Reviews of Next (Restaurant)

Anand Brahmbhatt

We did the Silk and Spice menu. The background stories that got us from India to East Asia were very interesting to hear. The drink pairings were mostly very good. One of the best steak pieces I’ve ever had!

Pat Diaz

Probably the best experience I have had at a restaurant in Chicago. This is part of the Alinea group, so I definitely had high expectations. The ambiance is dim lit & intimate, which makes it a great place for occasions. Next does tasting menus, where the menu changes after some months. The theme for this menu was spices from Asia, Middle East, etc. From the start to the finish, it definitely did not disappoint. The service was impeccable. The table behind us was running late, so they were not able to seat us for the reservation. They were so on it, as they took my party to their other restaurant, Roister, next door for a drink so we could wait it out. Very efficient. Even in between the courses, with the different range of dishes coming in, all the waitstaff were very attentive and knowledgeable about the menu.

Lauren Keefer

Unlike anywhere I’ve ever been before. Every course is an incredible experience, and only available for a short time before the menu is changed! The genius of Grant Achatz is so apparent. The quality and uniqueness of each dish, along with the expertly paired wines and cocktails, is well worth the price. I cannot say enough good things about the dinner we had! A fabulous experience, to be sure.

Anand Brahmbhatt

We did the Silk and Spice menu. The background stories that got us from India to East Asia were very interesting to hear. The drink pairings were mostly very good. One of the best steak pieces I’ve ever had!

Derek Hallward

Sublime food and flawless service. The decor looks dated, but aside from that it’s really one of the best places you could hope to eat.

Charles Falcone

I had high hopes and for the most part it lived up to it. I thought the food was very good. Keep in mind we eat out 6 nights a week and have been to all the typical best restaurants so I feel qualified to give a review. Plus have eaten at all the best restaurants in numerous cities. Service overall was good. Biggest gripe was that this meal should not be served in 75 minutes with a full wine pairing. I kept asking for them to slow down but to no avail. That was very disappointing. You must tell them from the start to time it out over 2 hours. It is not meant to be Burger King! For that reason I give it only 3 stars and would not recommend it for a Michelin star. Sorry to say. Try El Ides, Smythe or Goosefoot.

Tony Gamblin

We were there for the Childhood theme. Amazing. Make sure to do wine pairings with your meal. Well worth it!

Kate Whitman Snyder

When I found out that Next was doing an Alinea Retrospective from 2011-2015, my heart jumped a little bit. My fiance loves watching Chef's Table-- and the Grant Achatz episode really floored him. He would always go back to it and watch it again and again. Knowing this, and thinking about his upcoming 41st birthday, I quietly secured a reservation and booked tickets to Chicago. I'll say this-- we really did not know what to expect. We hadn't ever had a fine dining experience of this caliber before. What we noticed right away was the staff. They made us feel relaxed, taken care of and truly the captains of this experience we were about to embark on. It was a production. Every single little detail was perfect. They even noted that I was left handed and tailored the experience to that small detail. I won't give anything away about the particulars of the experience as far as dishes go. It was magic. Flooded and floored the senses. I really understand now how this really is art for all the senses. Amanda, our captain, finished this entire experience with inviting us for a tour of their kitchen and a preferred table at the Aviary. The look on my fiance's face at that moment made the 1200 mile trip beyond worth it. Words cannot express how grateful we are to Amanda, Chef Ed Tinoco and the entire team (so many wonderful people!) for the experience of a lifetime. Thank you so much. All the stars!

Anthony Tobin

First rate food and service, not to be missed!

Chris Kempczinski

We went to Next for the Sicilian dinner experience. While the food was good, it did not meet our high expectations given the price and "buzz" associated with this restaurant. The pasta dishes underwhelmed. The dessert and fish were outstanding.

Leo Yu

Celebrating anniversary and splurged, well worth the price, we had the standard wine pairing and that was great too!

William Pulec

Stunning food, at a value that is much more affordable than Alinea. Loved the liquor served in a flask and the sausage served on a tree trunk.

Shaneeza Khan

Shot in the dark. Got a walk in seat .. French Nouvelle theme .. one of our best meals to date .. stuffed at the end of this 12 course meal. Kudos to the chef and his team .. meal was memorable! Great presentation, progression and story .. even better with the flavor combination .. wine .. staff. . just perfection.. and beyond service, got a taxi waiting for us, hailed by the restaurant .. really great. Thanks for accommodating a walk in .. much appreciated. Made the impromptu trip to Chicago a memorable one.

The Fat Hipster

Although it was a Sunday at 10:30PM seating and I finally got in bed at 2:30AM, it was well worth it. It was my first time, and it was a Vegan menu and I paid $550 for two people with wine pairings. So the time, the money, the limited menu all are potential downers for the event. Then came the food, then came more food, not to mention the drinks, then at some point I think 22 courses later, the food stopped coming and I somehow got home. The food was amazing and I don't want to ruin some of the surprises they bring out by describing them all on a public forum, but I will say that I did not miss the meat, and I am a bacon lover. They dont really try to fool you into thinking you are eating meat, but the savory flavors you get provide all the umami that you would expect. Do not eat anything before you get there because you will be pushing yourself to finish the 22 courses as it is. Whether you get the wine pairings or the non alcoholic pairings you won't be disappointed. Although my party got the wine pairings, our neighboring diners got the non alcoholic pairings, and I was the one who felt jealous. They have someone very smart putting together the most unique non alcoholic cocktails I've seen or heard of. If this is what they can do with Vegan I definitely want to come back and try a non restricted menu!

