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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Lincolnwood

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76 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tala House restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(232)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Andersonville
Booked 14 times today
Tala House in Andersonville, Chicago, masterfully delivers an authentic and innovative American dining experience. Celebrating the diversity of Chicago's melting pot, the restaurant seamlessly blends global flavors with local ingredients to create a modern American cuisine that truly stands out. Guests rave about the "creative and well-executed menu" that features dishes like sea bass and mushroom risotto, hailed as "the best cook on a piece of fish" some have ever had. The ambiance is warm and inviting, complemented by exceptional service from staff like Carlos, who has been described as "attentive and knowledgeable." Tala House is a must-visit for an unforgettable American culinary journey.
A photo of All Meal Prep Kitchen & Cafe restaurant
3.9
Excellent(29)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Edgewater
All Meal Prep Kitchen & Cafe in Edgewater, Chicago, is celebrated for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, bringing authentic flavors to life with every dish. Guests rave about the "delicious and beautifully plated" meals, highlighting the expertly prepared Grilled Octopus and the delightful Asparagus Salad, which left diners pleasantly surprised. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh ingredients and their creative approach to traditional Mediterranean dishes ensure a memorable dining experience. With an inviting atmosphere and a caring, attentive staff, All Meal Prep Kitchen & Cafe stands out as a culinary gem, making it a must-visit for lovers of genuine Mediterranean flavors.
A photo of The Alcove- Evanston restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(555)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Evanston
Booked 9 times today
The Alcove-Evanston offers a superb French American dining experience that has quickly become a cherished gem in the heart of Evanston. Chef Elio Romero’s inventive approach to French American cuisine shines through each thoughtfully prepared dish, drawing from seasonal produce to ensure only the freshest ingredients make it to the table. Diners consistently praise the restaurant, with one review highlighting it as "one of the best meals I've ever had, anywhere." From succulent short ribs to perfectly cooked sea bass, the menu reflects a seamless blend of French elegance and American innovation, making it a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.
A photo of Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Morton Grove, IL restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2557)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Morton Grove
Booked 45 times today
At Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Morton Grove, IL, seafood lovers will find an exceptional culinary experience that truly stands out. Their Seafood dishes are crafted with a commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring each bite is as fresh and flavorful as possible. Diners rave about the "surf and turf special" featuring truffle-crusted filet medallions and crab-stuffed lobster tail, described as "excellent" by those who have tasted it. The restaurant's dedication to pairing each seafood dish with the perfect wine from their award-winning selection enhances the dining experience, leaving guests eager to return for another unforgettable meal.
A photo of The Graduate Homestead Room restaurant
3.6
Very Good(10)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Evanston
Booked 1 time today
Full of contemporary yet classic American flavors, The Graduate Homestead Room’s menu is rooted in high-quality, seasonal dishes with a heavy dose of nostalgia. Offerings feature familiar flavors combined with influences from far and wide, ensuring something for everyone on our varied menu.
A photo of Bluestone restaurant
4.2
Awesome(30)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Evanston
Booked 8 times today
Bluestone is a Chicago-style restaurant in Evanston that offers homestyle cooking in a warm and welcoming environment. Owner John, whose obsession with golf led to the more than 250 pin flags decorating the restaurant, opened Bluestone after transitioning from commercial film production. His goal was to create a locale that was filled with friendliness and familiar faces, all while serving a variety of menu options with a hometown feel. Guests can enjoy favorites like crab cakes, or branch out and discover a new one from their wrap, soup, quesadilla or burger menus. Don't forget to try homemade specialties such as the turkey or black bean burgers, or the Bluestone signature smoked wings. There are also several thin-crust pizza options, like the pesto or BBQ chicken offerings. Whether you're just passing through or a long-time resident, Bluestone, at the corner of Central St. and Prairie Ave., is everyone's home away from home.
A photo of CheSa’s Bistro & Bar restaurant
3.6
Very Good(255)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Bucktown / Wicker Park
Booked 3 times today
CheSa’s Bistro & Bar in Chicago's Bucktown/Wicker Park neighborhood is a true gem for lovers of authentic Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine. With a completely gluten-free menu, the restaurant masterfully blends traditional flavors with contemporary American flair. Reviewers rave about the "amazing catfish skillet" and "delicious gumbo," praising the attention to flavor and detail. Chef CheSa's dedication to creating an inclusive dining experience shines through, making it a haven for those with dietary restrictions. Guests appreciate the "warm hospitality" and "phenomenal" service, often feeling "like family" during their visits. CheSa’s is a must-visit for a vibrant and flavorful culinary adventure!
