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The Dawson



730 West Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60654

View more Chicago restaurants

(312) 243-8955

Cuisine: American Restaurants

View more restaurants at exit 51a on I-94.


4.7 of 5.0 from 97 reviews


price range:$11 to $25

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The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL
  • The Dawson in Chicago, IL

The Dawson Reviews

Add your review for The Dawson.

  • Pueblo Viejo Tequila CIf you visit The Dawson don’t forget ask for a drink made with Pueblo Viejo Tequila.

    55555 by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C


  • PureWowRiver West: Is it the sprawling patio, the elevated mixology or the wood-fired steak and seafood that make us love this place so much? We don’t know and, frankly, we just want another old-fashioned.

    55555 by PureWow


  • Pueblo Viejo Tequila CEaster is also a great time to celebrate with #MyPuebloViejo. Visit The Dawson this Easter.

    55555 by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C


  • Reserve AThere’s nothing like a frozen drink to cool you down, and at The Dawson in Chicago, the Frozen Mai-Thai will do just that, while also looking pretty cool itself.

    33333 by Reserve A


  • EaterThe Dawson actually sports multiple fireplaces, including one outdoors. This huge bar/restaurant at the corner of Grand and Halsted boasts an impressive beverage program.

    55555 by Eater


  • Kevin D.Love the GTO cocktail. Both the Bacon Flight and Duck Confit Enchiladas were to die for!

    55555 by Kevin D.


  • Bitches Who B.Voted Best Hipster Brunch by Bitches Who Brunch in 2016!

    55555 by Bitches Who B.


  • Bitches Who B.The Dawson has a gorgeous industrial space that is ideal for a sunny brunch date in West Town. The brunch menu doesn’t win on cocktails, but is full of delicious modern twists on breakfast dishes

    55555 by Bitches Who B.


  • s LAwesome environment and cool food choices - try the Irish coffee and chicken-fried lobster!!

    55555 by s L


  • Spencer B.Great brunch!

    55555 by Spencer B.


  • Samantha KWonderful pork chop with lentils. Cocktails: GTO or Boulevardier

    55555 by Samantha K


  • Adam Bget the mahi mahi tacos, more than enough for two people.

    55555 by Adam B


  • Amanda TGTO cocktail is a must try-- one of my favorite drinks in the city

    55555 by Amanda T


  • Adam sGreat cocktails. Great ambiance and outdoor seating.

    55555 by Adam s


  • EaterThe large, cozy patio can accommodate plenty of guests while a toasty fireplace keeps it warm when the temps drop. A bar outside makes ordering drinks like the popular Frozen Mai Tai a breeze.

    55555 by Eater


  • ChicagoistAn outdoor bar makes casual, bi-level The Dawson a go-to among al fresco enthusiasts, the wisest of whom snag shotcicles and frozen mai tais to accompany their burgers and chicken-fried lobster.

    55555 by Chicagoist


  • Amber LoweyFrozen Mai Tai

    55555 by Amber Lowey


  • Savoteur SWith modern lighting and graphic, textile floor, The Dawson’s stylish bar is an ideal spot for taking in their handcrafted cocktails, international wines and beers.

    55555 by Savoteur S


  • Karla PMahi-mahi fish tacos are amazing!!!! And end the meal with strawberry cheesecake 👌🏻

    55555 by Karla P


  • Karla PMahi-mahi fish tacos, ceviche with tiger milk and the octopus absolutely tasty and for dessert you need to try strawberry cheesecake and pistachio ice cream😋 I will definitely come back !

    55555 by Karla P


  • Caitlinoverpriced

    11111 by Caitlin


  • Bitches Who B.With a new build-your-own Bloody bar, and creative twists on brunch classics, The Dawson will be one of the busiest patios this season, guaranteed.

    55555 by Bitches Who B.


  • Rosa María NEs muy casual y con toda la onda. Diariamente se prepara un destilado distinto en el lugar. La barra es hermosa. El menú tiene ilustraciones y diseño de uno de los barman que atiende. Con reservación.

    55555 by Rosa María N


  • Serious EatsThe Dawson offers an eclectic menu from Chicken-Fried Lobster to Grilled Oysters, and the Frozen Mai Thai is a must-try! This delightful lime drink gives your tastebuds the wakeup call it needs.

    55555 by Serious Eats


  • ISC C.Nice decor, food was tasty but not memorable

    55555 by ISC C.


  • Pueblo Viejo Tequila CThe Easter colors reflect in a Margarita mixed with Pueblo Viejo. Get yours here at The Dawson!

    33333 by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C


  • Colin R.Oh yes. Drinks, apps, bites, entrees, socializing, people watching, west loop hanging and a little swank. Just what you wanted.

    55555 by Colin R.


  • Alex F.Cocktails are great. Pork belly, yum!