Renata Bordin

I had an amazing dinner with my fiance and the hospitality was wonderful.

Mary Tallman

It was good... lousy accoustics and somewhat rushed service. I would return to Alinea before I'd go back to Next

Nick Cerami

I was unsure how much different and better traditional Italian food could be. I left extremely impressed, nearly every dish was a knockout. The burrata is unreal. Wish this menu was around long enough to go again.

Arjun Sharma

So obviously the food was imaginative and excellent. Loved that it was vegan since my gf is lactose intolerant and i'm vegetarian. Service was amazing, fully attended the whole time. One guy was a little quiet but the others were top notch. Something like 18-20 courses, all quite varied. It gets a little taxing after a while but we enjoyed it all. The nonalcoholic drink selection was too much sugar and the food actually was a little too much salt. Altogether quite happy with the experience .The mixed alcohol selection was pretty good.

Christopher Mitchell

The food was amazing and cooked to perfection. The service was also great. The waiter was very attentive and knowledgeable about the menu.

Nic Roth

The rotating menu makes it hard to confidently rate Next, but my experiences have been either completely mind blowing or a mixed bag. It's worth a shot if you can get a table.

Ryan Chan

As good as it gets.

Andrew Golsch

Amazing food, great service

Theresa Wilkerson

The Ancient Roman dinner was one of the most interesting meals I've ever eaten, and the beverage pairings were delicious and well considered. The service staff were very well informed about the cuisine, and a kitchen tour was gladly given upon our request.

Peggy Franco

So glad we made this a MUST while visiting Chicago. Michelin star chefs newest restaurant did not disappoint. Impeccable service elevates the diners experience. Ember roasted oysters are presented beautifully and the flavor explosion is certainly one not to miss. Chicken three ways is now going to make all other chicken dinners seem lack luster. Prime rib seasoned only to allow beef flavor to be fully appreciated. The pea salad was simple but elegant and honey roasted quinoa is texitrail genius. Priced reasonably for a FANTASTIC five plus star culinary extravaganza. Simple food elevated and reinvented for a comfortable and exciting foodie evening. Thank you Roister. I will return

Joseph Belian

Got to enjoy the Hollywood themed course. Absolutely amazing. Like anything else, there were one or two items I wasn't thrilled about but overall it had some of the best tasting things I've ever eaten.

Chris Falkenrath

Wonderful! We went for the 50 best restaurants theme, which was truly a special experience. My favorite was the eggs Benedict and the crab dish. As the menu rotates, I think the rating should be largely based on the experience: the staff was super welcoming and very knowledgeable, the sommelier picked out excellent wines based on our preferences. We showed up very early to our reservation and they made a space for us at the Aviary while we waited - that was a real treat!

Nilam Patel

An adventure to wake up your senses

Morgane Renoir

Amazing experience!! They change their menu every few month so I would definitely try to get tickets for the menu that sounds the best to you. While their tickets do sell out pretty fast, they will post day off tickets sometime on their facebook page. If you can get tickets, I would highly recommend going. I went October 2013, for the Bocuse D'or Menu. The food was amazing! it was a great mix of traditional French food with a Midwestern twist. While I was stuffed by the end of the meal, I could have kept eating the food was so good. They did really good pairings with each course. They usually have two wine pairing, it is worth the splurge to go for the premium pairing. I tasted wines that I had never had before and I would be very surprised if I ever have some of those wines again. Really good! Definitely worth going at least once!

Chris hynes

OMG!! Did the hollwood menu and it was fun / inventive

Pat Diaz

Probably the best experience I have had at a restaurant in Chicago. This is part of the Alinea group, so I definitely had high expectations. The ambiance is dim lit & intimate, which makes it a great place for occasions. Next does tasting menus, where the menu changes after some months. The theme for this menu was spices from Asia, Middle East, etc. From the start to the finish, it definitely did not disappoint. The service was impeccable. The table behind us was running late, so they were not able to seat us for the reservation. They were so on it, as they took my party to their other restaurant, Roister, next door for a drink so we could wait it out. Very efficient. Even in between the courses, with the different range of dishes coming in, all the waitstaff were very attentive and knowledgeable about the menu.

James Borkman

Wonderful experience with the Hollywood Menu.

יוסי גינוסר

To dine at Grant Achatz’s follow-up to Alinea is a rare—and rarefied—opportunity to submit oneself to a very specific vision of what great dining might look like. That vision changes every three months, from French food to Italian food to modern plates that don’t even looklike food. Usually the experience is more lighthearted and lively than Alinea. But it is in no way less delicious.

Rob Montgomery

Food was decent, way over priced. I was mostly disappointing in the the service. Our waiter was non existent

Nicholas Malloy

Talented group of chefs. Very impressed

Max Davis

A fascinating food and food science experience (El Bulli menu).

