Top 18 restaurants in South Loop
South Loop, Chicago's vibrant neighborhood, is a hub for diverse dining experiences. Discover an array of restaurants in South Loop, from upscale eateries to cozy cafes, that cater to all tastes. Indulge in local and international flavors, and explore the unique culinary scene that this area has to offer. Restaurants in South Loop are not just places to eat, but destinations for making memories.
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- 1. Eleven City Diner in South Loop
- 2. Flo & Santos
- 3. Lowcountry South Loop
- 4. The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- 5. Victory Tap | South Loop
- 6. Tapas Valencia
- 7. AO Hawaiian Hideout
- 8. Half Sour
- 9. Sofi Restaurant
- 10. Mercat a la Planxa
- 11. Cafe Bionda
- 12. Sociale Chicago
- 13. Spoke & Bird Cafe (South Loop)
- 14. My Place South Loop Restaurant
- 15. Grant Park Bistro
- 16. Minghin Japanese Cuisine
- 17. Apolonia in South Loop
- 18. Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates in South Loop
1. Eleven City Diner in South Loop
Open 24/7, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options
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Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is well-known for its exceptional deep-dish pizza, characterized by a thick crust and an array of delicious ingredients, with cheese being one of them. The pizza requires 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a definite try for visitors in Chicago.
Harold's Chicken Shack offers a remarkable mild sauce, which is highly acclaimed. However, there have been occasional instances of missing extra sauce containers, as mentioned in customer reviews on Tripadvisor. Nonetheless, the sauce remains a highlight of the dining experience at this establishment.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is well-known for its exceptional deep-dish pizza, characterized by a thick crust and an array of delicious ingredients, with cheese being one of them. The pizza requires 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a definite try for visitors in Chicago.
Harold's Chicken Shack offers a remarkable mild sauce, which is highly acclaimed. However, there have been occasional instances of missing extra sauce containers, as mentioned in customer reviews on Tripadvisor. Nonetheless, the sauce remains a highlight of the dining experience at this establishment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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2. Flo & Santos
Featuring a unique fusion of Polish and Italian dishes, a spacious dining area, and a full bar.
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Flo & Santos is a popular restaurant known for its delicious chicken parmigiana and unique pizza toppings. In addition to these mouth-watering options, they also offer a sampler plate of pierogies and a variety of tasty sandwich choices. The service is efficient, and the staff is friendly, making it a welcoming environment for all visitors.
The spacious interior of Flo & Santos features TVs and a patio that allows customers to bring their dogs. This makes it an ideal spot to watch games, particularly during March Madness. The restaurant also offers a good selection of beers and occasional beer specials, adding to its appeal for sports fans and beer enthusiasts alike. With its combination of great food, efficient service, and a welcoming atmosphere, Flo & Santos is a standout restaurant in its area.
Flo & Santos is a popular restaurant known for its delicious chicken parmigiana and unique pizza toppings. In addition to these mouth-watering options, they also offer a sampler plate of pierogies and a variety of tasty sandwich choices. The service is efficient, and the staff is friendly, making it a welcoming environment for all visitors.
The spacious interior of Flo & Santos features TVs and a patio that allows customers to bring their dogs. This makes it an ideal spot to watch games, particularly during March Madness. The restaurant also offers a good selection of beers and occasional beer specials, adding to its appeal for sports fans and beer enthusiasts alike. With its combination of great food, efficient service, and a welcoming atmosphere, Flo & Santos is a standout restaurant in its area.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
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3. Lowcountry South Loop
Offers brunch on weekends, locally sourced ingredients
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The service provided at this establishment is offered with the option of a 18% gratuity or self-serve. Patrons have complimented the freshness and quality of the food, as well as the good service.
The food served is generally considered delicious, with seafood boil and cornbread being highlighted as standout dishes. However, there have been a few criticisms, with some reviewers stating that the food was cold or had an overpowering amount of seasoning.
The service provided at this establishment is offered with the option of a 18% gratuity or self-serve. Patrons have complimented the freshness and quality of the food, as well as the good service.
