Best Southern American Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

280 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Smith - Chicago restaurant

1. The Smith - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(2715)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 24 times today

At The Smith in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood, burger enthusiasts are treated to an exceptional dining experience that centers around crafting perfection between two buns. Known for its lively atmosphere and stellar service, The Smith has made a name for itself with its mouthwatering burgers. Patrons rave about the quality and authenticity of their burgers, with one diner exclaiming, "I had the Smith burger and it was amazing!" This casual American brasserie not only promises a great time but also delivers with its standout burgers that keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more. Whether it's the prime ingredients, the expert preparation, or the craft cocktails that complement each bite, The Smith stands out as a must-visit for burger aficionados in Chicago.

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant

2. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

4.5

Awesome(943)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 111 times today

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's River North, La Grande Boucherie offers a transcendent blend of traditional French cuisine and Chicago's rich culinary heritage. Housed in the stunning Belle Époque building, this restaurant provides an atmosphere that evokes the charm of a Parisian brasserie with its authentic fixtures and custom mosaic marble floors. Diners rave about the "exceptional food and outstanding service," with dishes like the creamy crème brûlée and perfectly prepared steak frites consistently earning high praise. Whether it's the indulgent ambiance, the meticulously crafted menu, or the attentive staff, La Grande Boucherie delivers an authentic French dining experience that is truly "the closest thing to a Paris bistro in Chicago."

A photo of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab restaurant

3. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

4.9

Exceptional(17581)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 98 times today

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood is a jewel of American cuisine. Celebrated for its partnership with the iconic Joe's Stone Crab of Miami Beach, this restaurant brings you the freshest seafood alongside sumptuous prime steaks. Diners rave about the "delicious King Crab legs and Stone Crab" and the "superb Crab Bisque," highlighting the authenticity and quality of its offerings. The service at Joe's is equally commendable; as one patron noted, the service was "exceptional, Lamar was amazing," adding to the overall exceptional dining experience. Whether it's for a slice of their famous key lime pie or their hand-carved 24 oz. Bone-In Rib Eye, Joe's consistently delivers a top-notch American dining experience that is both memorable and indulgent.

A photo of Beatrix - River North restaurant

4. Beatrix - River North

4.6

Exceptional(5345)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 32 times today

Beatrix is a neighborhood coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place in Chicago’s River North, Streeterville, Fulton Market and Oak Brook neighborhoods. The restaurant was created by Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Founder Rich Melman, Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs and Chef Partners John Chiakulas, Rita Dever and Susan Weaver. The menu features healthy meets delicious options, and is known for its iconic coffee and bakery counter including signature cookies, in-house pastry favorites and house blends from our very own, Beatrix Coffee Roasters. Beatrix is open daily for coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.

A photo of Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant

5. Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(9170)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 86 times today

Smith & Wollensky in Chicago, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood, is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, offering diners an unforgettable riverfront dining experience. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and preparation of the seafood, with one guest highlighting, "Our dinners were excellent. Lobster was cooked perfectly and the filet mignon was tender and delicious." Another diner praised the variety and taste of the seafood starters stating, "Delicious as always. The crab cakes, oysters, and Wollensky salad were so tasty." This iconic Chicago staple not only promises a feast for the taste buds with its authentic and high-quality seafood but also enchants with its scenic views and outstanding service, making every visit genuinely special.

A photo of Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago restaurant

6. Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(1334)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 66 times today

Yardbird Table & Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North is a beacon of authentic American Southern cuisine, celebrated by giants like James Beard and Bon Appétit. The restaurant's core, its famous fried chicken, embodies the soul of Southern hospitality. Diners rave about the "best chicken and waffles I have ever had" and praise the "spectacular" ambiance and service. Each dish, from the deviled eggs to the Bourbon Maple Syrup, is steeped in cherished family recipes, offering a taste of genuine warmth and charm. Yardbird consistently delivers an "amazing" dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving elevated American classics in a beautifully curated setting.