A photo of Cultivate by Forbidden Root restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(58)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Square
Booked 3 times today
Cultivate by Forbidden Root in Lincoln Square, Chicago, is a remarkable destination for authentic American cuisine, blending classic flavors with innovative twists. Diners rave about the "excellent, eclectic menu" and the "creative combinations of vegetables and sauces" that elevate traditional American dishes to new heights. The standout dishes like the "smash burgers," "short ribs," and "pork shank" are celebrated for their perfectly seasoned and flavorful presentations. With a cozy, inviting atmosphere and attentive service, Cultivate offers a dining experience that is "downright delicious" and memorable. This brewpub is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary gem in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Jameson's Charhouse - Skokie restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1755)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Skokie
Booked 8 times today
At Jameson's Charhouse in Skokie, the Seafood offerings are nothing short of extraordinary, making it a top choice for lovers of the sea. Renowned for its authentic and fresh selection, standout dishes like the "Shrimp De Jonghe," "pan-fried Red Snapper," and "Baked Halibut" have garnered rave reviews from diners. One delighted guest exclaimed that the shrimp was "to die for," while another praised the halibut as "fresh and cooked perfectly." The restaurant's commitment to quality Seafood is evident in every dish, ensuring a dining experience that is both flavorful and unforgettable. Come and savor the ocean's finest at Jameson's Charhouse.
A photo of Boka restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7271)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park
Booked 56 times today
Boka, nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, offers an exquisite take on contemporary American cuisine that is nothing short of a revelation. With its Michelin-star status, Boka crafts each dish as a "miniature masterpiece," highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Executive Chef Lee Wolen, celebrated as “Chef of the Year,” ensures a dining experience that is both innovative and deeply satisfying. Diners rave about the "impeccable service" and "phenomenal" food, making it a must-visit destination. The restaurant’s elegant yet inviting ambiance, combined with its artful presentations and "spectacular" wine pairings, guarantees an unforgettable culinary journey.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Stacey
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The “chicken breaded to perfection”was delicious! Highly recommend!
    More info
    All Meal Prep Kitchen & CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Edgewater
    3.9
  • HowardVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Very unassuming looking place with Wonderful food, excellent service, strict attention to allergy concerns, and a quiet environment to just enjoy the food. No ear splitting music or deafening beat. Wonderful preparations. We had pork belly and crab cake as appetizers, roasted duck breast and crispy roasted sea bass with lobster tortellini as entrées, followed by an amazing lemon cream and wild Berry Napoleon. A refreshing sorbet was also served as s palate cleanser between courses. Everything showed a delicate touch of refinement and knowledge or what works.
    More info
    The Alcove- EvanstonPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Evanston
    4.6
  • Karl
    Lincolnshire •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wonderful Valentine’s Day dinner. We were on time for our reservation, and they promptly sat us at our table. Nice vibe. Our waiter was attentive and a pleasure. I recommend trying to sit in the front room or back room. We were seated at one of three “two tops” in the narrow hallway next to the kitchen. Although it was exciting to see the kitchen humming on all cylinders, the ventilation is not great. Our eyes were watering from the kitchen smoke. Not a big deal, but for whatever reason, it’s just not ventilated very well. But, it’s a fair trade off to see the kitchen and all the excitement. Will go back.
    More info
    Tala HousePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Andersonville
    4.8
  • Chuck
    Chicago / Illinois •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 9, 2025
    We had a 6:30pm reservation, and we arrived early. We were seated promptly upon arrival. The restaurant was very busy when we arrived, but our server came to our table very soon after we were seated… I had commented on the last time we dined at the restaurant, and the service today was by far more superior and attentive (note, the owner of Bluestone offered us a gift coupon for the lack of service attentiveness last time, which we appreciated). The server came to the table numerous times to ask for our drink and food choices, and the delivery was quick once we ordered. The smoked chicken wings were delicious. I had the brown rice bowl with the salmon which was delicious, and everyone else’s meals were prepared nicely and were very tasty. All in all, a nice experience this evening.
    More info
    BluestonePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Evanston
    4.2
  • JosephVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 19, 2025
    Sam, our waiter, was the best. Food excellent. The place smells great with its wood burning hearth. Perfect for a wintry chicago evening.
    More info
    Cultivate by Forbidden RootPrice: Moderate• Brewery• Lincoln Square
    4.6
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