Downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood recently welcomed two exciting newcomers to its culinary landscape: Tre Dita, a fresh take on Italian cuisine, and Miru, an upscale Japanese culinary haven nestled within the St. Regis hotel on Wacker Drive. Both restaurants are operated by Lettuce Entertain You, a major hospitality group in Chicago.

Tre Dita

Tre Dita, which translates to “three fingers” in Italian, draws inspiration from Italy’s rich culinary tapestry, Tre Dita offers a contemporary spin on beloved Italian classics, spotlighting seasonal ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship.

At the heart of Tre Dita’s culinary ethos lies a dedication to quality and authenticity. Chef Evan Funke’s passion for pasta takes center stage, with each handmade creation reflecting the time-honored techniques and flavors of Italy. From velvety tagliatelle to delicate agnolotti bursting with savory fillings, every pasta dish at Tre Dita is a labor of love that pays homage to the soulful essence of Italian cooking.

Beyond pasta, Tre Dita’s menu showcases an array of meticulously prepared antipasti, seafood delights, and tantalizing meat dishes, each crafted with attention to detail and respect for tradition. Highlights include the Crispy Calamari Fritti, served with a tangy arrabbiata sauce, and the Grilled Branzino, a succulent Mediterranean delight accompanied by seasonal vegetables and herb-infused olive oil.

To complement the culinary offerings, Tre Dita boasts an impressive wine selection curated to enhance the dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or an adventurous novice, the restaurant’s knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to guide you through the perfect pairing for your meal.

If you’re looking for great date night spots or places to host your next group outing in Lakeshore East, be sure to check out Tre Dita.

Miru at the St. Regis

Perched atop the iconic St. Regis hotel on Wacker Drive, Miru beckons diners on a captivating culinary journey infused with the essence of Japanese tradition and contemporary flair. The Lakeshore East location offers a prime vantage point for getting the best views of downtown Chicago. Upon entering Miru, guests are greeted by an atmosphere of refined elegance, with sleek furnishings and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re indulging in the main dining room or savoring cocktails on the rooftop terrace, Miru offers an ambiance that elevates every moment.

At the heart of Miru’s menu lies a celebration of Japan’s culinary diversity, with a focus on pristine seafood, premium meats, and seasonal produce. Signature offerings at Miru include the Hamachi Crudo, featuring delicate slices of yellowtail accented with yuzu kosho and crispy shallots, and the Wagyu Beef Tataki, a harmonious blend of Japanese Wagyu and citrusy ponzu sauce. For sushi enthusiasts, Miru presents an array of meticulously crafted rolls and nigiri, each showcasing the freshest ingredients sourced from local and international markets.

In addition to its exceptional cuisine, Miru boasts an impressive beverage program featuring an array of sake, Japanese whisky, and handcrafted cocktails inspired by seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors. Whether you’re sipping a classic Old Fashioned or exploring rare sake varietals, Miru’s libations complement the dining experience with finesse.

From handmade pastas to pristine sushi, these new Lakeshore East restaurants offer a feast for the senses that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of downtown Chicago.

Cascade apartments in Lakeshore East will offer over 45,000 square feet of amenity space!

In the warmer months, enjoy Cascade’s outdoor splash pad and hydrotherapy pool. In the other seasons, you can still enjoy swimming at the 25 yard indoor lap pool. Cascade also offers incredible fitness amenities, from the fitness center which offers sweeping lakefront views and the strength studio for HIIT workouts, to the motion studio for yoga and spin classes.

Indoor year round conservatory. Images courtesy of Magellan and Cascade Apartments

Whether you’re looking to relax alone or entertain company, Cascade has amenities for you! Unwind in one of the steam rooms then reserve the massage treatment room or salon to receive services through third party vendors. Curl up with a book in the year round indoor conservatory which is lush with greenery 365 days a year or watch a movie in the screening room. You can also switch up your typical dinner party with a trip to the game room for a round of billiards or shuffleboard, to the golf and sports simulator room, or to the jam room which is completely outfitted for live music sessions! If you’re feeling “crafty” the Maker space offers room for your crafting activities as well as a shop table. Cascade also offers a kids club for indoor play space!

Cascade apartments also features pet amenities including an onsite private dog run and pet spa!

25 yard indoor lap pool

There’s truly something for everyone at Cascade apartments!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood or more information on Cascade apartments? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! we are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in and lease up specials including free rent concessions!

