River North Is Now a Global Foodie Destination: A Madrid-Born Sushi Bar and a Massive Mediterranean Riverfront Restaurant Have Arrived

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · July 27, 2026

Near North neighbors, your neighborhood's dining scene just leveled up in a major way — twice over. Two boldly different, internationally inspired restaurants have made their debut in River North, and food lovers are already buzzing.

First, meet Akiro — the first U.S. location of a Madrid-born Nikkei hand roll bar that has officially opened at 546 N. Wells St. After earning acclaim in Spain as the country's first Nikkei hand roll bar, Akiro has landed in River North in partnership with Éxodo Hospitality Group, the acclaimed local team behind neighborhood favorites Matilda, Clandestino, Kayao, and Ayayay. Expect a refined yet approachable lineup of nigiri and hand rolls crafted with Japanese seaweed, fresh fish, and rice — a truly global concept with serious local credibility backing it up.

Meanwhile, over at 300 N. LaSalle St., powerhouse hospitality group DineAmic — the team behind Prime & Provisions, Siena Tavern, and Lyra — is bringing NAIA, a sweeping pan-Mediterranean restaurant, to the Chicago River as part of a $37 million renovation of the tower. Spanning nearly a full city block, NAIA promises waterfront dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, alongside a Greek-inspired coffee and pastry bar on the lobby level and a private riverside lounge. River North's riverfront restaurant row is officially world-class. Which of these two new spots are you most excited to try? Tell your neighbors in the Socialhood comments below!

Sources:
1. https://www.modernluxury.com/new-best-restaurants-in-chicago/
2. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/03/27/naia-brings-huge-patio-to-river-north-kittys-cosmopolitan-club-opens-with-ultra-cold-cocktails/
3. https://www.timeout.com/chicago/news/a-major-new-restaurant-is-coming-to-the-chicago-riverfront-082525