Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Chicago / Illinois

Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

178 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
1. Peanut Park Trattoria
4.8
Exceptional(240)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 2 times today
Located in the heart of nostalgic "Little Italy" on Chicago's famed Taylor Street, Peanut Park is a traditional Italian joint brought to you by your friends at Coalfire and Tempesta Market.Chicago Magazine voted Peanut Park One of the Top Restaurants in Chicago February 2022 and Tasting Table said we are " One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago" this past May 2022. Our menu is simple and we aim to celebrate Italian classics and timeless bistro favorites.We embody passion, integrity, and excellence while striving to provide an authentic dining experience by celebrating tradition and invoking the modern. Don't miss our handmade pastas, pizza and incredible cocktail menu. Join us in our dining room or dine al fresco on the rooftop for a one of a kind experience!
A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant
2. The Walnut Room - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7644)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 80 times today
For Large Parties 21 or more: please contact us at http://macysrestaurants.com/contact-us/ For Holiday Questions and Menu: http://macysrestaurants.com/walnut-room/holiday2024/The world famous Walnut Room has been a Chicago tradition since 1907. Located on the 7th floor of Macy's on State Street, the Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. Conveniently located in the heart of the Chicago theater district, the Walnut Room is an excellent choice to take a break from shopping or for a meal and a glass of wine before the show. Enjoy our Famous Mrs. Herring's Chicken Pot Pie and other well known favorites on the menu.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
3. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(14943)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 202 times today
Girl & the Goat opened in 2010 with the goal of offering a menu of bold, flavorful dishes designed to share in a fun and lively atmosphere. To complement the experience, we offer a curated selection of wines from around the world, focusing on small producers, along with a rotating list of craft beers and a playful cocktail menu crafted by our bartenders. The ever-changing menu, driven by locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, features favorites like sautéed green beans, roasted oysters, crispy short ribs, and confit goat belly. While reservations are encouraged for the dining room, our bar welcomes walk-ins, adventurers, and those who prefer spontaneity.
A photo of Duck Duck Goat restaurant
4. Duck Duck Goat
4.8
Exceptional(5610)
Price: Expensive
• Chinese • West Loop
Booked 159 times today
Chef Stephanie Izard brings her take on Chinese-American cuisine to Chicago's Fulton Market District with Duck Duck Goat, her third venture with Boka Restaurant Group. The menu features hand-pulled noodles, house-made dumplings, wontons, fried rice, and more, ensuring no diner leaves hungry. On weekends, Duck Duck Goat also offers a delightful dim sum brunch menu, perfect for starting the day with a creative twist on classic favorites.
A photo of Momotaro restaurant
5. Momotaro
4.6
Exceptional(3886)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • West Loop
Booked 118 times today
Momotaro is a multi-level Japanese restaurant located in the West Loop. Led by Executive Chef Gene Kato, Momotaro has had the honor of being named Restaurant of the Year in both Chicago Magazine and Chicago Social. Under Kato’s leadership the restaurant has come to define the balance between traditional values and modern technique, blending the two in a science and art that has resulted in an authentic, innovative menu. The restaurant, designed by the world renowned AvroKO, also contains the subterranean Izakaya at Momotaro (a laid back, lively lower-level bar and restaurant reminiscent of the neon-lit haunts of trendy Tokyo neighborhoods) and an elegant second floor private space that overlooks the main dining room.
A photo of The Palm Court restaurant
6. The Palm Court
4.6
Exceptional(5085)
Price: Very Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 65 times today
For those who love their afternoon teas fresh, fragrant and steeped in history, Palm Court at The Drake Hotel serving tea for over a century. Even the Queen and Princess Diana have made their royal visits here. Your afternoon tea begins with Palais de Thes menu, which features 15 tea blends including classic selections like the English Breakfast to modern yet delightful twists like the Mélange du Cap.Tea is served in individual tea pots accompanied by the traditional three tiered tea tray filled with an arrangement of gourmet finger sandwiches and scones; and dainty petit fours with complements of preserves, lemon curd and English double Devon cream.And let’s not forget about our little tea. The Prince & Princess Afternoon tea service, suitable for children between 3 and 12 years of age is available throughout the duration of afternoon tea service.Reservations are heavily encouraged. Tea service seating duration is 90minAdults $79/ $82 with Carolers / Kids $35 (3-12)
A photo of RL Restaurant restaurant
7. RL Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(7325)
Price: Expensive
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 113 times today
If you do not find availability online, please call the restaurant directly at 312-475-1100.Located adjacent to the Ralph Lauren Chicago flagship store on Michigan Avenue, RL Restaurant features the vision and décor of Ralph Lauren in a modern club atmosphere. RL Restaurant offers classic American cuisine inspired by Ralph Lauren’s personal favorites. Seasonal dishes range from a chopped vegetable salad to a lobster roll sandwich, grilled fish of the day and steaks. On the cocktail list, guests can choose from classic drinks and a diverse selection of wines and other fine spirits.
A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
8. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago
4.7
Exceptional(8986)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 103 times today