Cascade apartments, located at 455 E Waterside Drive, are now pre-leasing in downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood! Luxury rentals at Cascade include studio, convertible, 1 bed, 2 bed, and 3 bedroom pet friendly apartments. Cascade is being developed by Magellan and Lendlease and designed by bKL Architecture. It will also include 45,000 square feet of amenity space as well as 32,000 square feet of outdoor green space!

Courtesy of Cascade and Magellan

Both the layouts and finishes at the apartments at Cascade in Lakeshore East make this building one of a kind. For instance, most of the 1 bedroom layouts are over 700 square feet, making them significantly larger than most 1 bed inventory in this price range. Wide plank hard-surface flooring, in unit laundry, modern subway tile kitchen backsplashes, Nest thermostats, quartz countertops, Snaidero cabinetry, walk in custom closet systems, and integrated Bosch appliances are featured in each apartment. Apartments also feature dimmable linear lighting over kitchen islands, USB outlets, and keyless entry accessible via smart phone.

Soaring 9 foot ceilings coupled with floor to ceiling windows create an open, airy feeling and offer stunning lake and river views. Bathrooms feature Daltile baths, Hansgrohe fixtures, chrome Kohler accessories, and frameless glass showers. Select units feature expansive private balconies as well.

Courtesy of Cascade and Magellan

Cascade first broke ground in 2019. First move ins at Cascade apartments will be August 1st.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood or more information on Cascade apartments? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! we are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in and lease up specials including free rent concessions!

Cascade is one of Magellan Development‘s newest high rises. In addition to many popular communities throughout Chicago, like the Gallery on Wells and Exhibit on Superior, Magellan is known for being the developer behind the Lakeshore East community. Over the past several decades, they’ve developed many high rises, commercial space, public enhancements, and Lakeshore East park, turning the former golf course into a full-blown neighborhood. Cascade is one of three buildings within the parcels IJKL in Lakeshore East, one of the last remaining areas to be developed in the neighborhood. The edgy interior design, thoughtful layouts, striking architectural details, and useful amenities make Cascade a standout building.

These new luxury apartments will offer stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan

The positioning of this high rise offers optimal natural light for all units as well as stunning lake and river views, just one of the ways bKL’s thoughtful architecture is woven through each detail of the building. The glass facade, accented with copper expression panels,  will reflect the surroundings, including Lake Michigan and nearby park, making Cascade an homage to what’s already beautiful in Lakeshore East. Upon completion, Cascade will be 37 stories with 503 rental units. Amenities will include a pool deck, an outdoor kitchen and grilling stations, a media room, multiple communal lounges, work space, fire pits, and more.

Cascade will also be close to plenty of green space. Adjacent to the tower will be Cascade Park, a new three acre landscaped park designed by internationally acclaimed Claude Cormier and Associates.

Cascade Park adjacent to Cascade and Cirrus towers

Additionally, the beloved six acre Lakeshore East park is also neighboring the high rise. Lakeshore East park is currently Chicago’s only free wireless park and also has a sectioned off dog park.

Cascade is located at 445 E Waterside Drive and is slated for completion in quarter three of 2021.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are currently offering in person, self guided, and virtual tours. Be sure to ask about move in and free rent specials!

If your top priorities in an apartment are square footage, storage and closet space, and central location, then keep reading. Columbus Plaza Lakeshore East apartments could be the place for you!

Each layout offers an incredible value on square footage. Pushing 600 square feet, the studio and convertible layouts are larger than most 1 beds in the downtown area. 1 bed layouts are even larger, ranging from 792 to over 1000 square feet and 2 beds come in at 1352 square feet, rare finds for downtown Chicago! Most layouts also include at least one walk in closet.

Entertain company on the expansive outdoor terrace, complete with a fire pit, grills, plenty of seating, and a relaxing fountain. If your guests are in from out of town, reserve the on site hospitality suite. Unwind in the resort style sun room with a retractable skylight and energize in the state of the art fitness center. Work from home from the 24/7 business center.

Columbus Plaza is located on E Upper Wacker just east of Michigan Avenue. With the Chicago Riverwalk just across the street, the Lakefront trail, Navy Pier, and Magnificent mile just blocks away, direct access to the Pedway, and close proximity to the Loop, Gold Coast, and Streeterville, it’s no mystery why Columbus Plaza has a WalkScore of 95 for it’s convenient location. Although situated near all the hustle and bustle of downtown, if you walk just a few minutes southeast, you can enjoy Lakeshore East’s quiet residential park, walkways, and a flagship Mariano’s supermarket.

For a limited time, Columbus Plaza is currently offering a $2000 concession on studio, convertible, and 1 bedroom apartments and a $3500 concession on 2 bedroom apartments!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours!

