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Best Authentic Restaurants in South Loop

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228 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lou Malnati's - South Loop restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(123)
Price: Moderate
• Pizzeria • South Loop
Booked 42 times today
No true Chicago experience is complete without a visit to one of the oldest names in Deep Dish Pizza: Lou Malnati’s. Located on South State Street in the South Loop of Chicago, Lou’s South Loop is convenient to the McCormick Center, Soldier Field and Grant Park. Enjoy Legendary Chicago Deep Dish and thin crust at the place that’s been perfecting it for 50+ years. A cozy experience awaits ... whether you’ve been at a sporting event, sightseeing, or out for a night of jazz, Lou Malnati’s South Avenue is the perfect spot to satiate your deep dish cravings.
A photo of TAK Korean Bistro restaurant
4.2
Awesome(43)
Price: Moderate
• Korean • South Loop
Booked 8 times today
A Korean pocha restaurant in South Loop Chicago is a lively and casual eatery that serves up traditional Korean street food dishes and drinks. Pocha, which translates to "street food tent," refers to the popular outdoor food stalls found in South Korea, and this type of restaurant aims to recreate that experience in an indoor setting.At a Korean pocha restaurant, you can expect to find a variety of small plates, or "anju," that are meant to be shared among friends while drinking soju or beer. These dishes can include popular Korean bar snacks like fried chicken, spicy rice cakes, and seafood pancakes.The atmosphere at a Korean pocha restaurant is usually laid-back and social, with a focus on hanging out with friends and enjoying good food and drinks.Overall, if you're looking for a fun and flavorful dining experience in South Loop Chicago, a Korean pocha restaurant is a great choice. With its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food, it's sure to be a memorable meal.
A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(11080)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 117 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(6346)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 81 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 La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1120)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • River North (Chicago)
Booked 52 times today
Housed in Chicago’s Belle Époque building, the unique Art Nouveau-inspired space honors the iconic building’s legacy while providing guests with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere and menu. La Grande Boucherie blends the ambiance of an indulgent steakhouse with a refined Parisian brasserie charm, and fuses traditional French cuisine with Chicago’s River North culinary heritage. The two-story restaurant boasts custom curved stained-glass windows overlooking the bustling streets of Chicago. The interior features custom mosaic marble floors, authentic fixtures, and a racetrack bar sourced from France. Guests can lean into the view and take in all that Chicago has to offer.
A photo of Acanto restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3916)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 25 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 Duck Duck Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5676)
Price: Expensive
• Chinese • West Loop
Booked 90 times today
Chef Stephanie Izard brings her unique twist on Chinese-American cuisine at Duck Duck Goat. Reviews rave about the flavorful food, with one saying, 'The food is very good and sophisticated'. The ambiance is also highly praised, with one review describing it as a 'unique and flavourful' experience. While not all reviews explicitly mention the authenticity of the food, the high ratings suggest a genuine and enjoyable dining experience.
A photo of RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(12346)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 99 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 Cabra - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3102)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • West Loop
Booked 53 times today
Perched atop the Hoxton Hotel in the heart of Chicago’s Fulton Market, Cabra Chicago is a lively rooftop escape, inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Led by James Beard Award and Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, alongside longtime partners Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of Boka Restaurant Group, Cabra serves up crave-worthy dishes in a colorful and energetic setting. The restaurant’s airy, plant-filled ambiance, paired with its open kitchen and sweeping city views, creates a dynamic dining experience. Guests can savor a variety of shareable plates, from ceviches to savory meats, all bursting with the rich, fresh flavors of Peru.
A photo of Asador Bastian restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(232)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 19 times today
