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The 16 Best Lunch Spots in Chicago Loop

For those looking for a delicious and convenient lunch option in the Chicago Loop, there are plenty of great choices to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely sit-down meal, the Loop has something for everyone.

From trendy cafes to cozy eateries, the Loop offers a variety of dining options. Visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of cuisines that cater to all tastes and preferences. With so many fantastic restaurants to choose from, finding the perfect spot for lunch has never been easier.

Discover the top 16 best lunch spots in Chicago Loop below and indulge in a satisfying meal during your busy day in the city.

How this guide is ordered

This list comes from our Chicago editors, who looked citywide for businesses with a long record of satisfied customers, details we could verify and dependable work through every season. We revisit it regularly, so let us know if something has changed.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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Eleven City Diner#1
What stands out
  • Fantastic modern Jewish deli with delicious food and friendly staff. The knishes and latkes were perfect, and the brisket sandwich was tasty. The draft root beer was unique but satisfying.

  • The server, Johnathan, was amazing, providing efficient service and a creative drink menu. The food was good, and the seasoning on the fries was excellent.

  • While the food was fresh and portions were generous, the service experienced a few hiccups with long waits and unattended drink refills. The overall experience was decent.

  • Customers had a beautiful brunch experience at Eleven City Diner, praising the challah bread and the fun, friendly staff. However, some minor menu mix-ups impacted the overall experience.

Eleven City Diner

4.64,725 reviews
1112 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

Eleven City Diner is a popular establishment in Chicago known for its modern Jewish deli offerings. This quaint diner offers a variety of services, including Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Patrons can enjoy fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. Customers rave about the friendly staff and the delicious dishes served at Eleven City Diner.

Some key reviews include:

The Dearborn#2
What stands out
  • The food and drinks are good, with fish and chips, burgers, and beets being standout items

  • The service is excellent, ensuring a pleasant dining experience

  • The cozy and comfortable atmosphere is perfect for various occasions

The Dearborn

4.63,758 reviews
145 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

The Dearborn is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. With a stellar rating of 4.6, it's clear that customers love the food, service, and ambiance provided by this establishment.

Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a special celebration, The Dearborn has you covered. Customers have praised the delicious menu items and the attentive staff who make every visit memorable. Make sure to stop by and experience it for yourself!

The Berghoff Restaurant#3
What stands out
  • This is a historic German restaurant in Chicago with a focus on comfort food and atmosphere.

  • Customers praise the delicious oxtail and steak dishes.

  • The restaurant is great for large parties and offers private dining rooms.

  • Visitors appreciate the festive atmosphere, especially during holidays like Christmas.

The Berghoff Restaurant

4.54,211 reviews
17 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

The Berghoff Restaurant is a renowned German restaurant located in Chicago. This historic establishment offers a cozy and casual atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both solo dining and family gatherings. Customers can enjoy a variety of dining options, including lunch, dinner, and desserts. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great desserts, and live music, providing a memorable experience for all visitors.

The Gage#4
What stands out
  • Ambiance and service were top-notch. Food was fresh and tasty.

  • Great views of Millennial Park from the patio. Food portions were unexpectedly large. Highly recommend the Croque Madame.

  • Service during restaurant week lunch was incredible. The steak frites were great. Despite a minor steak quality issue, the overall experience was solid.

  • Phenomenal food and service on St. Patrick's Day. Expectations were exceeded with flawless management and quality of service.

The Gage

4.54,006 reviews
24 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

The Gage is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. With a rating of 4.5 stars, it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a wide range of services and features, such as outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Guests can enjoy great coffee and great dessert in a cozy and trendy atmosphere.

According to satisfied customers, here are a few key points from their reviews:

With a track record of delivering exceptional food, service, and ambiance, The Gage is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Chicago.