James Russell

Next is always amazing

Lauren Keefer

Unlike anywhere I’ve ever been before. Every course is an incredible experience, and only available for a short time before the menu is changed! The genius of Grant Achatz is so apparent. The quality and uniqueness of each dish, along with the expertly paired wines and cocktails, is well worth the price. I cannot say enough good things about the dinner we had! A fabulous experience, to be sure.

Sally Ayers

There’s a lot of food. The food was wonderful and every course was delicious. The price seems a bit high but it was all the worth. The experience was nice.

Lynnette Woolery

A true experience. Makes you really appreciate all become aware of tastes. Excisite presentation. Nuanced. Wow.

Tim Hockin

Delicious, and worth the cost. I would have a season pass if I lived close enough.

Mark Michalak

Easily one of the best meals I've ever had a restaurant! Whole experience was amazing from beginning to end!

Sabrina Lee

We got to experience "The Hunt" and it was a fabulous dinner. Each course and pairing was so tasty and such a delight to try. I really enjoyed the bone marrow brulee and the sturgeon and caviar.

Serge Agres

Compared to most restaurants, it's a 5+. Compared to Alinea, it's a 4

Arthur Leopold

Food was unbelievably salty, ultra reserve wine pairing was a bunch of mediocre premier crus, and nothing innovative or exciting about the exceedingly expensive meal. Shocked it received a Michelin Star, Grant and Jose Andres should be rather ashamed by this level of execution. Wonderful front of house staff though.

Brian Keefer

This place is wonderful. We have a private room for eight people and enjoyed an Italian themed meal from 7 until 10:30. Our waitress was wonderful and very knowledgeable.

Reva Minkoff

The French classique menu was one of the best yet. Every single thing was delicious and the staff was so knowledgeable that we learned a lot about the history of French cuisine throughout our meal. Can't wait for the next one!

Georgia Burke

Always the most enjoyable evening. Take a break from making decisions and relax while in the hands of an unbelievable group of talented people. The service is always my favorite part. Everyone working there seems to enjoy presenting and serving the food as much as we enjoy eating it. Love it!

David Polk

What an adventure. Not all the menus live up to their price tag, but you can always expect many surprises, the finest friendly and knowledgeable service and something to talk about for weeks. My suggestion, if you're undecided, would be to wait for the reviews of each menu and then go if it seems interesting to you. But don't look through all the pictures...let it be a surprise.

mohammed el batali

Outstanding service and succulent food 10/10

Katie Sabino

My Mom and I were lucky enough to get a reservation for the Hollywood menu. What an amazing and unforgettable experience! I'll be honest - I didn't love every course - but the presentation and showmanship behind every course was a masterpiece! SO fun!

Cathy Bauer

Absolutely amazing. Undescribable dishes.

Arthur Leopold

Food was unbelievably salty, ultra reserve wine pairing was a bunch of mediocre premier crus, and nothing innovative or exciting about the exceedingly expensive meal. Shocked it received a Michelin Star, Grant and Jose Andres should be rather ashamed by this level of execution. Wonderful front of house staff though.

Benedicto Bautista

Ancient Rome Chef's table ..best dinning experience..Definitely deserves 3michillin stars!!!

Fumin Dang

Really good

Dalt Brewsher

Next is part of the Alinea group and this recent meal was a retrospective from Alinea 2011 to 2015. This was our second visit to Next, having done one to Alinea also. Just as before, it is far more than a dinner. This is an EXPERIENCE that is designed to delight, stun, amaze and create a memory unlike most other events. The 15 course are rightly sized and incredibly delicious. The use of other materials instead of typical plates is really fun. I won't detail the menu so not to spoil the surprise. If you are debating on whether to go, STOP debating and do it. You will be smiling the entire night.

Katie Daniel

I really enjoyed Hollywood. Great service.

Kristopher Kubicki

Honestly, you are better off at Alinea. For the price its really a night and day comparison.

Daniel Cothran

Some of the best food you will find anywhere, but it's the delightful dining experience that really makes it stand out. You'll be surprised and awed. Count on the centerpiece being more than it seems.

Carlos Amador, Jr.

Recently had dinner there with a friend. I went in with zero expectations and walked out loving both the concept and execution of the Italian focused menu and wine pairings from the same regions. Just a lovely dining experience from start to finish.

Stacey Symonds

Unlike another restaurant, the menu changes every 3 months. I've dined for several themes but the highlight was the El Bulli menu which had about 20 courses and replicated the highlights of the famed (now closed) restaurant in Spain.

Farruzah Hutchison

The presentation is nothing less then expected. I highly recommend if your going with someone else to experience the place that one of you try the non alcoholic drink pairing because they are so unique and exciting.

Ryan Hanna

Unique restaurant experience, innovative kitchen, unusual presentation and spectacular flavor combinations in every dish.

Alex Mackenzie-Torres

Disappointed. A bit too simple for my taste. Attentive staff though but I'm looking forward to the new menu...

Mike Raffety

Amazing food and wine, experience of a lifetime. The whole menu and theme changes several times a year, this was the Alinea retrospective.

