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Best Tapas Restaurants in South Loop

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20 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14835)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • West Loop
Booked 121 times today
Girl & the Goat in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a treasure trove of comfort food that transcends the ordinary. Since its opening in 2010, this bustling eatery has mastered the art of crafting dishes that are as soul-satisfying as they are innovative. Patrons rave about the unique twists on traditional comfort dishes, like the unforgettable goat empanadas and the indulgent pork shank, which one diner described as the "star of the show." The atmosphere is described as fun and lively, perfect for both casual diners and culinary adventurers alike. Reviewers consistently highlight not only the food's exceptional quality but also the top-notch service and welcoming vibe. One glowing testimonial said it best: "Seriously the best meal I’ve ever had. I wake up from a dead sleep thinking about this food." Girl & the Goat stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking comfort food with flair in Chicago.
A photo of Bar Mar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(927)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • River North (Chicago)
Booked 79 times today
At Bar Mar, located in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Chef José Andrés elevates the tapas dining experience with creations that are as inventive as they are delectable. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the small plates, with dishes like the "Pulpa alla Gallega" and the lobster croquetas receiving high praise for their perfect preparation and outstanding flavors. Reviews consistently highlight the restaurant's ability to blend traditional Spanish tapas with unique twists, ensuring every bite is a delight. "Every dish we tried was the best," one reviewer exclaimed, celebrating the variety and the high culinary standards set by the renowned chef. Whether you're enjoying a lively group dinner or a more intimate dining experience, Bar Mar's tapas are a must-try in Chicago.
A photo of Café Ba-Ba-Reeba restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9258)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Lincoln Park
Booked 126 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Café Ba-Ba-Reeba shines as a beacon of Spanish culinary excellence. Celebrating decades of service, this gem offers an authentic taste of Spain with its delightful tapas and famously delicious paella. Patrons consistently praise the atmosphere and dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "Best tapas in town!" and another affirming, "Absolutely delicious seafood paella! Definitely worth the visit!" The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, ensuring that "the food never ever disappoints." From the flavorful sangria to the engaging flamenco shows, Café Ba-Ba-Reeba promises a truly Spanish experience, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
A photo of Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(377)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • River North (Chicago)
Booked 38 times today
Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! in River North, Chicago, truly captures the essence of Spanish cuisine with its delightful array of authentic small plates and vibrant sangrias. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with dishes like the "delicious and perfectly cooked" Beef Tenderloin Toro Skewer and the classic Patatas Bravas receiving high praise. A diner highlighted, "So many dishes whooshed me right back to Spain! Exactly what I needed :)", emphasizing the genuine Spanish experience. The restaurant's atmosphere and service match the excellence of its menu, making every visit memorable. Whether it's the bustling vibe, the attentive staff, or the "best sangrias" that draw you in, Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! ensures a Spanish dining experience that is both authentic and enchanting.
A photo of Bazaar Meat Chicago restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(471)
Price: Very Expensive
• Tapas • River North (Chicago)
Booked 21 times today
Bazaar Meat Chicago redefines the Steakhouse experience, blending traditional and avant-garde Spanish influences under the glow of crimson chandeliers. Praised as "the best steak restaurant in Chicago," Bazaar Meat offers a dynamic tasting menu featuring the prized vaca vieja, or ribeye aged to perfection. Guests consistently celebrate the "exceptional" food and service, highlighting dishes like the Washugyu ribeye that "melted in our mouths" and the innovative jamón preparations. Located in Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood, Bazaar Meat provides a "one-of-a-kind meal" in a "bold, playful atmosphere," making every visit uniquely memorable. Whether for a special celebration or a delightful night out, Bazaar Meat promises an unparalleled dining adventure.
A photo of Proxi restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2378)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • West Loop
Booked 22 times today
At Proxi in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, the art of Tapas/Small Plates is elevated through a dazzling array of global flavors and meticulous presentation. Celebrated for its innovative approach, Proxi delights diners with its "spectacular meal" experiences and "brilliant menu," drawing inspiration from multicultural street foods. The restaurant's commitment to quality is echoed in reviews, with guests praising the "unique and surprising menu" and "every bite was better than the last!" Notably, the tempura elotes and foie gras buns receive special mentions, showcasing the chef’s skill in blending diverse, exotic ingredients into harmonious, bite-sized delights. Whether you're a local or visiting, Proxi offers a culinary journey that makes it a standout destination for Tapas/Small Plates in Chicago.
A photo of Tapas Valencia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2459)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • South Loop
Booked 13 times today
Tapas Valencia, nestled in Chicago's vibrant South Loop, is a beacon of Spanish culinary excellence, celebrated for its authentic tapas and spirited atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from Spanish greats like Miro and Gaudí, the restaurant's decor complements an array of dishes that transport diners straight to Spain. Reviewers rave about the quality and variety, with one guest exclaiming, "IMHO this is the best Tapas Restaurant in Chicago." The array of options, from the paella acclaimed as "the best anywhere" to creative cocktails and live music, ensures a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Perfect for any occasion, Tapas Valencia stands out as a gem in Chicago's dining scene, making every visit a festive and flavorful celebration of Spanish cuisine.