The food served is generally considered delicious, with seafood boil and cornbread being highlighted as standout dishes. However, there have been a few criticisms, with some reviewers stating that the food was cold or had an overpowering amount of seasoning.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
Features a unique, historic atmosphere and an extensive wine list
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The service at this establishment is highly rated by customers, who describe it as awesome, amazing, fantastic, and exceptional. The staff is particularly commendable, with customers praising their kindness, niceness, and accommodating nature.
This service is located in a historic Chicago landmark, known for its artistry and craftsmanship. The building itself is a sight to behold, and even if you don't plan on staying, it's worth stopping by for a visit. In addition to its historical significance, this establishment is also known for its great food and hospitality.
The service at this establishment is highly rated by customers, who describe it as awesome, amazing, fantastic, and exceptional. The staff is particularly commendable, with customers praising their kindness, niceness, and accommodating nature.
This service is located in a historic Chicago landmark, known for its artistry and craftsmanship. The building itself is a sight to behold, and even if you don't plan on staying, it's worth stopping by for a visit. In addition to its historical significance, this establishment is also known for its great food and hospitality.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
5. Victory Tap | South Loop
Victory Tap is known for its lively and energetic ambiance, making it a great spot for dinner and drinks.
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The drinks served in the restaurant are well-made and have received praise from guests for their quality. However, during a recent concert in town, the restaurant was extremely busy, and the temperature inside became uncomfortably hot, particularly on this warm day. This made for a challenging environment for diners, as they tried to enjoy their meals.
In addition to the heat, there were other issues that affected the dining experience. For instance, the restaurant had implemented a time limit for guests' stays, which was not communicated during the reservation process. This led to confusion and frustration, as diners were rushed and asked to settle their bills before they had finished their meals. Furthermore, the food service was less than ideal, with a busboy bringing out dishes and leaving them on trays for neighboring tables to serve themselves.
The drinks served in the restaurant are well-made and have received praise from guests for their quality. However, during a recent concert in town, the restaurant was extremely busy, and the temperature inside became uncomfortably hot, particularly on this warm day. This made for a challenging environment for diners, as they tried to enjoy their meals.
In addition to the heat, there were other issues that affected the dining experience. For instance, the restaurant had implemented a time limit for guests' stays, which was not communicated during the reservation process. This led to confusion and frustration, as diners were rushed and asked to settle their bills before they had finished their meals. Furthermore, the food service was less than ideal, with a busboy bringing out dishes and leaving them on trays for neighboring tables to serve themselves.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Tapas Valencia
Family-owned and operated, utilizing traditional recipes and techniques
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Tapas Valencia is a Spanish restaurant that offers a welcome alternative to typical American fare and is conveniently located a short walk from nearby hotels. The tapas menu is extensive, though priced higher than in Spain, with most dishes averaging around $10 each. Despite the cost, the service and food quality are both excellent, making for a satisfying dining experience.
The restaurant is known for its authentic Spanish cuisine, featuring flavorful dishes such as paella, black bean soup, and gazpacho. During happy hour, customers can enjoy $3 tapas at the bar, adding to the overall value of the dining experience. The casual atmosphere and delicious food make Tapas Valencia an excellent choice for anyone seeking a taste of Spain during their stay.
Tapas Valencia is a Spanish restaurant that offers a welcome alternative to typical American fare and is conveniently located a short walk from nearby hotels. The tapas menu is extensive, though priced higher than in Spain, with most dishes averaging around $10 each. Despite the cost, the service and food quality are both excellent, making for a satisfying dining experience.
The restaurant is known for its authentic Spanish cuisine, featuring flavorful dishes such as paella, black bean soup, and gazpacho. During happy hour, customers can enjoy $3 tapas at the bar, adding to the overall value of the dining experience. The casual atmosphere and delicious food make Tapas Valencia an excellent choice for anyone seeking a taste of Spain during their stay.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Holiday Celebrations
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. AO Hawaiian Hideout
Offers a unique Hawaiian dining experience in the heart of Chicago
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The restaurant has a diverse menu and offers a range of affordably priced colorful drinks. The service is friendly, but the author suggests avoiding the place on evenings with live music if you prefer to have conversations over dinner, as they do. On Mother's Day, the restaurant was packed, but the author's family of eight was seated within ten minutes without a reservation.
