Best Southern American Restaurants in River West

282 restaurants available nearby

1. The Dawson

4.8

Exceptional(2728)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • River West

Booked 28 times today

Nestled in the bustling River West neighborhood of Chicago, The Dawson shines as a premier destination for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. Patrons rave about the "interesting cocktails" and the vast drink menu that complements the vibrant dining experience. The multi-level venue, complete with one of Chicago's finest patios, offers a "lively and lovely" atmosphere that is perfect for savoring their signature drinks like the spicy guava margarita, "Some Like it Hot." With glowing reviews highlighting the "fantastic food and service," The Dawson ensures a memorable outing with "bottomless mimosas" during their acclaimed burlesque brunch, making it a must-visit for those seeking a top-notch bar and lounge experience in the heart of the city.

2. Recess

4.6

Exceptional(1465)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 12 times today

Recess, nestled in Chicago’s bustling West Loop, is a standout for Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service with its vibrant and playful atmosphere. Described as an "adult playground," Recess is the ultimate spot for creatively fun and tasty drinks, making it a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Reviewers rave about their experience, noting the "great drinks" and "stellar service" that define the establishment. One guest celebrated the "best drinks in the city" at this lively locale. The combination of a large, inviting patio, innovative cocktails, and engaging games like giant Jenga and Connect 4, ensures every visit is memorable and exhilarating. Whether you're there for a sunny afternoon or a lively evening, Recess delivers an exceptional bar experience that's both enjoyable and uniquely Chicago.

A photo of City Hall - Chicago restaurant

3. City Hall - Chicago

(0)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Town

City Hall in Chicago's West Town is the place to be if you're looking for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service in a vibrant atmosphere. Known for its "stiff drinks" and a lively setting, this venue has quickly become a favorite for both locals and visitors. The bar scene here is acclaimed for its creativity and variety, offering everything from classic cocktails to unique creations that cater to all tastes. Guests rave about the "super cool spot" atmosphere and the quality of both the drinks and service, with one reviewer mentioning, "The drinks were strong and the menu is vast!" Whether you're in for a casual drink or a grand event, City Hall's bar and lounge area provides a perfect blend of fun and sophistication, making every visit a memorable one.

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant

4. The Walnut Room - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(7374)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 333 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(14898)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 114 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. Swift & Sons

4.7

Exceptional(4589)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 73 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.

7. Bar La Rue

4.6

Exceptional(191)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 35 times today

Bar La Rue celebrates French-American cuisine with an inventive cocktail program in the heart of Fulton Market. The stylish space boasts a beautiful all-season, street-side, walk-in-friendly pergola bar and dining area, perfect for a cozy patio experience. The menu incorporates French plays on approachable American comfort foods, offering an inviting setting for lunch, brunch, or dinner. Whether you're enjoying cocktails at the bar, celebrating birthdays, or planning a romantic date, Bar La Rue provides a Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant

8. The Oakville Grill & Cellar

4.7

Exceptional(1088)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 104 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.

9. avec West Loop

4.8

Exceptional(842)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 75 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 Beatrix - Fulton Market restaurant

10. Beatrix - Fulton Market

4.7

Exceptional(2634)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 76 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.

‘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

K
Keith
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
From the moment I walked in, until in moment I left it was all professional. The food came out on time. It was hot. It was amazing. I walked in open minded. It was my anniversary for me and my wife. Our 21st. So it was a very important occasion. So I trusted the environment to celebrate that monumental occasion. And it did just that. I’ll recommend a friend and I’m going again.
More info
ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.8
E
ErnieVIP
Baltimore / Maryland •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
What a lovely experience! It was my first time there, and it exceeded any expectations I had. We enjoyed the fried green tomato BLT as an appetizer; I ordered shrimp and grits; my husband ordered the short ribs. Both were divine! Flavorful and presented beautifully. The service was excellent. Our server was attentive and most pleasant. He didn’t miss a beat. Two different managers came to our table to introduce themselves and check on our experience. They even treated us to a banana pudding cheesecake. That was above and beyond. We left feeling totally content. The food was delish and the service utterly delightful. We can’t wait to try the Yard Bird location in Miami, where we live.
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
E
EricaVIP
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Always a pleasures to come and enjoy one of my favorite spots to visit in downtown Chicago. A bit pricy, but delicious is the name of the game and that’s what keeps brining me back. See you again soon!
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.1
B
bruce
Minneapolis - St. Paul •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 6 Dec 2024
Great food at a reasonable price with great service. Catfish, burger, and wings were exceptional. Hoppin John and Mac and cheese were great.
More info
The DeltaPrice: Moderate• Southern• Bucktown / Wicker Park
•
4
J
JenVIP
New Orleans / Louisiana •16 reviews
4.0
Dined on 10 Nov 2024
We were a little underwhelmed considering we had heard great things before coming here. Service was great and the cocktails we each had were amazing, but the food was just average.
More info
Chicago qPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.3

Explore OpenTable

River West

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in River West

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

282 restaurants available nearby

1. The Dawson

2. Recess

3. City Hall - Chicago

4. The Walnut Room - Chicago

5. Girl & the Goat

6. Swift & Sons

7. Bar La Rue

8. The Oakville Grill & Cellar

9. avec West Loop

10. Beatrix - Fulton Market

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable