The 16 Best Downtown Restaurants in Chicago

For those looking to enjoy a delicious meal in the heart of the Windy City, exploring the vibrant selection of downtown restaurants in Chicago is a must. From cozy cafés to upscale dining establishments, there is something to satisfy every palate and preference.
Whether you are a local seeking a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Chicago's culinary scene, the diverse options in downtown Chicago are sure to impress. With a range of cuisines, atmospheres, and price points, there is no shortage of excellent dining experiences waiting to be discovered.
- Location
- Cuisine
- Ambiance
- Price range
- Menu variety
Embark on a culinary journey through the bustling streets of downtown Chicago and discover the 16 best downtown restaurants that are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
- 1. Giordano's
- 2. The Purple Pig Restaurant
- 3. Eleven City Diner
- 4. Quartino Ristorante
- 5. The Dearborn
- 6. Lou Mitchell's
- 7. Cindy's Rooftop
- 8. The Berghoff Restaurant
- 9. The Gage
- 10. Siena Tavern
- 11. The Village
- 12. Remington's
- 13. Cherry Circle Room
- 14. Elephant & Castle
- 15. Roanoke Restaurant
- 16. State and Lake Chicago Tavern

- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
1. Giordano's
Information and Reviews
- The pizza is rich, flavorful, and worth the wait.
- It's better to arrive before noon to avoid long waits.
- The staff is attentive, friendly, and provides great service.
- Giordano's offers the best deep dish pizza in Chicago.

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
2. The Purple Pig Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- The staff and food were both excellent. Periodic check-ins during the meal and a fun view of the kitchen added to the experience.
- Generous portions, perfectly balanced dishes, and impressive cocktail selection make it a must-visit in Chicago.
- Great overall experience with well-balanced dishes, especially the bone marrow, crispy pig ear, and amazing flavor combinations.

- Monday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–4 PM
3. Eleven City Diner
Information and Reviews
Customers have praised the restaurant for its fantastic modern Jewish deli offerings with tasty knishes and latkes, as well as hearty brisket sandwiches. The draft root beer is also a unique hit among patrons, adding a special touch to the overall experience.
- Modern Jewish deli with delicious knishes and latkes
- Brisket sandwich praised for its flavors
- Unique anise-y draft root beer
There are mixed reviews when it comes to the service, with some customers mentioning longer waiting times and missed orders. Despite this, the food consistently receives high praise for its freshness, generous portions, and flavors. Families, groups, LGBTQ+ community members, tourists, and university students all find something to enjoy at Eleven City Diner. With a cozy and trendy atmosphere, this spot is perfect for those looking for a lively dining experience.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–12:30 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–12:30 AM
4. Quartino Ristorante
Information and Reviews
The restaurant is praised for its fast service, great cocktails, great coffee, and great dessert options. Customers rave about the delicious food at Quartino Ristorante and the prices that are considered very reasonable. Here are key points summarizing a few customer reviews:
- Exceptional service with a lively atmosphere and standout dishes.
- No frills old school Italian restaurant with delicious food at fair prices.
- Perfect for a fun dinner with friends or family, great atmosphere and reasonable prices.
- Encourages sharing around the table with tasty and reasonably priced Italian offerings.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
5. The Dearborn
Information and Reviews
- The food and drinks are good, but it is on the expensive side. Ambience is very nice. And the service is good. The seats are very comfortable. The booths are cozy and can be drawn for privacy.
- The service was excellent. The atmosphere is delightful. Recommend.
- We made a reservation before a show and had expectations that were not met. Drinks and food were okay, but the experience was soured by the seating arrangement and lack of empathy from the staff.
- The food, the drinks, the service, the ambiance...all fantastic! Highly recommend the fish and chips and dearborn burger.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–2 PM
6. Lou Mitchell's
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about Lou Mitchell's, giving it an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5. Here are some key points from their reviews:
- Warm and welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff
- Generous food portions served quickly
- Great variety of menu options, especially for breakfast
- Excellent service from start to finish
If you're in Chicago and looking for a memorable breakfast experience, make sure to visit Lou Mitchell's for a delicious meal in a cozy and historic setting.

- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
7. Cindy's Rooftop
Information and Reviews
The reviews speak for themselves:
- Scenic views overlooking the iconic Bean, high-quality food, great variety on the menu.
- Beautiful location, disappointing lack of acknowledgment for special events, good service, and tasty dishes.
- Classy atmosphere, impeccable city views, and a range of non-alcoholic options available.
- One of the best rooftops in Chicago, delicious lunch options, and worth trying the pricier cocktails.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: Closed
8. The Berghoff Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- This is a historic German restaurant specializing in comfort food and atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings.
- Great beer selection, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service.
- Authentic German food, accommodating staff, and a huge seating area for optimum comfort.
- Delicious food, excellent service, and highly recommended dishes like the sausage trio and Black Forest cake.

- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
9. The Gage
Information and Reviews
- A great atmosphere and a better than expected food experience.
- Attentive service with large portions and delicious food.
- Phenomenal food with flawless management even during busy times.
The Gage is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a delightful dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

- Monday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
10. Siena Tavern
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their experiences at Siena Tavern, with highlights including fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. Some key points from the reviews are:
- Wonderful staff, great food, and lovely environment
- Excellent cocktails and appetizers, delicious pasta
- Impeccable food and service, recommended for special occasions
- Delicious food, accommodating for dietary restrictions, and great ambiance
Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, Siena Tavern has got you covered. Make sure to try their delicious comfort food options and enjoy a relaxing dining experience. Plan ahead and make reservations for a hassle-free visit to this upscale yet family-friendly establishment.

- Monday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
11. The Village
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight a few key points about The Village:
- Lovely ambiance, fantastic Italian cuisine, and great service.
- Delicious pasta dishes, martinis, and chocolate mousse desserts.
- A historic and captivating dining experience with excellent service.
- Authentic Italian dishes, warm atmosphere, and attentive staff.

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
12. Remington's
Information and Reviews
The restaurant is known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Additionally, Remington's is accessible with options like wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilet. They offer a wide range of offerings including alcohol, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, and vegetarian options.
Customers are drawn to the dining options available such as brunch, lunch, dinner, catering, and dessert. The restaurant provides amenities like a bar on site, gender-neutral toilets, and Wi-Fi. The atmosphere is described as cozy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, attracting a diverse crowd including families, groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, and those seeking a transgender safe space.
From the numerous positive reviews from customers, it's evident that Remington's provides exceptional food and service. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Superb food with flavors that are to die for
- Pleasant atmosphere with exceptional food variety
- Amazing service with delicious dishes worth remembering
- Nice modern-American restaurant ambiance with great service recovery
With a rating of 4.5, Remington's continues to impress its customers with delicious dishes, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps them coming back for more.

- Monday: 7–11 AM
- Tuesday: 7–11 AM
- Wednesday: 7–11 AM
- Thursday: 7–11 AM
- Friday: 7–11 AM
- Saturday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–2 PM
13. Cherry Circle Room
Information and Reviews
Popularity for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant is known for its cozy and historic atmosphere. Guests rave about the efficient staff and the delectable dishes, making it a go-to spot for solo dining or groups of tourists.
- This hidden gem offers exclusive and tasty breakfast options, with every dish being flavorful and well-seasoned.
- Despite a fantastic ambiance, some customers have noted inconsistencies in the quality and flavor of certain entrees.
- The exceptional service, unique food choices, and interesting menu items make this spot truly special.
- Guests love the delicious food, superb drinks, and must-try dishes like the bread and beet carpaccio.

- Monday: 11 AM–1 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–1 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–1 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–1 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 9 AM–1 AM
14. Elephant & Castle
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following:
- We arrived just a bit early for our reservation, and the staff was accommodating, quickly seating us. The butter chicken and fish and chips were excellent, along with the Big Ben brownie for dessert.
- The decor is lovely, service is fast and personable, and the food is amazing, especially the feta and tomato spread and crisps with dip.
- A great place for lunch with a nice atmosphere. The fried pickles and Reuben sandwich were highlights, and the service was friendly.
- The UK pub atmosphere is charming, and the Butter Chicken dish was solid overall, despite some minor flavor critiques.
With a stellar rating of 4.3 stars and over 2300 reviews, Elephant & Castle continues to impress locals and tourists alike with its delicious food, great ambiance, and top-notch service. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a hearty meal, or a night out with friends, this restaurant has something to offer everyone.

- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–9 PM
15. Roanoke Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Here are a few summarized reviews from customers:
- An enjoyable dinner experience with options for everyone, including tasty mac & cheese and local cheese curds.
- Superb meal on a quiet Friday night with great food, service, and drinks. Lovely ambiance with various seating sections.
- Exceptional service and precise attention even near closing time. Delicious food, flawless drinks, and looking forward to returning.
- A fantastic experience after a visit to the opera house. The staff was attentive and accommodating, with a special theater menu for dairy allergies.
If you're looking for a delightful dining experience in Chicago, Roanoke Restaurant is the place to be!

- Monday: 6:30 AM–2 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM–2 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM–2 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM–2 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM–11 PM
16. State and Lake Chicago Tavern
Information and Reviews
- Came here for dinner - good food at a fair price
- Nice ambiance, good crab cakes but pricey drinks
- Decent food and nice interior, service was slow
- Drinks were amazing, great food, friendly service
Map of Downtown Restaurants in Chicago
Discover the vibrant downtown dining scene in Chicago with our comprehensive map of all the local restaurants. From casual cafes to upscale dining establishments, there's something to satisfy every craving in this bustling city. Whether you're in the mood for world-class cuisine or a quick bite to eat, you'll find the perfect spot to dine in style.
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