Wilfred Tam

Went for next Hollywood. Absolutely phenomenal food and experience. Such amazing attention to detail. This restaurant is as much about the experience as the meal and food itself.

Nick Hork

What else can I say that hasn't already been mentioned by the scores of people who leave here with an absolutely amazing experience? Every time I visit, I have an outstanding, consistent, uber-attention-to-detail adventure. Of course the food coming out of the kitchen is stellar, but one of the best parts of this experience is how laid back yet informative the staff is.

Clint Asbell

Such an awesome experience. They were able to accommodate my wife and I only two days prior to reservation date. This was one of the most amazing culinary experience we have had. The foods along with the wine pairing were absolutely perfect. Great atmosphere and the staff was 100% on point from start to finish!! Definitely treat yourself to this experience if you are in the Chicago area!!!

Seth Bloom

Having eaten at Alinea and a number of other restraunts on this level I was a bit underwhelemed with the vegan seasonal menu. I am actually someone who has been trying to eat a more plant based diet over the past few months so vegan and vegetarian fare does not scare me. The atmospher and service was a 10 but a 24 course of nothing but intricate and challenging vegan tastes was a bit much. I thought they could have used more traditional vegetable

alex oberoy

Staff is friendly and very good dish...

George Chen

Excellent spin on regional cuisines every few month - definitely an exhibition of creativity!

Cindy Wang

Very great experience at Next. Definitely recommend it for the experience. The staff was excellent.

Sarah Odeh

I wish I could give Next more stars. I have been dining here since its inception in 2011. Paris, 1906, is a meal that I will never forget. From Childhood, to El Bulli, to Bocuse d'Or, to Trio, the French Laundry, and finally Ancient Rome, I am constantly impressed and in awe at what Chef Achatz has created along Chef Dave Beran and others. The level of thought and innovation that goes into each meal is unparalleled. While not every dish is going to satisfy every palate, dining here is about the experience and goes beyond the dishes. Each meal is thoughtfully paired so that the dish remains the star and is enhanced by the beverage. Finally, the attention given to each person by the wit staff is incredible, and the knowledge by each server impressive. I have never asked a question that went unanswered.

Joy J

2 Michelin star at its finest. Even though is under the Alinea group it’s not quite Alinea but my husband and I really enjoyed the Silk and Spice menu.

Heather Riemer

I was lucky enough to score season tickets and I can say that each and every meal outdoes the previous menu. A standing ovation to the Next kitchen wizzards ~ the passion and creativity you put into each and every experience is truly incredible. Thank you for creating such amazing memories. Alex has been our head waiter this entire journey and he handles our questions (endless!) like a champ ~ he really outdoes himself! Can't wait for Vegan in July.

Brian Keefer

This place is wonderful. We have a private room for eight people and enjoyed an Italian themed meal from 7 until 10:30. Our waitress was wonderful and very knowledgeable.

Daniel Holmes

Amazing experience with the Roman-inspired meal. Since it changes a few times each year you'll just have to trust in Chef Achatz to do the right thing.

Alex Bishop

I need to radically update my very old, very outdated review. I have had the extreme pleasure of experiencing (I use that word purposefully) the last three menus at Next - The French Laundry, Ancient Rome, and Hollywood. Wow - they all blew me away with the inventiveness, style, yumminess, and courage. The artistry and theatricality on display during these meals was a pleasure to behold. Next really seems to have found its groove recently. While I found some of the original menus - Thai and Bistro - to be fine, they were not exciting. These last three though are exciting and groundbreaking. The concept of the dishes is really out there and pushing some interesting envelopes. In addition to some high wire feats in terms of the dishes, the sheer theatricality and presentation of the meal is a marvel. I can't wait to go to our next menu (we've got season tickets, and boy am I glad we do) and see what the Chef has in store for us. I know it's going to be super cool.

Samuel Waggoner

This was one of our very best restaurant experiences in Chicago! Our table was waiting when we arrived: we had several servers throughout dinner, but service was well-coordinated, attentive, friendly, yet polite and the entire meal went super smoothly. Each dish was carefully prepared, with excellent combination of fresh ingredients that resulted in harmonious flavors, interesting combination of textures and colors and a memorable dinner at the end of the evening.

Charlie Volanakis

What can be said that hasn't already been said? Came here for the World's 50 Best and was not disappointed. Not getting the wine pairings would be a mistake, though it does make an already pricey meal a little more pricey. Then again, you didn't make reservations to NEXT to not spend $$$$. Of the 18 courses, only 1 was too rich for my blood. Am I likely to go back to NEXT again anytime soon? No. It may be the best time I never want to have again. At least for a couple years.

