The Alston
Bruce Johnson · 567 Google reviewsThe Alston — solid, no-fuss french in Gold Coast. The kind of room you save for someone special. The cocktail list is worth exploring. Sarah Kapadia: "The service was phenomenal, especially for our large group drinking that night"
What 295 diners keep saying
What 295 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Stellar restaurant in River North! Came here for dinner service and was not disappointed… everything tasted exceptional! For appetizers I got the scallops Saint Jacques, ribeye skewers, and bread with beef tallow and herb butter. For an entree I got the boneless wagyu ribeye and the majority of the sides offered. Everything from the food to the service was superior and a true showing to Chicago’s food scene at its best… will be back in the future!”
“I came to the Alston for Father's Day, and was blown away by the experience. First off - the space is immaculate. It's a great mix of booths and tables; super high ceilings and lots of space (so you don't feel like you're sitting on top of people.) I had ribeye skewers (starter) and the NY strip for the main course. The skewer was excellent; the steak wasn't bad but candidly I've had beer NY strip in the city. All the sides (mashed potatoes and brussels) were legit. My daughter tried their cheeseburger but she likes her burgers plain (so she didn't get all the cool stuff that comes on it.) I'll reserve judgement until I try the burger as it was meant to be served. For dessert I had the apple dish and it was solid. I only tried one drink, but it was solid. Next time I go, I'll try that burger or one of their seafood options. I definitely recommend this place.”
“We had a friend from Chicago that recommended the restaurant,he know the Chef and we had drinks and desserts! Fantastic! The staff was extremely knowledgeable and friendly!”
“This is definitely a "fancy Chicago restaurant" When you walk in go straight in to the Elevator and hit the button that has Alston. They have a coat checking options. They ambiance is very sexy and trendy. The booth we got sat at was comfortable. I got the New York strip and he got the bone in ribeye. We shared their macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and their Al gratin potatoes. Everything was delicious and cooked just the way we ordered. Our server was witty and very accommodating. It's a great place.”
“Came to The Alston for a company event, and it was a solid meal overall especially given the scale. The beef tartare was rich and well seasoned, and the king crab cake stood out with generous chunks of real crab. The filet mignon was nicely cooked - tender in the center and well complemented by the black pepper sauce and red wine reduction. The chocolate lava cake was incredibly decadent and a great way to end the meal. A very enjoyable experience, and I’d consider returning for a special occasion.”
“We truly enjoyed The Alston! Our waiter was great and very knowledgeable about the menu and wine selection! The food & drinks were delicious! For a special occasion out, this is a great option!”
“We went for the Restaurant Week menu and I have to say the service was outstanding. Our waiter was incredibly kind and took the time to explain every dish. I can’t remember his name, but he truly made us feel very well taken care of. The food was delicious. My only small complaint is that I upgraded to the wagyu steak and it didn’t come with any sides. For the price, it would have been nice to include some vegetables or potatoes. The place itself is beautiful, and I would definitely come back.”
“I’ve been to The Alston twice now and I’ve had exceptional service both times. Elizabeth our server was extremely attentive and both managers were beyond nice and went out of their ways to show us an incredible experience. Most importantly, the food is great. Steak is hard because honestly I can cook a good steak at home but the Alston makes it worth going out and spending the money. The Au gratin potatoes is my favorite side. I’d say skip the desserts though, they aren’t worth the calories in my opinion.”
“We went for Restaurant Week 2026. We enjoyed the food offerings, service, and atmosphere. We were visited my Scott Weiner, Principal and Co-Founder of The Alston, who was very welcoming. We had special restaurant week cocktails to start and migrated to restaurant week wine with the three courses of great food with excellent selection of artesian breads. We added a dessert that was great choice. Our waiter and Eleanor take wonderful care of us through the evening. We need to return and expand our selection of food.”
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