Best Lunch Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

ChicagoNear WestNorth SuburbsNorthwest Suburbs

Areas

AndersonvilleAvondaleBedford ParkBelmont Central / CraginBerwynBridgeport

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

345 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant

1. Peanut Park Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(256)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 12 times today

Located in the heart of nostalgic "Little Italy" on Chicago's famed Taylor Street, Peanut Park is a traditional Italian joint brought to you by your friends at Coalfire and Tempesta Market.Chicago Magazine voted Peanut Park One of the Top Restaurants in Chicago February 2022 and Tasting Table said we are " One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago" this past May 2022. Our menu is simple and we aim to celebrate Italian classics and timeless bistro favorites.We embody passion, integrity, and excellence while striving to provide an authentic dining experience by celebrating tradition and invoking the modern. Don't miss our handmade pastas, pizza and incredible cocktail menu. Join us in our dining room or dine al fresco on the rooftop for a one of a kind experience!

2. RL Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(7424)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 114 times today

If you do not find availability online, please call the restaurant directly at 312-475-1100.Located adjacent to the Ralph Lauren Chicago flagship store on Michigan Avenue, RL Restaurant features the vision and décor of Ralph Lauren in a modern club atmosphere. RL Restaurant offers classic American cuisine inspired by Ralph Lauren’s personal favorites. Seasonal dishes range from a chopped vegetable salad to a lobster roll sandwich, grilled fish of the day and steaks. On the cocktail list, guests can choose from classic drinks and a diverse selection of wines and other fine spirits.

3. The Gage

4.7

Exceptional(12135)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 124 times today

The Gage has become a perennial favorite of locals and visitors alike for over ten years by effortlessly blending European influence with American style. The restaurant serves refined, rustic cuisine, innovative libations and an award-winning wine list all in a lively, convivial setting. Known as a “must visit” among Chicago’s dining scene, The Gage continues to evolve by serving well-rounded food and beverage menus that feature classic dishes and drinks with contemporary twists rooted in tradition.

A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant

4. Mercadito - River North

4.6

Exceptional(6365)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 85 times today

We are the city’s top Mexican restaurant for authentic modern cuisine, specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails, located in the heart of River North. Our culinary team features popular Mexican dishes, including our signature tacos, as well as fresh salsa and guacamole, ceviche, esquites and more.Mercadito's lounge is nestled in the lower level of Mercadito. It offers a speakeasy-style experience with a chic and exclusive ambiance. The space features banquet-style booths and dim lighting that enhances the elegant wood furniture, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Once inside, guests can enjoy the full Mercadito menu, with the same delectable cuisine and beverages that our restaurant is known for.

5. Ema - River North

4.7

Exceptional(4605)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)

Booked 140 times today

A Mediterranean & California-inspired restaurant featuring small plates & Chef CJ Jacobson's lighter style cooking in Chicago's River North.

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant

6. The Walnut Room - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(7792)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 28 times today

For Large Parties 21 or more: please contact us at http://macysrestaurants.com/contact-us/ For Holiday Questions and Menu: http://macysrestaurants.com/walnut-room/holiday2024/The world famous Walnut Room has been a Chicago tradition since 1907. Located on the 7th floor of Macy's on State Street, the Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. Conveniently located in the heart of the Chicago theater district, the Walnut Room is an excellent choice to take a break from shopping or for a meal and a glass of wine before the show. Enjoy our Famous Mrs. Herring's Chicken Pot Pie and other well known favorites on the menu.

7. Nobu Chicago

4.5

Awesome(2191)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • West Loop

Booked 143 times today

OPEN FOR LUNCH 7 Days a weekCentrally located in Chicago's West Loop, Nobu Chicago playfully blends elements of old world Japanese and new world utilitarian.

8. Brass Tack

4.2

Awesome(701)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 19 times today

For anyone seeking a truly unforgettable dining experience in Chicago, Brass Tack is a must-visit destination. Located on the 3rd floor of the famous Waldorf Astoria Chicago, this laid-back upscale restaurant seamlessly blends classic ambiance with a French American twist, creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Our impressive menu features American Brasserie cuisine, highlighting the freshest and finest ingredients from regional farmers and purveyors. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two, a night out with friends, or a special occasion celebration, Brass Tack is the perfect choice. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and impeccable service, this restaurant is a true gem in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast.Breakfast 7 am-11 amWeekday Lunch 11 am-2 pmLounge 2 pm- 5 pmDinner 5 pm-10 pmWeekend Brunch 10 am-2 pm

9. The Hampton Social - River North

4.5

Awesome(2632)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • River North (Chicago)

Booked 75 times today

The Hampton Social - River North is the perfect place to imbibe and enjoy the feeling of summer days. Located in the River North Neighborhood of Downtown Chicago, our flagship location and first restaurant in the group, boasts our signature "Rosé All Day lounge", a lively bar, main dining area and private dining spaces. Known for our lively dining experiences featuring exceptional coastal-inspired food, cocktails and live music in a beautifully designed atmosphere. Open for Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brunch

A photo of Blue Door Kitchen & Garden restaurant

10. Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

4.7

Exceptional(2438)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 39 times today

Blue Door Kitchen & Garden, home to celebrated Chef Art Smith, is a farm-to-table oasis in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast and deeply rooted in the philosophy of letting the seasons dictate the menu. From its inception, the Blue Door brand has become synonymous with sustainability and responsible sourcing. We pride ourselves in showcasing dishes made from fresh, local ingredients sourced from Midwest farms. Experience a chef-driven menu featuring everything from pierogis and market fresh salads, to Chef Art Smith’s famous buttermilk fried chicken. Walk-ins are always encouraged. Be sure to join us during the warmer weather months when the beautiful outdoor patio is open. While visiting, be sure to enjoy one of Blue Door Kitchen’s garden-to-glass cocktails, local beers or perfectly paired wines from our extensive list.For reservations eight or larger, please call the restaurant 312-573-4000.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

MK
MiraKleVIP
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Check this place out!! Everything was good. Great Happy Hour, wonderful staff and enjoyed the ambiance. The Limoncello cocktail and mushroom pizza I will be coming back for. Cool vibe of locals.
More info
Peanut Park TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
•
4.8
TS
ThomasS
Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Gage is always great food and service.A very enjoyable experience .
More info
The GagePrice: Moderate• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.7
V
Virginia
London •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
This was everything that I could want in a nice dinner. The ambiance is the epitome of classic cool while being beautiful, cozy and comfortable. I sat in the lounge by the fireplace and it was so cozy. The service was impeccable. Amanda provided excellent recommendations and was very attentive and personable. The food was also outstanding. Truly a memorable meal from start to finish. I already look forward to returning.
More info
RL RestaurantPrice: Expensive• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.8
C
Champagne
Los Angeles •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
It was a birthday celebration today and me and my family had good time…Michelle was a very good waitress
More info
Mercadito - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mexican• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
E
ElizabethVIP
Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
The food, as always, was delicious and the service great.
More info
Ema - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7

Explore OpenTable

Area
Lunch

Little Italy / University Village

Evergreen Park
Oak Park
Skokie
Belmont Central / Cragin
Downtown / Loop
Riverside
Bloomingdale
Naperville
Franklin Park
Northfield
Tinley Park
Wheeling
Albany Park
Deerfield
Lakeview / East Lakeview
Andersonville
River North (Chicago)
North Center
Carol Stream
Northbrook