- Anything Postpaid
- Postpaid Table for 2
- Postpaid Table for 4
- Postpaid Table for 6
- The Alinea Kitchen Table - Any Table Size
- Table for 6
- Table for 4
- Table for 5
- Table for 3
- The Gallery @ Alinea - Any Table Size
- Table for 2
- Table for 3
- Table for 4
- The Salon @ Alinea - Any Table Size
- Table for 1
- Table for 2
- Table for 3
- Table for 4
- Table for 5
- Table for 6
Getting a Reservation at Alinea Chicago for Today or Tomorrow is Easy!
Buy a verified reservation at Alinea Chicago from someone who doesn't need theirs anymore.
If there is nothing that fits your schedule, you can bid on your preferred time.
We only list verified Reservations!
All listed Reservations are reviewed by our team before appearing in the calendar or being allowed to answer a bid you place. That's why AppointmentTrader comes with a included Money Back Guarantee for each transaction.
![Read Less Action Icon](/images/ios-arrow-up.png)
0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
Alinea Chicago Reviews from The Last Year
From the moment we stepped into Alinea, it was clear we
From the moment we stepped into Alinea, it was clear we were in for an extraordinary culinary experience. The service was impeccable; attentive staff catered to our every need, guiding us through the evening with grace and professionalism. The food at Alinea was nothing short of incredible. Each dish was a masterpiece of presentation, with intricate designs and vibrant colors that made them too beautiful to eat. Yet, it was the unique flavors that truly stole the show. Every bite was a symphony of taste, expertly crafted to sing with joy on the palate. The chefs at Alinea have an exceptional talent for balancing complex flavors, creating dishes that are both innovative and delicious. What truly set the evening apart was the dessert, a spectacular finale crafted right at our table. Watching the chefs assemble the ingredients with such precision and artistry added an extra layer of excitement to our dining experience. It was not just a dessert; it was a performance that captivated all our senses. In summary, Alinea offered an unparalleled dining experience. The combination of amazing service, incredible food, and a mesmerizing tableside dessert performance left an indelible mark on us. Alinea is more than a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking flavors and experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Very good food
One of a kind restaurant. The meal was delicious from beginning to end. The artistry of the plates is unmatched. Very good food.
Tasty meal
Alinea is one of the best restaurants. The food is creative. It is like art. The wines and cocktails are great too. Everything was tasty.
Had a fantastic experience dining at Alinea with my husband.
My only criticism is that for the price, we did leave a bit hungry as we found the portions and the courses to be limited. The service was spectacular and they made us feel so well attended to. The ambiance is ornate and beautiful. The highlight of the meal for us was the salmon, mole and dessert table. Recommend trying this restaurant at least once or coming back for their menu which rotates depending on the season.
As regular patrons of Alinea, we have been consistently
As regular patrons of Alinea, we have been consistently enchanted by the extraordinary culinary experiences that this Chicago landmark offers. Alinea isn't just a restaurant; it's an avant-garde performance, a journey of the senses that transcends the ordinary definitions of dining. Chef Grant Achatz is a maestro, orchestrating a menu where each course plays its part in a grander scheme, with flavors, textures, and presentations so innovative, they challenge your perceptions and delight your palate in equal measure. The attention to detail is impeccable, with every ingredient singing in harmony, and the plating is nothing short of art. The service at Alinea matches the unparalleled quality of the cuisine, with a knowledgeable and passionate team that guides you through each act of the tasting menu with poise and expertise. The ambiance is modern, yet intimate, providing the perfect backdrop to a culinary composition that is ever-evolving. Returning to Alinea is like revisiting a favorite masterpiece, knowing you will always discover something new and exciting. It's not merely a meal; it's a celebration of culinary innovation at its peak. For those who seek an unrivaled dining adventure in Chicago, Alinea is the zenith, a beacon of inspiration and gustatory delight.
My husband and I enjoyed the gallery service.
The introduction to the dining experience began with a dimly lit communal table that was set ablaze as the first courses were being presented. We were pleasantly surprised throughout the evening. It was a literal performance of different dishes, presentations, and even music. The portions were nothing but generous. To be honest, there were some dishes that didn't hit the mark. Borderline inedible, from a taste standpoint. I get that it's difficult to come up with such a broadly creative menu that appeals to all palettes but some of the courses were too far reaching. Even for me and I consider myself an adventurous eater. Overall, this was a great first time experience at Alinea. Would we come back? Probably not. But we will definitely recommend it to others.
I really hate to leave this review.
