When something big happens in life, you want to go out and celebrate. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or you simply want to celebrate the end of a school year or the start of a new job, two restaurants in Illinois stand out as top spots for special-occasion dinners.

Why Illinois is a Top Spot for Celebratory Dining

In our family, the birthday person always gets to choose where we go for dinner that night. It’s a tradition we’ve had for years, and while Quincy and Hannibal both have amazing places for a celebratory meal, sometimes you want to splurge a little—and Chicago is home to two of the best places to do just that.

According to Love Food, Maple & Ash and Lula Cafe are the top picks.

Lula Cafe: Creative Dining Without the Price Tag

Lula Cafe is known for its creative and delicious dishes without the typical fine-dining price tag. It’s a place where customers can share plates, enjoy a bottle of wine, and relax in each other’s company. The menu changes seasonally, giving you plenty of reasons to come back throughout the year to try something new.

Read More: You Won't Believe These Illinois Food Creations

Maple & Ash: Perfect for Larger Celebrations

The second restaurant on the list is Maple & Ash in Chicago. This spot is great for larger groups, making it perfect for a big crowd looking to get together and celebrate. One of their most popular dishes is the fire-roasted seafood tower, which sounds absolutely amazing if you’re a seafood lover.

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