by Chicago, IL: The city’s already buzzing riverwalk dining scene is about to get a game-changing addition. A brand-new, sprawling Mediterranean restaurant called NAIA is set to open this spring—and it’s not just another place to eat.
At nearly 12,000 square feet, this upcoming hotspot will take over almost an entire river-level block at 300 North LaSalle Street, instantly becoming one of the largest dining destinations on the Chicago Riverwalk.
A Riverfront Restaurant on a Massive Scale
Developed by DineAmic Hospitality, the team behind well-known spots like Siena Tavern and Prime & Provisions, NAIA is designed to be more than a restaurant—it’s a full-on experience.
- 150 feet of river frontage
- Space for up to 500 guests
- Around 400 seats across indoor and outdoor areas
- Multiple dining zones and event spaces
“From the beginning, we set out to create more than a restaurant—a destination,” said co-founder Luke Stoioff.
A Mediterranean Menu With Global Influence
The kitchen will be led by acclaimed Greek chef Athinagoras Kostakos, known for his work in Mykonos.
The menu will pull inspiration from across the Mediterranean, including:
- Italy, Spain, and France
- Lebanon and Turkey
- Coastal and Levantine traditions
Expect dishes like:
- Fresh seafood and grilled meats
- Mezze and shareable plates
- House-made pastas and flatbreads
- A dedicated raw bar
- Crudo and even sushi (a unique twist for the concept)
A Space Designed to Impress
While the food is a major draw, the design might be what truly sets NAIA apart.
- Guests enter at street level and descend into a waterfront dining space
- A coliseum-style layout ensures river views from nearly every seat
- Seasonal flexibility with open-air terraces in summer
- Heated pergolas and enclosed spaces for winter
The layout also includes:
- A central bar
- Riverfront booths
- Private event areas for everything from intimate dinners to large parties
Built for All-Day Dining
Unlike many riverwalk spots, NAIA is aiming to be an all-day destination.
- Breakfast and brunch
- Lunch and dinner
- Late-night drinks
This makes it one of the few places on the river designed to stay active from morning through night.
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Why NAIA Could Be Chicago’s Hottest Reservation
With its size, location, and concept, NAIA is already shaping up to be one of the most in-demand dining spots of 2026.
- Prime riverfront location
- Celebrity-chef-level leadership
- A blend of luxury dining and social atmosphere
If everything goes as planned, this isn’t just another opening—it’s a major evolution of Chicago’s riverwalk scene.
A New Era for Riverfront Dining
Chicago’s riverwalk has steadily grown into one of the city’s best dining corridors, and NAIA is set to push that even further.
With its mix of Mediterranean flavors, immersive design, and large-scale experience, it’s clear the goal is simple: create a place people don’t just visit—but plan their entire night around.
Would you try NAIA when it opens, or do you think Chicago’s riverwalk is already crowded with options? Share your thoughts in the comments!
