Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Lakeshore East

78 restaurants available nearby

1. Terrace 16

4.4

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Near North

Booked 30 times today

Terrace 16 in Near North, Chicago, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a menu that allows "ingredients to speak simply and powerfully for themselves." Situated on the 16th floor with a panoramic view of iconic Chicago landmarks, this rooftop gem offers an ever-changing array of dishes that shine with freshness and innovation. Guests rave about experiences that combine "spectacular" food with "out of this world" evening views, making it a must-visit destination. The restaurant's dedication to quality is echoed in reviews, with patrons noting the food's ability to be both "classy and sassy." Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere or the meticulously crafted dishes, Terrace 16 delivers an unforgettable dining experience that is quintessentially Chicago.

2. Andy's Jazz Club

4.7

Exceptional(5012)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 92 times today

Nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Andy's Jazz Club offers a delightfully unique dining experience combining soulful jazz with heartwarming Comfort Food. Patrons consistently praise the quality and taste of dishes like the "delicious strip steak" and "handmade pasta," highlighting both as unexpectedly impressive for a jazz venue. The atmosphere is described as cozy and nostalgic, perfect for enjoying classics like ravioli with portobello and lemon butter sauce, which comes highly recommended. As one reviewer raved, it's "food to die for" in a setting where every performance enhances the meal, creating an unforgettable culinary and auditory experience.

A photo of State and Lake Chicago Tavern restaurant

3. State and Lake Chicago Tavern

4.1

Excellent(1526)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 27 times today

The sleek contemporary State and Lake Chicago Tavern combines the flair of artisanal American cuisine with the warm, welcoming vibe of a neighborhood pub. Named after the iconic intersection in the heart of the city, State and Lake Chicago Tavern serves up new twists on tavern fare, with an emphasis on featuring the finest locally sourced and wholesome ingredients.Putting a modern spin on traditional tavern dining, the inviting decor features cork floors, leather walls and plush banquettes, radiating upscale hospitality and exceptional service. Cozy enough to lounge in and stylish enough for business, State and Lake Chicago Tavern is ideal for guests and locals alike looking to unwind over a drink, gather together to watch a game, or grab a pre-theater bite before heading to the nearby historic theater district. Whether it's a lunchtime escape or a Happy Hour go-to at the intimate bar, theWit's award-winning eatery takes traditional tavern dining to the next level.

A photo of Sweetwater Tavern and Grille restaurant

4. Sweetwater Tavern and Grille

4.6

Exceptional(1276)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 34 times today

At Sweetwater Tavern and Grille, located in the bustling Downtown Loop of Chicago, you're guaranteed a culinary journey through authentic American cuisine. This vibrant venue prides itself on delivering modern twists on classic American dishes, perfectly paired with an array of craft beers and seasonal cocktails. Patrons rave about the "delicious" Nashville hot chicken and the "marvelous" Top Sirloin with broccolini, highlighting the quality and creativity of the menu. The atmosphere is consistently described as "upbeat," making it an ideal spot for everything from a quick lunch to a leisurely dinner. With glowing reviews like "Food was great, server was fast and friendly," and "This place is a 10 out of 10," Sweetwater Tavern and Grille stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving top-notch American fare in the heart of Chicago.

A photo of Doc B’s Restaurant - River North restaurant

5. Doc B’s Restaurant - River North

4.6

Exceptional(856)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 32 times today

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of River North, Chicago, where Doc B's Restaurant + Bar offers a stellar example of Contemporary American cuisine. Praised for its "fresh, hot and delicious" offerings and "great atmosphere," Doc B's consistently delivers a menu that's both diverse and satisfying. With dishes like the praised Buffalo chicken sandwich hailed as "the best I've had in Chicago," and the signature Wok Out Bowls™ that are "always delicious 😋," this restaurant ensures every dish is crafted from the freshest ingredients. Guests rave about the "excellent service" and the menu's innovative mix of flavors, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience in Chicago. Whether you're there for the "fantastic" happy hour or the praised entree-sized salads, Doc B's caters to all with its exceptional culinary delights.