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub#5
What stands out
  • Excellent restaurant with large portions and historic ambiance

  • Delicious deep dish pizza options with good drinks

  • Good food quality but service could use some improvement

  • Charming and cozy atmosphere with great food and drink selections

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

4.42,604 reviews
226 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604, United States

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub is a popular pizza restaurant located in Chicago. Known for its historic atmosphere, this establishment offers a variety of dining options including lunch and dinner. Customers have praised the comfort food options and vegetarian choices available. The restaurant is also highlighted for its quick bite offerings and small plates.

Experience a delightful dining experience at Exchequer Restaurant & Pub where quality food and a unique setting await you. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, this restaurant offers something for everyone.

Elephant & Castle#6
What stands out
  • A customer raved about the quick seating, tasty dishes like butter chicken and fish and chips, as well as the outstanding Big Ben brownie with ice cream.

  • Another visitor praised the adorable decor, great service, and amazing food choices like pies, feta and tomato spread, and crisps with dip.

  • One reviewer had a nice lunch experience with fried pickles, hummus, and a delicious Ruben sandwich, and expressed a desire to enjoy a drink on their next visit.

Elephant & Castle

4.32,336 reviews
185 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Elephant & Castle is a vibrant restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. They offer a variety of service options including outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, and takeaway. Customers can enjoy a range of highlights such as fast service, a cozy fireplace, and a great beer selection. Popular for both lunch and dinner, this establishment caters to solo diners as well.

The atmosphere at Elephant & Castle is described as casual, cozy, and trendy with a welcoming crowd that includes groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, and those seeking a transgender safe space. Patrons can also benefit from amenities like a bar on-site and accessible Wi-Fi.

Customer Reviews:

With a solid rating of 4.3 and over 2300 reviews, Elephant & Castle is a top choice for those looking for a memorable dining experience in Chicago.

The Marq#7
What stands out
  • Guests rave about the mouthwatering Avocado Toast, Hash Browns, and Arnold Palmer combo, all exquisitely prepared and served by the friendly staff.

  • Perfect for group outings, the bustling environment ensures quick and accurate service, ideal for those heading to nearby theaters or events.

  • The venue is highly recommended for hosting events, with responsive and accommodating staff, excellent food and drink options, and a seamless experience from start to finish.

  • Patrons also appreciate the relaxing and casual ambiance, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a delightful meal or refreshing beverages.

The Marq

4.41,138 reviews
60 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

The Marq is a vibrant and popular Restaurant nestled in the heart of Chicago. Renowned for its diverse offerings and inviting atmosphere, it is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. With a stellar Rating of 4.4, it is clear that patrons love what The Marq has to offer.

Whether you're in the mood for a delectable meal, refreshing drinks, or a cozy atmosphere, The Marq has it all. Visit their Website to explore their menu and service options, and experience the charm and flavor that make The Marq a must-visit destination in Chicago.

Roanoke Restaurant#8
What stands out
  • The food was superb, and the service was good.

  • The ambiance is very relaxed and quite intimate with several smaller sections in the restaurant.

  • Customers appreciate the attentive and welcoming staff.

  • Roanoke offers a great selection of drinks, including specialty craft cocktails.

Roanoke Restaurant

4.31,562 reviews
135 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Roanoke Restaurant is a top-rated establishment located in the heart of Chicago's loop. Offering a variety of service options including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, and dine-in, this restaurant caters to all preferences. Known for its highlights such as a fireplace, a great beer selection, cocktails, and an extensive wine list, Roanoke guarantees a memorable dining experience. Customers rave about the delicious food, impeccable service, and relaxing ambiance. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Pittsfield Cafe#9
What stands out
  • I had the banana bread French toast and the food was amazing and came out quicker than other cafes I've been to. Also, the service was nice and friendly. Highly recommend!!!

  • Pittsfield Cafe is a cozy hidden gem in downtown with simple, tasty breakfast. The pricing is great and portions are generous. The staff is welcoming and attentive.

  • The service was fast and efficient, and the steak and egg plate with half-stack pancakes was hearty and filling.