The food ordered was abundant, including loco moco, Kalbi, panang poutine, pork belly tacos, pad Thai, and ribs. The author's loco moco and Kalbi, as well as their daughter's pad Thai and son's ribs, were all delicious. The panang poutine and pork belly tacos also received high praise. The author's Mai Tai was strong, and their husband enjoyed his zombie. The service was excellent, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The restaurant has a diverse menu and offers a range of affordably priced colorful drinks. The service is friendly, but the author suggests avoiding the place on evenings with live music if you prefer to have conversations over dinner, as they do. On Mother's Day, the restaurant was packed, but the author's family of eight was seated within ten minutes without a reservation.
The food ordered was abundant, including loco moco, Kalbi, panang poutine, pork belly tacos, pad Thai, and ribs. The author's loco moco and Kalbi, as well as their daughter's pad Thai and son's ribs, were all delicious. The panang poutine and pork belly tacos also received high praise. The author's Mai Tai was strong, and their husband enjoyed his zombie. The service was excellent, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. Half Sour
Family-owned Jewish deli with creative twist on traditional recipes
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The Reuben sandwich was served and, despite being a bit messy, it was delicious. The pickles that accompanied the dish were half sour and were actually cucumbers with a light coating of hot pepper flakes. The food in its entirety was impressive and satisfying.
In addition to the sandwich, a draft beer by the name of Revolution Eugene Porter was ordered and enjoyed. The service contributed to the positive experience, as the server, Sierra, was amiable and kept a close watch on our needs.
The Reuben sandwich was served and, despite being a bit messy, it was delicious. The pickles that accompanied the dish were half sour and were actually cucumbers with a light coating of hot pepper flakes. The food in its entirety was impressive and satisfying.
In addition to the sandwich, a draft beer by the name of Revolution Eugene Porter was ordered and enjoyed. The service contributed to the positive experience, as the server, Sierra, was amiable and kept a close watch on our needs.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
9. Sofi Restaurant
Family-owned, homemade pasta, welcoming ambiance
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Sofi Restaurant is known for its expert execution of classic dishes, offering options such as Ossobuco alla Milanese, Braised Short Ribs of Beef, Veal Chop Emiliana, and Fish Stew Viareggina. The restaurant's menu features a variety of dishes that have been well-received, particularly the lamb chops and seafood. The pasta dishes at Sofi Restaurant are cooked to an al dente texture and strike a good balance between sauce and meat.
The food at Sofi Restaurant is generally considered to be decent, offering a variety of options that are executed well. Among the standout dishes are the lamb chops and seafood options, while the pasta dishes are praised for their al dente texture and careful balance of sauce and meat.
Sofi Restaurant is known for its expert execution of classic dishes, offering options such as Ossobuco alla Milanese, Braised Short Ribs of Beef, Veal Chop Emiliana, and Fish Stew Viareggina. The restaurant's menu features a variety of dishes that have been well-received, particularly the lamb chops and seafood. The pasta dishes at Sofi Restaurant are cooked to an al dente texture and strike a good balance between sauce and meat.
The food at Sofi Restaurant is generally considered to be decent, offering a variety of options that are executed well. Among the standout dishes are the lamb chops and seafood options, while the pasta dishes are praised for their al dente texture and careful balance of sauce and meat.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
10. Mercat a la Planxa
Locally-sourced ingredients, Modern interpretation of Spanish cuisine
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The service at this establishment is generally described as attentive, friendly, and efficient. Reviewers have noted the staff's eagerness to accommodate patrons and their needs, with some praising the service as impeccable. However, there are a few exceptions to this positive assessment, with a small number of reviews mentioning poor or rude service.
The service at this establishment is generally described as attentive, friendly, and efficient. Reviewers have noted the staff's eagerness to accommodate patrons and their needs, with some praising the service as impeccable. However, there are a few exceptions to this positive assessment, with a small number of reviews mentioning poor or rude service.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Corporate Events
11. Cafe Bionda
Friendly staff, community events, and local art displays
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The Italian bistro, named Cafe Bionda, offers a fantastic experience with its unique twists on classic cocktails. The Italian old fashioned and Italian 75 were both praised for their freshness and full flavor. This quaint eatery is the perfect neighborhood spot, providing consistent quality in their dishes.
