Best Restaurants for People Watching in Little Italy / University Village

45 restaurants available nearby

1. Cabra - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(3033)

Price: Expensive

• Peruvian • West Loop

Booked 29 times today

Perched atop the Hoxton Hotel in the heart of Chicago’s Fulton Market, Cabra Chicago is a lively rooftop escape, inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Led by James Beard Award and Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, alongside longtime partners Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of Boka Restaurant Group, Cabra serves up crave-worthy dishes in a colorful and energetic setting. The restaurant’s airy, plant-filled ambiance, paired with its open kitchen and sweeping city views, creates a dynamic dining experience. Guests can savor a variety of shareable plates, from ceviches to savory meats, all bursting with the rich, fresh flavors of Peru.

A photo of Legal Sea Foods - Chicago restaurant

2. Legal Sea Foods - Chicago

4.0

Excellent(210)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • River North (Chicago)

Booked 24 times today

Legal Sea Foods Chicago is now open along the vibrant Riverwalk in the bustling River North neighborhood at the famous Marina Towers. Legal's first Midwest location features two floors of upscale casual New England vibes with sweeping riverfront views and an outdoor space. The brand-new restaurant features a large main dining room, bar area, private event space, and outdoor terraces. Serving New England specialties such as Boston's best Clam Chowder and Half Pound Lobster Rolls, as well as new signature dishes and local favorites. Legal Sea Foods combines New England's coastal fishing traditions with modern culinary flair. A taste of New England in the Mid-West.

A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant

3. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(8834)

Price: Expensive

• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 120 times today

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse has been a Chicago icon since partners Hugo Ralli and Steve Lombardo opened its doors in May 1989. The classic American steakhouse serves Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef. Gibsons also features fresh fish, classic cocktails, an extensive wine list and exceptional service. Celebrities, Chicago visitors and loyal neighborhood residents enjoy three distinct locations: Chicago, Rosemont and Oak Brook. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.

4. RL Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(7213)

Price: Expensive

• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 112 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.

5. Bar La Rue

4.6

Exceptional(165)

Price: Expensive

• French 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 Happy Camper Pizza - Old Town restaurant

6. Happy Camper Pizza - Old Town

4.8

Exceptional(597)

Price: Moderate

• Pizzeria • River North (Chicago)

Booked 20 times today

Minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian for entry. A valid ID is required for guests age 21+.A chic, outdoorsy pizza haven located in Old Town. Happy Camper boasts a décor that includes Airstream trailers, neon renditions of the Great Lakes, warm wooden accents, and tire swing seating around the bar. A wide variety of colorful pizzas and delicious appetizers await you.F*ckin' Charity Bingo on Sundays at 1:30pm is sat on a first come first serve basis. All reservations will be sat in the non-bingo area.We cannot guarantee inside or outside seating.Neighborhood ordinances require our patio to close by 12am. Your table is weather permitting. If there is inclement weather, Happy Camper reserves the right to cancel your reservation. If you are dining when inclement weather occurs your food will be packed and given your bill. You are more than welcome to head to the bar afterward.

7. The Publican

4.5

Awesome(5894)

Price: Expensive

• American • West Loop

Booked 48 times today

A homage to oysters, pork and beer, Executive Chef Paul Kahan's eclectic menu is inspired by simple farmhouse fare in a space evocative of a European beer hall.

A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant

8. Mercadito - River North

4.6

Exceptional(6256)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 62 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.

A photo of Bar Siena - West Loop restaurant

9. Bar Siena - West Loop

4.6

Exceptional(3258)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • West Loop

Booked 43 times today

Perfectly Centralized In Chicago's West Loop 'Restaurant Row', The Two-Story, 8,000-Square-Foot Restaurant Is The Sibling Of DineAmic Hospitality'S River North Staple Eatery, Siena Tavern. Bar Siena Offers Diners The Perfect & Approachable Setting To Enjoy Lunch, Dinner, Late Night, And Weekend Brunch. The Menu Features An Expansive Italian Street Food And Pizza Bar Selection, All Served Within The Streets Of Fulton Market. Our Team Of Hospitality Professionals Are Thrilled And Dedicated To Host Your Next Dining Experience, Private Event Or Catering Function!

10. il Porcellino

4.7

Exceptional(4173)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 106 times today

Il Porcellino, located in the heart of River North in downtown Chicago, is a neighborhood restaurant offering classic Italian-American comfort food in a casual setting. Our seasonal menu focuses on housemate pastas, vegetable antipasti and daily specials, all crafted with ingredients sourced from quality artisans, purveyors, and local farmers. The fun and approachable wine program encourages sharing with selections primarily from Italy. As a way to offset rising costs associated with the restaurant (food, beverage, labor, benefits, supplies), we have added a 3% surcharge to all checks. We do this in lieu of increased menu prices. You may request to have this taken off your check, should you choose.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

B
Brian
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Madison was out server and she was fantastic, patient and knew her craft. The food outstanding, the services top notch, definitely a good place for dinner!
More info
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.7
K
Kimberlyvip
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
RL is adorable- such tasteful decor with excellent service and delicious food. We had the mini lobster rolls, the NY strip steak, the mashed potatoes, and the sautéed spinach. Best meal in awhile :)
More info
RL RestaurantPrice: Expensive• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.9
D
davidvip
New Orleans / Louisiana •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Excellent dining experience along with superb service - a hidden gem in Chicago
More info
Cabra - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Peruvian• West Loop
•
4.7
M
Michaelvip
Chicago / Illinois •283 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Excellent Seafood. Tonight I had one of my favorites again, yellowfin tuna. Boston cream pie for dessert. As great as the food is, the service is better. Hats off to my bartender Nick for always going above and beyond to make sure my evening is enjoyable.
More info
Legal Sea Foods - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Seafood• River North (Chicago)
•
4
S
Suevip
Chicago / Illinois •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The atmosphere, food and service were excellent! Ask to be seated in the section with server, Julien, who is extremely professional, friendly, knowledgeable and resourceful! Both the Caesar salad and kale salads were wonderful, the steak frites was grilled (rare) to perfection and the roasted half chicken was so juicy! We stayed late and the vibe got even more lively! I highly recommend Bar La Rue for a great night out!
More info
Bar La RuePrice: Expensive• French American• West Loop
•
4.6

Best Restaurants for People Watching in Little Italy / University Village

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45 restaurants available nearby

1. Cabra - Chicago

2. Legal Sea Foods - Chicago

3. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago

4. RL Restaurant

5. Bar La Rue

6. Happy Camper Pizza - Old Town

7. The Publican

8. Mercadito - River North

9. Bar Siena - West Loop

10. il Porcellino

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