A photo of Michael Jordan's Steakhouse restaurant

6. Michael Jordan's Steakhouse

4.5

Awesome(5366)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 47 times today

Michael Jordan's Steakhouse, located in the vibrant Gold Coast/Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago, offers a prime example of Contemporary American cuisine with a unique twist. Celebrated for its high standards and exceptional quality, the steakhouse provides a classic American dining experience enhanced by a progressive culinary approach. Patrons rave about the "best steak ever" and the "outstanding" service, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors. The menu, described as a blend of tradition and modernity, features favorites like the legendary steak flight and the mouthwatering 23-layer chocolate cake. As one reviewer puts it, "Everything from the bacon to the steaks and the old fashioned was amazing." Michael Jordan's Steakhouse is not just a meal; it's an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

A photo of Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street restaurant

7. Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street

4.5

Awesome(668)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 34 times today

At Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street, nestled in the heart of Downtown Chicago, the spirit of authentic Mexican cuisine is vibrantly alive. This bustling spot, steps away from Millennium Park, offers a menu that brilliantly blends traditional flavors with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "delicious and plentiful" food, highlighting the "best tacos" and "spicy margaritas" as must-tries. The atmosphere is described as fun and vibrant, perfect for a pre-show meal or a casual night out. With stellar reviews praising both the innovative dishes and the attentive service, especially from servers like Thomas, it's clear why Broken English Taco Pub stands out as a top destination for genuine Mexican delights in Chicago.

A photo of Foundation Room House of Blues Chicago restaurant

8. Foundation Room House of Blues Chicago

4.3

Awesome(96)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 3 times today

Foundation Room Chicago - tucked away on the top floor of House of Blues in Downtown Chicago, this luxurious lounge takes everything you love about House of Blues to the next level. Enjoy an extensive seasonal menu with sophisticated and classic items such as the award-winning "Haute" Wings tossed in a Honey Sriracha sauce, voted Best of Fest & Best Mild Wing at the 2019 Chicago Wing Fest or our thirty-two ounce Bone-In Prime Ribeye paired with a harmonious wine from our expansive wine list or a one of a kind, hand-crafted cocktail, each made by one of Chicago's most talented mixologists. Whether you're looking for an intimate night out with that special someone or an unforgettable experience with a group of long time friends, Foundation Room Chicago has everything you're looking for. For more information about Foundation Room Membership, please call 312.923.7060. For any other questions, call our Concierge 312.923.7050

9. Girl & the Goat

4.8

Exceptional(14835)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • West Loop

Booked 122 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.

10. Sepia

4.8

Exceptional(5338)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • West Loop

Booked 23 times today

At Sepia, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, the essence of American cuisine is celebrated with a delightful modern twist. Chef Andrew Zimmerman's inventive approach shines in a menu that is both seasonal and driven by the highest quality ingredients. Guests rave about the "terrific" brunch and the "mind-blowing" steak tartare, noting that each dish is "full of flavors and highly creative." Sepia's ability to provide "outstanding" service and an "amazing" culinary experience makes it a must-visit destination. Regulars and newcomers alike are urged to "do yourself a favor and rsvp now!" as Sepia continues to set the standard for sophisticated yet approachable American dining.

‘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

R
Renae
Wisconsin •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
I had the grilled chicken salad and it was delicious. The black bean drizzle was to die for. My husband had the Backyard Burger and subbed out the Canadian bacon for candied bacon. Although delicious, her was disappointed in the shredded cheddar cheese. It was a very large mound of shredded cheese making the burger very tall and difficult to eat along with the fact that the cheese doesn't melt at all. He would order the burger again, but ask for either sliced cheese or having the cheese melted.
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Doc B’s Restaurant - River NorthPrice: Moderate• American• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
R
Roger
Orlando / Central Florida East •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We went for the Thanksgiving dinner which had a special menu. We chose the prime rib and it was very good. They so had great deserts. We were glad to have such a nice place to eat Thanksgiving dinner together while traveling. Reservations were required for this dinner. We came in early to have drinks, but they were able to seat us right away. The “Bootlegger” bourbon drink was very good.
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State and Lake Chicago TavernPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.1
D
dkkkkkg
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
One of the kind experience! Kamila was very pleasant professional and made this experience for us very memorable! Thank you!
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Terrace 16Price: Expensive• Contemporary American• Near North
•
4.4
S
SANGHOONvip
Tampa / Central Florida West •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Always fantastic experience! I visit Andy’s whenever I am in town (I live in a different state). This time, I came with my family and we all had a wonderful time! Foods were excellent as well although I feel the portion has been smaller compared to the last visit, which is not a big deal for me.
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Andy's Jazz ClubPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
J
Jason
Houston •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This is our to go place when we come and staycation in Chicago. Food and drinks are always on par. Despite the numerous Vikings fans, the atmosphere was enjoyable. Wait staff are the best!
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Sweetwater Tavern and GrillePrice: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.6

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Lakeshore East

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Lakeshore East

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78 restaurants available nearby

1. Terrace 16

2. Andy's Jazz Club

3. State and Lake Chicago Tavern

4. Sweetwater Tavern and Grille

5. Doc B’s Restaurant - River North

6. Michael Jordan's Steakhouse

7. Broken English Taco Pub - Lake Street

8. Foundation Room House of Blues Chicago

9. Girl & the Goat

10. Sepia

See what locals rave about

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