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the Albert
ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Best Trendy Restaurants in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Best Tasting Menus in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville
Master Critic Review
the Albert
8.4
Located inside Hotel EMC2, the Albert is a design-forward restaurant where globally inflected New American plates, a strong cocktail list, and an open kitchen bring a more ambitious option to Streeterville hotel dining. Menus lean into seasonal vegetables, precise seafood dishes, and richly sauced mains rather than oversized portions. It’s used for dates, low-key celebrations, and pre-theater dinners that still feel creative.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charred Octopus, Tempura Maitake Mushrooms, Olive Oil Cake
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: An art-and-science themed dining room serving inventive, seasonal American plates.
Who should go: Diners who like hotel polish with more creative cooking.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners for easier reservations and steadier kitchen rhythm.
What to order: Charred octopus, a seasonal vegetable starter, then pressed chicken or fish.
Insider tip: Sit near the open kitchen or bar rail if you enjoy watching the brigade work the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet available at EMC2 (paid; rates vary by event/night). Street parking is scarce; most guests use nearby garages within a 1–2 block walk.
Dress code: Smart casual — polished jeans and jackets are common; guests tend to lean slightly dressy in the evening.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational at most tables, with a livelier bar and open-kitchen buzz.
Weekend wait: Typically manageable with a reservation; without one, expect 30–60 minutes depending on conventions and hotel traffic.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, especially outside peak business dining hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — seasonal vegetable starters and a few mains are typically vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — may have 1–2 modifiable dishes; confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be prepared gluten-free on request; staff is accustomed to accommodating restrictions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the design-forward room, attentive service, and moderate noise level make it a strong fit for a first date where you can talk without shouting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — the bar and a few tables may be available early or late, but prime weekend hours and hotel event nights book up quickly. A reservation is recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? More suited to adults and business diners than young children. Older teens are fine, but there are no kid-specific menus or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Creative, seasonal American cooking in a stylish hotel setting with stronger cocktails and design than most neighboring hotel restaurants.
Skip if: You want very large portions, a casual budget dinner, or a loud, high-energy scene — nearby gastropubs and steakhouses may suit those better.