I also think no one dining here reads reviews or cares lol. I'm a huge foodie and anytime I travel to others states or countries I look for the best spots to eat. I live in nyc and have been to Chicago multiple times and have been on a waiting list for this restaurant each time. This time I finally got a reservation but in the "saloon", not really sure what that meant. Still was so excited to eat here and heard all about it and the chef and what an amazing experience. I may not be very wealthy and I saved up to take my friend who lives in Chicago here for her birthday. The moment we walked in we noticed the carpet on the floor and it gave us such an old school steakhouse vibe(not what we were looking for or expecting) then we were seated in a small room with a table of 8 or 10 ppl and next to an elderly single man dining alone who was talking to himself and also me and my friend. We were laughing it off and trying to ignore him, but between him and the large table it was extremely difficult to hear what the staff was instructing us to do and how to eat the servings. We also told our waiter it was my friends birthday and he brought over glasses of rosè. We said thank you and assumed it was a nice gesture or comped bc I've been to plenty restaurants that do that. We ordered a special dish they had that night and one drink each. We paid extra on the bill for that and they updated my emailed receipt. Later that day I was charged 200$ for a bottle of rosè I did not order. I also have to add I own a wine and liquor store and knew how cheap that bottle was. When I emailed they just reimbursed half of the extra charge and didn't apologize or treat me like a person. It was an extremely disappointing experience. The waiter also said they don't change their menu a lot and the dessert is always the same and the star of the show. Most of their dishes are accompanied by fancy and outlandish bowls or plates to try to make the food taste better. One dish was an actual cracker and cheese that was almost inedible to me and my friend. Last time I was in Chicago I ate at Ever, and I was blown away. The tables are very far apart and the staff gave me a personal and amazing experience. The plates were plain and it was really about the food. There was no carpet and it was sleek and clean and a beautiful dining experience. There was no hidden charges or rudeness. Highly recommend ever over this place when looking to fine dine in Chicago. Sorry not sorry.
Truly an amazing experience with Alinea.
We were greeted with great service from start to finish. The first course of French onion soup was served with a fire show which was amazing. Overall we really enjoyed everything and our add on white truffle dish. There was totally more than enough food because when we got to the last 2 courses I was already full. The dessert performance was awesome and tasted a lot better eating from the table. The levels of flavors in each dish gave character to each dish. I would say this is totally worth the try and would recommend getting a beverage pairing as well.
So if you're a foodie--this place is top tier in fine
So if you're a foodie--this place is top tier in fine dining in Chicago! You haven't seen anything until dining here. I e been a couple of times and am always wowed. Mind blowing presentations and umteen courses! Small plates but there are so many and soooo ridiculously full of flavor you'll be stuffed. My favorite was meeting Grantz and the edible balloons for desserts paired with wonderful music and atmosphere. Expect to shell out at least $500+ and there is quite a waitlist so RSVP. I believe you have to book like 2 months in advance and booking is limited.
My second dinner here has been a long time coming.
In the 13 years since my last visit, the restaurant has been made over and I have "matured." Despite some real wow moments, ultimately I was disappointed this time around. I think the focus has veered too far from deliciousness to experimental. Many of the courses were visually and experientially stunning but just not that tasty. Of course, as is expected, I was given a menu of what I ate and drank that evening. When I got home and reviewed it, it was the wrong menu - an inexcusable gaffe. I contacted the restaurant and they promised to get me the correct one but it had been a month and I don't have it yet.
By far the, worst Michelin star restaurant I've ever been
By far the, worst Michelin star restaurant I've ever been to let alone three star. The staff were obnoxious. Half of the dishes were mediocre. One I spat out. Nothing was perfect.
I was so excited for my first 3 star Michelin Restaurant
I was so excited for my first 3 star Michelin Restaurant experience! We reserved seats in the Saloon and were put on the waitlist for the gallery but no luck. I've been globe trotting and dining at various Michelin Star restaurants, but this would be my first 3 star restaurant and Alinea is just so well known i was ready to get my mouth tantalized by Chef Grant Achatz! I mean read up on him. He apparently can't taste because he was diagnosed with tongue cancer. Crazy right? Any way I'm sad to report the food was fun but I was not impressed with the menu items. I got the wine pairing and the fish and chips came with a Guinness. I hate beer! The best part was the interactive art piece of dessert and the helium filled taffy balloons. I would give the service, presentation, and the techniques 5 stars but the food took a backseat to all of this.
Exceptional and excellent
An incredible experience from start to finish. Fun and adventurous, the food was delicious, approachable and thoughtfully presented. Touring the kitchen was memorable and the staff were knowledgeable and engaging.