Whitney Samoline

If you're a foodie - you must try NEXT. The service was wonderful, the presentation was fun, the food is not what you'd normally see but that's to be expected! If you aren't a picky eater, you'll really enjoy it. They really think out of the box in every aspect and it's truly a dining experience.

owen beasley

Absolutely amazing. Even though it is a drive from our wonderful town of Wilmington IL. Next is the only thing we miss after moving

Tiffany Moy

It’s hard to judge a restaurant with a revolving menu, which is also why it is a delightful one! If you can afford to get seasonal tickets, you are afforded a new experience each time you go. We don’t have seasonal tickets but buy when the menu calls to us. We have been there two times already (first time for the partisan theme, second time for the top 50 menu). Some dishes were amazing, and some were ok. However, the experience and company we chose to dine with has always been stellar. The servers are knowledgeable and trained well. We look forward to another experience soon. Pictures from the top 50 menu

Sam Chau

One of the best restaurant in the US. I mean...there's a reason why tickets are so hard to get at this place but every menu is worth it. It's original, tasty and I always have a blast coming here.

Chris Pipe

Great food and service. Changing themes mean you can come back later and have a completely different culinary experience.

Florian Chevrollier

Incredible experience, quite unique, but comes at a price. Definitely something to try once in your lifetime!!!

Samuel Waggoner

This was one of our very best restaurant experiences in Chicago! Our table was waiting when we arrived: we had several servers throughout dinner, but service was well-coordinated, attentive, friendly, yet polite and the entire meal went super smoothly. Each dish was carefully prepared, with excellent combination of fresh ingredients that resulted in harmonious flavors, interesting combination of textures and colors and a memorable dinner at the end of the evening.

Chris Panczyk

We truly enjoyed Next Trio. Every version is different but expect a creative culinary delight. Wish we got to meet Grant. Will come again someday.

Kevin L

Came here for "The Hunt" menu. This was a 13+ course meal, albeit most of the plates were tiny. The whimsical and playful dishes were well crafted and complemented the wine parings. Next offers a refreshing approach to fine dining and really pushes the envelope when it comes to interacting with the diners. I thoroughly enjoyed the menu, but I think I would have enjoyed Tokyo even more.

Walker Lawrence

An experience like no other. Next elevates dining into the future and is an experience that should be enjoyed by all.

Lissa ONeill

Equal level to Alinea restaurant. I actually liked their flavors more but that is subjective. Food, service, atmosphere, presentation -impecable. One of the rare places where food truly becomes art.

Scott Sachnoff

Next changes prix-fixe menus every four months. You pay for your entire meal in advance by their proprietary "Tock" reservation system. The current menu is "Silk and Spice." It encompasses foods from the Silk Road and global foods with local spices. There are r wine pairings - standard, deluxe and ultra. We "cheaped out" and the 5 or 6 half glasses of wine were still wonderful. As was the food. Crazy stuff you'll never eat anywhere else. To talk too much about it would spoil the magic. Service was impeccable. Anyone serious about food should go here once in their life.

Samantha Spalding

Creative, excellent food and world class service

Mark Boscariol

Truly a bucket list experience. We tried "the Hunt" and it was quite the story, we laughed, we cried we lived, when enjoying the best tasting meal of my life. The bone marrow creme brulee was simply over the top as was almost every other item on the menu

Tammie Hardrick

Everything you have read and then some. Tremendously balanced, incredibly tasty food served in thoughtful and clever ways. Each course had a story that enhanced the experience. The staff is nothing short of incredible. The craft drinks to match each course were as amazing as the food.

harrison keyes

I have now been twice. Once for the Sicily and once for Chicago Steak. Both experiences have been great. The food is always perfect and they may have the best service in the city. I would highly recommend going.

Robin Walters

I've been 3 times. This is one of my favorite restaurants in the world. The menu are an adventure. They take risk and don't always succeed but it's worth the risk. The zen menu included a corn husk soup which was buttery and unlike anything I've ever had. The childhood menu turned me back into a child. As an example of a success: the salted carmel foie gras icing dessert course was served on the egg beater so we could lick it off. Just a joy and a delicious risky dessert. A less successful risk was the deconstructed short rib big mac. They were a little too successful at creating the flavors.

Ling Qin

Went for the Alinea retro tasting menu in November 2018 on a last minute Chicago weekend escape since we couldn’t find a spot at Alinea. For the price I paid, I hardly find any dish outstanding. I agree that some dishes are quite playful, but flavor wise, nothing special. And to me the taste of a dish is the most important. Honestly I cannot think of any memorable flavor from any dish now that it’s been two months from the experience. I had much better nights in other top level fine dining venues throughout this country. Quite disappointed at the Alinea retro menu. The food was nowhere near bad, but given Alinea’s hype and the price I paid, I would rate it as two stars. Wondering if it was Next’s execution to blame or Alinea’s menu itself. Not interested in going to Alinea anymore after this meal.

Audi

Would have been great experience if the staff were better. Some were rude/arrogant. Luckily, our server and the host were amazing and fun, which made up for the others. The dining atmosphere was very nice, and the 7 course dinner with wine pairings was on point.

David Ortiz

While everyone thinks of Alinea they should realize that at Next there is equal excitement going on! One could argue a bit more even ; ) amazing meals that will leave you in wonder !

Lisa Moore

Exquisite plating and an educational tasting experience here. Much thought, planning and tastes are offered with each course. Wine pairing is also thoughtfully planned and the waitstaff thoroughly explains history and elements of each choice. Indescribably delicious!

