Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails

“What a wonderful experience.”

What a wonderful experience. Came to Chicago just to eat here and it did not disappoint. Ate at the bar. Ian and Manny made the experience even better! And the FOOD!!! Er mer gerd!!!! So delicious and perfectly cooked! Can't wait to come back!

Greg Diederich

Jan 2026

“We went to Kindling last night for our anniversary dinner and it was outstanding from start to finish.”

We went to Kindling last night for our anniversary dinner and it was outstanding from start to finish. The service was attentive without being overbearing, and every course was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. Cocktails were excellent, the food was full of flavor and perfectly cooked, and the overall atmosphere made the night feel special and relaxed. You can tell the team genuinely cares about the experience they’re delivering. It was exactly what we were hoping for on an anniversary night—memorable, delicious, and well worth it. We’ll absolutely be back. Highly recommend!

John Starnes

Jan 2026

“Absolutely gorgeous dining area...huge windows, snowing, great food...seated immediately.”

Absolutely gorgeous dining area...huge windows, snowing, great food...seated immediately! The drinks were great and the food delicious! There were only about 12 of us in the place due to the snow outside! We walked from our hotel and it was fun in the snow!

Eric Grundeman

Dec 2025

“Have been here twice for two different networking dinners.”

Have been here twice for two different networking dinners. Definitely feels like a local crowd even though it’s at the sears tower. Drinks were good. Ambience is great. I recommend for dates or a small group.

Deshawn Peterson

Dec 2025

“We’ve been to Kindling more times than I can count, and it remains one of our favorite spots to...”

We’ve been to Kindling more times than I can count, and it remains one of our favorite spots to grab dinner before a theatre performance. The location is perfect—right by Union Station at the base of the Willis Tower. My husband has been a longtime fan of Chef Sawyers, and every visit reminds us why. The food is consistently incredible, the ambience is lovely, and the service is always top-notch. I highly recommend it! My only complaint? The Frango Mint cake is no longer on the menu!

Kari Thirsk

Dec 2025

“Shared a memorable night here with friends after Black Friday shopping.”

Shared a memorable night here with friends after Black Friday shopping. The woodfire aroma from the kitchen is the first thing we noticed. The dining room is beautiful and comfortable. The staff took great care of us, guiding us through Chef Sawyer's food philosophy and menu. Our group shared an assortment of dishes from the confit wings (don't miss them) to steaks and pastas and 3 incredible desserts (pomegranate on the creme brulee tasted like Christmas). The food is hearty and satisfying with unique elements in each dish. Looking forward to coming back here soon.

Chris Pittman

Nov 2025

“My husband and I are from Arkansas and had one night to ourselves on a family trip to Chicago.”

My husband and I are from Arkansas and had one night to ourselves on a family trip to Chicago. Of all the restaurants, we chose KINDLING to dine at and we already can’t wait to go back!!! Our server Destanee was fantastic and told us some great stories about Chef Jonathan Sawyer when we told her that we’re big fans! The kitchen sent out two “extras” for us. So hard to choose a favorite bite… wood fired oysters were excellent and unique, the best lobster bisque I’ve had in my life, crispy succulent octopus, soft pillowy gnocchi, and perfectly seasoned pork secreto frites. Everything was a home run! Thank you for a wonderful night. Highly recommend walking to Brando’s speakeasy after dinner for karaoke!

Sweet Harmony Music

Nov 2025

“We had an incredible experience that exceeded our already high expectations.”

We had an incredible experience that exceeded our already high expectations. Every dish was incredibly balanced, with new found enjoyment of foods previously unconsidered. While I generally prefer savory food and loved every savory dish, the Pot de Creme was an experience in and of itself, from the dark chocolate to the whipped cream to the finishing salt.

Matt Raveling

Nov 2025

“Great food. Great wait staff. Even got to meet the Chef! Will definitely be back!”

Laura A-O.

Nov 2025

“My husband and I absolutely loved the atmosphere and the food.”

My husband and I absolutely loved the atmosphere and the food! Just as important, we loved the costumer service especially our beautiful and delightful and knowledgeable Server Destiny!! Top tier restaurant!! LOVED LOVED LOVED!!

Karabo Mettler

Nov 2025

“The most wonderful place to celebrate a special evening.”

The most wonderful place to celebrate a special evening. Every dessert is top tier, the staff are incredible, and the atmosphere is top notch.

Phil Green

Oct 2025

“Food was phenomenal.”

Food was phenomenal! It wasn't just some fancy flavors but the char i had on my lamb chops was amazing! And my wife's filet mignon was beyond delicious. The simplicity of wood fire cooking was amazing. But our favorite was the burratta. It will literally melt in your mouth. And the fact that it was Soo creamy, and earthy. Overall experience was amazing. Especially meeting the founder was such a blessing. Will definitely come back again when we are in town.

Jerry Y

Sep 2025