A photo of Boqueria - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(312)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • West Loop
Booked 14 times today
Boqueria in Chicago's vibrant West Loop offers an authentic slice of Spain with its dynamic array of traditional tapas and a pulsating Barcelona-style ambiance. Guests rave about the "fabulous tapas" and the "excellent Sangria," capturing the true spirit and flavor of Spanish dining. The restaurant's dedication to authenticity shines through dishes like the "delicious" paella and "mouthwatering" brunch feast, making every meal a celebration of Spanish culinary excellence. Reviewers consistently laud Boqueria for its "great food and service," with special mentions of the "crispy potatoes" and "amazing bottomless mimosa deal," which add to the lively, enjoyable experience. Whether it's for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Boqueria's contemporary space and lively patio provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience, echoing the vibrant streets of Barcelona right in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | Streeterville (Magnificent Mile) restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2324)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • River North (Chicago)
Booked 72 times today
Gyu-Kaku in Chicago's vibrant River North district offers a unique and delightful dining experience that brilliantly captures the essence of Tapas/Small Plates cuisine with a Japanese BBQ twist. Known for its interactive dining, Gyu-Kaku allows guests to become chefs at their own table, grilling premium meats to personal perfection. Highly praised by diners, the restaurant's atmosphere is perfect for both intimate gatherings and large groups, with reviews frequently highlighting the "delicious" quality of the meats and the "excellent service." The signature dishes like the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib are must-tries, ensuring an unforgettable meal which many describe as "heavenly...fresh, high quality meat" and "absolutely elite" service. For a truly unique Tapas experience, Gyu-Kaku Chicago is a standout choice.
A photo of Boleo restaurant
4.4
Awesome(565)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Downtown / Loop
Booked 6 times today
Discover a slice of South America in the heart of Chicago at Boleo, located in the vibrant Downtown/Loop area. This rooftop bar and lounge offers an authentic celebration of Latin American flavors, featuring a menu of meticulously crafted small plates and cocktails that whisk you away to Peru. Guests rave about the "delicious and very fresh" Ceviche Mixto and the "incredible" Bisteca de Res, with one diner proclaiming it "might be the best cooked pork chop I've had to date." The ambiance at Boleo, complete with a retractable roof and lively salsa nights, enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Whether you're here for the "charismatic service" or the "beautiful establishment," Boleo promises an exceptional South American culinary journey right in the bustling heart of Chicago.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Carla
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    The food is very unique, with different flavours and seasoning. Pick some different dishes and share with your friends, so you can try as many different dishes as possible.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
  • Alicia
    Alabama •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Took my youngest daughter here for a belated birthday celebration with her sister and brother-in-law. We truly enjoy the tapas experience and love to try new things, sharing dishes and desserts with each other.
    More info
    Tapas ValenciaPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• South Loop
    4.8
  • Claire
    Kansas City / Kansas •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Fantastic as ever in every way. Delicious gluten free and vegetarian options and they ask if you need “no contact” with anything with gluten in preparing the gluten free food. I’ve loved this place for decades and it is still popping!
    More info
    Café Ba-Ba-ReebaPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• Lincoln Park
    4.8
  • Bhartivip
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Amazing food! Not one bad thing on the menu. Our server was amazing and was so polite and professional. Ordered for 2 of us - Hamachi Crudo, oysters, and the Octopus to share. Also shared a lobster roll. The server was so nice and offered us a complimentary Cava with our desert. We ordered the sticky toffee pudding. Planning on coming back to try more from the menu!
    More info
    Bar MarPrice: Expensive• Spanish• River North (Chicago)
    4.6
  • Lizvip
    Chicago / Illinois •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 19, 2024
    Both the service and cuisine were amazing! We thought that we might just enjoy the sangria pitcher, but decided on some wine after, too—the recommendation was spot on and we definitely had the best time ever. I can’t recommend this restaurant enough. It was so delicious that we even ordered some items to go. I can’t wait to enjoy them tomorrow. Thank you to everyone for making our night so special! While the food was perfect, the service really elevated our wonderful experience! Can’t wait to return.
    More info
    Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!Price: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• River North (Chicago)
    4.8

Discover best Tapas / Small Plates restaurants in South Loop

Explore the vibrant tapas scene in Chicago's South Loop, where a diverse array of restaurants offers an authentic taste of Spain right in the heart of Illinois. Each venue boasts a unique blend of traditional and innovative tapas dishes, designed to cater to a variety of palates and preferences. From classic favorites like Tortilla Española and Chorizo Españoles to creative culinary delights like Albondigas con Almendras, the tapas offerings are rich with flavors and crafted to perfection. The dining experience in the South Loop is enhanced by the lively and welcoming atmospheres of these establishments, where the ambiance often includes colorful décor and spirited music, making each meal a festive and communal event. Patrons frequently commend the restaurants for their exceptional service and the ability to transport diners to the bustling streets of Spain through every bite. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to explore Chicago's culinary landscape, the tapas in the South Loop provide a delightful and satisfying dining adventure. This area not only promises delicious food but also a dynamic dining scene that reflects the cosmopolitan and diverse spirit of Chicago.

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