Dan Lang

Cannot say enough good things about this place, it fails to disappoint. My wife took me here for my birthday and it's probably one of the best birthday presents that I've ever received. The prix fixe menu was a Taste of South America with an emphasis on Chilean cuisine. This menu has a special place in our hearts as we went to Chile for our honeymoon. Each course and wine pairing was perfect, I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Omar Lizardo

Incredibly dining experience. Have to try to believe it!

Brendan Bremener

It was good enough taste-wise. However, I found the majority of the courses to be too dependent on inedible props, often utilizing huge complex dioramas featuring only a couple bites of food. I attended the cinema-themed dinner, and just to run further with the analogy, the experience as a whole was similar to seeing a highly anticipated film that had amazing special effects but lacked the similarly amazing plot to match. The service was amazing.

John Williams

Love this place. its original and the experience is very unique. highly recommend it for visiting! 10/10

Vincent Stokes

It was the most amazing dining experience ever. I really enjoyed myself.

Kris Evans

Awesome end to end experience. We went to the Hollywood season and it was meticulously planned, the service was incredible and the food was some of the best in the world!

Kelsey Williams

Just went for the second time, and while I enjoyed the first time much more, the second time was an incredible experience as well. There's always something on the menu that's a first for me, and neither I or my boyfriend were able to finish everything. I'm still full!

Tommy Guns

Just Amazing! Go

Jim Meacham

Amazing food experience and worth the price which saying something

Anne Grover

Food was Wonderful however Service was...... belittling and Dangerous. This was a first for me. Having eaten at some of the worlds best five star restaurants including the one this is based off of, our group as a whole was surprised that you could not opt for just a glass of wine or an a al carte drink from the bar next door as usual. When we explained that we were driving tonight from the burbs and our DD would like to enjoy one drink they flat out refused. They ALSO refused to split the pairing for the meal. The manager actually came over and basically make me feel like a child....... which i'm obviously not nor do I act in a manner. I didn't want our DD to drink coypus amounts of alcohol and then drive home. After consideration they did allow us to split the pairing which I am currently hung over from. If our Drivers from the group actually completed a full pairing for each..... no way to legally drive home. I don't really think they care about their client base. WILL NOT BE COMING BACK. I can drop a couple 100 at another restaurant just as fine and still be allowed one drink vs a full 1 to 2 ounce 9 count pairing. They are insane and I have never heard the word NO from a Restaurant like this....

madeline stojokovic

great food and service! very friendly staff

G Spawn

Silk & Spice menu. Wasn't terribly impressed with the first half other than a port and tonic with a tray of spices to infuse which is delicious. Second half was smoky, savory, and so much more complex. The mace and chocolate course was my favorite, a dessert with so much complexity and balance. The flatbread course was also a winner, I cleaned my plate to the last crumb. Overall worth it. Not up to Alinea standards, but truly good. I feel like this place is just finding its stride. Booking was maybe 60-80% on a weekday. They're not perfect, but they're better than your average meal.

Johnny Kennedy

The restaurant was very clean and nicely decorated.The food was very delicious and fantastic.The location is fantastic.

tom lee

I've heard that the quality of the experience differs greatly between menus, and my experience was pretty meh: some of the courses were ok and one was inedible. You'll need to prepurchase tickets here. If you want to get into Aviary without the wait, just ask your waiter at the end of the night for a table (sadly it's likely going to be a standing table).

Marc-Louis Paprzyca

Describing the experience at next would be unfair to the restaurant and would not do it justice. It went above my already high expectations. I was lucky enough to dine here during the best of Alinea menu (2005-2010) and the dishes were as inventive and delicious as I expected. The atmosphere was so much more lively than I expected and I liked that. The service was impeccable. The servers were extremely friendly and willing to answer questions.

Magda Walczak

Super innovative and excellent service. Worth every penny.

Josh Korin

A true treat. Went for my birthday dinner and can honestly say this is one of the top 3 meals I've had in my life. Rotating themes of exquisitely prepared food make this a real once in a lifetime experience. The service is sublime and the reserve wine pairing is the way to do it right.

Ramin Baghai

Great restaurant with a tasting menu that changes 3x a year. The food is inventive and top notch. Dining here is a unique experience. Be sure to plan far in advance in order to be able to purchase tickets.

Bob Arnold

Amazing all around- service, food, drinks.

