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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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327 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant
1. The Walnut Room - Chicago
4.7
Exceptional(6660)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Downtown / Loop
Booked 272 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
2. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(14817)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 175 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 The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant
3. The Oakville Grill & Cellar
4.7
Exceptional(1055)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 125 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 Swift & Sons restaurant
4. Swift & Sons
4.7
Exceptional(4544)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 98 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 avec West Loop restaurant
5. avec West Loop
4.8
Exceptional(817)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 92 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.
A photo of The Gage restaurant
6. The Gage
4.7
Exceptional(11919)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Downtown / Loop
Booked 148 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 Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant
7. Costera Cocina Tulum
4.6
Exceptional(884)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 54 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 Beatrix - Fulton Market restaurant
8. Beatrix - Fulton Market
4.6
Exceptional(2610)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 119 times today
Beatrix is a neighborhood coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place in Chicago’s River North, Streeterville, Fulton Market, The Loop and Oak Brook neighborhoods. The restaurant is the brainchild of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Founder Rich Melman, Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs and Chef Partners Andrew Ashmore, Rita Dever and Susan Weaver. The menu features healthy meets delicious options, and is known for its iconic coffee and bakery counter, including signature cookies, in-house pastry favorites and our house blends from Beatrix Coffee Roasters, featuring Light, Dark, Espresso and Decaf roasts.
A photo of The Publican restaurant
9. The Publican
4.5
Awesome(5894)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 53 times today
Nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, The Publican stands as a beacon of European cuisine, drawing inspiration from a rustic farmhouse fare reminiscent of a lively European beer hall. Executive Chef Paul Kahan masterfully crafts dishes that are both simple and profoundly flavorful, focusing on essentials like oysters, pork, and an impressive selection of beers. Praised for its "incredible food" and "impeccable service," The Publican offers a dining experience that feels like a "family gathering where all are welcome." Guests rave about the "best bread in town," "transformative bacon," and "porchetta to die for," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether it’s the perfectly curated beer menu featuring fine Belgian and German brews or the communal atmosphere, The Publican consistently delivers an unforgettable culinary journey through Europe.
A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
10. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(8817)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 149 times today
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in Chicago's Gold Coast is the quintessential American dining experience, celebrated for its "top-notch steaks" and "club-like atmosphere." Since 1989, it has set the standard for American steakhouses with its commitment to Gibsons Prime Angus and Grassfed Australian Beef. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" steaks and the extensive wine list that complements every dish. The service is consistently lauded as "professional" and "top-notch," making every visit memorable. Whether it's the "eye-popping desserts" or the "energetic environment," Gibsons promises an authentic and high-quality American culinary journey that's both "remarkable" and "unforgettable."
‘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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