Coast at Lakeshore East apartments offers an incredible value on luxury rentals. These pet friendly apartments are beloved by residents for their sleek interiors, top of the line appliances, outstanding amenities, panoramic views, and little extra building conveniences.

If you’re looking for great natural light and sweeping city views, look no further! With glass paneled balconies, open floor plans, and floor to ceiling windows, these stunning apartments take in optimal natural light with great views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, Lakeshore East Park, and the Chicago skyline. Kitchens come equipped with GE Clean Steel Energy Star appliance packages including a refrigerator with an ice maker, gas range and oven, full sized microwave, dishwasher, and full sized washer and dryer. Whether you’re looking for light and bright white quartz or dark and homey espresso cabinetry with nickel hardware, Coast has something for you with a choice between two finish packages. Bathrooms all have sleek finishes with oversized marble vanities, ceramic tile, and mosaic accents throughout. The apartments at Coast also have excellent storage space between the generous amount of cabinetry and spacious closets. All units also have individually controlled heat and air conditioning, high speed internet, window treatments, and plank flooring.

Coast is a full amenity building. Residents have access to plenty of co-working space including private meeting rooms, a tech center with PC and MAC stations, and shared areas. All the amenity spaces are outfitted with complimentary WiFi, so you can feel free to take your Zoom meetings from the outdoor landscaped garden and deck or the adjacent indoor lounge. Year round enjoy the indoor spa lounge with a hot tub, sauna, and steam room, the state of the art fitness center with Cybex equipment, and the private dining lounge.

Warm up at the heated outdoor lap pool or around the fire pit with lounge seating. Coast also offers a multitude of on site resident conveniences like a private dog run and washing station, stainless steel barbecue grills, on site parking, bicycle and resident storage, an eco-friendly neighborhood courtesy shuttle, Zip Cars, electric car charging stations, 24 hour door staff and maintenance, package receiving, valet dry-cleaning, and of course, Pedway access.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours.

The Tides at Lakeshore East offers spacious studio, convertible, one, and two bedroom apartments for rent in a prime location with state-of-the-art amenities.

These apartments feature in unit laundry with full sized washers and dryers, high speed internet, floor to ceiling windows, expansive glass paneled balconies, great storage space, walk in closets, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, and spacious layouts, with upgraded finishes and renovations in select units. Kitchens come equipped with gas ranges, dishwashers, refrigerators with ice makers, islands, ample cabinet space, and ceramic tiled or espresso wood floors. In the bathrooms you’ll find additional generous storage space including oversized vanity cabinets and tri-view medicine cabinets.

Renovated kitchen with white cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Amenities include both indoor and outdoor places to lounge, entertain, and work from home. Rain or shine, entertain at the indoor amenities. The Shore Club, a private reservable club floor retreat, and the billiards room are both perfect for entertaining company. Unwind in the spa and sauna, work out in the 24/7 fitness center, or work from home in the lounge off the complimentary coffee bar. Soak up the sun from the outdoor amenities, including the rooftop pool and sundeck which offer stunning views of downtown Chicago. Furthermore, Magellan Development, the developers of the majority of Lakeshore East, arranged the high rise buildings in the neighborhood like a sundial so that each rooftop pool gets unobstructed sunlight, as is the case with the rooftop pool at The Tides.

Rooftop Pool at The Tides Lakeshore East

The Tides is pet friendly and also offers resident conveniences such as 24 hour door staff and maintenance, on site parking, car sharing, electric car charging stations within the vicinity, storage, bicycle storage, direct dog park access, on site housekeeping, valet dry cleaning, 24/7 package receiving,

The location is, itself, an additional convenience. The Tides has an on site pre-school, is adjacent to a 6 acre quiet park, on the other side of which there is a large Mariano’s grocery store, CVS pharmacy, Chase Bank, salons, and multiple restaurants ranging from Eggy’s for breakfast, Brown Bag Seafood for lunch, III Forks or MingHin for dinner, Filini for happy hour, and many more.

Last but not least, The Tides offers access to the Pedway, which is an efficient way to access anything downtown, transit, shops, and the airport in the winter time, all without going outside.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in-person tours!

If you’re looking for a spacious floor plan in a convenient location at a great price, North Harbor Tower at Lakeshore East could be the place for you!

All layouts are particularly spacious, even the studios!

North Harbor Tower is known for its spacious floor plans, great storage and closet space, and wraparound windows for panoramic views. Many units have been recently renovated with premium kitchen finishes, offering a choice between dark and light interiors. Select units offer in-unit laundry and high ceilings. With apartments starting around just $1445 per month, these luxury apartments are an incredible value.

