Avli River North brings contemporary Greek cooking to a stretch of Wells Street, with room to spread out across an expansive patio, an intimate upstairs dining room, or the downstairs bar. The pink bougainvillea and general atmosphere lean into a Santorini-adjacent mood regardless of season.
The restaurant is part of Avli Hospitality Group, which traces back to Louie Alexakis's original Avli in Winnetka, founded in 2009. Avli Taverna opened in Chicago in 2018 with partner Lou Canellis, and the group has since expanded to multiple Chicago locations and Milwaukee.
Regulars point to generous portions, fair pricing, and quick, friendly service, along with a following for weekend brunch and patio seating — though the popularity means seating can run tight.
The restaurant is part of Avli Hospitality Group, which traces back to Louie Alexakis's original Avli in Winnetka, founded in 2009. Avli Taverna opened in Chicago in 2018 with partner Lou Canellis, and the group has since expanded to multiple Chicago locations and Milwaukee.
Regulars point to generous portions, fair pricing, and quick, friendly service, along with a following for weekend brunch and patio seating — though the popularity means seating can run tight.