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse has been a Chicago icon since partners Hugo Ralli and Steve Lombardo opened its doors in May 1989. The classic American steakhouse serves Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef. Gibsons also features fresh fish, classic cocktails, an extensive wine list and exceptional service. Celebrities, Chicago visitors and loyal neighborhood residents enjoy three distinct locations: Chicago, Rosemont and Oak Brook. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of El Che Steakhouse & Bar restaurant
9. El Che Steakhouse & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2114)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • West Loop
Booked 93 times today
Located just beyond the West Loop’s famed “restaurant row,” El Che Steakhouse & Bar is Chicago's go-to destination for steak, seafood, and live-fire cooking. The restaurant is modeled after Executive Chef/Partner John Manion’s fascination with Argentinean asados: traditional backyard barbecues surrounding the flame. A 12-foot custom-built grill serves as the centerpiece for this downtown asado which embraces South American-tinged meats, seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and of course, steak. The hearth also serves as the heart of the restaurant’s experiences such as dining at the Hearth Table. Join us for happy hour at our cocktail bar, featuring signature cocktails and fiery bar bites or indulge in a glass of wine from the country’s only South American wine list. No matter what you choose, El Che brings the heat seven nights a week.For large groups, private events, birthdays, or celebrations, email us info@elchechicago.com.
A photo of Swift & Sons restaurant
10. Swift & Sons
4.7
Exceptional(4604)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • West Loop
Booked 56 times today
Swift & Sons is an American Steakhouse brought to you by Boka Restaurant Group. The stunning multi-room space was designed by the world-renowned design firm AvroKO and is located in the heart of the Fulton Market District — the birthplace of Chicago meatpacking. Executive Chef Chris Pandel's menu is based in traditional ideas and elevated with a modern approach that makes it unique in the Chicago steakhouse landscape. Signature dishes include the Beef Wellington, a staple of traditional steakhouse dining showcased with expertise in the Swift dining room.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • KatrinaVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food was fantastic, music was contemporary and upbeat, and service was cordial and impeccable— she never let our glasses go empty and checked in at frequent intervals. We will definitely return!
    More info
    MomotaroPrice: Expensive• Japanese• West Loop
    •
    4.6
  • Nancy
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We brought our two grandsons (ages 5 and 3) to the Walnut Room in Chicago on 1/3/2025, to experience the holiday decor. The "fairies" circulating around to each table were so engaging while chatting with our grandsons, and explaining how to "make a wish". Our server was very friendly and efficient, even under the pressure of a very busy day at the restaurant. The food was very good, and I was pleasantly surprised to see kids menu items available, which our grandsons thoroughly enjoyed. Two small glitches. . 1. Upon arrival, there were soiled napkins/food items on the floor next to one of the chairs at our table. I was disappointed at that mess. One of the "fairies" noticed this mess and got the staff to clean it up and 2. Our cocktails were served AFTER our food arrived. Despite these two small glitches, we had a wonderful time together, and on the way home, our 5 year old grandson told us he had the BEST DAY ever.
    More info
    The Walnut Room - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • MerinVIP
    Los Angeles •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Service was great. They got us in early when we arrive too early before our reservation. Food was outstanding. We would go back again.  love the vibe of this restaurant.
    More info
    Duck Duck GoatPrice: Expensive• Chinese• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • sara
    Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    every time we eat at girl and the goat, i fall in love all over again. the food is creative and always delicious. the ambiance feels so cozy and casual, intimate, and like a warm hug. i love that i celebrated my 40th birthday here at the king’s table and then, 10 years later visited for my 50th birthday and tho we sat at a different table, had a repeat visit from the same server - GARY!!! definitely try the steak in citrus dressing, the pork belly in crabmeat sauce, and always the pig face. always always the pig face. and the crumpets in the pate order. my GOSH so good
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • David
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 19, 2024
    The welcome to the restaurant was very pleasant. The service was friendly and very attentive. This was not my first visit to.Peanut Park. They are consistently friendly and attentive. The food is always excellent and reasonably priced. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
    More info
    Peanut Park TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
    •
    4.8

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Discover the hidden treasures of Little Italy / University Village in Chicago through its collection of neighborhood gem restaurants. This area is renowned for its vibrant dining scene that beautifully blends traditional charm with modern culinary innovation, offering a unique experience for every palate. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on delivering not only exceptional cuisine but also a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the historic and cultural richness of the neighborhood. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a truly local dining experience that often exceeds expectations. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue to enjoy with friends, Little Italy / University Village promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Embrace the opportunity to explore a variety of menus, each featuring dishes crafted with passion and flair, ensuring every visit is distinctively delightful. This neighborhood's restaurants are a culinary nod to both the past and the present, making it a must-visit for food lovers in search of genuine, high-quality dining options.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo