The bustling food scene of Chicago serves up some of the city’s best lunch adventures. These proven winners satisfy both locals and travelers: A Lake Michigan lunch cruise combines hearty buffet fare with million-dollar views of the skyline. In the heart of the city, hands-on Mexican cooking classes teach traditional mole-making in an intimate setting – perfect for food lovers who want to learn from top chefs. The architectural lunch cruise along the Chicago River is especially memorable during Thanksgiving, when seasonal dishes complement the stunning views of historic buildings.
These hand-picked lunch experiences consistently earn rave reviews from our travelers, particularly the cooking classes and boat tours that blend great food with Chicago’s dramatic cityscapes.
Browse our favorite Chicago lunch tours below:
Key Points
- Enjoy a scenic two-hour Chicago buffet lunch cruise on Lake Michigan with onboard entertainment, a guaranteed table, and stunning skyline views.
- Experience a multi-course buffet brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise on Lake Michigan with bottomless mimosas and live DJ entertainment.
- Learn to make authentic Mexican mole with a Michelin-trained chef in an intimate small-group setting before indulging in the flavorful meal.
- Celebrate Thanksgiving with a gourmet lunch cruise along the Chicago River, featuring a multi-course meal and panoramic views of the city’s architecture.
- All dining experiences are wheelchair and stroller accessible, with advance reservations recommended to avoid long lines and secure the desired experience.
Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
The Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a unique and scenic dining experience. Guests can enjoy a two-hour cruise with a guaranteed table for their party size, as well as onboard entertainment including a DJ, dance floor, and games like giant Jenga and foosball.
The cruise provides stunning views of the Chicago skyline, including landmarks like Navy Pier, Soldier Field, and Shedd Aquarium.
The dining experience features a delicious lunch buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, such as coffee, tea, and water, are included.
The variety of food options caters to different tastes, though guests may encounter long lines for desserts before docking. The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
Guests are expected to adhere to a dress code of slacks and polo or button-down shirts for men, and nice slacks or sundresses for women.
Read our full review: Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan Review
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Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise
Departing from Navy Pier, the Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise offers a two-hour excursion on the waters of Lake Michigan.
Priced from $121.64 per person, this wheelchair-accessible cruise includes a freshly prepared multi-course buffet, bottomless mimosas for brunch, and a range of entrees like oven-baked Atlantic flounder and braised beef short ribs for dinner.
Guests can enjoy the scenic views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium, while being entertained by a live DJ and activities like giant Jenga and shuffleboard.
The climate-controlled interior decks and open-air rooftop provide a comfortable setting for the experience.
With an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 205 reviews, the cruise’s positive feedback highlights the quality of food and ambiance, though some guests have reported disappointment with buffet item availability and server engagement.
Advance reservations are recommended, and a casual, comfortable dress code is advised.
Read our full review: Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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Learn To Make Mole The Real Mexican Way Before Lunch
Taught by a Michelin-trained chef in the comfort of her Chicago home, this intimate mole-making class invites participants to discover the authentic flavors of this beloved Mexican sauce.
In a small-group setting capped at 10 travelers, cooks of all experience levels can learn to prepare this complex dish from scratch. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a refreshing hibiscus agua fresca, setting the stage for an immersive culinary experience.
The menu features the main attraction: mole served with chicken, beans, and green rice. Participants will also enjoy a beverage highlight, a fresh hibiscus infusion with cinnamon and ginger.
Beyond the delectable fare, the class provides easy-to-follow recipes and hands-on instruction to take home, empowering attendees to recreate the flavors of Mexico in their own kitchens.
With an overall 5.0 rating from past guests, this class promises an enjoyable and educational experience that celebrates the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine.
Read our full review: Learn To Make Mole The Real Mexican Way Before Lunch Review
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Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Chicago River
Why not spend Thanksgiving exploring the vibrant sights and flavors of Chicago on a gourmet lunch cruise along the iconic Chicago River? This unique experience promises to elevate your holiday festivities with a delectable multi-course meal showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene.
Aboard the luxurious cruise ship, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Chicago’s stunning architecture as you sail through the heart of the city. The menu features a Thanksgiving-inspired spread, including roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie – all prepared with a gourmet twist by the ship’s talented chefs.
Between bites, you’ll have the opportunity to mingle with fellow passengers, making new friends and sharing in the holiday spirit. The cruise also includes live entertainment, ensuring a lively and memorable celebration.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River is a must-try experience that’ll leave you feeling thankful and thoroughly satisfied.
Read our full review: Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Chicago River Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Cruise?
Generally, you can bring your own food on a cruise, but it’s best to check with the specific cruise line’s policies. Some may have restrictions or charge additional fees for outside food and drinks brought onboard.
Is There a Dress Code for the Lunch Cruise?
Most lunch cruises in Chicago don’t have a strict dress code, but passengers are generally expected to wear casual, comfortable attire. Swimwear, athletic wear, and overly revealing clothing are typically discouraged to maintain a pleasant atmosphere on board.
Do the Cruises Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The Chicago lunch cruises do accommodate various dietary restrictions. They offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options upon request. Guests with allergies or specific dietary needs can notify the cruise staff in advance to ensure their needs are met.
How Long Does the Lunch Cruise Typically Last?
The lunch cruise typically lasts around 1-2 hours, providing guests with ample time to enjoy the meal and take in the sights along the city’s waterways. Many cruises accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring all passengers can savor the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Lunch Cruises?
Most lunch cruises in Chicago don’t have age restrictions, allowing families with children to enjoy the experience. Passengers of all ages can typically participate, though some cruises may have guidelines for young children’s safety and supervision.
Recap
Chicago offers a diverse array of exceptional lunch experiences. From scenic cruises on Lake Michigan to culinary workshops, there’s something to suit every taste. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely brunch, a gourmet feast, or a hands-on cooking lesson, the city’s vibrant dining scene provides ample opportunities to savor the best of its culinary offerings.