The menu features a variety of options, including pastas, steaks, and other entrees that are great for sharing. With something for everyone, Cafe Bionda ensures that no one leaves disappointed. This cozy restaurant is the ideal place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a menu full of satisfying options.
The Italian bistro, named Cafe Bionda, offers a fantastic experience with its unique twists on classic cocktails. The Italian old fashioned and Italian 75 were both praised for their freshness and full flavor. This quaint eatery is the perfect neighborhood spot, providing consistent quality in their dishes.
The menu features a variety of options, including pastas, steaks, and other entrees that are great for sharing. With something for everyone, Cafe Bionda ensures that no one leaves disappointed. This cozy restaurant is the ideal place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a menu full of satisfying options.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
13. Spoke & Bird Cafe (South Loop)
Community bike repair station and family-friendly atmosphere
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On a visit to the Glessner House, a happy accident led to the discovery of a popular breakfast spot. One beautiful morning, we opted to have breakfast on their patio, and we were not disappointed. The local bakery cafe proved to be an excellent choice for a quick bite to eat, especially on a Sunday mid-day when we were on a tight schedule.
The cafe offered a variety of freshly baked goods, and we enjoyed a delicious muffin and scone, along with a hot cup of coffee. The bakery cafe was reasonably priced and was just enough to tide us over until our next meal. Overall, it was a delightful experience, and the perfect spot to grab a quick and satisfying breakfast.
On a visit to the Glessner House, a happy accident led to the discovery of a popular breakfast spot. One beautiful morning, we opted to have breakfast on their patio, and we were not disappointed. The local bakery cafe proved to be an excellent choice for a quick bite to eat, especially on a Sunday mid-day when we were on a tight schedule.
The cafe offered a variety of freshly baked goods, and we enjoyed a delicious muffin and scone, along with a hot cup of coffee. The bakery cafe was reasonably priced and was just enough to tide us over until our next meal. Overall, it was a delightful experience, and the perfect spot to grab a quick and satisfying breakfast.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
14. My Place South Loop Restaurant
Features a rooftop bar and weekly live music
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Prices at the establishment are regarded as reasonable by guests. The food offered is average, and there are decent options for combo meals that cost around $12. Some guests have expressed their appreciation for the pepper steak and egg rolls, while others have not been as impressed with the sweet and sour chicken and Mongolian beef.
Guests have varied opinions about the food's taste. While some found the pepper steak and egg rolls satisfying, others were less enthusiastic about the sweet and sour chicken and Mongolian beef. Despite the mixed reviews on food quality, the prices are generally viewed as acceptable, making the establishment a reasonable choice for those who prioritize affordability over culinary excellence.
Prices at the establishment are regarded as reasonable by guests. The food offered is average, and there are decent options for combo meals that cost around $12. Some guests have expressed their appreciation for the pepper steak and egg rolls, while others have not been as impressed with the sweet and sour chicken and Mongolian beef.
Guests have varied opinions about the food's taste. While some found the pepper steak and egg rolls satisfying, others were less enthusiastic about the sweet and sour chicken and Mongolian beef. Despite the mixed reviews on food quality, the prices are generally viewed as acceptable, making the establishment a reasonable choice for those who prioritize affordability over culinary excellence.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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15. Grant Park Bistro
Features a lively bar scene and outdoor seating
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During my stay in Chicago, I had the pleasure of dining at Grant Park Bistro on four separate occasions, and I thoroughly enjoyed all of the dishes I tried. However, the tomato soup and butternut squash soup stood out as my personal favorites. The bistro has a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, which added to my positive dining experiences. The staff members were consistently friendly and attentive, providing great service throughout my visits.
However, it's worth noting that opinions on the service at Grant Park Bistro seem to vary. Some guests have praised the staff for their attentiveness and efficient service, while others have criticized it for being inconsistent or lacking in certain instances. Nonetheless, my personal experiences with the service were overwhelmingly positive.