Classic dark kitchen finishes

Renovated light kitchen finishes

North Harbor Tower recently underwent a full amenity renovation, which you can enjoy year round. Rain or shine, you can access the indoor pool (which converts into a semi-outdoor space during the summer months), party suite, 24 hour fitness center, yoga studio with complimentary classes, 24-hour library, and business center with co-working space.

The library space

In the warmer months, soak up the sun in the outdoor BBQ and picnic area, one of multiple outdoor lounge spaces, and sun deck. North Harbor Tower also offers a host of conveniences including door staff in the elegant lobby, bike storage, parking, high speed internet, on-site management and maintenance, package receiving, and even pet amenities.

One of multiple outdoor amenity spaces

These luxury rentals are located in a prime location for dog owners. Lakeshore East’s 4.6 acre park is just two blocks away with quiet walking paths and a shaded dog friendly area for off leash play. North Harbor Tower also offers an on-site dog run and dog walking services for days you can’t make it to the park with your four-legged friend. Select floors at North Harbor Tower are pet friendly.

Whether or not you’re a pet owner, everyone can appreciate the convenient location of these luxury apartments, with Mariano’s grocery store just two blocks away, broad selection of restaurants, easy access to Lakeshore Drive and public transit, and short walking distance to the Gold Coast, Streeterville, and the Loop.

Although Lakeshore East is a small neighborhood and one of Chicago’s best hidden gems, it is still home to lots of restaurants. Here are some of our favorite Lakeshore East restaurants offering take out and delivery.

Mezcalina

Mezcalina offers upscale Mexican cuisine with lunch, dinner, and brunch menus. Their menus are full of seafood, vegetarian, and meat based options. Mezcalina is currently offering take out and delivery.

MingHin

MingHin serves Cantonese favorites like hot pots, seafood, and dim sum as well as signature cocktails. Their menu is centered around sharable, small dishes, making MingHin a great place to try with friends. MingHin is currently offering take out and delivery. Check out their menu and order online here.

Courtesy of MingHin

Eggy’s Diner

Eggy’s is the neighborhood go-to spot for all day breakfast and baked goods but they also make great lunch and dinner dishes. Their rotating menu uses seasonal and local ingredients. A little known fact is that Eggy’s is actually named after the David Carlins’ (president of Magellan Development) childhood friend, Robert Mallin, who was nicknamed “Eggy”. Magellan Development is largely responsible for the development of the Lakeshore East neighborhood, so it seems fitting! Eggy’s is currently offering take out only. Check out their menu here.

Courtesy of Eggy’s Diner

III Forks

III Forks serves seafood, steaks, and classic American fare with all the favorite steakhouse sides. Grab a wedge salad, shrimp cocktail, creamed corn, lobster mac and cheese, or roasted seasonal vegetables with any one of their .005% quality hand picked steaks. III Forks is currently offering take out only. See their complete dinner menu here.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual tours!

Magellan Development’s Aqua building was designed by prolific Chicago architect, Jeanne Gang and delivered in 2009. The 82 story mixed use tower consists of residential rental units, condo units, commercial space, and hotel space with amenities that were ahead of its time.

The eighth story amenity deck spans over 82,000 square feet and includes a running track, fire pits, a club quality fitness center, co-working space, a media room, basketball court, a steam room and sauna, a billiards and game room, hot tubs, both indoor and outdoor pools, indoor entertainment suites with private dining areas, a terrace with small gardens and seating areas. Radisson, who operates the hotel portion of the Aqua building, also operates Filini, the on site restaurant.

The Aqua building also connects to the Pedway, which allows for convenient downtown access rain or shine as well as direct access to a plethora of shops and services without going outside. The stunning views from the balconies of the luxury residential units are also another major draw.

The Aqua building has received notoriety from its cinematic appearances, social references, and many accolades including the Emporis Skyscraper of the Year award, selection by the American Institute of Architects as one of Illinois’ greatest places, recognition by USA Today Travel magazine as one of Illinois’ 25 must see places, and its title as the tallest woman-designed building in the world, (a title which will belong to Vista Tower, also designed by Gang, upon its completion).

