The Dawson
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About
The Dawson — well-regarded american in Fulton Market. Buzzy, energetic room where the crowd adds to it. If you drink, start at the bar. "Their burger was a nice juicy charred burger as well" — Abdallah Al-Qudsi
Experience Breakdown
Alex Studd
509 reviews
“Just be aware that the music is played relatively loud inside the restaurant, so it may not be the best spot for dinner if you're looking for somewhere quiet to have a conversation”
Highlights
What Diners Are Saying
Diners loved
Some noted
Ambiance and music were nice but I would not recommend for food or service.
We stopped in after running errands and decided to check out happy hour since we were starving.
Location
730 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
What 1,588+ diners say about The Dawson
“Brunch at Dawson’s was a great surprise.”
Brunch at Dawson’s was a great surprise. I’m usually a meat-and-potatoes, burger kind of person, but this place made stepping outside my comfort zone easy—and worth it. Every course was excellent. If you normally play it safe with food, this is the perfect change of pace. Highly recommend.
Robert Wagner
Feb 2026
“We've been wanting to check out "The Dawson" for a while.”
We've been wanting to check out "The Dawson" for a while. We heard great things about the atmosphere and food. We were NOT disappointed! Today they had live music to accompany the brunch. The few DJ's we heard were FIRE! They had people dancing like crazy. My wife has a drink or two and joined them. The "Housepresso" crew who were hosting the music portion pulled off a super cool concept for brunch.
David K
Jan 2026
“Great space but a little cold so bring a sweater.”
Great space but a little cold so bring a sweater. Good selection of wine by the glass. We got the shishito peppers to start. Very good but a bit heavy on the sauce. Then we got the pull apart bread which was so soft and yummy. I shared the fish, pumpkin ravioli, and cauliflower gratin with a friend and we were very satisfied. We went on Tuesday which were two dollar oysters and they were fresh. My husband got the burger which he said was ok but he is picky on his burgers haha. Would come again as I hear their brunch is good and they have a great patio in the summer. Service was a little slow but they had big parties
Shena Mohan
Jan 2026
“This spot is a stylish place with a menu that mixes classic comfort dishes with creative twists.”
This spot is a stylish place with a menu that mixes classic comfort dishes with creative twists. The cocktails are just as much of a draw as the food, and everything is well-prepared and flavorful. The atmosphere is lively yet comfortable, with a great patio that’s perfect for nice weather. It’s a solid pick for dinner with friends or a casual night out.
Radisson Lott
Sep 2025
“First time here tonight and absolutely loved everything.”
First time here tonight and absolutely loved everything. The live music Wednesdays on the patio is soo fun. Can’t say enough good things about our server, Taylor F. He was extremely helpful and so wonderful! Been a long time since I was so impressed with the service at any establishment. We’ll definitely be back!
Mishal Castner
Jul 2025
“Nice spot in the City--Milwaukee and Halsted.”
Nice spot in the City--Milwaukee and Halsted. Open setting. Clearly a renovated industrial building. Patio area was really cute and designed nicely to subtly block you from the hustle and bustle of the streets. Food and drinks were both well done and delicious. Service was above average, despite is being there a little past closing hour. Highly recommend for visitors and locals.
Tammi Yamaji
Jun 2025
“We had a wonderful couples night.”
We had a wonderful couples night! The food was absolutely delicious, and dining outdoors with such beautiful scenery made it even more special. Our server, Phu T, was fantastic super professional, quick, and so pleasant. We can’t wait to come back again!
Kim t.m
May 2025
“The vibe is everything.”
The vibe is everything! The food was really good (the best meal I've had in a while) and the service was impeccable. I highly recommend coming here and will definitely be back the next time I'm in Chicago. Food pictured is the incredible french onion soup!
Christin Roberson
Apr 2025
“Very cool and modern eatery.”
Very cool and modern eatery. Service and food was great. Got the ricotta pancakes and the appetizer brunch empanadas and biscuits were so tasty and perfect before. Definitely want to come back here again!
Vanessa Lee
Mar 2025
“Excellent drinks.”
Excellent drinks. Enjoyed the top notch pork chop and spaghetti & meatball. Seriously the size of a 12 inch softball (sorry not 16", Chicago... lol). Waiter was great. Owner stopped by to chat. Quality place.
Eric Kasza
Feb 2025
“We loved our Saturday brunch at the Dawson.”
We loved our Saturday brunch at the Dawson! They greeted us with champagne for my husbands waiter and also covered our espresso martinis. The staff was so kind and the food was incredible! Definitely recommend the shrimp and grits if they have them while you are there!
Madi Kooienga
Jan 2025
“Are at the Dawson and took advantage of their pop up Christmas themed heated outdoor terrace.”
Are at the Dawson and took advantage of their pop up Christmas themed heated outdoor terrace! Super cute and surprisingly very cozy and warm as some can be a bit chilly! Food was great! The chicken in the wedge salad was amazing and the meatballs were fantastic!
Kait Krause
Dec 2024
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