  • The food is delicious and made fresh, with a quiet vibe in a historic beautiful building. The cafe offers a lot of food options for lunch and dinner.

Pittsfield Cafe

4.21,357 reviews
55 East Washington Street Lobby, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Pittsfield Cafe is a cozy restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services like No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The cafe is known for its fast service and great coffee, making it a favorite spot for breakfast, lunch, and solo dining. Additionally, the cafe provides wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring accessibility for all customers.

Customers have left positive reviews for Pittsfield Cafe, highlighting the following key points:

Lockwood Restaurant & Bar#10
What stands out
  • Delicious burger with perfect seasoning

  • Outstanding food, ambiance, and service

  • Heavenly Watermelon Heirloom Tomato Salad and Old Fashioned

  • Beautiful atmosphere with decent drinks

Lockwood Restaurant & Bar

4.3474 reviews
17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Lockwood Restaurant & Bar is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. They offer a variety of services, including takeout and dine-in options, making it convenient for customers with different preferences.

The restaurant is known for its fast service and excellent coffee, providing a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or even solo dining. The wheelchair-accessible features ensure that everyone can enjoy the delicious food and cozy atmosphere.

Customer reviews rave about the quality of the food and service at Lockwood Restaurant & Bar. Some of the key points from the reviews include:

With a stellar rating of 4.3, Lockwood Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit dining spot in Chicago for a delightful culinary experience.

Atwood#11
What stands out
  • The spacious ambiance adds to the charm of the dining experience.

  • The friendly service from the staff enhances the overall enjoyment of the meal.

  • The generous portion sizes are a favorite among customers to ensure a satisfying dining experience.

  • The historical significance and gorgeous architecture of the building add to the unique atmosphere of the restaurant.

Atwood

4.2725 reviews
1 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Atwood is a well-known New American restaurant in Chicago that shines with a 4.2 rating based on 725 reviews. Customers rave about the lovely ambience, great service, and huge portion sizes offered by the restaurant. The breakfast options are particularly recommended as a wonderful start to the day.

If you are looking for a place with a cosy and upmarket atmosphere, where you can enjoy great coffee, great dessert, and a great tea selection, then Atwood is the place to be. Whether you are in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Atwood offers a delightful experience for your taste buds and ambiance.

Grill on 21#12
What stands out
  • The service is outstanding, creating a warm and luxurious atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

  • The food quality is excellent, with dishes like steak, braised beef short rib, and beef Wellington receiving high praise.

  • The ambiance is cozy and trendy, with live music adding to the overall dining experience.

  • While some customers mention average service and small portions, the overall consensus is positive regarding the food and atmosphere.

Grill on 21

4.5102 reviews
208 S La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60604, United States

Grill on 21 is a popular restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of services that cater to different customer needs. From No-contact delivery and takeaway to dine-in and delivery, they ensure that customers have various options to enjoy their delicious food.

The restaurant is known for its great cocktails, coffee, and wine list, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. It's a favorite spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it a versatile choice for different occasions.

Customer reviews rave about the outstanding service, excellent food quality, and luxurious atmosphere that sets Grill on 21 apart from other restaurants. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're looking for a special dining experience or a casual meal, Grill on 21 promises to deliver a memorable taste of Chicago's culinary scene.

State and Lake Chicago Tavern#13
What stands out
  • Came here for dinner and enjoyed a decent menu with good options at a reasonable price. The Sea Bass and cocktails were a hit.

  • Nice ambiance, good food, and standout crab cakes. However, drinks were pricey and somewhat small.

  • Food was okay, but the salmon dish was bland. Service was slow, and the prices were deemed high for the quality received.

  • Amazing food at good prices, clean bathrooms, and super friendly service staff. A 10/10 experience.

State and Lake Chicago Tavern

4.1804 reviews
201 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

State and Lake Chicago Tavern is an exceptional American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Known for its fast service and cozy atmosphere, it caters to a diverse crowd, including groups and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, ranging from breakfast to dinner, making it a popular choice for solo dining or family gatherings.