All photos courtesy of Magellan Development

Lakeshore East has become an increasingly sought after neighborhood. Its proximity to downtown, quiet neighborhood vibe, and easy access to conveniences make it an attractive location. A 6 acre park sits in the center of Lakeshore East with designated trails, a dog park, a kids play area, outdoor wifi, and shady trees, fountains, and curated landscape design that give it a peaceful ambiance. South Water Street, which surrounds the park, is lined with shops, salons, excellent restaurants, Mariano’s grocery store, and GEMS World Academy, a highly ranked preschool-grade 12 private school. Lakeshore East also has convenient access to the riverwalk and lakefront trails.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours on Chicago apartments.

The 13-story building is expected to accommodate 1,440 students.

Initial renderings from architecture firm bKL are quite impressive and show student amenities including a landscaped rooftop overlooking the Chicago River, a media workshop and digital theatre, a 500-seat auditorium, an indoor gymnasium, and a two-story library.

GEMS students will have access to fresh air on the rooftop terrace

GEMS is on track to open in 2019 at 355 E Upper Wacker Drive, between Coast Apartments and the Wanda Vista Tower development.

Lakeshore East Neighborhood

By Sophie Morrison

The Lakeshore East neighborhood (also know as the New East Side or East Loop) is both centrally located and a quiet, tree-lined retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated comfortably between Millennium Park and the Chicago River, this area has some outstanding apartment deals in luxury buildings, surrounded by lush green space. Lakeshore East buildings are steps from a flagship Mariano’s, a 6-acre park with free wi-fi and separate dog run, as well as a variety of other shops, salons, and restaurants. Lakeshore East has direct access to the lakefront as well as the Pedway system. GEMS preschool is also conveniently located in Lakeshore East.

Property 16 offers full sized washer and dryers, updated kitchens with granite and maple cabinetry, and  gas cooking ranges. Enjoy stunning views with the building’s amazing floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive glass encased balconies offering unparalleled panoramic views. Building amenities include an outdoor pool terrace with lounge seating, a club room with games and pool tables, a steam room, spa, and sauna, as well as an expansive fitness center. Be sure to check out this property!

Property 16 offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom apartments. One of our favorite values is the convertible layout priced starting from $1750! View photos and more information here!

Another great option is Property 34. These Lakeshore East luxury rentals feature fabulous separate dining and living areas, a rare find in the city! Spacious floor plans offer generous square footage at an excellent price in the downtown market. Select apartment options available with hardwood flooring and stainless steel appliances. Building amenities include a stunning, year-round sunroom with retractable roof, a fully equipped fitness center, and a club room and internet lounge offering printers and complimentary wi-fi. You’re sure to fall in love!

Property 34 offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom apartments. One of our favorite values is the 1 bedroom layout priced starting from $1750– one of the most spacious 1 bedroom layouts available downtown! View photos and more information here!

Property 28 offers stunning east-facing lake and west-facing skyline views. Apartments offer wrap-around bay windows to maximize natural light. Spacious floor plans with high ceilings create a spacious, open feeling. Select rentals feature newly renovated appliances, flooring, and kitchen finishes. Property 28 features an indoor pool, outdoor grilling areas and sundeck, a fitness studio with complimentary classes, and a fully equipped business center. 

Property 28 offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments. One of our favorite values is the 3 bedroom layout priced starting from $4200 with in-unit laundry! View photos and more information here!

Looking for luxury apartments near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Walkability is just one reason to fall in love with Downtown Chicago. But what fun is a walk without your best friend? Check out these downtown dog parks in some of Chicago’s most dog friendly neighborhoods!

Lakeshore East Park

Lakeshore East Park’s southern most area is fenced in for dogs to roam free, off the leash. The area is complete with a dog drinking fountain and artificial turf grass for easy clean-up. Additionally, Lakeshore East Park offers free Wi-Fi. The park is full of serene paths and trails and steps from the lakefront. The neighborhood is home to Millennium Park and many excellent restaurants. So there is always plenty to do after visiting the park with your dog!

450 E. Benton Pl.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 742-7648

Skinner Bark Park

The West Loop park features a combination of artificial turf, gravel, and cement to give the park textural dimension. Moreover, unique features include umbrella-shaded seating and a three-tiered drinking fountain, which offers access to dogs of all sizes.

17 S. Loomis St.
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 746-5560

Grant Park (Dog Friendly Area)

This park is perfect for active dogs who love to run around! The park has a sprawling off-leash area and a dog water fountain. Grant Park is only steps from many of Chicago’s attractions, steps from Soldier Field, beaches, Buckingham Fountain, and Michigan Avenue. Stop by the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Adler Planetarium, or the Museum of Science and Industry.

Courtesy of Choose Chicago

951 S. Columbus Dr.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 742-3918

Looking for dog friendly apartments in downtown Chicago? Give us a call! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!