Best Hot Spot Restaurants in Old Town

Great service and portions. Really appreciated the great seating as well! Can't wait to return :)

My favorite restaurant in all of Chicago. Consistently fantastic. The crispy veggie egg rolls, chicken dumplings, signature fried rice, and shaking beef are musts. The cocktail program could use some TLC but the food is so good it doesn’t matter.

Restaurant Review: The Girl and The Goat The Girl and The Goat continues to solidify its reputation as one of Chicago’s must-visit dining destinations. With a focus on bold flavors and a playful approach to globally inspired dishes, this restaurant delivers a truly memorable experience. Highlights: •Bread and Pimento: This dish is deceptively simple but executed to perfection. The warm, freshly baked bread pairs beautifully with the creamy, smoky pimento spread. It’s the kind of starter that sets the tone for an indulgent meal, leaving you reaching for seconds (or thirds). •Empanadas: Bursting with flavor, these are a standout. The flaky, golden crust envelops a perfectly seasoned filling that balances savory richness with a touch of spice. Each bite feels like a small, delicious adventure. Drinks to Complement Your Meal: While The Girl and The Goat boasts a full bar menu offering craft cocktails, wines, and beers to suit any palate, the non-alcoholic options are equally impressive. The menu features thoughtfully crafted mocktails, infused with fresh herbs, seasonal fruits, and house-made syrups. Standouts include a refreshing citrus-and-mint blend and a rich hibiscus and ginger cooler, each perfectly balanced to enhance the meal without overpowering the flavors of the food. Dessert Note: •Chocolate and Peanut Butter Dessert: A decadent and satisfying way to end your meal. The harmony of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates a nostalgic yet elevated experience. The textures—silky, crunchy, and smooth—make this dessert unforgettable. The Girl and The Goat’s ability to innovate while staying approachable is what makes it a perennial favorite. From small plates to desserts, and a drink menu that caters to every guest, every dish tells a story worth savoring.

This is our favorite place in the city for many reasons. The drinks, the food, the look and feel of it, but the number one reason we keep coming back is the people who work at RL. It was a wildly busy evening this last time we came in and while many would have folded, the team went out of their way to take care of us. And that’s what sets this place apart. You’re cared for here. We were listened to and made comfortable. It ended up being a wonderful evening all thanks to obviously the food and drink, but mainly each employee we came in contact with. Come for the lush martinis, the perfect dover sole, the rich wood and dim lights but keep coming back for the people.

Incredible food - the beef tartare was zesty and delicious, beef short ribs had body but could still be cut by a butter knife, and the oat financier dessert was a delightful, lightly salty, perfectly balanced dessert - all incredible. The beef short ribs had some of the best umami flavor I've ever had thanks to the roasted puree (I think celery?) they put on the dish. Great drinks as well, try the Bella & Beatrice if you like gin at all.