    55555 by Alex F.


  • Angie mCocktail and food are both great !!

    55555 by Angie m


  • Pueblo Viejo Tequila CIf you want to freshen up with a delicious cocktail at The Dawson, try a Paloma mixed with Pueblo Viejo Blanco.

    55555 by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C


  • Shinji K.Nice cocktails and small foods

    55555 by Shinji K.


  • Reserve ACucumber, red onion, paprika and flatbread accompany a chickpea hummus appetizer at this traditional American destination in River West.

    55555 by Reserve A


  • Manuel MLa comida y los postres y la cerveza todo eso esta bueno

    55555 by Manuel M


  • Dana JensenWent for brunch and loved their unusual take on grits. Small-ish brunch menu but great cocktails

    55555 by Dana Jensen


  • michelle jimenezMeat loaf only in Thursday's was on point! Love this place!

    55555 by michelle jimenez


  • Pueblo Viejo Tequila CIf you are in The Dawson, try a Margarita with Pueblo Viejo Blanco.

    55555 by Pueblo Viejo Tequila C


  • Noel RodriguezGreat space. If the bar downstairs is crowded, just run up to the bar on the 2nd floor. Scallops dish is a solid choice.

    55555 by Noel Rodriguez


  • Nanaenay EGet lots of things to share so you can really take in what this place has to offer. So. Good. Musts: Ceviche w/ tiger's milk, Chicken-Fried Lobster, Salted Candy Bar dessert - & the BBQ Pork Cupcake.

    55555 by Nanaenay E


  • michelle jimenezThis meal is so delicious. It's a must try'

    55555 by michelle jimenez


  • Mariah CExcellent brunch, great atmosphere. The lobster was fabulous.

    55555 by Mariah C


  • Angie O.Super cute outdoor patio. Sit at the bar because the bartenders are awesome and really know their stuff!

    55555 by Angie O.


  • Eric B.Any of the drinks are creative and delicious. However, try the GTO.

    55555 by Eric B.


  • Gulsun P.🎼🎤🎧🎶🎵

    55555 by Gulsun P.


  • Gulsun P.The Dawson!🌺

    11111 by Gulsun P.


  • Chicago TribuneThe $11 Field & Stream at The Dawson is made with Famous Grouse scotch, Benedictine, spiced ginger hazelnut and lemon. Served hot, the drink has the lightness of tea with the spice of cider.

    55555 by Chicago Tribune


  • Carly B.Great Patio.

    55555 by Carly B.


  • Christopher N.The bar has stepped up their glassware game!

    33333 by Christopher N.


  • Chicago TribuneDrink this: the Field & Stream made with Famous Grouse scotch, Benedictine, spiced ginger hazelnut and lemon. Served hot, the drink has the lightness of tea with the spice of cider.

    55555 by Chicago Tribune


  • Taylor K.Great date spot. Cocktail menu is super impressive, as is their food menu. Tried the pork belly lettuce cup tacos and albacore tuna ceviche. Both appetizers were perfect!

    55555 by Taylor K.


  • Kirstjen L.Great outdoor seating. And the pork belly lettuce cups? They are like candied pig. Yum!!

    55555 by Kirstjen L.


  • Leslie d.Little overpriced but great vibes

    55555 by Leslie d.


  • Joseph VajdaRoasted chicken and Arctic Char are excellent entrees. Steamed mussels killed as an appetizer. Great atmosphere and some of the best service I have had in a restaurant in Chicago in a long time.

    55555 by Joseph Vajda


  • shannon s.Good food- short rib & Brussel sprouts. Service just ok for a place at this price point.

    55555 by shannon s.


  • Angela L.The cocktails here are fan freakin tastic. Superb service with the friendliest staff working here. Can't wait to go back and try the food. It looks so good.

    55555 by Angela L.


  • Madm F.Really nice interior. A lot of food per plate.

    55555 by Madm F.


  • Natalya LisaGreat drinks atmosphere Again 2 of the BEST(yes needed capitals) owners to welcome Chicago diners to one of the Billy's 3 establishments. Always the host with the most.

    55555 by Natalya Lisa


  • siuwaaan VIt's all right.

    55555 by siuwaaan V


  • Yura L.Drinks were good. Bartenders def know what they're doing. Love the atmosphere too :)

    55555 by Yura L.


  • Redeye ChicagoThe BBQ Bloody offers plenty of kick, blending vodka, Dr. Pepper barbecue sauce, tomato, cheddar, jalapeno and onion. If whiskey's more your style, try the Brunch Manhattan.

    55555 by Redeye Chicago


  • Stefanie KNice outdoor patio and cool vibe at the indoor downstairs bar, too. Cocktails are amazing. Don't miss the burrata app and short rib sandwich. Stellar!

