Clicky

Upstairs at The Gwen

Upstairs at The Gwen Kostali at The Gwen is a vibrant Mediterranean restaurant located on North Rush Street in Chicago. Featuring an impressive culinary team led by Executive Chef Carrie Nahabedian, Kostali offers a transportive coastal experience with cuisine inspired by the great coasts of the Mediterranean, including Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Tunisia, Lebanon, Israel and Morocco. In addition to regular dining options, Kostali also offers private dining options for those looking for a more intimate experience. Come relax and indulge in casually elegant Mediterranean fare at Kostali.
(1)

Recent social media posts

We go full color in celebrating with Pride, including a vibrant menu of handcrafted cocktails, The Queen's Drag Tipsy Te...
06/01/2026

We go full color in celebrating with Pride, including a vibrant menu of handcrafted cocktails, The Queen's Drag Tipsy Tea available only on June 6th, and Moments in Bloom Tipsy Tea with specialty color added for the month of June. See all Upstairs at The Gwen offers, menus, and reservations here: https://bit.ly/UpstairsAtTheGwen

#🌈

05/30/2026

Fans, gloves, drag, and one exceptional guest will be crowned the "Diamond of the Season"? It must be the one-day-only Queen’s Drag Tipsy Tea! Hosted by Travis Fiero on June 6th at 12:30pm, join us for a most distinguished afternoon, enchanting drag performances featuring Abhijeet, Bambi Banks & Kenya Sanchez, one glass of bubbly upon arrival, one pot of Rishi tea, and an elegantly composed sweet and savory tea tower for your table.

Tickets available here: https://bit.ly/GwenQueensDragTipsyTeaJune6

Summer is officially here and it's time to   for the best Terrace and rooftop party all season! Join us for cocktails, p...
05/29/2026

Summer is officially here and it's time to for the best Terrace and rooftop party all season! Join us for cocktails, passed bites, live music, a Scent Bar from TEN4 Candle Company, "Witch Kraft" Cheese Fortune Readings from Jennifer Billock, Live Cityscape Painting & Raffle from Artist Erika Vazzana, city views, and more!

Tickets include unlimited frozen & non-frozen cocktails, the Blue Paloma or Lillet Rosé Spritz, unlimited Pernod Ricard Wines, stationed summer bites, and passed Hors D'oeuvres. Space is limited!

Summer Terrace Party
June 11 | 6-8:30pm
Tickets: https://bit.ly/SeeYouUpstairsTerracePartyJune11

Grab your gloves, honey, and make haste to join us for The Queen's Drag Tipsy Tea hosted by Travis Fiero on June 6th at ...
05/22/2026

Grab your gloves, honey, and make haste to join us for The Queen's Drag Tipsy Tea hosted by Travis Fiero on June 6th at 12:30pm! This distinguished afternoon includes a glass of bubbly upon arrival, one pot of Rishi tea, an elegantly composed sweet-and-savory tea tower for your table, and enchanting drag performances featuring Abhijeet, Bambi Banks & Kenya Sanchez. Guests are invited to arrive in their most exquisite attire, embracing the elegance and drama of the occasion, as fashion becomes part of the spectacle itself. One exceptional guest will be crowned the "Diamond of the Season", a celebration of standout style and presence!

The Queen's Drag Tipsy Tea
Saturday, June 6 | 12:30pm
Tickets: https://bit.ly/GwenQueensDragTipsyTeaJune6

Bubbly, charcuterie, and mahjong - bam! Everything you need for a great night at Upstairs at The Gwen. Join us on May 27...
05/21/2026

Bubbly, charcuterie, and mahjong - bam! Everything you need for a great night at Upstairs at The Gwen. Join us on May 27 and June 24 for American Mahjong with Sobamfun Mahjong. Beginners can join a lesson, while more experienced players can drop in for open play and connect with other players.

Ticket includes a glass of bubbly and charcuterie. Book both dates here: https://www.thegwenchicago.com/activities/mahjong/

When   lands on  , it calls for a fiesta of specials, including Gwen Fried Chicken Wings, Prime Beef Tacos, Classic Lime...
05/05/2026

When lands on , it calls for a fiesta of specials, including Gwen Fried Chicken Wings, Prime Beef Tacos, Classic Lime Margaritas, Strawberry Margaritas, & more! Explore our menus and offerings to join us at Upstairs at The Gwen.

Race on in for the most exciting sips and noshes of the weekend! Join us on race day for delicious Derby deals, includin...
05/02/2026

Race on in for the most exciting sips and noshes of the weekend! Join us on race day for delicious Derby deals, including our Derby Pie and Classic Mint Julep, as well as other themed drinks. Our Cinco de Mayo specials start this Saturday, May 2nd and also last through May 5th with margaritas, Prime Beef Tacos, and Gwen Fried Chicken Wings on special.

#🐎

04/27/2026

Sipping into the spring season with a purpose, as we share the "Daisie Cocktail" in support of Daisie Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting women and children in socioeconomic communities through intentional outreach and transformative experiences. Raise a glass with us with our offerings, available through June 30th, to sip, support, and blossom.

