What to prioritize on Chicago's restaurant row
Anyone that knows me knows that I’m obsessed with trying out new restaurants across the city. I’m always on the hunt and constantly checking Eater to see what changes are happening in the restaurant industry.
The West Loop is known for having Chicago’s best restaurants with award winning chefs. It can be a bit overwhelming to pick a place if you’re visiting from out of town or if you’re a native looking to try something new. Below are my top picks. I’d recommend making reservations at least 2-3 weeks in advance for all of these.
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: Chorizo stuffed dates, paella, focaccia
Why I love it: It’s a place I’ve been going to for years with my family. The ambiance is cozy and wood interior is unique. The menu changes seasonally with classics sticking around
Cuisine: Trendy burger bar
Recommended for: Lunch, dinner or whenever you can get in. They don’t take reservations and the wait can be long. Try going during off hours to avoid the line.
What to get: Burger and fries
Why I love it: It’s my go to spot when I’m craving the mouth watering burger and fries. It’s not a place I go to often but never disappoints and has been ranked best burger in the U.S. by multiple publications. If you’re into burgers it’s a must try
Cuisine: Veggie focused restaurant - they do serve meat/fish
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: Butter dumplings, potato fry bread
Why I love it: The food is fresh and I love that majority of what they serve is vegetables but all prepared in unique, tasty ways. The restaurant is bright and airy
Cuisine: American (New)
Recommended for: Brunch or dinner
What to get: Avocado toast, pastas, grilled carrots, burrata, octopus
Why I love it: Located in the Ace Hotel, it’s a great addition to the neighborhood with a fabulous outdoor space
Cuisine: Fancy chinese
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: Beef short rib / bone marrow potstickers, fried rice,
Why I love it: Chinese is typically not something high on my list for a Saturday night dinner, Duck Duck Goat changes that view for me. The decor is so on point. Stephanie Izard (top chef winner) never disappoints with her restaurants
Cuisine: Pizzeria napoletana
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: Any of their amazing pizzas, antipasta and salad
Why I love it: My girlfriends and I always find ourselves here if we’re looking for something more casual to catch up over wine and delicious neapolitan pizza
Cuisine: Diner
Recommended for: Lunch / brunch or if you want breakfast for dinner
What to get: The fat club, machos nachos, fish tostadas
Why I love it: The food always hits the spot if you’re looking for a big meal after a night out. They also have a cute coffee shop
Cuisine: French bistro
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: French fries, mussels, steak tartare,
Why I love it: Maude’s has a great ambiance, dim lit and it’s cozy on the inside giving you french bistro vibes. It’s a classic french style restaurant but each dish has a unique twist
Cuisine: Japanese
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: Their menu changes so get a little bit of everything (hot/cold dishes, nigiri/sashimi, and rolls)
Why I love it: One of the best sushi restaurants in the city. It’s upscale but worth the splurge. The menu can be overwhelming but the wait staff is excellent and will help guide you through it
Cuisine: Italian
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: All of the pastas are delicious. Make sure to also get plates/snacks
Why I love it: I love the vibe in here and the food is so good. It’s a stylish spot and a place I’d come just to sit at the bar and drink a glass of wine. They make their pasta fresh and you can even see it in action
Cuisine: Global
Recommended for: Dinner
What to get: Tempura elotes, mussels, octopus, coal roasted oysters
Why I love it: The menu is inspired by the chefs global travels specifically with street food across Asia, India and Mexico. The decor is very trendy/sleek and also has a cute bar
Cuisine: American (New)
Recommended for: Dinner / brunch
What to get: BBQ carrots, farm chicken, mussels
Why I love it: The menu has a good mix of vegetables, seafood and meat. Hip setting with long communal tables. Food is on the heavier side but oh so tasty. Great place to go with a few people to split plates
Cuisine: American cafe / sandwich shop
Recommended for: Lunch
What to get: charcuterie board, P.S.T sandwich, BLT sandwich
Why I love it: Casual brunch/lunch place that also serves as a bakery, butcher shop and gourmet market if you’re looking to shop
What are your favorite restaurants in the West Loop?
Xoxo, Syd
