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Best Californian Restaurants in Chicago

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Aba - Chicago restaurant
1. Aba - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(2585)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • West Loop
Booked 202 times today
Aba in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant shines with Chef CJ Jacobson’s unique, light culinary approach, drawing rich flavors from regions like Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece. Guests are consistently amazed, describing the experience as "astounding" with flavors that are "entertaining to eat" and a setting that immediately sets the tone for a delightful Mediterranean meal. Signature dishes like the Smoky Garlic Hummus and Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak are crowd favorites, often highlighted in reviews as "phenomenal" and "to die for." The carefully curated bar program complements the dining experience with rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits, enhancing the authenticity and quality of the meal. Whether it's the impeccable service, the stunning decor, or the mouth-watering cuisine, Aba offers a Mediterranean dining experience that is truly unforgettable.
A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant
2. The Oakville Grill & Cellar
4.7
Exceptional(1058)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • West Loop
Booked 86 times today
The Oakville Grill & Cellar in Chicago's bustling West Loop is a gem for lovers of authentic Californian cuisine. Celebrated for its fresh, farm-to-table approach, the restaurant showcases the finest ingredients sourced from exclusive partnerships with farms and wineries in California and the Midwest. Diners rave about the "excellent food and wine," with standout dishes like the "branzino with Brussels sprouts" and the "Wagyu hanger steak." The ambiance is described as "always great" and the service "exceptional," making every meal memorable. Whether it's for the "gooey lemon cake" or the "best Caesar salad ever," The Oakville Grill & Cellar is highly recommended for an authentic taste of California right in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Summer House - Chicago restaurant
3. Summer House - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7839)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Lincoln Park
Booked 198 times today
Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, Summer House stands out as a beacon of Californian cuisine, transporting diners straight to the sunny West Coast with its beach house décor and seasonal specialties. Chef Ben Goodnick’s menu, bursting with market-driven pasta, artisan pizzas, and fresh antipasti, captures the essence of California’s vibrant flavors. Patrons rave about the "amazing" food and "splendid ambiance," noting that the "atmosphere felt like we were in CA." Summer House isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, where the retractable glass ceiling and all-season courtyard enhance each visit, making it a must-visit for an authentic Californian dining experience right in Chicago.
A photo of Ema - River North restaurant
4. Ema - River North
4.7
Exceptional(4531)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 89 times today
Ema, nestled in Chicago's vibrant River North, is a culinary gem that brilliantly fuses Mediterranean flavors with the essence of Californian cuisine. Praised for its "always fresh high-quality food" and "fantastic cocktails," Ema stands out for its commitment to authenticity and excellence. Diners rave about the innovative dishes like the "Bhel" hummus and the "delicious" chicken kebab, highlighting the creative twist Ema brings to Californian dining. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "beautiful airy space," complements its stellar service, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Whether it's the "impeccable service" or the "outstanding evening sharing small plates," Ema consistently delivers a top-tier gastronomic experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving Californian cuisine in Chicago.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Dinervip
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Loved the sunshine pouring through the ceiling! It is such a fabulous vibe! Food & service were terrific! Definitely going back!
    More info
    Summer House - ChicagoPrice: Moderate• American• Lincoln Park
    •
    4.6
  • Briannavip
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This was my second visit to Aba in the week because we were visiting and the food was so fresh and good the first time. All the staff were once again great and the food came out very quick for brunch. Would recommend if you like fresh pita and great dips.
    More info
    Aba - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Marc
    Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The bass was excellent, and the Kofta was tasty. However, the humus was a disappointment—not better than what one can buy in a grocery store. The cauliflower/broccoli dish was a good surprise. Overall, the food was good, but not surprising. The place was full (on a Friday night) -- crowded and noisy. Service was slow.
    More info
    Ema - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.7
  • Kristin
    Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    My branzino and my friend’s truffle pasta were excellent. Our appetizers were delicious and the waiter was very patient as it took us a long time before we were ready to order. He had to come back several times. The atmosphere is lively. I’d recommend it!
    More info
    The Oakville Grill & CellarPrice: Expensive• American• West Loop
    •
    4.7

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