During my stay in Chicago, I had the pleasure of dining at Grant Park Bistro on four separate occasions, and I thoroughly enjoyed all of the dishes I tried. However, the tomato soup and butternut squash soup stood out as my personal favorites. The bistro has a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, which added to my positive dining experiences. The staff members were consistently friendly and attentive, providing great service throughout my visits.
However, it's worth noting that opinions on the service at Grant Park Bistro seem to vary. Some guests have praised the staff for their attentiveness and efficient service, while others have criticized it for being inconsistent or lacking in certain instances. Nonetheless, my personal experiences with the service were overwhelmingly positive.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
16. Minghin Japanese Cuisine
Tea ceremony room, fresh seafood flown in daily
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The food at this establishment is highly regarded, featuring popular dishes such as pineapple buns filled with salted egg custard, shrimp dumplings, shumai, and egg tarts. More standout options include the beef tenderloin cooked in a savory black pepper sauce and their special fried rice.
Customers consistently praise the level of service provided, highlighting the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. This positive feedback speaks to the exceptional dining experience that goes beyond just the food, making it a memorable place to dine.
The food at this establishment is highly regarded, featuring popular dishes such as pineapple buns filled with salted egg custard, shrimp dumplings, shumai, and egg tarts. More standout options include the beef tenderloin cooked in a savory black pepper sauce and their special fried rice.
Customers consistently praise the level of service provided, highlighting the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. This positive feedback speaks to the exceptional dining experience that goes beyond just the food, making it a memorable place to dine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Dinner
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17. Apolonia in South Loop
Live music on weekends, sports bar, outdoor seating
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McCormick Place conference area is home to what is likely the best restaurant in the vicinity. It's a popular spot, so it's a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially in the evening. The menu stands out from the typical fare, offering creative and unique flavor combinations.
The food served is delicious, with each dish showcasing a distinctive blend of creative and unexpected flavors. The wine selection by the glass is impressive, and the service is commendable. Although the decor is somewhat ordinary and could use some pizzazz, it becomes insignificant once the delectable dishes start arriving.
McCormick Place conference area is home to what is likely the best restaurant in the vicinity. It's a popular spot, so it's a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially in the evening. The menu stands out from the typical fare, offering creative and unique flavor combinations.
The food served is delicious, with each dish showcasing a distinctive blend of creative and unexpected flavors. The wine selection by the glass is impressive, and the service is commendable. Although the decor is somewhat ordinary and could use some pizzazz, it becomes insignificant once the delectable dishes start arriving.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
18. Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates in South Loop
Offers both indoor and outdoor seating, vegetarian and vegan options available
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We had a positive experience at the hotel's attached restaurant during our stay. Although it wasn't crowded, the service was efficient and the food was delicious, with no complaints about any of the dishes. The portions were also generous and satisfying.
However, it's important to note that this is an Asian Fusion restaurant tailored to American tastes, and not the place to go for authentic Chinese, Taiwanese, or Korean cuisine. While the restaurant was clean and the staff was friendly, the taste of the food was average and nothing stood out. It's a decent option for a quick bite, but those looking for authentic Asian flavors may want to look elsewhere.
We had a positive experience at the hotel's attached restaurant during our stay. Although it wasn't crowded, the service was efficient and the food was delicious, with no complaints about any of the dishes. The portions were also generous and satisfying.
However, it's important to note that this is an Asian Fusion restaurant tailored to American tastes, and not the place to go for authentic Chinese, Taiwanese, or Korean cuisine. While the restaurant was clean and the staff was friendly, the taste of the food was average and nothing stood out. It's a decent option for a quick bite, but those looking for authentic Asian flavors may want to look elsewhere.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
12. Sociale Chicago
Live music, vintage atmosphere, rooftop views
The service at this establishment is generally described as good, with many reviewers praising the staff for being friendly and helpful. However, there are some guests who mention that the service was not great or slow.
The drinks served here are a highlight, with many guests praising their visual appeal, strength, and taste. Guests enjoy having drinks here after work or with friends, indicating a social atmosphere.
TOPICS
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delivery restaurants in South Loop Chicago