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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Downtown / Loop

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64 restaurants available nearby

A photo of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Chicago (Wacker Dr.) restaurant
1. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Chicago (Wacker Dr.)
4.4
Awesome(4369)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Downtown / Loop
Booked 54 times today
McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks on Chicago's Wacker Drive is conveniently located in the Loop, just minutes away from Chicago Theater, Oriental Theater, Millennium Park, various shopping areas and some of Chicago's best hotels.From fresh seafood and shellfish to Steak and garden fresh salads, our goal is to exceed your dining expectations.As our guest, you will experience culinary excellence at its best. Our menus reflect seafood from the Pacific Rim, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico. We also source products from local ranches, farms, and wineries to showcase regionally inspired dishes.
A photo of Emerald Loop Bar and Grill restaurant
2. Emerald Loop Bar and Grill
4.6
Exceptional(1066)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 38 times today
Located in the Loop in the historic 35 East Wacker Drive Building. The fare is traditional Irish and American favorites. Serving Lunch & Dinner - indoor & outdoor seating available (max 6 guests per table)
A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
3. Alla Vita
4.8
Exceptional(2308)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Italian • West Loop
Booked 114 times today
Serving a casual, family-style menu, Alla Vita is a place to gather and enjoy comfortable Italian cuisine. Alla Vita means “to life” in Italian which recognizes overcoming life's challenges and creating a space for shared meals and memorable experiences. Executive Chef Lee Wolen shares his passion for fresh, delicious Italian food made simply with the best ingredients. Follow @allavitachicago to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
4. il Porcellino
4.7
Exceptional(4244)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 118 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.
A photo of Summer House - Chicago restaurant
5. Summer House - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7900)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lincoln Park
Booked 349 times today
Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Summer House is the place for sunshine all year round. Enjoy seasonal specialties, market-driven pasta, artisan pizzas, and fresh antipasti from Chef Ben Goodnick’s California-inspired menu. Reserve your table today and be transported to the West Coast by the beach house decor, retractable glass ceiling, and all-season courtyard. For parties of 9 or more, email shsbparties@lettuce.com. Carryout and delivery are available, or visit The Cookie Bar for a selection of fresh-baked goods, sourdough English muffins, Summer House's renowned oversized cookies, small-batch coffee, and specialty espresso drinks.
A photo of Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! restaurant
6. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!
4.8
Exceptional(396)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • River North (Chicago)
Booked 84 times today
Welcome to Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! in River North. The little sister of Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park, Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba! stays true to its Spanish roots serving a wide variety of iconic small plates like Patatas Bravas, Bacon-Wrapped Dates, and our signature Beef Tenderloin Toro Skewer. Of course, no celebration would be complete without our classic Sangria. ¡Salud!
A photo of Tzuco restaurant
7. Tzuco
4.7
Exceptional(815)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 73 times today
Located in the bustling River North neighborhood of Chicago, Tzuco, helmed by the Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán, offers a blend of authentic Mexican flavors and sophisticated French techniques. Named after Chef Gaytán’s hometown, Huitzuco, the restaurant boasts a menu rich in ceviche, seafood, and traditional Mexican dishes, served in a spacious dining room, lively bar, lounge, and an all-weather outdoor terrace.Tzuco’s captivating interiors, designed by the acclaimed Cadena + Asociados Concept Design, tell a story of Chef Gaytán's heritage with preserved materials from Mexico and handcrafted furnishings, ensuring guests not only savor exquisite dishes but also relish an immersive cultural experience.
A photo of Mon Ami Gabi restaurant
8. Mon Ami Gabi
4.8
Exceptional(8088)
Price: Moderate
• French • Lincoln Park
Booked 121 times today
Honoring classic French cuisine, Mon Ami Gabi is a traditional French bistro located in the heart of Lincoln Park. Our menu features simple French food including Steak Frites, fresh seafood, exquisite bites, and French rolling wine carts. Valet is located at the corner of Lincoln Park West and Belden for $17 cash or Zelle. During the holiday season, for all parties of 9 or more, we ask our guests to call the restaurant directly to book a reservation.Did you know that you can use Lettuce gift cards for carryout and delivery? Just place your order through Lettuce website, the LettuceEats app or any Lettuce restaurant website.
