Best Restaurants for a Quick Bite in South Side

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSeafoodFrenchMexicanBritish

Regions

Chicago

Areas

BridgeportBucktown / Wicker ParkDowntown / LoopGold Coast / StreetervilleLakeview / East LakeviewLincoln Park

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

24 restaurants available nearby

1. ETC.

4.5

Awesome(76)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 15 times today

Lamar J. Moore, the beloved, Chicago-based, chef, has manifested a vision of elevated Southern cuisine in a Northern city where the bulk of the Black American community has direct Southern ancestry and roots. Soil was rich and ready for the unique warmth of his ideas. The opening team of etc. has created a space, menu, beverage program, and flow of service that is simultaneously down-home and adventurous, and as intriguing and challenging as it is familiar Our mission is to bring a high level of experience, taste, and cocktails to the loop/printers row, family-style and without any pretension.

2. Pilsen Yards

4.7

Exceptional(1617)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Latin American • Pilsen

Booked 5 times today

Pilsen Yards is a vibrant and lively restaurant in the heart of Pilsen, offering a unique dining experience with its bar-centric and music-driven atmosphere. The open-air vibe and one of the largest patios in the city create a welcoming and inviting space for guests to enjoy delicious Latin-inspired street food and handcrafted cocktails. Executive Chef Juan Carlos Gutierrez's menu features a variety of creative and flavorful dishes, from tacos and ceviches to hummus and carne asada. The menu is designed to share and encourage guests to try a variety of flavors. The bar program, curated by beverage director Lance Bowman, boasts an extensive selection of mezcal, tequila, whiskey, and other spirits, along with a variety of craft beers and cocktails. Pilsen Yards is the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends, a lively weekend brunch, or a special occasion. The restaurant's spacious interior and expansive patio can accommodate large groups and private events. With its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and extensive bar program, Pilsen Yards is sure to provide a memorable dining experience.

A photo of State and Lake Chicago Tavern restaurant

3. State and Lake Chicago Tavern

4.2

Awesome(1574)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 13 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.

4. Atwood

4.2

Awesome(4562)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 12 times today

Atwood proudly offers alluring libations and a wildly guest-pleasing menu filled with your favorite all-day American cuisine courtesy of Executive Chef, David Fingerman. Whether for happy hour cocktails, a theater dinner, or the date of a lifetime, Atwood is Chicago’s premier spot to mix, mingle and delight in the joys of food and drink.Atwood’s soaring dining room is strikingly modern with white marble surfaces, glossy subway-tiled walls, and massive windows ideal for watching the State Street shoppers stroll by.

A photo of Green Street Local restaurant

5. Green Street Local

4.7

Exceptional(301)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • West Loop

Booked 2 times today

Green Street Local is the West Loop's Best Sports Lounge & Restaurant. We offer a Warm, Mature Setting, Where Patrons can Enjoy a Mindfully Crafted Menu Featuring New American Comfort Food, Craft Beers, Signature Cocktails & Premium Wines.

A photo of Elephant & Castle - Chicago Adams St. restaurant

6. Elephant & Castle - Chicago Adams St.

4.8

Exceptional(370)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 9 times today

Located in Chicago's bustling central business district, Elephant & Castle on Adams offers an authentic British pub experience with hearty pub fare like fish and chips, classic breakfasts, and live sports. Whether you're grabbing a bite after visiting the Art Institute, catching football matches after work, or enjoying happy hour near Willis Tower, we've got you covered. Conveniently attached to the Club Quarters Central Loop hotel, Elephant & Castle is your go-to sports pub for great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Chicago.

7. Tuscany on Taylor

4.8

Exceptional(2233)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 8 times today

Tuscany on Taylor is the original Tuscany restaurant opened in 1990 in the heart of Little Italy. A comfortable trattoria, Tuscany serves Northern Italian favorites including: homemade pastas, pizzas from our wood-burning ovens, signature Italian chicken dishes, grilled veal and other authentic dishes. Private party space available.

A photo of Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie restaurant

8. Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie

4.4

Awesome(187)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• French • Downtown / Loop

Booked 5 times today

Taureaux Tavern is an elevated yet inviting French-inspired restaurant and bar in the heart of Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. Designed as an all encompassing dining experience, Taureaux Tavern offers multiple areas of service and a year-round patio alongside Executive Eric Tiglao's artfully crafted menu.

A photo of White Castle - Chicago - S Ashland Ave restaurant

9. White Castle - Chicago - S Ashland Ave

4.4

Awesome(19)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Bridgeport

Fine dining is back at White Castle this Valentine’s Day and craviiiier than ever! From steamy Sliders to decadent desserts you’re guaranteed to impress that special someone (or crew) you love so much! So step up your game and dine with us a la carte or dig into The Love Clutch Collection full of delicious delights. Give the special Cravers in your life the royal treatment at White Castle on February 14th. Because everyone wants to hear those three little words: We’re. Getting. Sliders. P.S. Here are a few lines to help set the mood—FREE OF CHARGE: I only have fries for you Mozzstix & chill? You’re my crave-orite I’d put a Chicken Ring on it

A photo of Gordo's Tiny Taco Bar restaurant

10. Gordo's Tiny Taco Bar

4.6

Exceptional(2)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 1 time today

At Gordo's, we celebrate the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with a fun and modern twist. Our menu features a delightful array of authentic tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, crafted from the freshest ingredients and bursting with bold flavors.Whether you're a fan of classic combinations or looking to try something new, our diverse offerings cater to all taste buds. Enjoy a relaxed dining experience in our inviting space, perfect for gatherings with friends or a quick bite on the go.Join us for lunch or dinner and savor the taste of Gordo's Tiny Taco—where every bite is a fiesta!

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
April
Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Chef Moore and The Soul Food Scholar, Adrian Miller, hosted an event that was truly spectacular! I hope they will be able to tag team again. Until then, I will come back to enjoy the great food, service and ambience!
More info
ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.5
K
Kimmy
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Our waiter was wondering. He was very kind and accommodating. Food was good and large portions. We asked to sit in a different spot and host was very accommodating too.
More info
AtwoodPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.2
T
Theo
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Erin, our server was outstanding and such a sweetheart. We headed into the city and unfortunately, because of the weather and traffic had to cancel our reservation but found this place instead. Sure glad we did, drinks and food were incredible. Until next time!
More info
Green Street LocalPrice: Moderate• American• West Loop
•
4.7
V
Veronica
Denver / Colorado •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Food was delicious. Staff were friendly and attentive. We were seated working mins of arriving and were treated respectfully and politely.
More info
Pilsen YardsPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Pilsen
•
4.7
R
Rebecca
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Wonderful pre-show dinner while sitting at the bar. The bartenders suggested a refreshing AF drink, and delectable choices from the menu. I even got a rose since it was Valentine’s Day!
More info
State and Lake Chicago TavernPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.2

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