River North welcomes Ambar, a destination for Balkan dishes and cocktails

Chicago’s River North neighborhood just got a bold new addition to its culinary scene. Ambar, the highly anticipated Balkan-inspired restaurant from Street Guys Hospitality, officially opened its doors this week, April 1. 

Led by CEO and Founder Ivan Iričanin, Ambar takes a modern approach to traditional Balkan dishes. Guests can enjoy dishes like Ćevapčići, a housemade beef Balkan Kebab with a spicy feta spread, and Stuffed Peppers, made with orzo, Tuscan kale, and almond velouté instead of the typical ground beef and root vegetables. Another highlight is the Eggplant Moussaka, which reimagines the classic dish with a mushroom ragu and long pepper béchamel in place of the traditional beef and tomato sauce.

Located at 700 N Clark St., Ambar spans 5,300 square feet and offers a spacious, communal dining atmosphere. The restaurant features a diverse array of regional specialties, including slow-cooked dishes from Northern Serbia, grilled meats from Southern Serbia, and fresh seafood from Montenegro and Croatia. This opening marks the first Ambar location outside of the Washington, D.C. area, where the concept has received attention for its distinctive approach to Balkan cuisine.

Ambar’s beverage program complements its food offerings with a selection of wines curated by Wine Consultant Jelena Prodan, focusing on small, boutique Balkan producers. The menu also features Rakia, a handcrafted fruit brandy that is popular throughout the Balkans, alongside a variety of cocktails created in collaboration with Un Ordinary Hospitality, a Serbian-founded company known for its innovative approach to drink-making.

For those interested in exploring this new addition to the city’s dining scene visit Ambar’s website.