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Best Restaurants for Creative Cuisine in Little Italy / University Village

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bar Mar restaurant
1. Bar Mar
4.6
Exceptional(976)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • River North (Chicago)
Booked 41 times today
Fresh oysters piled on mounds of sparkling ice. Ceviches that taste of the ocean. Chef José Andrés’ brilliant renditions of iconic seafood classics like fried calamari and lobster rolls. Located at the Bank of America Tower in Chicago, Bar Mar is a true celebration of the bounty of the sea, with modern takes on classics you know and love, festive cocktails, and a bright, beautiful space that interweaves the nautical with the elegant. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of Bistronomic restaurant
2. Bistronomic
4.8
Exceptional(6061)
Price: Moderate
• French • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 14 times today
Bistronomic is all about creative French cuisine in a cozy Parisian bistro setting. Reviews rave about the 'creative twists to standard fare' and 'flawless, creative preparation.' From the 'interesting selection of dishes' to 'daily specials,' the restaurant takes traditional French food and gives it a modern, inventive spin. The owners, Chef Martial & Lulu Noguier, are also commended for their passion for French cuisine and culture. The authenticity and uniqueness of Bistronomic's menu make it stand out as a creative culinary destination.
A photo of Bar Goa-Chicago restaurant
3. Bar Goa-Chicago
4.2
Awesome(124)
Price: Moderate
• Indian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 11 times today
Bar Goa is a clubby Indian Restaurant and Cocktail bar in the heart of Chicago's River North neighborhood. Located in the party district on Hubbard Street, Bar Goa transports Chicagoans year-round to India's sunny southwest coast, a region known for electronic music, and beautiful beaches. Diners can expect incredible seafood dishes, delicious Indian favorites & a robust vegan and gluten free menu.
A photo of Taxim restaurant
4. Taxim
4.5
Awesome(1094)
Price: Moderate
• Greek • Bucktown / Wicker Park
Booked 4 times today
Taxim, which is located in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood, features regionally-inspired Greek dishes paired with an all-Greek wine list. The stunning dining room is fitted with soaring 16-foot ceilings, travertine marble floors, dramatic Byzantine-style lamps and artwork, and the rooftop dining area lined with Greek flowering herbs.The restaurant was chosen as one of of Chicago's Best New Restaurants in 2009/2010 by the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine and the Chicago Reader. Additionally, Taxim's housemade yogurt with young favas and lamb confit was selected as one of the Best Bites of 2009 by the Chicago Reader, the house-cured sardines were mentioned in Time Out Chicago's 2009 "100 Best Things We Ate (and drank) This Year" feature, and the wood-grilled octopus was selected as 2010's "Best New Dish" by Chicago magazine. Additionally, chef-owner David Schneider appeared on the Food Network's "Iron Chef America" in April 2011 going head-to-head with Iron Chef Cat Cora.
A photo of Les Nomades restaurant
5. Les Nomades
4.8
Exceptional(2248)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary French • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 4 times today
One of Chicago’s finest dining experiences awaits you in this elegant town home setting that balances formality and friendliness. Your dinner may be paired with fine wines, as uncommon ingredients come together in perfect harmony. In operation since 1978, Les Nomades remains true to its distinctive character as an oasis of civilized tranquility amidst the bustling activity of its Streeterville location. Culinary creations delight the most discriminating palates. Savor Sautéed Foie Gras, or Lobster Ravioli with seared scallops; Roasted Breast and Confit Leg of Duck, or Duo of Roasted Partridge and Bison. Artisan cheeses are extraordinary and the pastries are sublime.Please keep in mind that proper attire is required including a jacket for gentlemen.
A photo of Enso Sushi & Bar restaurant
6. Enso Sushi & Bar
4.8
Exceptional(338)
Price: Moderate
• Sushi • Bucktown / Wicker Park
Explore mouthwatering seafood dishes at Enso Sushi & Bar. This restaurant serves creative Japanese fusion cuisine in spacious surrounds that include a sleek bar. The extensive menu runs the gamut, featuring hot plate dishes, teriyaki, sashimi, ramen and maki sushi. Visit for lunch and indulge in some donburi, served with miso and your choice of salmon, escolar, tuna and albacore. The menu at Enso sushi & bar also features beef-, pork-, and chicken-based dishes for guests who prefer an alternative to seafood cuisine.With its friendly service and warm ambiance, Enso Sushi & Bar is an ideal pick for everything from a leisurely casual meal to a fun outing with a date. The drink menu comes with an extensive selection of liquor, wine, sake and Japanese beers. This restaurant is open Mondays through Sundays.
A photo of Miki's Park restaurant
7. Miki's Park
4.7
Exceptional(126)
Price: Moderate
• Korean • River North (Chicago)
Booked 1 time today
Miki’s Park is a Korean-inspired bar concept located in the heart of River North. Unlike anything Chicago has seen before, the Hubbard St. spot combines an enticing menu of casual fare, original craft cocktails and genuine hospitality that can only come from true industry veterans. Whether you are looking for a place for Happy Hour, a night out with friends, or to grab a quick bite, Miki’s Park and Miki’s Tiger Bar is the new type neighborhood destination you’ve been waiting for.
