Portions, and Performance

Patrons consistently highlight The Dearborn’s inviting ambiance and outstanding service. On TripAdvisor, one guest described the Sunday brunch experience with vivid detail: “cornflaked-breaded Lake Superior perch… poached eggs topped with Creole Hollandaise sauce… service… very attentive… ambiance… jazz band trio… female singer…” — a depiction of brunch elevated by music and care  . Reviews across platforms praise the generous portions, welcoming vibe, and standout dishes such as buffalo chicken sandwiches, curry chicken salad, croquettes, and French-style halibut.

Adaptable, Accessible, and Attentive

Visitors benefit not only from the culinary offerings but also from thoughtful logistics. Validated parking is available at the nearby 181 N Dearborn garage—just half a block away—making it easy for diners attending nearby theaters to access the restaurant hassle-free  . The Dearborn also caters to diverse dietary needs via private events in its elegant Rialto Room, complete with vaulted ceilings and customizable menus for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests  .

(Images by author and The Dearborn facebook)