The 16 Best Lunch Restaurants in Chicago, IL

Searching for the perfect lunch spot in Chicago, IL? Look no further! Whether you're a local or just passing through, Chicago has no shortage of fantastic lunch restaurants to choose from. From trendy cafes to classic diners, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.
When looking for the best lunch restaurants in Chicago, IL, consider factors such as location, cuisine, and price range. To help you make your decision easier, we've compiled a list of the top lunch spots in the city. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in some delicious food!
- Location
- Cuisine Options
- Price Range
- Atmosphere
- Menu Variety
Check out the list below to discover the 16 best lunch restaurants in Chicago, IL:
- 1. Girl & The Goat
- 2. Au Cheval
- 3. The Purple Pig Restaurant
- 4. Eleven City Diner
- 5. Lou Mitchell's
- 6. The Berghoff Restaurant
- 7. The Gage
- 8. The Publican
- 9. Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
- 10. True Food Kitchen
- 11. Brando's Lincoln Park
- 12. Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
- 13. R.J. Grunts
- 14. Roanoke Restaurant
- 15. 312 Chicago
- 16. The Kitchen American Bistro

- Monday: 4:30–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Thursday: 4:30–10 PM
- Friday: 4:30–11 PM
- Saturday: 4:30–11 PM
- Sunday: 4:30–10 PM
1. Girl & The Goat
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight:
- Wonderful dining experience with amazing food and exceptional service.
- Best dining experience with phenomenal food and service.
- Outstanding food with great service and a lively atmosphere.
- Memorable dining experience with fantastic and unique dishes.

- Monday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10:15 PM
2. Au Cheval
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared their experiences, highlighting a few key points:
- Service is top-notch, with staff members providing excellent recommendations.
- Food is described as hot, fresh, and delicious, with standout dishes like hot honey chicken wings and burgers.
- While the wait times can be long, the overall experience is worth it, especially for fans of diner-style burgers with unique toppings like thick-cut bacon and eggs.

- 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
3. The Purple Pig Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the exceptional experience at The Purple Pig Restaurant:
- The staff and food were excellent, with regular check-ins and well-balanced dishes.
- Impressive dining experience with perfectly balanced dishes, generous portions, and impeccable cocktails.
- While the food was generally good, some found it overpriced and the environment noisy, yet the service was friendly and efficient.
- Delicious food, incredible service, and a wide array of options from tuna tartar to tiramisu.
These reviews encapsulate the diverse dining experiences and accolades that The Purple Pig Restaurant has accrued, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists alike.

- 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
4. Eleven City Diner
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the tasty and authentic Jewish deli food.
- The staff is friendly and welcoming, contributing to a positive dining experience.
- Portions are generous, ensuring guests leave satisfied.
With offerings like alcohol, coffee, and vegetarian options, Eleven City Diner caters to a diverse range of tastes. The diner boasts a cosy and trendy atmosphere, making it a popular choice for families, tourists, and university students alike. The diner is also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a meal there.
Overall, customers are impressed with the experience at Eleven City Diner, from the delicious food to the welcoming staff and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a fulfilling dinner, Eleven City Diner has something for everyone.

- 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
5. Lou Mitchell's
Information and Reviews
The atmosphere at Lou Mitchell's is described as casual, cozy, and historic, making it a perfect spot for solo dining or family-friendly gatherings. Customers have praised the fast service and the great dessert options available at this establishment. The restaurant is also known for its wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring that all guests feel welcome and comfortable.
Some of the top customer reviews for Lou Mitchell's highlight the following key points:
- Impressed by the atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food with large portions.
- Iconic experience with great food, big portions, and professional staff.
- Excellent breakfast offerings, reasonable prices, and top-notch service from start to finish.
- Great service, good food, and a comfortable atmosphere, despite being a bit pricey.

- 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
6. The Berghoff Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Some key reviews include:
- This historic German restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. They specialize in comfort food and provide a great experience for families and groups.
- Customers enjoy the wide selection of house-brewed beers and German-style dishes. While some dishes may have been inconsistent, the overall experience was enjoyable and convenient.
- Guests appreciate the authentic German food and the accommodating staff. They particularly love the sauerbraten, pretzel, and decadent desserts.
- Reviewers praise the friendly service, delicious food, and generous portions. They recommend trying the sausage trio, pretzel, house root beer, 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
7. The Gage
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- A great atmosphere with better than expected food experience.
- Large portions of food prepared wonderfully, with attentive service.
- Quality steak cooked to perfection, friendly service, and incredible desserts.
- Phenomenal food, great drinks, and efficient service despite being busy.

- Monday: 4–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4–10 PM
- Thursday: 4–10 PM
- Friday: 4–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–2 PM
8. The Publican
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about their experience at The Publican:
- Incredible bacon and shrimp and grits that leave patrons wanting more.
- Delightful shared dining experience with extensive food and drink options, although service can be slow.
- Unique and delicious dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, making guests eager to return.
- Generous portions and quality food make this spot a great choice for family-style dining.