A photo of Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago restaurant

7. Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago

4.8

Exceptional(14309)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 64 times today

Shaw’s Crab House & Oyster Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood is a beacon of American cuisine, expertly blending a rich tradition with top-tier seafood offerings since 1984. Celebrated for its exquisite seafood, Shaw's provides a "step back in time" to when dining was a grand affair. Patrons rave about the "unbelievable Narragansett bay scallops as sweet as candy" and the consistency that makes every visit memorable. The ambiance, described as a classic "supper club" charm, coupled with "exceptional" service, ensures that Shaw’s stands out as a premier destination for both locals and visitors seeking the pinnacle of American dining in Chicago.

8. avec River North

4.7

Exceptional(430)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 46 times today

Avec River North, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary French/American cuisine. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its "consistently delicious" fare, under the guidance of James Beard award-winning chef Paul Kahan and executive chef Dylan Patel. Patrons rave about the "creative and perfectly prepared food," with dishes like the bacon-wrapped dates and duck confit agnolotti receiving high praise. The ambiance of Avec River North matches the quality of its dishes, described as "a great vibe" and perfect for any occasion. As one diner put it, "Every dish was heavenly," making Avec River North a must-visit for a quintessential Chicago dining experience.

9. River Roast

4.5

Awesome(3321)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 22 times today

Nestled along the scenic Chicago River in the vibrant River North neighborhood, River Roast stands out as a premier destination for authentic American cuisine. This bustling social house offers a unique dining experience with dramatic table-side carvings of whole roasted chicken, fish, and beef, highlighting the rustic yet refined flair of American tavern fare. Many patrons rave about the "AMAZING" whole roasted chicken and the perfectly seasoned roast dishes, making it clear why this spot is a favorite. The atmosphere is complemented by "spectacular views" and a "lively" vibe, ideal for any occasion. Whether it's enjoying a "top notch" brunch or savoring a meal under the stars on one of Chicago's best patios, River Roast delivers an unforgettable American dining experience, as echoed by many: "Food was amazing," and the service is consistently "excellent."

10. Andy's Jazz Club

4.7

Exceptional(5077)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 64 times today

Nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Andy's Jazz Club offers a delightfully unique dining experience combining soulful jazz with heartwarming Comfort Food. Patrons consistently praise the quality and taste of dishes like the "delicious strip steak" and "handmade pasta," highlighting both as unexpectedly impressive for a jazz venue. The atmosphere is described as cozy and nostalgic, perfect for enjoying classics like ravioli with portobello and lemon butter sauce, which comes highly recommended. As one reviewer raved, it's "food to die for" in a setting where every performance enhances the meal, creating an unforgettable culinary and auditory experience.

‘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

J
JosephVIP
Chicago / Illinois •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Great service, great food, great wine selection...and they remembered me form a visit a month ago.
More info
Chicago qPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.3
L
LaKia
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
This was my first time at Yardbird and we had a great time. My bf loves bourbon and we opted for the “Dealer’s Choice” bourbon flight. Leni our server was amazing and she took the experience seriously. It was a joy to watch her and her crew select the options and even more of a joy for my bf to try them. When we go back, we would definitely request her service.
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Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
C
Cynthia
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
My daughter and I dined there last night and we were really impressed all the way around. From being greeted at the door (he was fabulous) and our server was equally fabulous. I sat and watched the servers and they were "on-point". There wasn't a glass that wasn't filled immediately, a plate taken away when meal completed in the most timeliest facet. The decor was great - felt like a really vibrant atmosphere and the food, the food, the food was the best. I enjoyed this experience and will definitely refer my friends but more importantly will be back. Chef's Kiss! This is a restaurant you don't want to skip.
More info
ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.7
E
EricaVIP
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Always a pleasures to come and enjoy one of my favorite spots to visit in downtown Chicago. A bit pricy, but delicious is the name of the game and that’s what keeps brining me back. See you again soon!
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.1
B
bruce
Minneapolis - St. Paul •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 6, 2024
Great food at a reasonable price with great service. Catfish, burger, and wings were exceptional. Hoppin John and Mac and cheese were great.
More info
The DeltaPrice: Moderate• Southern• Bucktown / Wicker Park
•
4.1

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River North (Chicago)

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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280 restaurants available nearby

1. The Smith - Chicago

2. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

3. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

4. Beatrix - River North

5. Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago

6. Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago

7. Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago

8. avec River North

9. River Roast

10. Andy's Jazz Club

See what locals rave about

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