Shannon Sieve

Incredible experience, unique food, nice atmosphere

Randy Bell

We really wanted to enjoy this more but left underwhelmed. Maybe comparing to our experiences at Alinea (or similar restaurants) is not fair? For the price and reputation we expected so much more from the food and the service. We did the French Classique menu for 1 omnivore and 1 pescatarian. All staff were highly aware of the differences in our menus and did a wonderful job of explaining the different preparations. The meal began with an amuse-bouche and wine infused with cantaloupe. It was nice to have a Vin Jaune which is very difficult to find. The service ware was a real stand out. Everything from the soup tureens to gold rimmed plates. The food highlight was the lobster and accompaniments. We did not pre-purchase the wine pairings as we prefer reds but when we spoke with the waiter he indicated there were only 2 red wines available. A French Pinot and an Italian Cab Franc. Seemed odd that the second selection was not French or that the selection was very limited. We had a total of 7 courses including the amuse-bouche and dessert. Flavors were good but overall the servings were not generous. Compared to the 15 to 17 courses at Alinea or Oriole this was a miss. In addition to the food, the service was also off. One woman who cleared between courses was relatively abrupt and perfunctory each time she stopped. Our waiter spilled wine on the table and on the bottom of the glass during the initial pour and did not notice nor clean it off. I had to use the table cloth to keep wine off my wife's dress. We were not offered a second glass of wine. We were abruptly offered coffee or tea "black like you had in a Chinese restaurant as a kid" when we had no idea what course we were on. 3 times someone stepped on my foot under the table. There were no options for an after dinner spirit, port, similar. Our waiter commented that "classic French cuisine did not normally do a digestif?". We would have also thought for a classic French meal that it might have finished with a salad or a cheese course Finally, one of my wife's dishes had a hair on the plate. To be fair, the house manager checked if my wife was "OK" after we pointed out the hair. They did comp our wine and eventually put a napkin over the spilled wine after we pointed it out. Maybe it was just an off night but given our expectations and experience at Alinea, we would likely just go back to Alinea instead.

Lee Hnetinka

The food and the service totally worth the price!

Daniel Hollich

Just excellent in every way. Food, service, and ambiance are well worth the price tag.

Joseph Gardner

Italian cuisine is taken to a whole different level of creativity. All the courses were delicious with the soft shell crab

Jonathan Carter

We recently had dinner here as a family. We decided to try Next as Alinea will not take groups of more than 6. There were 8 of us, so we had dinner in "the room" which is a room in the basement of the restaurant. It is by itself with it's own bathroom and private seating. We had our own wait staff also. The service was spot on and the meal was very well paced. We did the less expensive wine pairing which was excellent. The food was well prepared with some interesting spice combinations that we don't frequently see in the US.

Annie King

A top place for quality meals. looking forward to going back again.

Benjamin Scott Corwin

Great food and even better service!

Zaria Hopkins

Bad

Carolyn Mossman

A once in a lifetime experience I am so happy to have had. Beautifully and creatively presented dishes. Wonderful, friendly, knowledgeable staff/servers. And for someone like myself who does not often eat fancier dishes such as caviar, it was great to expand my palette. We did the wine pairings, which was a perfect add on, however the amount we were given was a lot and we were quite tipsy at the end. Maybe only a mouthful or two should be poured, and if you want more you leave the glass in front of you, and if you don't you put it off to the side or something along those lines. All in all it was amazing!

Rachel Yaffe

I attended the Sicily event and the food was terrific, each dish was supurb and love how the food is paired with the wine and different sparkling waters. The staff is super knowledgeable about each dish.

Sean Ellis

If you're eating here, you already know. It's prissy AF, but an expensive and good time. Who's even reading this review?

Adisak Pochanayon

Next Restaurant was createdly by the Alinea team of Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas and is a pre-paid-ticket prix fixe dining experience where the menu constantly changes with 3-4 completely different iterations of cuisines and dishes every year. Expect outstanding personalized professional service with your meal as well as presentations and flavors that will wow your senses.

Shouvick Basak

Absolutely out of this world. Working backwards. Dessert was multidimensional . Sour sweet and cold interacted perfectly. Definitely recommend the wine pairing. Go for single glass per couple. You re looking at 10 glasses for the full course. Good to be shared by a couple. Next the meat were good. The chicken dish was a complete "cock" fest. :D. The veggie dishes did all the justice with the pea soup and the salmon portion. Yes, fish is vegetarian for my needs. The cream with the Salmon made me lick the plate with no shame. At the end of the day, worth the money and DO A FAVOUR TO YOUR TASTE BUDS!!

Chris Wilcox

Very creative, love the rotating themes

Daniel Lim

Always an experience. Sights, smell, taste!Never leave hungry.

Michael Liepitz

Amazing meal and a night of food/wine my wife and won't ever forget.

Daniel Garrett

amazing! been twice and love!

Nala's fromagerie

Once in a lifetime experience. We are lucky foodies for sure! Waiting for Trio 2003. Hope to visit all offerings in 2015.

Polar Bear

The Silk and Spice menu provides an expansive tour across many different countries and cultures and explores the various flavors of the historic spice routes. Amazing!!

Ian Pineda

Quality Meals and the atmosphere here is excellent. The service here is above par. The place has a cool atmosphere. Menu is like a cafe in Indianapolis I liked.

Trevor Hateley

I went for the Kaiseki menu in 2012. It was an experience I'll never forget. The food was creative, quality, perfectly prepared and presented, but so were the smells,the atmosphere, even the textures of the flatware. Everything had so much thought put into it. The thing I'll remember most is the sake. I guess I had a very western view before I came here, I had no idea the tastes could vary so much, and the quality of the drinks they brought was incredible. If you go, definitely get different drink menus between you & your partner (one normal, and the other reserve or non-alcoholic) so you can try them all.

D S

Intimate restaurant featuring extravagant food at extravagant prices. Fixed menu changes throughout the year. Wine pairings at extra cost available, as are individual offerings by the glass or bottle. Very diligent table service by a seemingly endless cadre of servers. Prepare for several hours of dining, and expect something like a well catered cocktail party with hors d'oeuvres (appetizers) served while you sit rather than stand.