Customers have praised the restaurant for its delicious food and attentive service. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a rating of 4.1, State and Lake Chicago Tavern continues to attract locals and visitors looking for a memorable dining experience. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings and make a reservation for your next meal out in Chicago!

Corner Bakery#14
What stands out
  • This is a great spot for breakfast. The "Anaheim Scramble" was delicious and perfect after a long flight.

  • The Avocado bacon bowl is a standout dish here, along with the flavorful americano.

  • The Uptown Turkey sandwich is a hit, and the service is quick and friendly.

  • Don't miss out on the Chicken Pomodori Panini - buttery and juicy, just perfect!

Corner Bakery

4.3241 reviews
140 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Corner Bakery is a beloved sandwich shop located in Chicago. With a solid rating of 4.3, it is known for its great coffee and tea selection. Customers rave about their offerings, highlighting the healthy options and comfort food on the menu. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visit Corner Bakery for a cozy and nostalgic experience, and enjoy a delightful meal with a great atmosphere.

Bandol Mediterranean Brasserie Raw Bar#15

Bandol Mediterranean Brasserie Raw Bar

4.2179 reviews
100 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Bandol Mediterranean Brasserie Raw Bar is a renowned French restaurant located in Chicago. Their menu offers a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a popular spot for solo dining as well as groups and families. The restaurant provides various service options including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in to cater to different preferences.

One customer review highlighted the excellent portion sizes and fantastic selections for breakfast, making it a memorable dining experience. Another patron praised the happy hour options such as poutine and sliders, while suggesting avoiding the $1.5 oysters. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cosy and trendy, appealing to a wide range of diners.

In summary, customers have appreciated the quality and flavor of the food, the generous portions, and the excellent happy hour deals. The ambiance and service have also received positive feedback, making Bandol Mediterranean Brasserie Raw Bar a top choice for French cuisine in Chicago.

Staytion Market & Bar#16
What stands out
  • Phenomenal food with well-curated drinks and immaculate service.

  • Great cocktail quality, although the atmosphere could use a bit more vibe.

  • Appalling service overall, but the oatmeal breakfast was good and the coffee was generally satisfying.

  • Incredible ambiance with friendly and relaxed staff, perfect for enjoying a drink, but the carrot cake is just average.

Staytion Market & Bar

4.155 reviews
1 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Staytion Market & Bar is an American restaurant located in Chicago, Illinois, known for its fast service and mouthwatering dishes. Customers have left some glowing reviews about their experience:

Whether you're looking for a delectable breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious dinner, Staytion Market & Bar has got you covered. Make a reservation today and experience top-notch service in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Eleven City Diner 4.64,725
#2The Dearborn 4.63,758
#3The Berghoff Restaurant 4.54,211
#4The Gage 4.54,006
#5Exchequer Restaurant & Pub 4.42,604
#6Elephant & Castle 4.32,336
#7The Marq 4.41,138
#8Roanoke Restaurant 4.31,562
#9Pittsfield Cafe 4.21,357
#10Lockwood Restaurant & Bar 4.3474
#11Atwood 4.2725
#12Grill on 21 4.5102
#13State and Lake Chicago Tavern 4.1804
#14Corner Bakery 4.3241
#15Bandol Mediterranean Brasserie Raw Bar 4.2179
#16Staytion Market & Bar 4.155

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Map of Lunch Spots in Chicago Loop

Discover the diverse culinary scene in the Chicago Loop with this comprehensive map of all the best lunch spots in the area. From upscale eateries to casual cafes, there is something to satisfy every craving in this bustling downtown district. Use this map to plan your next lunch outing and experience the delicious flavors of the Chicago Loop!

How to choose Lunch Spots in Chicago

  1. Convenient location in downtown Chicago.
  2. Wide variety of menu options.
  3. Quick service for those on-the-go.

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