    55555 by Stefanie K


  • Emily JurlinaAsk about their special Jell-O shots.

    55555 by Emily Jurlina


  • Darren J.The bacon flight might be the best thing I've ever pit in my mouth! And the biscuits and gravy ate so unique!

    55555 by Darren J.


  • Louis KliegerNice selection of unique beers. A bit expensive, high end. Good wine selection. Excellent atmosphere. Don't forget to check out the upstairs.

    55555 by Louis Klieger


  • Andrew H.Great outdoor patio!

    55555 by Andrew H.


  • Kelly D.Slow service oh ma gaaaaahhhhd

    33333 by Kelly D.


  • Jasmine J.The small plates and salads were actually better than the entrees. Everything was pretty good though.

    55555 by Jasmine J.


  • Pete B.Don't miss the BBQ Bloody Mary. Great great food.

    55555 by Pete B.


  • Matthew L.Order the BBQ Bloody to go with your brunch.

    55555 by Matthew L.


  • Mirko P.Started with wine and we are happy with wine selection and recommendation to try "Poema" by Clint Rogers, General manager

    55555 by Mirko P.


  • Jason N.Get the pork tacos. They are amazing!

    55555 by Jason N.


  • Viviana JGreat vibe. Food and drinks were excellent. Will definitely go back.

    55555 by Viviana J


  • Allie SDelicious food, excellent drinks...get the pork tacos, grilled oysters or burgers. Specialty cocktails are delicious. Atmosphere is loud but tolerable.

    55555 by Allie S


  • Melanie Y.The food was delicious, especially the gnocchi. The drinks were great, and the music rocked as well. This place definitely deserves a thumbs up.

    55555 by Melanie Y.


  • SusanneGet the Gnocchi!

    33333 by Susanne


  • Christopher N.Had an amazing assortment of seafood last night at The Dawson. They can do a mean raw bar - hope they put the crab claw salad and ceviche on the menu soon!

    55555 by Christopher N.


  • Christopher N.Damn, that's a tall burger! Smack dat pattie!

    33333 by Christopher N.


  • Jenn K.Get the deviled eggs and mussels. Stay away from the pistachio orange biscotti.

    55555 by Jenn K.


  • Loren M.Great deviled eggs with white anchovies and deviled eggs. Great old school Manhattan

    55555 by Loren M.


  • Christopher N.Woah, their menu went all deconstructed after the New Year - see the Hunters Consommé and the freeze dried ice cream Pecan Banana Bread

    55555 by Christopher N.


  • Nai W.Nice. Great burger. Good pulled pork tacos. Best vodka gimlet in Chicago!

    55555 by Nai W.


  • Caitlin M.Pork tacos appetizer is amazing.

    55555 by Caitlin M.


  • Elizabeth C.Arrive after 11pm and order a saca palabras! Annemarie te dejará sin palabras!

    22222 by Elizabeth C.


  • Serious EatsYou'll find cocktails, a daily dram, and an assortment of non-alcoholic concoctions from an in-house soda jerk here.

    55555 by Serious Eats


  • David W.The seafood stew is spot on perfect so start with it.

    55555 by David W.


  • EaterChef Rene DeLeon's eclectic menu of comfort food twists combined with a vast innovative beverage program and a large layout is bringing patrons in.

    55555 by Eater


  • Christopher N.Order a beer and they bring you three drinks! Awesome.

    55555 by Christopher N.


  • Ximena A.Amazing service! Great food! Awesome friends!!

    55555 by Ximena A.


  • Ron T.Super good food, super nice people, all around great meal and great experience. I look forward to coming back.

    55555 by Ron T.


  • Adam S.Do yourself a favor and get a shot from the cold press drippy drip! The cocktails are great as well as the beer list!

    55555 by Adam S.


  • James W.Annemarie, Clint, Jason, and Chef Rene- how could anything go wrong? The cocktails are delicious; the food is fantastic! Can't wait to go back for more.

    55555 by James W.


  • Jessica EmiliaTry the beef tongue sliders!!

    55555 by Jessica Emilia


  • Lori K.Raoul, Chris, Lindsey rock!!! Awesome cocktails!

    55555 by Lori K.


  • Christopher N.One day in and kitchen is already operating at near peak efficiency!

    33333 by Christopher N.


  • Michael M.The fireplace upstairs is pretty cool. Not opened yet. Very loud but the atmosphere was cool.

    55555 by Michael M.


  • Veronica G.Amazing! I highly recommend the pigs in a blanket, squid and chorizo and the pork shank!

    55555 by Veronica G.


  • Sheri W.Cozy lighting. Great food. Slow on drink service and really loud needs some kind of sound buffer

    55555 by Sheri W.


  • Paul S.Finally open - awesome place that will rock!!

    55555 by Paul S.


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