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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in South Loop

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154 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant
1. The Walnut Room - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7779)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 55 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
2. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(15046)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 185 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 The Franklin Room restaurant
3. The Franklin Room
4.9
Exceptional(1929)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • River North (Chicago)
Booked 17 times today
The Franklin Room celebrates the sense of connection one can only find in the neighborhood taverns of Chicago. Offering classic American tavern fare and no shortage of whiskey flair, our sophisticated speakeasy is your local go-to for quality meat dishes, fresh seafood, classic cocktails and the neighborhood tavern experience our city has perfected.Our menu of delectable turn-of-the-century inspired American tavern fare starts there, then elevates the experience with a modern twist that creates a culinary experience you simply have to taste to believe. It's perfectly complimented by our beverage program, which showcases creative cocktails and a meticulous selection of spirits, wine and beer with a strong focus on independent distillers and limited-edition rare releases. Bring them together and you've got a uniquely Chicagoan experience, centuries in the making.
A photo of The Gage restaurant
4. The Gage
4.7
Exceptional(12119)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 119 times today
The Gage has become a perennial favorite of locals and visitors alike for over ten years by effortlessly blending European influence with American style. The restaurant serves refined, rustic cuisine, innovative libations and an award-winning wine list all in a lively, convivial setting. Known as a “must visit” among Chicago’s dining scene, The Gage continues to evolve by serving well-rounded food and beverage menus that feature classic dishes and drinks with contemporary twists rooted in tradition.
A photo of The Palm Court restaurant
5. The Palm Court
4.6
Exceptional(5131)
Price: Very Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 44 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 $78 / Kids $35 (3-12)
A photo of Boka restaurant
6. Boka
4.8
Exceptional(7273)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Lincoln Park
Booked 53 times today
Michelin-starred Boka Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s dining scene since 2003. In 2014, following a major renovation, Chef Lee Wolen joined as Executive Chef and Partner, quickly gaining critical acclaim. Named “Chef of the Year” by both Phil Vettel of the Chicago Tribune and Eater Chicago in 2014, and again in 2015, Lee has helped elevate Boka to new heights. The restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine that highlights seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. The sophisticated yet inviting ambiance sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience, with daily-changing tasting menus that showcase timeless and seasonal American flavors.
A photo of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab restaurant
7. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
4.9
Exceptional(17721)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • River North (Chicago)
Booked 136 times today
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a neighborhood gem in River North, Chicago. With rave reviews mentioning its 'excellent food, service and atmosphere', it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is renowned for its extensive seafood menu, freshly flown in daily, and its signature prime steaks. The restaurant's ambiance, described as 'classy, old school' and 'beautiful atmosphere', is complemented by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. It's the perfect place for a special celebration or a casual dinner with friends.
A photo of Le Colonial - Chicago restaurant
8. Le Colonial - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(7990)
Price: Very Expensive
• Vietnamese • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 111 times today
Le Colonial is a celebration of seductive spirit and vivid flavors reminiscent of Saigon in the 1920s. With locations in Atlanta, Denver, Delray Beach, Houston, Lake Forest, and Naples, the famed Vietnamese restaurant is designed to capture a bygone era of sophistication and opulence. Celebrated restaurateurs Rick Wahlstedt and Joe King deliver exquisite attention to detail in the luxurious, classic, and romantic atmosphere perched on Oak Street in Chicago’s Gold Coast. For special occasions, our private dining space provides a bespoke setting for unforgettable celebrations.
A photo of RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
9. RPM Italian - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(12354)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 88 times today
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, RPM Italian is modern in approach and Italian in spirit, featuring a contemporary menu with dishes meant to be shared. The sister restaurant to RPM Steak and RPM Seafood, RPM Italian marks the first collaboration between partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
10. Mercadito - River North
4.6
Exceptional(6353)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 70 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.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Wale
    Indiana •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Nice, quiet even romantic vibes. Great spot for a date or just a cozy brunch with friends. Great service, typical American brunch menu with little unique twists here and there. I went with 2 friends and we got the scotch eggs to share and pancakes , French toast, and salmon meals. All looked good and tasted nice!
    More info
    The GagePrice: Moderate• American• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.7
  • SandyE
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Jose was an excellent server. Made great recommendations. Food was very good Charcuterie was perfect for 4, small caesar salad was shareable. Mushroom ravioli dish was very good as well. We had a great view looking out at Muddy Waters mural. Great for pre show dinner. And of course , the building is iconic Chicago history!
    More info
    The Walnut Room - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • Sophia
    Indiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I loved my time at the Franklin room! Our server anthony was awesome!! The atmosphere was more quiet which was very nice and we had the wagyu steak tartare, miso salmon and truffled tortellini all were 10/10. They even gave us a dessert for our anniversary and it was amazing. It was a pavlova with a raspberry sorbet and more I am obsessed. Such great service too very happy with our time
    More info
    The Franklin RoomPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.9
  • Sherry
    Greater Boston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Our high tea experience was amazing. We were celebrating my mothers 89th birthday and my daughter was coming from away as a surprise. The floor manager and waiter were wonderful in helping pull off the surprise which was so lovely. The food and tea and ambiance was wonderful and the service was beyond amazing. Even my 90 year old father enjoyed himself more than he thought he would. Can’t say enough about the whole experience
    More info
    The Palm CourtPrice: Very Expensive• Afternoon Tea• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    •
    4.6
  • Eli
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    A truly special dining experience, every dish was incredible and the wine pairing suggestion was on point. I appreciated the close attention to detail with my food allergies and was able to get several dishes modified in a way that didn’t appear to compromise on flavor! It’s a beautiful and comfortable space as well.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    •
    4.8

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