The Daisie Cocktail features Grey Goose vodka, dry vermouth, raspberry, lemon, and foamed bitters. A portion of all cocktail sales will benefit the Daisie Foundation and its mission.

04/24/2026

Moments in Bloom transforms Tipsy Tea into a celebration of springtime elegance. Delight in fragrant botanical teas, artfully mixed floral-inspired cocktails, and delicately crafted bites designed to reflect the vibrancy of the city in bloom. Rooted in creativity and connection, this experience captures the fresh energy and refined charm that define The Gwen in spring.

Tipsy Tea Seatings
Saturdays | 12 pm - 2:30 pm
Book here: https://bit.ly/UpstairsAtTheGwen

Welcoming   from our slice of paradise in the heart of the city on the Upstairs Rooftop. As temperatures continue to cli...
04/22/2026

Welcoming from our slice of paradise in the heart of the city on the Upstairs Rooftop. As temperatures continue to climb and blooms in a colorful array of spring flowers, we look forward to many spring and summer gatherings in full bloom.

Celebrating the   in mystic style with our celestial cocktail made with gin,  liqueur, demerara, espresso, and lemon bit...
04/01/2026

Celebrating the in mystic style with our celestial cocktail made with gin, liqueur, demerara, espresso, and lemon bitters. Join us at for stellar sips and good vibes.

Last call on tickets to join us on March 25th for a curated four-course sushi roll pairing, complemented by Japanese whi...
03/24/2026

Last call on tickets to join us on March 25th for a curated four-course sushi roll pairing, complemented by Japanese whisky and sake from and ! Join us here: https://bit.ly/UATGSpiritedAffairArtofJapaneseWhisky

A Spirited Affair: The Art of Japanese Whisky with Akashi-Tai & Hatozaki
Wednesday, March 25 | 6pm-8pm
Tickets: $62

03/17/2026

Celebrate and a season of connection with a curated selection of fragrant teas, lovingly crafted tea-infused cocktails, and delicate bites that radiate warmth and refined indulgence. Inspired by luxury, friendship, and the beauty of shared moments, this experience invites guests to savor togetherness and The Gwen’s signature spirit of timeless affection.

Moments Made with Love Tipsy Tea
Saturdays through March | 12 pm - 2:30 pm
Book seatings here: https://bit.ly/UpstairsAtTheGwen

03/07/2026

In honor of , we invite you to join us at Upstairs at The Gwen to Sip Her Story, a series of specialty cocktails honoring women who lead, create, and inspire. On the menu:

đŸȘ¶The Betsy - Inspired by Betsy Flanagan, an 18th-century innkeeper who coined “cocktail” by garnishing drinks with rooster feathers

đŸŸThe Audrey - Inspired by Audrey Saunders, a NYC bartender, created the Old Cuban in the early 2000s, with the goal of providing a refreshing alternative to traditional Champagne cocktails.

đŸčThe Virginia - Inspired by Virginia Woolf, the modernist writer who captured the inner worlds of women and turned streams of consciousness into timeless literature.

03/02/2026

The season of Gwen's Winter Curl & Chill is ending soon, with the last stones to be thrown on the curling court on March 8th! If you have been eager to join us this year, make your reservations between now and March 8th to savor a special experience fireside with indulgent Ă  la carte drinks and seasonal bites. Learn more and book here: https://bit.ly/UpstairsAtTheGwen

Enjoy an evening of cocktails, great company, and American Mahjong at The Gwen with So Bam Fun! Beginners can join a les...
02/15/2026

Enjoy an evening of cocktails, great company, and American Mahjong at The Gwen with So Bam Fun! Beginners can join a lesson, while more experienced players can drop in for open play and connect with other players. Come solo or with friends. It’s all about having a great night out, whether you’re learning or playing.

Mahjong at The Gwen
Thursday, February 19 & Thursday, March 19 | 7pm - 9pm
Tickets: $25-$50
Learn more here: https://bit.ly/UATGMahjongFeb19

It doesn't have to be   to celebrate with your besties! With our   menu available daily from 2pm-7pm, there's always a r...
02/13/2026

It doesn't have to be to celebrate with your besties! With our menu available daily from 2pm-7pm, there's always a reason to sip, snack, and socialize in style. On the menu:

Margherita Flatbread
Choice of Truffle Fries or Hummus
Choice of Side Frisée Salad or Little Gem Caesar Salad
Choice of Martini or Glass of Wine

Join us, at Upstairs at The Gwen!

Taking inspiration from the Olympics, we're extending the fun over the long holiday weekend with a curl, nosh, sip, and ...
02/09/2026

Taking inspiration from the Olympics, we're extending the fun over the long holiday weekend with a curl, nosh, sip, and an extended stay. Reserve your Winter Curl & Chill adventures for time on the court, and explore overnight packages here: https://bit.ly/GwenOffers

📾 Gene Yoon Photo & Films

End   on a sweet note, with our specialty Three-Course Menu, which includes a dessert choice of Maple CrÚme Brûlée, Tira...
02/07/2026

End on a sweet note, with our specialty Three-Course Menu, which includes a dessert choice of Maple CrÚme Brûlée, Tiramisu, or Lemon Sorbet. Reservations available through Sunday, February 8th, here: https://bit.ly/UpstairsAtTheGwen

📾 Elizabeth Hammer Photography

Choose Chicago

Big game, bigger specials. Join us Upstairs at The Gwen on Sunday, February 8th to enjoy $10 Draft Beers, $7 Bottled Bee...
02/01/2026

Big game, bigger specials. Join us Upstairs at The Gwen on Sunday, February 8th to enjoy $10 Draft Beers, $7 Bottled Beers, $18 Lux Burger, $12 Chicken Wings, $12 Flatbreads, and good vibes.

📾 Elizabeth Hammer Photos

likefoodchicago

Moments Made With Love envelops The Gwen’s iconic Tipsy Tea in heartfelt elegance, offered now through March 2026. Celeb...
01/30/2026

Moments Made With Love envelops The Gwen’s iconic Tipsy Tea in heartfelt elegance, offered now through March 2026. Celebrate the season of connection with a curated selection of fragrant teas, lovingly crafted tea-infused cocktails, and delicate bites that radiate warmth and refined indulgence. Inspired by luxury, friendship, and the beauty of shared moments, this experience invites guests to savor togetherness and The Gwen’s signature spirit of timeless affection.

Tipsy Tea Seatings
Saturdays & Sundays | 12 pm - 2:30 pm
Book seatings and see menus here: https://bit.ly/UpstairsAtTheGwen

📾 Gene Yoon Photo & Films

This season is all about connection, so we're firing things up a bit with a Candle Making & Wine Pairing on Thursday, Fe...
01/28/2026

This season is all about connection, so we're firing things up a bit with a Candle Making & Wine Pairing on Thursday, February 12, from 6–8pm! Join us for a sparkling welcome, a hands-on candle-making workshop from TEN4 Candle Company, and a guided tasting of Harvey & Harriet Wines and My Favorite Neighbor Wines , paired with beautifully crafted bites by Executive Chef Matt Jergens, designed to complement each pour. Space is limited for this pre-Valentine's Day experience. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/UATGSpiritedAffairHarveyHarriet

A Spirited Affair: Candle Making + Wine Pairing Experience
Thursday, February 12 | 6pm - 8pm
Tickets: $75 linked in our profile

Awaken the mind, body, and spirit at our The Soul Experience - Yoga & Sound Bath in collaboration with High Society and ...
01/25/2026

Awaken the mind, body, and spirit at our The Soul Experience - Yoga & Sound Bath in collaboration with High Society and Soul House Collective this Saturday, January 31st. Following this sacred practice, explore curated vendor activations that nourish the soul and inspire intentional living. Enjoy thoughtfully curated complimentary offerings that foster deep connection, mindfulness, and inner harmony, leaving you ready to embrace your highest self. Space is limited. Confirm your spot here: https://bit.ly/GwenHighSocietySoulExperience

The Soul Experience - Yoga & Sound Bath
Saturday, January 31st | 10 am - 12 pm
Tickets: $45 https://bit.ly/GwenHighSocietySoulExperience

Available now through February 8th, join us at Upstairs at The Gwen  for   and a curated, delectable Three-Course Menu. ...
01/23/2026

Available now through February 8th, join us at Upstairs at The Gwen for and a curated, delectable Three-Course Menu. Explore options and book here: https://bit.ly/UATGChicagoRestaurantWeek2026

📾 Elizabeth Hammer Photos

Choose Chicago

Address

521 North Rush Street
Chicago, IL
60611

The restaurant is located on North Rush Street, close to the intersection with East Delaware Place.

For those using public transport, there are several bus stops nearby on North Michigan Avenue and East Walton Street. Additionally, the Chicago-Red Metro Station on North State Street is a 15-minute walk away from the restaurant.

For drivers, there are several paid parking lots and garages in the surrounding blocks. One option is a garage on East Chestnut Street between North Michigan Avenue and Lake Shore Drive, which is about a 5-minute walk away from the restaurant.

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Upstairs at The Gwen posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Share

Category

What people say

Kostali at The Gwen is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a vibrant Mediterranean dining experience in the heart of Chicago. With private dining options available, this restaurant offers a relaxing and casually elegant atmosphere that transports you to the beautiful coasts of the Mediterranean. The cuisine is inspired by the great coasts of Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Tunisia, Lebanon, Israel and Morocco. The partnership between The Gwen and James Beard Award-Winning chef Carrie Nahabedian has resulted in an exceptional menu that features some of the most delicious dishes you'll ever taste. Kostali means "coastal" in Maltese, which perfectly encapsulates the essence of this restaurant. If you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience on North Rush Street, look no further than Kostali at The Gwen!

Claim ownership or report listing