A photo of Eden restaurant
8. Eden
4.8
Exceptional(1604)
Price: Expensive
• American • Avondale
Booked 11 times today
Eden’s ever-evolving brunch, lunch, dinner and beverage menus focus on the use of high-quality and seasonal ingredients, with an approach based on simplifying the process that goes into crafting each dish. This focus produces robust, clean flavors to compliment the flowers and herbs from our on-site greenhouse that also add beauty to each dish. Our 20’ x 28’ greenhouse allows us to grow all year, reduce our carbon footprint by sourcing on-site, and it helps the local ecosystem by attracting pollinators. Our sustainability efforts also include composting organic material left over during food preparation. Free Parking is available and easily accessible in the private lot across the street from the restaurant.
A photo of Hoja Santa restaurant
9. Hoja Santa
4.7
Exceptional(93)
Price: Expensive
• Latin / Spanish • Oak Park
Booked 2 times today
We're Hoja Santa, your culinary adventure in Oak Park. Inspired by the Hoja Santa leaf, we blend tradition and innovation to serve up unforgettable Mexican flavors. Join us for great food, crafted cocktails, and a warm welcome
A photo of Simply Pasteur restaurant
10. Simply Pasteur
4.8
Exceptional(719)
Price: Expensive
• Vietnamese • Edgewater
Booked 1 time today
Coming Soon! Heat covered patio seating. Opening 11/25/2020 High quality does not have to be pretentiousUnlike other south-east asian cuisines, Vietnamese food has influences from France. Given this influence, cooking is definitely a culmination of East meets West where meals are prepared and cooked for hours rather than flash fried.With fresh herbs, meats and vegetables, Simply Pasteur goes one step further than other Vietnamese restaurants by crafting our plates to be for a modern-american palette. That is, our cuisine is not only designed to be elegant, but also to be flavorful and to take experience into account.Come relax and enjoy an elegant pairing of Vietnamese pho, noodles, rice dishes and more with our in-house cocktails, wines and full bar.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • rick
    Chicago / Illinois •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    A wonderful Christmas Eve dining experience . The first , main course, and desert were well presented and delicious. The service was great too. Wines were excellent. Will make this restaurant dining experience through out 2026.
    More info
    BistronomicPrice: Moderate• French• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    •
    4.8
  • OzgeVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Bar Mar is always so good to have dinner in the Loop. I think menu was narrowed down this time but every meal on the menu is still SO GREAT
    More info
    Bar MarPrice: Expensive• Spanish• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.6
  • RobynVIP
    Toronto / Ontario •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food and drinks were delicious. The staff were very attentive and helpful. The atmosphere was casual and fun. The only negative was the price for a side of rice. That seemed high for a small bowl that typically comes with the meal. But overall it was a great dining experience.
    More info
    Bar Goa-ChicagoPrice: Moderate• Indian• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.2
  • LinneaVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •94 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    From amuse bouche to bonbons, superlatives barely scrape the surface of the fare and experience served up by well-trained, genial staff. If saffron is your go-to, the swordfish entré would be a good choice; for carnivores, the short-ribs are succulent and ‘knives unnecessary’ bites. Soufflés are masterfully crafted, subtly flavored, and good to the last spoonful. The crackling fireplace in the Salon de Thé provided a warm welcome on the cold solstice. Altogether a pleasurable experience.
    More info
    Les NomadesPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    •
    4.8
  • Bronwyn
    New Mexico •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 16, 2024
    Our server was extremely knowledgeable about the Greek wine list and recommended special items on the food menu. We assumed she was Greek, but when she heard my husband and our friend speaking German, she spoke Deutsch, and we learned that she is half German American and Italian American. It was an amazing meal and a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays with our friends.
    More info
    TaximPrice: Moderate• Greek• Bucktown / Wicker Park
    •
    4.5

Discover best creative cuisine restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Discover the vibrant flavors of creative cuisine in Chicago's Little Italy / University Village. This eclectic area serves as a culinary canvas where chefs blend traditional techniques with modern innovations to delight every palate. From fusion dishes that marry unexpected flavors to artfully plated creations, each restaurant in this locale offers a unique dining adventure. The dining scene here reflects a dynamic mix of cultural influences, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking creativity on their plates. Whether you're in the mood for an intimate bistro setting or a lively, contemporary eatery, the options are diverse and cater to all dining preferences. Each establishment not only promises an extraordinary meal but also a memorable experience, emphasizing quality and originality. For those passionate about culinary arts, Little Italy / University Village in Chicago is a treasure trove of inventive and inspiring dining options.

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