Asador Bastian is a Chicago chophouse with Basque influences from acclaimed ChefDoug Psaltis. Located in the iconic “Flair House” originally built in 1883, this historictownhouse has been revived and brought back to life with culinary inspiration from thegreat asadors of San Sebastián, Spain to serve the world’s best boutique beef withoutcompromise. The most remarkable dining experience comes from the purest ingredientsdelivered in the supremely thoughtful, welcoming and hospitable manner. This ethoshas directed every aspect of the experience at Asador Bastian, whether you’re joiningus for small bites and libations in our Bar Room or for a more intimate experience in ourDining Room.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Adina
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We tried this restaurant last night and had the best time. The food was amazing, but what was really amazing was our server Rene and the staff. The staff was so on top of it, and the food came out so fast. It was our friend's birthday, and we were trying to surprise her. We had ordered a cake but needed to figure out a way to get it there without her noticing. When my other friend called the restaurant, they were able to hold the cake for us in the morning and then bring it to the table as a surprise. Rene was already informed by staff, so when we arrived, he was already in on the plan. At the end of dinner, the cake was brought out, and it was such a nice surprise. Special thanks to Rene and the staff at Quartino—you are all amazing.
    More info
    Quartino - ChicagoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.6
  • Gordon
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I reserved a special from Mercadito called "Amor y Sabor" and boy it did not disappoint. The ambiance was very chill and the music was not too loud. Our waitress was very nice and attentive with us. The food was fantastic it consisted of a 4 course meal. It began with a shot of tiger de leche (Peruvian cuisine). Then we had a choice of camarones ceviche which was super tasty and flavorful. After that, we had queso Birria tacos with the dip and that was also delicious. Next but not least, we had some nice and tender strip steak which was perfectly cooked and was easy to chew. Our night was capped off with some churro desert and a glass of champagne. Overall an awesome and exciting experience and would highly recommend it!
    More info
    Mercadito - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mexican• River North (Chicago)
    4.6
  • AdamVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I had dinner tonight at La Grande Boucherie and it was absolutely spectacular, food was perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team for their outstanding service. A special thanks to Jonathan, Mathiew, and the lovely hostesses Christina and Madeleine, as well as my attentive server Edgar and his diligent busser Louis. A heartfelt shout out to Chef Taus, who truly deserves high praise for crafting such an extraordinary dinner! Every team member went above and beyond to create a truly memorable experience. If only there were a 6* star option! You really rolled out the red carpet for me!
    More info
    La Grande Boucherie - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• French• River North (Chicago)
    4.3
  • Erin
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 7, 2025
    Our whole experience from start to finish was amazing-but the highlight was the service. Alex was an AMAZING waiter! He gave stellar recommendations on drink and food and was so personable. Probably the best restaurant service experience I have had in years. Alex should get a raise!
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    TAK Korean BistroPrice: Moderate• Korean• South Loop
    4.2
  • Kimberly
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 1, 2025
    The staff was friendly. We were greeted at the door, and our waitress was exceptional and very patient, considering we had a party of eight. The food was delicious, especially the Lou Malnati salad. The bathroom was clean, and the ambiance was lovely, with music you could nod your head to.
    More info
    Lou Malnati's - South LoopPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• South Loop
    4.6

Discover best authentic restaurants in South Loop

Experience the essence of authenticity with our curated selection of restaurants in Chicago's vibrant South Loop neighborhood. Each dining spot has been carefully chosen for its genuine representation of culinary traditions, ensuring a truly authentic taste experience. Whether you're craving robust Italian pastas, traditional American fare, or other global flavors, these restaurants deliver with an emphasis on originality and quality. The South Loop itself is a bustling hub of culinary diversity, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Chicago. Here, the dining scene is dynamic and inviting, with eateries that are celebrated not only for their food but also for their atmosphere and service. Patrons can expect a memorable dining experience, where each meal is served with a slice of the locale's heritage and a dash of personal touch. Our selection emphasizes restaurants that are beloved for their dedication to authenticity, offering dishes prepared with respect to traditional methods and ingredients. This focus ensures that each visit provides not only a meal but an enriching cultural experience. Dive into the heart of Chicago's culinary scene with confidence, knowing that each recommended spot stands out for its genuine flavors and exceptional dining environments.

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