Excellent, but not Exceptional
Booked Alinea for our Anniversary and unfortunately only had the option of early dining that truly felt rushed despite in fairness being informed in advance of the time limitation. The cuisine was excellent and somewhat brilliant, but not incomparable, as was the accompanying service, but regrettably did not live up to either the hype or resultant expectations. Having dined in many a Michelin star restaurant throughout the world, Alinea somehow lacked the sophistication of the others both in respect to ambiance and servicing culture seemingly somewhat "raw". Having experienced the full tasting menu accompanied by the reserve wine pairing, the writer deemed both to be overvalued given the aforementioned lack of diminished and exceptional distinctiveness. In our minds eye, this establishment certainly doesn't equivocate to the likes of Eleven Madison Park, Azurmendi, Joel Robuchon, Den, Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama to name but a few competitive institutions. There is simply something special that sets these others up and above Alinea infusing a desire for many return engagements that Alinea did not present.
A Bucket List Spot To Eat In.
The Alinea is a superb restaurant in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. It has garnered numerous accolades including a string of Michelin 3-star ratings. It prides itself on an innovative approach to modern cuisine using on-demand ingredient building-blocks for culinary courses. Within the restaurant are 3 different dining experiences: the Kitchen Table, the Galley Menu and the Salon Menu that are home to such inventive food fare as Lamb with caper leaf, grapes & olive to proscuitto with passion fruit & zath lavana. My party, under reservation, opted for the Kitchen Table seating. A cutting edge multi-course culinary experience was had where I should have taken notes to remember what I eat. I did remember; however, the Octopus with the Asian Sauce ..........delicious, tangy ...........crying for more. One of Chicago's best restaurants..........a bucket list spot to eat in.
Alinea Chicago
First Michelin 3-star restaurant experience, over a celebratory weekend in Chicago. Staff excellent, food creative, ambiance perfect. Except for the filo layered biscuits with foie gras, none of the 6 courses blew us away, but the food and the wine pairings were perfectly balanced. Price somewhat reasonable, but we are validated that equally lovely and less expensive eats are in our own hometown SF Bay Area.
Memorable way to celebrate our anniversary
Alinea has been a bucket list restaurant for my husband and I for quite some time so we were thrilled to be able to secure a reservation for the Salon on our recent trip to Chicago. Our favorite courses were the hot potato, truffle explosion, smoked black cod, and, of course, the absolute artwork that was the dessert course. The staff were engaging, funny, and extremely attentive. Overall it was a truly memorable experience and a great way to celebrate our anniversary.
Not as expected
We were really looking forward to celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary at Alinea. I will say the ambience is very nice. That's where the compliments end. Our meal was OK. We purchased the wine pairing, and the pours were like small tastings at a vinyard. The food was very salty. The dessert was just down right icky. I don't enjoy eating directly off of the table. When I asked for a touch more sherry, I was told, "I'll have to check." Really? They were in a rush to get us out the door, as the 2nd seatings were starting. Absolutely not worth the $1500 price tag.
If you can, experience Alinea
Great celebration for my birthday, 16 courses everything so creative and memorable! Our reason for visiting Chicago!
Fine Dining
Very good food? Was served ON the table and very small portions. If my grandpa was her he'd say- this is a scam/ ripoff for notoriety.
Chicago's Best Prepaid Restaurants that are most frequently booked by customers of Alinea Chicago
Booked 4 times by Alinea Chicago customers.
Ranked #1 in Chicago's Best Prepaid Restaurants.
Booked 2 times by Alinea Chicago customers.
Ranked #6 in Chicago's Best Prepaid Restaurants.
Great Service - amazing dinner!!
Read about the site in NYT and bought a reservation at Mother Wolf in LA 2 days later. Worked great and the food was amazing!!!
Worked perfectly!
Got the reservation (that I couldn't get anywhere else) and was able to entertain a group of friends at the infamous Bern's Steakhouse.
Got into Nobu Malibu
Wonderful! My parents are visiting and we have wanted to go to Nobu Malibu for years. I tried getting a reservation myself but it was next to impossible. So glad I was able to buy a reservation on appointment trader for a decent price!
Very easy
Was very hesitant going into this experience but am glad to say that it worked out very well ! will definitely use appointment trader in the future
Fabulous Lunch
I was veeeeeerry skeptical that this would work, particularly at a restaurant as hard to get into as Nobu Malibu, and it was perfect! We had lunch outside on the patio and it was fabulous!
Great reviewer team
Just wanted to take a second to shout out the reviewer team. Even though they probably review hundreds of listings and bids a day, they still take the time to leave great comments and respond relatively quickly. Thanks!
Incredible
I got a reservation to Don Angie, which I've been trying to book for weeks! I am very happy with this service.
Best platform out there!
Super simple, easy, and fast to secure reservations for hard-to-get restaurants and locations!
This app is life changing
This app has opened my world up to so many wonderful new experiences I would never have the chance to have without access to this awesome app! 10/10!
Worked perfectly
Was a little nervous at first but was pleased to see that the booking went through flawlessly.
Highly recommended.
Success on Short Notice
Was able to snag an indoor table at Don Angie through an absolutely seamless worry-free process.
Worked perfectly, thank you!
This is a crazy holiday season in NYC and I was very pleasantly surprised to see that AppointmentTrader works! Will be using again!
Worked flawlessly!
Worked so well! I was a bit nervous, but everything went very smoothly. purchased the reservation, and got into the restaurant seamlessly.
Love this app!
So glad I came across this app :)
Quick table in Miami
I didn’t have my hopes high as it was a party of 4. In 24 hours I had a carbone reservation available! I was very happy as my family really wanted to come here
Prime time, great meal
So easy and had a prime time which I can never seem to get on normal res apps. So worth it
Got impossible NYC res
instead of waiting weeks I got my 4 charles reservation instantly
Worked perfectly to get into Carbone. So delighted
perfect
Worked well, got me into a restaurant with no availability
I was skeptical, and I still don't really know how they managed to find this hard-to-find reservation, but it was a win-win from my point of view, and I'll use this service again.
Last minute reservation for Delilah Las Vegas
Got a last minute reservation, dinner for 2 at Delilah Las Vegas: super impressed! The process was simple, transaction seamless. We had an amazing time! Couldn’t be happier! 😍
It works!
Ok at this point I've attended a reservation purchased on AT by a friend and sold a reservation personally. Both worked pretty smoothly, nothing sketchy about it. A few areas for improvement including a way to more directly communicate between buyers and sellers, but the app always seems to be in development. AT customer support is really(!) responsive and helpful too if you have questions!
Money transfer
As a seller, I like the fact i have the ability now to transfer money out of my AT account and into a bank account. Makes getting the money much easier then the process before.
Love this app
Got to go to places otherwise unreachable
Easy Access
Very easy to get into one of the hardest restaurants to reserve in New York.
Tune into NBC News - Top Story Tonight 7:40p ET
Let’s go. Get more people placing bids!
I will give you 50% of ALL of my PROFITS if you teach me how to make profits?
LOL. Thank you The New Yorker.
Appointment
Transferring reservations is not supported in AT. Why not just use the name in the AT screenshot?
Buyers interested in Bern's Steakhouse: PLEASE READ
Same goes for 4 Charles and I Sodi
Prepaid Reservation Fee
Agreed. Ultimately not addressing this month after month is clearly resulting in a drop in certain venue’s rankings & sales.
Congrats on 3 mil
🍾🍾🍾🍾🍾🍾🧨🧨🧨 now on to 30 mill!
Need to cancel a bid, not getting a response… how do I do it?
Click on "Take off the Market Option" in your portfolio
Working on your bid?
Your bid has been “matched” with a reservation. From the time a reservation has been located, the seller of the reservation must connect with moderator to give transfer information for reservation. If the seller;however, does NOT respond to reservation transfer, then your bid is reprocessed and returns to the first step, which is connecting your request to a reservation.
Process after bid is accepted.
Hey @EvocativeFold67, welcome
to appointmenttrader! Once the reservation is in your portfolio, you definitely own the timeslot, the review team would not have approved the trade if the reservation wasn't confirmed - so you are going :-) Judging from your post you bid today and are going tomorrow - don't worry as long as you initiated the name transfer, you are good - the transfer service has to work with the opening hours of the reservation team of the respective venue. You will likely see the transfer confirmation a couple hours before your reservation time.
Where do the Reservations on AppointmentTrader come from?
Mostly from people who don't need their reservations or appointments any longer. AT has no relationship with places listed and acts as a platform connecting buyers and sellers making sure that listed reservations are real and that privacy is not compromised when transacting.
What happens if my bid expires unanswered?
Hey @FluffyStar64, thanks for the question! When you place your bid the amount gets transferred in a deposit account, the second you either cancel your bid or a few minutes after the bid expires the funds are moved back into your main account from where you can refund it to your payment method or use for other transactions.
Alinea Chicago User Reviews & Question Forums
Alinea Chicago Reviews |
Authentic Reviews from AppointmentTrader Users
By 👻 @ConfidentialOven12 (09/21/2022 2:18 pm)
Alinea Chicago Yelp Reviews |
Latest Reviews On Yelp
By 👻 @Matthew L. (03/19/2024 3:00 am)
Alinea Chicago Tripadvisor Reviews |
Latest Reviews On Tripadvisor
By 👻 @Allison T (03/16/2024 3:00 am)
AppointmentTrader Platform Reviews |
Reviews from real people using AT!
By 👻 @GainfulEdge65 (03/19/2024 2:48 am)
AppointmentTrader FAQ |
Questions and Answers around the platform.
By 👻 @HeartyPlate44 (05/21/2024 1:49 pm)