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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Chicago

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333 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Everything Chicago restaurant
1. Everything Chicago
5.0
Exceptional(0)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Town
Experience the essence of American cuisine at **Everything Chicago** located in the vibrant West Town neighborhood. This hotspot is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of all things American with a twist of local charm. From the mouth-watering truffle fries and personal pizzas to the inventive cocktails and gourmet bagels, Everything Chicago offers a culinary adventure that is both authentic and innovative. Patrons rave about the "flavorful food" and "awesome service," with one guest highlighting the "amazing food" as a unique way to enjoy American classics. Whether you're here for the lively themed nights or the cozy speakeasy vibes, Everything Chicago stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking a true taste of American cuisine in Chicago. Join us for an unforgettable dining experience where every bite and sip tells a story of culinary excellence and cultural pride.
A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant
2. The Walnut Room - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(6903)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Downtown / Loop
Booked 356 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.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
3. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(14846)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 209 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 Swift & Sons restaurant
4. Swift & Sons
4.7
Exceptional(4556)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 88 times today
Swift & Sons, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, is a beacon of culinary excellence renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. Patrons consistently rave about the freshness and quality of the seafood, with one guest highlighting, "The fish was really good, which was the first time I have ordered it there." This sentiment underscores the restaurant's commitment to providing top-tier seafood dishes alongside their famous steaks. The ambiance and stellar service complement the dining experience, making Swift & Sons a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. As another diner put it, "Loved the filet mignon and oysters; food was phenomenal." This establishment promises not only a meal but an unforgettable seafood adventure.
A photo of Elina's restaurant
5. Elina's
4.8
Exceptional(144)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Town
Booked 39 times today
Elina's in West Town, Chicago, is a beacon of Mediterranean excellence, offering an intimate dining experience that consistently delights patrons. Celebrated for its "amazing food" and "perfect ambiance," Elina's captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on Italian culinary traditions. Guests rave about dishes like the "best pasta and calamari I’ve ever had" and the "fantastic" rigatoni vodka, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients. The cozy setting, complemented by "great music and service," creates an unforgettable atmosphere, making every meal a special occasion. Whether it's the "mouthwatering croutons" of the Caesar salad or the "deliciously sweet" limoncello spritz, Elina's stands out as a must-visit for Mediterranean cuisine lovers in Chicago.
A photo of Brasero restaurant
6. Brasero
4.8
Exceptional(321)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Town
Booked 48 times today
Brasero in West Town, Chicago, is a beacon of Contemporary Latin cuisine, celebrated by the Robb Report as one of the Top 10 Best New Restaurants in the country. Chef John Manion’s mastery of wood-fired Latin cooking delivers an unforgettable dining experience with dishes like flame-roasted chicken slicked in garlic-chili oil, and steaks perfected over an open fire. Patrons rave about "absolutely DIVINE entrees" and the moqueca bursting with fresh seafood. Each dish is complemented by an impressive selection of drinks, including caipirinhas and locally brewed, Latin-inspired beers. Brasero not only promises an exceptional meal but also a vibrant atmosphere, making every visit memorable.
A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant
7. The Oakville Grill & Cellar
4.7
Exceptional(1067)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 124 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.
A photo of Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant
8. Costera Cocina Tulum
4.6
Exceptional(896)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 71 times today
Costera Cocina Tulum brings the vibrant flavors of Tulum's coastal and Mayan cuisine to life, blending land-and-sea principles with traditional Mexican dishes. Step into a lively yet serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Tulum's unique intersection of jungle, beach, and bohemian nightlife. Experience our day-to-night philosophy, where "the jungle has two attitudes," and enjoy a dining experience that transports you to this enchanting Mexican getaway.
A photo of Elske restaurant
9. Elske
4.7
Exceptional(1199)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 25 times today
Elske, nestled in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, is a haven of Danish culinary excellence where love and tradition meld seamlessly. Named after the Danish word for love, Elske offers a dining experience that resonates deeply with the clean, simple aesthetic of Denmark, influenced by the travels of Chef David Posey to Copenhagen. Guests rave about the "amazing duck liver" and how each dish from the set menu is "incredible," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authentic and innovative Danish flavors. The minimalist decor and open kitchen contribute to an atmosphere that is both inviting and distinctly Scandinavian. Elske's ability to accommodate various dietary needs while maintaining high culinary standards makes it a standout. As one diner puts it, Elske is "flawless with regard to service and ambiance," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Denmark in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of avec West Loop restaurant
10. avec West Loop
4.8
Exceptional(827)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 97 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.
‘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.

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