Dinner + Tasting menu
in river north

Experience Chef Junior Borges and Nic Yanes’ dual dining concept — a lively bar with cocktails and plates, and an intimate five-course tasting menu. 

Walk in or book ahead.

Reservations

what to expect

At Nic + Junior’s, evenings unfold two ways: a lively bar with à la carte plates and cocktails, or an intimate tasting room guided by Chef Junior Borges’ Brazilian and Italian influences.

Every night blends elegance, warmth, and story — a reflection of how Nic and Junior love to host.

Our Menus

Chicago's best happy hour

Enjoy $8 cocktails, shareable small plates, and an effortless start to the evening.

Wednesday through Saturday,

4-6 PM

Happy Hour

Meet the Chefs

Longtime collaborators Chef Junior Borges and Nic Yanes bring together heritage and hospitality in one dual dining experience.

Learn More

Our location

405 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL

In the heart of River North, overlooking the Chicago River.

Dinner Hours: Wed–Sat | 5–10 PM

Directions

reviews

Eldarbek K
Nic + Junior’s delivers a refined and intimate dining experience that shines through its perfectly balanced tasting menu and thoughtful wine pairing. I opted for their tasting menu with wine pairings, and every course flowed seamlessly into the next—each dish creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The wine pairing wasn’t just an add-on; it elevated each bite, thoughtfully complementing the ingredients and enhancing the overall experience. Service was warm, attentive, and knowledgeable without being intrusive, which added to the relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance. This is a place where the passion for seasonal and well-executed cuisine truly comes through. I’m already looking forward to coming back to explore future seasonal tasting menus. We started with drinks at the bar, where the cocktails were nothing short of masterful—balanced, creative, and so flavorful. The yuca fries and hot capicola skewers were the perfect intro: crisp, bold, and full of flavor.
Gabriela D.
Everything was perfect from the beginning to the end. Costumer service impeccable and food remarkable. This is not just one more of the same Italian, it has the Brazilian flavor on it. Please make yourself a favor and try the Spaghetti Moqueca! Dadinhos were delicious too. Highly recommended and planning to be back for the tasting menu soon!
Milena T.
We had the most incredible evening at Nic + Junior’s—a true culinary gem tucked away in River North. From the moment we stepped in, the vibe was effortlessly chic, with a beautifully designed bar out front and an intimate, elevated tasting room tucked behind. We started with drinks at the bar, where the cocktails were nothing short of masterful—balanced, creative, and so flavorful. The yuca fries and hot capicola skewers were the perfect intro: crisp, bold, and full of flavor.
Sophie R.
Tucked away by the river, this restaurant is an absolute hidden gem. The location is perfect and scenic and the atmosphere is just as inviting. The staff made us feel so welcome with their warm, friendly energy. We originally stopped in for just an appetizer and a drink, but everything was so good we ended up ordering three more dishes, two more drinks, and dessert. The spicy rigatoni was hands down the best pasta I’ve ever had. The sauce was so rich and creamy, I was seriously tempted to ask for a spoon to get every last drop. Next time I will order the focaccia (made from the chef’s grandma’s recipe!) to soak up the sauce it’s absolutely to die for. And for dessert with the warm chocolate chip cookies with milk (also grandma’s recipe.) The cocktails were just as impressive. The margarita was perfectly balanced, and the extra dirty martini was chefs kiss. Already planning my next visit this place is a must-try! Can’t wait to try the tasting menu next.
Christina
Absolutely obsessed with Nic & Juniors! The space is stunning, the vibe is energetic but still intimate, and the happy hour is next level. We tried the arancini, oysters, and rigatoni — all perfectly done and full of flavor. And the espresso martini? Easily one of the best I’ve had in Chicago. You can tell they’re serious about the details here. So excited this spot opened — already planning my next visit.
Sarah C.
Nic + Junior’s is a new go to for us and what a gem we’ve found tucked away from Michigan Ave amongst the trees. The food has not missed so far. Each plate is delicately crafted in flavor and presentation. Pretty great happy hour menu, too.
Matthew G.
Already one of the best restaurants in all of Chicago. Food, service, decor, wine, and cocktails were all perfection. Crab claws with pepperoni chili crunch, pao de queijo, beef tartare, Caesar salad, the burger, the wagyu Bavette, and all the pastas were the standouts. So pretty much the entire menu. And don’t forget to ask for their house hot sauce. Get in immediately before you can’t get a reservation soon!
Bradley A.
Wonderful meal with creative, exciting and absolutely delicious dishes and friendly, attentive service. Our new favorite restaurant in Chicago!
Lilian T.
I personally think they have a potential to take a Michelin star someday. If you're curious, go try their tasting menu now. Nic + Junior is a new spot tucked into a garden near the river in downtown Chicago. We came in a sunday at 5pm and it's pretty empty. It's got a quiet, intimate vibe, especially in the tasting menu area, which is separated from the à la carte section and feels a bit more private. You can even watch the chefs in action there. The tasting menu follows a progression of small bites, then a few composed dishes, then dessert. The overall flavor direction is clearly Brazilian & Italian combo, pretty rare to taste.
Jessica O
Went for a Birthday celebration. The coursed meal was superb and the staff were fantastic- friendly - delectable food and great ambiance. Cocktails were also delicious. I've been to almost every whispered or talked about restaurant in Chicago by now and this one is top 3 instantly!

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@nicandjuniors

Nic + Junior’s is a chef-driven restaurant in River North Chicago offering dinner, cocktails, and a five-course tasting menu by Chef Junior Borges and Chef Nic Yanes.