Best Southern American Restaurants in South Loop

291 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lou Malnati's - South Loop restaurant

1. Lou Malnati's - South Loop

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • South Loop

Booked 16 times today

Lou Malnati's in South Loop, Chicago, is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, celebrated for its iconic deep-dish pizza. Celebrating over 50 years of culinary excellence, this establishment has mastered a menu that keeps patrons coming back for more. Diners rave about their experiences, noting the "buttery crust" and how the "service was outstanding." From the irresistible 'Lou' with its lush toppings to a heartwarming bruschetta, every dish is a testament to authentic Italian flavors. The ambiance, coupled with attentive service, makes it the go-to spot in Chicago for an Italian feast that's both genuine and delightful. As one reviewer puts it, "Best pizza I’ve ever eaten. Amazing family time in the center of chaos," Lou Malnati's stands as a hallmark of quality Italian dining in the heart of Chicago.

2. Grant Park Bistro

4.1

Excellent(14)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • South Loop

Booked 11 times today

Grant Park Bistro is an American bistro focusing on approachable contemporary dishes. The menu highlights dishes made with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients.

A photo of AO Hawaiian Hideout restaurant

3. AO Hawaiian Hideout

new

5.0

Exceptional(2)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • South Loop

Booked 4 times today

Aloha!!! AO Hawaiian Hideout (est.2013) is a husband and wife team, serving ono grinds & boozy libations. We invite you to join us on a journey through the tropics...our little hidden gem, serving home-style comfort foods that will have you coming back for more. Sit back, relax and enjoy a Mai Tai, Pina Colada, Tiki-la Style Passionfruit Margarita or Lychee Martini in our home away from home. Come one or come all, as we are a short walk from Chicago's main attractions: McCormick Place, Wintrust Arena, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Adler's Planetarium, Art Institute, Grant Park, Navy Pier & the Riverwalk. We offer dine-in, carry-out, delivery, catering and buffets for large party celebrations. Local favorites: Spam Musubi, Island Nachos, Lomi Lomi, Indonesian Seafood Noodle Soup, Poké Bowls, Hawaiian Pulehu Beef Short Ribs, Kalua Pig, Loco Moco, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Thai Panang Curry, Kung Pao, Mongolian, Thai Basil and much more. Mahalo nui and look forward to your future visit.

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant

4. The Walnut Room - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(6737)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 292 times today

Nestled in the bustling heart of Downtown Chicago, The Walnut Room offers a truly authentic Vegetarian dining experience that captivates both the palate and the heart. Celebrated as a local tradition since 1907, this iconic venue inside Macy's on State Street shines with its commitment to quality and service. Patrons frequently praise its "delicious" offerings and the "wonderful atmosphere" that make every dining experience memorable. Highlights from the Vegetarian menu include creatively crafted dishes that emphasize freshness and flavor, making it a prime destination for those seeking a culinary delight. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, "The food is always delicious. The service is always great. And just a lovely place to dine." Whether it’s the charm of the historic setting or the exquisite Vegetarian cuisine, The Walnut Room is a must-visit for those seeking exceptional dining in Chicago.

5. Girl & the Goat

4.8

Exceptional(14834)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 161 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.

6. The Gage

4.7

Exceptional(11927)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 164 times today

The Gage in Downtown Chicago is a haven for comfort food enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic and innovative flavors. Praised for its "terrific service and amazing food," this restaurant offers a menu that delights with dishes such as the indulgent chicken fried lobster and perfectly cooked Scotch eggs, which one patron from England described as "cooked to perfection." The Gage's ability to maintain high standards, even on busy days like St. Patrick's Day, speaks volumes, with reviews highlighting their "phenomenal food" and seamless service. This spot is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience where every meal is crafted with care and served in a lively, welcoming atmosphere, making it a "must visit" in Chicago's dining scene.