A photo of Osteria Via Stato restaurant
9. Osteria Via Stato
4.7
Exceptional(3480)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 45 times today
Osteria Via Stato, a Lettuce Entertain You restaurant follows the Italian tradition of seasonally prepared dishes featuring local ingredients and artisanal producers paired with an all Italian wine list. Open for Lunch, Tuesday - Friday at noon - 2PM.Join us for Happy Hour everyday for 1/2 priced pizzas and glasses of wine, Sunday - Thursday at 5PM - 6PM, Friday - Saturday at 4:30PM - 5:30PM.
A photo of Vela restaurant
10. Vela
4.6
Exceptional(128)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 48 times today
Vela Bar y Cocina, located in the heart of River North, Chicago, brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico City to life. Our menu showcases authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, from flavorful tacos to traditional dishes crafted by Chef Jorge Angulo. Sip on expertly curated cocktails featuring a vast selection of tequila and mezcal, including rare pours. Vela offers the perfect venue for private dining and events, with intimate spaces like our Private Dining Room and the stylish Zona Rosa. Whether you're enjoying a casual night out or hosting a private event, Vela delivers a warm and cosmopolitan experience infused with Mexican spirit. Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, and culture in one of Chicago's most energetic neighborhoods.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AnthonyVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I've been eager to try this place since it opened just a few blocks away, and it did not disappoint! I had the Rigatoni Con Salsiccia, and it was absolutely delicious—I can't wait to have it again. The upstairs seating was cozy and perfect for conversation, while downstairs was a bit louder and more crowded. The service was good, though not quite excellent. On the plus side, parking in the nearby cinema garage is only 75¢ an hour, which is a great deal. Overall, a fantastic experience, and I'll definitely be back!
    More info
    IL GIRASOLE TRATTORIAPrice: Moderate• Italian• Logan Square
    •
    4.5
  • PhyllisVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •69 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    This is one of the best kept little family owned restaurants in Chicago!!! Friendly, festive, good and hearty food!! It’s a ‘Cheers’ kinda place!!! If you don’t know anyone walking in you will most likely know someone walking out! Stuffed artichoke, calamari and oysters always a good start. Caesar salad is cold and crisp Gnocchi Arribiatta, eggplant parm, mart Anthony steak is fabulous!! Tirimisu and Madeline cookies for dessert!!
    More info
    Mart Anthony'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Neil
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 21 Dec 2024
    First time at Chez Joel, confirming it’s never too late to find something wonderful. Comfortable space, good cocktails, great food, I had the special rack of lamb, along with friendly staff and a low keyed atmosphere. Definitely on my list of places to return to.
    More info
    Chez JoelPrice: Moderate• French• Little Italy / University Village
    •
    4.7
  • Christel
    Montreal / Quebec •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 22 Nov 2024
    Good time, great choislce, good service from John.
    More info
    Angry Crab - Wicker ParkPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Bucktown / Wicker Park
    •
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 1 June 2024
    Very homey, I love coming here for breakfast whenever I'm in the area. Never disappoints
    More info
    Nellie's RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Puerto Rican• Bucktown / Wicker Park
    •
    4.5

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Downtown / Loop

Discover exceptional dining options in Downtown / Loop, Chicago that are truly "worth the drive." This curated selection of restaurants in Chicago's vibrant heart offers a diverse array of culinary experiences that stand out not only for their unique flavors but also for their commitment to quality and service. Each establishment in this area provides a distinctive atmosphere, ranging from upscale and elegant to cozy and intimate, ensuring that every visit is memorable. The dining scene in this part of Chicago is known for its dynamic and innovative approach, blending traditional techniques with modern twists to create unforgettable dishes. Ideal for food enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike, these restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and occasions, whether you're seeking a sophisticated business dinner or a special night out. Rest assured, each restaurant maintains a high standard of excellence, making any choice a commendable one. Embrace the opportunity to indulge in some of Chicago’s finest culinary offerings that are definitely worth the drive.

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