This cartoon jungle is a child's wonderland, with waterfalls, swinging monkeys and a canopy of faux flora and fauna.

by Contributor

In Short
While waiting for a table, hungry diners prowl the retail village, where cash-register ka-chings compete with chirping birds, roaring lions and chest-thumping gorillas. When the lights start to flicker, never fear--thunderstorms are part of the show. The menu is American comfort food--pastas, burgers, pizzas and salads--served with a tropical flair. There are plenty options that the kids will recognize, but enough novelty to keep the parents happy.

• Pros: family-friendly menu
• Cons: theme restaurant kitsch

11/25/07

Tourist Trap with Two Capital Ts

by efisher204

While the decor, waterfall sounds, above average service, and kid friendly environment are major pluses, they cannot make up for incredibly overpriced mediocre food (ultimately, the place is a restaurant and dining is what it's all about.). The clam chowder tasted average and my wife and I both had burgers and soft drinks. Total price with tip $36.00. In addition there is a shop immediately outside of the restaurant (similar to a Cracker Barrel) where kids are lured by a number of again overpriced toys. Consequently, this is not a total bust but also not recommended.

• Pros: kid friendly, good service, fun atmosphere
• Cons: mediocre food, very overpriced

03/20/06

Pricey-but well worth it!!!

by kayse4jill

I have visited Rainforest Cafe in Chicago 3 times and must admit I enjoy it more each time I go back. The food is great, atmosphere wonderful, service-top notch and a fun place for kids. If you are on vacation this stop is a must! Escpecially if you have children--they will love it. Yes, the price is a little high, but the food, ambience and overall experience is well worth it!

• Pros: fast service, great food, gift shop
• Cons: crowded, a little too noisy, sometimes long lines

12/26/02

No Reservations in this Rainforest...

by Bill62U

You can MAKE reservations but they matter not when you get there. "Reservations," we were told, "Only mean The Next Available Table..." After everyone in front of you without Reservations is seated, by the way. Not a place for the Handicapped, elderly or very young. BUT the jungle magic of the place reflected in a child's eyes almost makes the wait worth it. Food is so-so, but for around $12 you can end the meal with a Volcano, all chocolate and sparkles, giggles and smiles. The room downstairs should be marked, Grandparents and other Suckers Only, but pure fun.

• Pros: Gorillas & elephants, Mac & Cheese on menu, Great servers
• Cons:  reservations a joke, crowded, expensive parking

08/22/02

Drink wine while sitting on a zebra!

by msfitns316

You can sit at the bar(on a zebra or another animal) while staring at the jungle atmosphere. Did I mention the soud of running waterfalls and animals? You and your date can become Tarzan and Jane. Then, buy a souvenoir in their shop to remember your experience!

• Pros: UNIQUE!, exotic, romantic
• Cons: great food, great service, a little pricey

05/15/02

Just OK

by nathanstull_citysearch

The jungle atmosphere is the best thing about this place. The bottom floor gift shop seemed a little too touristy for my taste. The alcohol drinks are not good. Skip them. The food is alright, but this restaurant is designed for the kids.

05/13/02

Can Be Scary...

by peterbehle_citysearch

The food is fine and the drinks are large, but the thunder, lighting and moving animal effects can be a bit much for the little kids. Think twice about bringing someone under the age of 3.

• Pros: Big drinks
• Cons: Way loud