A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant

7. The Oakville Grill & Cellar

4.7

Exceptional(1058)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 95 times today

The Oakville Grill & Cellar in Chicago's bustling West Loop is a gem for lovers of authentic Californian cuisine. Celebrated for its fresh, farm-to-table approach, the restaurant showcases the finest ingredients sourced from exclusive partnerships with farms and wineries in California and the Midwest. Diners rave about the "excellent food and wine," with standout dishes like the "branzino with Brussels sprouts" and the "Wagyu hanger steak." The ambiance is described as "always great" and the service "exceptional," making every meal memorable. Whether it's for the "gooey lemon cake" or the "best Caesar salad ever," The Oakville Grill & Cellar is highly recommended for an authentic taste of California right in the heart of Chicago.

8. Roanoke

4.3

Awesome(1392)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 116 times today

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine at Roanoke, nestled in the vibrant Downtown / Loop area of Chicago. Celebrated for its luxurious setting and a culinary showcase featuring a rotisserie and brick oven, Roanoke delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the diverse menu, highlighting dishes like the "outrageously huge and delicious turkey club" and the "rotisserie chicken - so delicious!" The ambiance, complemented by copper accents and warm lighting, creates the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy dinner by the fireplace or a lively gathering with friends, Roanoke promises an excellent service and a menu that has "something fresh for everyone." Join us for a meal where each dish is a testament to refined American cooking.

9. avec West Loop

4.8

Exceptional(819)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 78 times today

Avec West Loop in Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighborhood captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Midwestern twist on Mediterranean classics. Celebrating over 20 years of culinary excellence, avec is renowned for its wine-focused dining and communal seating, fostering an intimate and interactive atmosphere. Customers rave about the uniquely inventive dishes, with one diner exclaiming, "The food is excellent but the quarters a bit cramped in this location. Don’t miss the short rib hummus and the chorizo dates." Another highlights the exceptional service and unforgettable flavors, stating, "Incredible food and service. Easy going service with loads of knowledge and great direction for first-time diners." Avec continues to impress with its consistent quality and innovative menu, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Contemporary American dining experience in Chicago.

10. RL Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(7212)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 118 times today

Nestled in the chic Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, RL Restaurant offers a quintessential American dining experience that reflects the sophisticated style of Ralph Lauren. Celebrated for its classic American cuisine, the menu features Ralph Lauren’s personal favorites such as the exquisite lobster roll and perfectly grilled steaks, making every meal a delightful journey through America’s rich culinary landscape. Patrons consistently praise the ambiance and service with remarks like "the service is outstanding every single time" and "the food was outstanding." Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual elegant dinner, RL Restaurant stands out as a top choice for those seeking an authentic and high-quality American dining experience in Chicago.

‘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

A
Annavip
Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Food was amazing. Chef Lamar had a wonderful selection available for the soft opening. We had the beef tartare with chicken skins (highly recommend), the fried green tomato with burrata, the half chicken, and salmon. We each had two cocktails, one of which had fat washed mezcal to mellow out the after sting. My only note is we realized in hindsight our drinks were not that strong. Overall, amazing experience!
More info
ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.9
L
Lisa
Detroit / Eastern Michigan •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great ambience created by the decor plus the live DJ playing old school music. The food was very delicious and exceeded my expectations.
More info
The DeltaPrice: Moderate• Southern• Bucktown / Wicker Park
•
4
T
Toni
Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
The food and service were both excellent. If you like large portions, this is not your place. We were thoroughly satisfied and full. The shrimp and grits, steak and eggs and all American breakfast were all delicious. The bottomless mimosas were very tasty. The service was excellent from hostess to wait staff. Leni was great! They have valet, however, they're slow, as there was only one person on duty on Saturday during the brunch rush.
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
D
Dannyvip
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
This is some of if not the best barbecue in Chicago!
More info
Briny Swine - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Barbecue• Lincoln Park
•
4.3
A
Ashley
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Loved it ! The food and drinks 10/10. We had a great server his name was Chaz he knew everything about the menu didn’t steer us wrong at all. The pasta was great and everything came out in a timely manner. Will be visiting here again in the future.
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.1

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South Loop

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in South Loop

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291 restaurants available nearby

1. Lou Malnati's - South Loop

2. Grant Park Bistro

3. AO Hawaiian Hideout

4. The Walnut Room - Chicago

5. Girl & the Goat

6. The Gage

7. The Oakville Grill & Cellar

8. Roanoke

9. avec West Loop

10. RL Restaurant

See what locals rave about

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