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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown / Loop

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236 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Acanto restaurant
1. Acanto
4.8
Exceptional(3939)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 60 times today
Across from Millennium park and along Chicago’s Cultural Mile, Acanto Restaurant + Wine Bar is a treasured destination for those who appreciate authentic and approachable Italian food in a conversation-friendly atmosphere. Acanto serves seasonally-driven Italian cuisine from both regions of Italy utilizing artisanal ingredients from Midwest farmers and producers. Acanto boasts one of the most lauded wine programs in the US, including a 3-star rating by World of Fine Wine and a two-glass “Best of Excellence” rating by Wine Spectator. The libations menu is rounded out by Italian classics including spritzes and negronis along with craft cocktails, beer, and spirits. The word Acanto is the Italian translation of Acanthus, the flowery leaf featured prominently in Roman architecture. Famed architect Louis Sullivan used Acanthus in his distinctive terra cotta ornamentation found on the facade of the historically-landmarked building that houses Acanto.
A photo of PERILLA steakhouse - Riverwalk restaurant
2. PERILLA steakhouse - Riverwalk
4.6
Exceptional(200)
Price: Very Expensive
• Korean • Downtown / Loop
Booked 30 times today
A modern interpretation of the classic Chicago steakhouse inspired by traditional Korean flavors. The MICHELIN-recognized PERILLA brand pays homage to the city’s iconic steakhouse roots while introducing a new iteration of the classic dining concept. Designed to be an energetic and explorative dining experience, the restaurant features custom grill tables and a one of a kind tasting menu featured on the Chef Counter.
A photo of The Berghoff Restaurant restaurant
3. The Berghoff Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2595)
Price: Moderate
• German • Downtown / Loop
Booked 52 times today
---The Berghoff Restaurant is a Chicago landmark, serving German-style cuisine and culture since 1898. One of the oldest family-run businesses in the nation, now run by the fourth generation, Pete Berghoff. Today's Berghoff menus have evolved to add newer, lighter, and more contemporary dishes, but it's still the same old Berghoff, down to the famous root beer. In December 2018, the Berghoff family opened Adams Street Brewery, aptly named after the street they have called home for over a century, to nod to their brewing roots and commemorate the restaurant's 120th anniversary.
A photo of Elephant & Castle - Chicago Wabash Ave. restaurant
4. Elephant & Castle - Chicago Wabash Ave.
4.6
Exceptional(784)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lakeshore East
Booked 27 times today
Nestled on the corner of Wabash and Lake, Elephant & Castle is your go-to British pub in the heart of Chicago's vibrant theatre and shopping districts. Just steps from the iconic Chicago Theatre and two blocks from the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, we offer classic British pub fare like fish and chips, hearty breakfasts, and live sports on big screens. Whether you're stopping by for happy hour, catching a football match, or grabbing a bite before a show, Elephant & Castle delivers an unforgettable pub experience right in downtown Chicago.
A photo of Pizano's Pizza & Pasta - Madison restaurant
5. Pizano's Pizza & Pasta - Madison
4.7
Exceptional(340)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 29 times today
Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta blends classic Italian recipes and fresh takes on traditional fare in one satisfying menu. The son of Pizzeria Uno founder and deep dish creator Rudy Malnati Sr., Pizano’s owner Rudy Malnati Jr. knows what makes an Italian dish truly delicious; high-quality ingredients, authentic recipes, and excellent service. Bowls of seafood marinara and chicken alfredo share menu space with bubbling deep dish pizza and Pizano’s award-winning thin crust pizza, a favorite of critics and visitors alike, including Oprah Winfrey, who featured the restaurant on her show. Located in the heart of Jeweler’s Row, the Madison Street location embodies historic Chicago dining, as timeless songs by Sinatra and Martin fill the air while diners gaze at numerous photos of famous athletes and entertainers line deep, rich wooden walls.
A photo of Bandol restaurant
6. Bandol
4.2
Awesome(283)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary French / American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 11 times today
Bandol blends French and Mediterranean classics with modern seafood, a raw bar, and American influences, inspired by the coastal town of Bandol. Its light-filled, art-deco space is ideal for everything from a morning espresso and pastry to a business lunch, memorable dinner, or late-night digestif. Parisian-style outdoor seating offers a relaxing escape in the heart of the city. Bandol serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekday happy hour, and weekend brunch.The upscale to-go coffee bar and bakery counter offers Lavazza coffee, grab-and-go breakfast items, and house-made pastries, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.Parking validation is available for guests parked at 172 W Madison Self-Park Garage. After 4 p.m. on weekends and weeknights, enjoy free parking with a $25 meal purchase. Bring your parking slip for validation. Not valid for valet parking.
A photo of Esta Loca restaurant
7. Esta Loca
3.8
Excellent(28)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Esta Loca on Randolph is an elevated Tex Mex and Mexican restaurant in the heart of Chicago, just off of Millennium Park. Join us for a bite in the dining room, or take Esta Loca with you for a convenient and delicious meal on the go. Host your next event or special occasion with Esta Loca! Located next to Millennium Park with gorgeous views and a rooftop patio, it’s the perfect venue to celebrate your next milestone or corporate gathering.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
8. Pizzeria Portofino
4.8
Exceptional(1735)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 148 times today
Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched casual restaurant located directly on the Chicago riverfront offering hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an expansive patio and breezy decor that will instantly transport you to the Italian Riviera.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
9. Mercadito - River North
4.6
Exceptional(6366)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 96 times today
We are the city’s top Mexican restaurant for authentic modern cuisine, specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails, located in the heart of River North. Our culinary team features popular Mexican dishes, including our signature tacos, as well as fresh salsa and guacamole, ceviche, esquites and more.Mercadito's lounge is nestled in the lower level of Mercadito. It offers a speakeasy-style experience with a chic and exclusive ambiance. The space features banquet-style booths and dim lighting that enhances the elegant wood furniture, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Once inside, guests can enjoy the full Mercadito menu, with the same delectable cuisine and beverages that our restaurant is known for.
A photo of il Carciofo restaurant
10. il Carciofo
4.5
Awesome(285)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 124 times today
Located in the historic Fulton Market district of Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets in one of Chef Joe's favorite cities, Rome. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of elevated yet familiar Italian fare with traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas produced daily in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains that highlight the season's bounty.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown / Loop

Discover an array of authentic dining experiences in the lively Downtown / Loop area of Chicago, Illinois. This bustling culinary hub is renowned for its diverse range of restaurants that masterfully blend local and international flavors to offer truly genuine tastes in every dish. Whether you're craving an Italian feast, Brazilian barbeque, or classic American fare, the Downtown / Loop district promises an authentic dining experience that caters to discerning palates. Each restaurant in this area maintains a high standard of quality, celebrating both traditional cooking techniques and innovative culinary practices. Patrons often praise these establishments for their exceptional food, outstanding service, and inviting atmospheres, making each meal memorable. The dining scene here is vibrant and highly rated by both locals and visitors, reflecting Chicago's rich gastronomic culture. When you dine in Downtown / Loop, you're in for an authentic treat that captures the essence of Chicago's expansive culinary landscape.

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