- 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: 10:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
9. Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Doc B's Restaurant. Some of the key points mentioned in the reviews include:
- Amazing food with generous portions
- Attentive and genuine service
- Top-notch dishes like key lime pie and chicken parm
- Fast and friendly service for a pleasant dining experience
With a stellar rating of 4.6, Doc B's Restaurant (River North) is a go-to spot for those looking for delicious American cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

- 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: 9:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–9 PM
10. True Food Kitchen
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about their experience at True Food Kitchen, highlighting a few key points:
- Delicious and nutritious menu options
- Great atmosphere and friendly staff
- Excellent service and fast delivery times
- Reasonably priced and generous portion sizes
If you are looking for a restaurant that offers healthy and flavorful dishes in a casual yet trendy setting, True Food Kitchen is the place to be. Don't miss out on their great cocktails, coffee, and tea selection. Make sure to reserve a table for lunch or dinner, as True Food Kitchen is a popular dining spot in the Chicago area.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: Closed
11. Brando's Lincoln Park
Information and Reviews
- Customers enjoy the strong shots and vibrant music that create a fun and lively atmosphere.
- Some patrons appreciate the aesthetically pleasing ambiance and standout karaoke experience.
- Others mention the friendly atmosphere and the accommodating doorman who enhances the overall experience.
- Despite some negative feedback about the karaoke setup and song selection, many customers commend the fun crowd and welcoming Karaoke Jockey, recommending a return visit.

- 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. Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
Information and Reviews
Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast) in Chicago offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on quality food and exceptional service. From their Service options including outdoor seating and delivery to Offerings like cocktails, beer, and comfort food, every visit promises a memorable culinary adventure.
Customer reviews reflect the outstanding experience at Doc B's, with key points highlighted below:
- Fresh, flavorful dishes such as the Knife and Fork Cobb salad and Wok bowl
- Fast, friendly service even during busy nights
- Thoughtfully curated menu with delicious flavors and sauces
- Impeccable cleanliness and attention to detail throughout the restaurant
Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a leisurely dinner, or a special occasion meal, Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast) is the go-to spot for great food, fantastic service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Experience culinary excellence at Doc B's today!

- Monday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM
13. R.J. Grunts
Information and Reviews
The restaurant is known for its fast service and great dessert offerings, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tasty meal in a cozy atmosphere. Customers praise R.J. Grunts for its flavorful comfort food options and accommodating staff. Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- The Grunt Burger is consistently delicious and full of flavor.
- Great gluten-free options available, with knowledgeable staff to assist.
- A cool spot near Lincoln Park, recommended for its delicious burger and French onion soup.
- Excellent service with delicious offerings like wings and French onion soup.
Visit R.J. Grunts to experience their fantastic menu and welcoming atmosphere for yourself!

- 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
14. Roanoke Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Great food options for everyone, including kids
- Superb service and delicious drinks
- Attentive and precise staff with perfectly proportioned dishes
- Excellent value, accommodating food restrictions, and special pre-theatre meals
With over 1562 reviews and a rating of 4.3, Roanoke Restaurant continues to impress patrons with its culinary delights and top-notch service. Whether you're looking for a quiet dinner or a lively lunch spot, this restaurant has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and indulge in a memorable dining experience!

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 7–10:30 AM
- Thursday: 7–10:30 AM
- Friday: 4–8:30 PM
- Saturday: 4–8:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
15. 312 Chicago
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at 312 Chicago:
- The service was impeccable, very friendly and professional. The food is Italian at its best. The octopus antipasti and pesto pasta with salmon were highlights. - 5 stars
- The striped bass was the best fish ever had, friends also enjoyed their meals. The waiter was attentive and delightful. - 5 stars
- During Chicago Restaurant Week, every dish was excellent, especially the polpo e patate, spaghetti matriciana, and tiramisu. Quick and attentive service, would definitely come back again. - 5 stars
With a rating of 4.4 and over 800 reviews, 312 Chicago continues to impress customers with its great food, service, and atmosphere. Don't miss out on this dining experience when in Chicago!

- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- 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
16. The Kitchen American Bistro
Information and Reviews
Popular for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining, this bistro provides an array of options suitable for any occasion. With offerings such as Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Comfort food, Happy-hour drinks, Healthy options, and more, there is something for everyone.
Customers have praised The Kitchen American Bistro for its exceptional service and delicious food. Some key points from customer reviews include:
- An unforgettable experience with warm hospitality and outstanding food.
- A bit lacking in flavor, but a great spot for large group parties and drinks.
- Excellent options during Restaurant Week, with standout dishes worth a try.
- Beautiful ambiance, great oysters, and unique cocktail recommendations.
Discover the beauty of the Chicago River while enjoying a meal at The Kitchen American Bistro – a perfect blend of great food, superb service, and a fantastic atmosphere.
Map of Lunch Restaurants in Chicago, IL
When visiting Chicago, IL, finding the perfect spot for lunch can be a daunting task with so many options available. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, the Windy City has something to offer for every palate. Explore this map of all the lunch restaurants in Chicago, IL to discover your next delicious meal.
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