Joseph Gardner

Italian cuisine is taken to a whole different level of creativity. All the courses were delicious with the soft shell crab

Mark Weber

Food was good, but not even close to worth the price. Service was above average, but very scripted. This place is more about the theater than serving high end food with substance-- not the place for an intimate dinner. In summary it was a tasty experience, but I left with my wallet and stomach empty. Glad I went, but wouldn't go back.

Christian Picciolini

WOW! Innovative, inventive, delicious, and fun. Have been there twice for two different themes and both were excellent! Definitely a treat as price is out of this world. Very fun though.

Jamie Khoo

love this place. its original and the experience is very unique. highly recommend it!

Bill Jones

It's the perfection in service and culinary experience of Alinea, but with a menu that changes three times a year, along with the vibe of the space. While some people will certainly favor some themes more than other, it's fun just to go along for the ride, no matter what it is, if you can get tickets.

Colette Robertson

I wish I earned more money so I could eat here more than once in my lifetime so far. The presentation, thoughtfulness, and personalities within Next are a complete experience. They often break the barriers of what is considered normal or traditional. The restaurant is ticket-based. It's a set price due to the set menu. Everything is well-timed and choreographed. There is no rush so you can simply enjoy everything. The menus have both alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings. As a non-drinker, I really enjoy the non-alcoholic pairings. Their beverages come from Aviary, which is right next door and is a sister restaurant/bar. Perfect.

Steven Leffler

Every time at Next is an amazing experience. If you are truly a foodie you must come here.

Brian Goldstein

Been coming here since the beginning and always look forward to their creations and modernized versions of so many themes, places, and periods of time. If you get the opportunity, and this type of meal doesn't make you wonder if it's right for you, then it is...so go.

Grace T

We had the Kyoto menu. Being an Asian myself and have been to Kyoto to try the real Kyoto menus, all I could say is that Chef Grant made a good try and blended in the western influence with this most traditional Japanese cuisine. Good imagination on flavor. It, however, fails to bring out the freshness of the food, which is the true essence of Japanese cuisine, and too salty at times. Good choice on wines to pair with the food. Superb service.

Ralf Pohl

Absolutely Fabulous

Alice Repetto

Outstanding! An experience more than just great food

Max Lush

Just amazing. Couldn't be better in my opinion. Great service that presents complicated food in a simple and indulging manner. I loved everything about my visit.

Dino R

I should have a Michelin

Adam Robinson

This review is for Modern Chinese. The experience Next provides you as a diner is one that you will never soon forget. You go on a ride through the many types of cuisine throughout China with, at times, some creative license in place. From the table-side preparation of the ice coconut curry to the amazing 'Chinese take-out' course with szechuan peppercorn squab, your taste buds will be on a roller-coaster of emotion. Service is friendly and very informative of each dish. Don't be afraid to ask them to clarify what exact you are eating and how it was prepared, these servers have studied up!

Maik B

Just Excellence! One of my Top 5 of Restaurants in the entire World. Great Food, great Service. You have to visit it!

Jeff Cahn

Went for Thailand and Childhood, both were great experiences. Service was outstanding, the waiters are so friendly. The food was good to great with more on the good side.

Jonathan Carter

We recently had dinner here as a family. We decided to try Next as Alinea will not take groups of more than 6. There were 8 of us, so we had dinner in "the room" which is a room in the basement of the restaurant. It is by itself with it's own bathroom and private seating. We had our own wait staff also. The service was spot on and the meal was very well paced. We did the less expensive wine pairing which was excellent. The food was well prepared with some interesting spice combinations that we don't frequently see in the US.

Patrick Lau

A nice way to spend a nice evening with a nice significant other or nice friends. It's very nice to dress nicely once in a while. Nice.

Elizabeth B

This is an experience not to be missed. No matter what the theme, the food is excellent and the staff so amazing. The experience is food, theater and never disappoints. The creativity is unbelievable.

Tahir Kapoor

This was a beyond memorable experience. Each course came as a beautifully executed surprise to us. Our only regret is not getting the non-alcoholic paring--our waiter(s) were generous enough to allow us to taste two of them. We would recommend others trying them out because they are unlike anything else you'll drink. I would even get the non-alcoholic pairing over the wine parings because they are much more creative and unique. It was an amazing meal and I can't wait to come back!

carissa stewart

Five stars! I love that they serve The Impossible Burger! Best hamburger ever! Good quality and fast service. Great company.

Andrew Feichter

What an experience, the "hunt" was a great way to spend an evening with friends and family. It was a little long (4 hours) but it is all about the experience of the 14 course meal. Make sure to get the wine pairing too because I don't think I could sit down for more than 3 hours without alcohol. We will be back for the next theme!

Michelle Marts

We always have a good time here. Probably our favorite restaurant in Chicago.

paris tyler

If there is a heaven specifically for those who enjoy upscale cuisine, exploring new and unfamiliar tastes and experiencing the best a restaurant can offer, it'll be hard pressed to be better than this.