Top 16 gastropubs in South Loop
Gastropubs in South Loop are a foodie's dream, offering a unique dining experience that combines the relaxing atmosphere of a pub with the culinary expertise of a fine dining establishment. These gastropubs serve up innovative and delicious dishes, made with high-quality ingredients and expert preparation. Whether you're in the mood for classic comfort food or something more adventurous, the gastropubs in South Loop have something for everyone. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to sustainability, these establishments are not only delicious but also responsible. So why not grab a seat at one of these gastropubs in South Loop and enjoy a truly memorable meal?
- 1. First Draft
- 2. Half Sour
- 3. Weather Mark Tavern
- 4. Kasey's Tavern
- 5. Fatpour Tap Works - McCormick in South Loop
- 6. Bar Louie - Printers Row
- 7. Victory Tap | South Loop
- 8. Sociale Chicago
- 9. Kitty O'Sheas
- 10. Flo & Santos
- 11. Eleven City Diner
- 12. The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- 13. AO Hawaiian Hideout in South Loop
- 14. Mercat a la Planxa in South Loop
- 15. 720 South Bar & Grill
- 16. Grant Park Bistro
1. First Draft
Live music performances on weekends

This establishment offers a cozy gastropub atmosphere with a wide selection of beers on tap. The service is friendly and efficient, adding to the overall positive experience. The food served is delicious and generous, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a good meal.
Watching sports and socializing with friends are popular activities in this gastropub. The atmosphere is lively and enjoyable, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to catch up with friends or enjoy a meal while watching your favorite team, this gastropub is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
2. Half Sour
Hand-rolled bagels, traditional recipes, and artisanal offerings

Half Sour is a wonderful gastropub with a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Its burgers have gained a reputation for excellence, and the beer selection is highly regarded. A solo visit to this establishment reveals a solid gastropub experience, where the Revolution Eugene Porter draft beer is a standout choice.
The food at Half Sour is delicious, and the service is friendly. Among the many appealing options, the burgers are a clear highlight. As for drinks, the gastropub boasts an impressive beer lineup, with the Revolution Eugene Porter draft beer being a particularly memorable selection. This cozy spot is perfect for beer enthusiasts and burger aficionados alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
3. Weather Mark Tavern
Offers live music seven nights a week

Nestled among the many gastropubs in Chicago, this establishment stands out as a hidden gem. The food served is fresh and reasonably priced, making it a great option for those seeking high-quality cuisine without breaking the bank. This gastropub is particularly notable for its excellent service, with staff members who are both friendly and attentive.
Located in the South Loop, this gastropub is a must-visit for anyone in the area. In addition to its fresh and delicious food, this establishment also boasts a great selection of drinks. Whether you're in the mood for a craft beer, a glass of wine, or a creative cocktail, this gastropub has something to offer. With its cozy atmosphere and excellent service, it's no wonder this gastropub is considered one of the best in the South Loop.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Kasey's Tavern
Offers trivia nights and outdoor seating

Kasey's Bar has a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. It combines the laid-back vibe of a neighborhood sports bar with the upscale feel of a gastropub, offering a diverse selection of beers. The authentic and friendly ambiance sets it apart from other establishments in the area.
The staff at Kasey's Bar are prompt, courteous, and contribute to the establishment's inviting ambiance. Boasting a wide assortment of local beers, it successfully creates a gastropub atmosphere. While many bars aim for a welcoming environment, Kasey's Bar truly delivers, making it a standout choice for beer enthusiasts and casual patrons alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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5. Fatpour Tap Works - McCormick in South Loop
Over 100 beer options, rooftop seating

This gastropub provides a wide range of gluten-free options, with a menu that goes beyond just salads. Some of their most popular dishes include delicious burgers and chicken sandwiches. The atmosphere is lively and enjoyable, making it a great spot to grab a quick drink.
The beer selection at this gastropub is impressive, with a variety of options to choose from. The staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring a fantastic dining experience. Whether you're looking for a quick drink or a full meal, this gastropub is the perfect spot to enjoy great food and a fun atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. Bar Louie - Printers Row
Spacious patio with fire pits and a scenic view of the city

This gastropub provides a range of well-seasoned dishes, including a highly recommended Bourbon BBQ burger. However, while the atmosphere and service are pleasant, the quality of the bar food could be improved.
The gastropub offers a diverse menu of flavorful dishes, with the Bourbon BBQ burger being a standout option. Despite the appealing ambiance and attentive service, the quality of the bar food falls short of expectations, making it an average experience overall.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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7. Victory Tap | South Loop
Spacious patio with a retractable roof and wall-mounted TVs

Victory Tap, a gastropub located in the South Loop, offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious menu. The establishment is known for its friendly service and extensive selection of beers and cocktails. One standout feature of Victory Tap is their high-quality food, particularly their pasta dishes.
As a gastropub, Victory Tap combines the relaxed atmosphere of a pub with a menu that features high-quality, innovative dishes. Their pasta dishes are a must-try, with a variety of options that are sure to please any palate. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure guests feel welcome and satisfied with their dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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9. Kitty O'Sheas
Offers a unique Irish drinking and dining experience

Kitty O'Sheas is a welcoming restaurant located on the ground floor of the Hilton Chicago in the South Loop area. As hotel residents, we frequented the establishment during our stay and appreciated the friendly service and pleasant atmosphere. While the food may not be the most exceptional in the city, it provides a good dining option for those attending Symphony events or seeking a place to eat after a run.
The restaurant, situated on South Michigan Avenue, is an ideal spot for a quick bite to eat, especially if one wishes to avoid chain restaurants like Bennigans. Given its proximity to various race locations, Kitty O'Sheas has become a popular post-race dining destination for many participants. The restaurant offers a comfortable and relaxed environment, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy a meal after a long run or an evening at the Symphony.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
10. Flo & Santos
Hand-tossed pizza, house-made pasta, extensive wine list

Flo & Santos is a hybrid establishment that combines the features of a pub, pizzeria, and Polish-American restaurant with a hint of Italian cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, featuring exposed brick and comfortable red booths that create a perfect gastropub experience.
This establishment offers a unique menu that features unconventional pizza toppings and traditional Polish classics. With a spacious interior and friendly service, Flo & Santos provides a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere that is ideal for casual dining.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
11. Eleven City Diner
Open early morning to late night with a wide selection of comfort food

Lowcountry South Loop is a great place to enjoy a seafood boil and experience the culture of social gatherings. The environment is comfortable and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy the delicious food. Many reviewers rave about the seafood boil and cornbread, which are considered standout dishes.
Bar Louie is a popular gastrobar known for its chef-inspired grub, craft cocktails, and local beers. The atmosphere is free-spirited and fun, with a lack of pretentiousness or strict rules. Patrons can enjoy shareable plates and sip on creative cocktails while taking in the lively atmosphere. Bar Louie is a great spot for those looking to relax and enjoy delicious food and drinks in a social setting.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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12. The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
Stunning restored building with vintage fire trucks on display

The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant offers a gastropub ambiance with an upscale and cozy atmosphere, creating an appealing dining experience. The establishment is known for its top-quality food and standout dishes such as the steak and lobster bisque.
As a combination of a gastropub and a fine dining restaurant, the Chicago Firehouse Restaurant provides an amazing ambiance and exceptional service. The menu features high-quality dishes that cater to a range of tastes and preferences, with the steak and lobster bisque being particularly noteworthy.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
13. AO Hawaiian Hideout in South Loop
Exotic Drinks, Luau Nights

The service at this establishment is friendly, efficient, and welcoming. Servers are quick to apologize for any wait time and greet guests with a smile, making them feel welcome. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the staff go out of their way to make sure guests are satisfied with their dining experience.
The prices are reasonable and offer great value for the quality and quantity of food served. The menu has a variety of options to choose from, with something to suit every taste preference. Whether you're in the mood for a light snack or a full meal, you can be assured that the prices are fair and provide excellent value.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
14. Mercat a la Planxa in South Loop
Combines traditional and modern Spanish cuisine

Mercat a la Planxa is a restaurant that uniquely combines traditional Spanish flavors with modern twists to create a distinctive gastropub experience. The atmosphere is energetic and entertaining, making it an ideal destination for a night out.
The menu features Spanish-inspired tapas that are sure to delight, with the patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo being standout dishes. This gastropub is a must-visit for anyone seeking a modern take on classic Spanish cuisine in a lively setting.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Corporate Events
15. 720 South Bar & Grill
Spacious patio, extensive beer selection, game-day events

720 South Bar & Grill is known for its excellent breakfast buffet and exceptional service. The establishment takes pride in its friendly and attentive staff, who ensure a cozy and clean atmosphere for all guests. The menu features fancy cocktails and delicious dishes like seared salmon with char lemon and dill butter sauce, making it an ideal spot for events and large groups.
The service at 720 Bar and Grill is phenomenal, with managers, servers, bartenders, busboy, and even the chef engaging with patrons. The drinks are delicious, and the food is fabulous, providing patrons with a memorable dining experience. The atmosphere is outstanding, and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for any occasion.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
16. Grant Park Bistro
Farm-to-table dining with a view of Grant Park

Grant Park Bistro is a Chicago establishment that provides a gastropub experience with a selection of local beers and creative cocktails. The bar area is an inviting space to unwind after a day of sightseeing. During my stay in Chicago, I dined at Grant Park Bistro on four separate occasions, and each time, I enjoyed the flavorful and satisfying dishes. Among the many options, the tomato soup and butternut squash soup stood out as my favorites.
The ambiance at Grant Park Bistro is lively yet comfortable, making it an ideal spot for various occasions. The staff members are both friendly and attentive, ensuring that guests feel welcome and well taken care of throughout their dining experience. The attentive service, combined with the delicious food, makes Grant Park Bistro a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Sociale Chicago
Spacious patio, creative cocktails, weekend brunch
Sociale, a new restaurant located just one block away from my home, opened last night and I decided to try it out. The food was excellent, particularly the skirt steak, and the waitstaff were attentive and friendly. Our meal was slightly delayed, but the restaurant handled the situation professionally by refunding us for the dish. I was impressed with the quality of the food, the welcoming atmosphere, and the top-notch service. I look forward to returning.
The food at Sociale was not only delicious but also reasonably priced. I visited the restaurant fairly late in the evening, around 9:30, and was pleased to find that both indoor and outdoor seating were available. The menu was extensive, and both the food and service were good. However, I did find the price of the house vodka to be a bit steep at $12 for a single shot. Overall, I had a positive dining experience at Sociale, with its big menu, casual atmosphere, and tasty dishes.
TOPICS
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BYOB restaurants in South Loop Chicago