Best Gastro Pubs in Little Italy / University Village

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Chicago

Neighborhoods

Downtown / LoopLake ViewLakeview / East LakeviewLogan SquareOld TownRiver North (Chicago)

Top Rated

CharmingGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunchGreat for happy hour

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

11 restaurants available nearby

1. The Gage

4.7

Exceptional(12098)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • Downtown / Loop

Booked 124 times today

The Gage, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Chicago, is a true gem in the world of Gastro Pub cuisine. With over a decade of delighting patrons, its menu effortlessly marries European flair with American innovation, creating a dining experience that’s both rustic and refined. Guests rave about its “incredible food service and atmosphere,” highlighting dishes like the “exquisite lobster bisque” and “delectable burgers with truffle fries.” The Gage's commitment to quality and tradition, paired with an award-winning wine list, ensures every visit is a memorable affair. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, The Gage is a “must-visit” culinary destination.

A photo of Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery restaurant

2. Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery

4.9

Exceptional(405)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • River North (Chicago)

Booked 2 times today

Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery in Chicago's River North neighborhood is a beacon of exceptional American cuisine intertwined with a passion for craft beer. This "neighborhood gem" boasts a chef-driven menu that elevates classic American dishes with the unique twist of beer pairings and ingredients. Diners rave about the "exceptional" food, from the Centennial Burger to the delectable Chicken Pot Pie, which perfectly complement the extensive selection of 56 rotating craft beer taps. The ambiance is warm and inviting, providing a cozy tavern-like vibe where "service is top-notch." Centennial is a must-visit for those seeking authentic American flavors in an uplifting atmosphere.

3. River Roast

4.5

Awesome(3339)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Gastro pub • River North (Chicago)

Booked 37 times today

River Roast, nestled along the iconic Chicago River in the vibrant River North neighborhood, offers an exceptional Gastro Pub experience that stands out for its authentic and dramatic presentations. Diners rave about the "simply spectacular" whole roasted chicken and slow roasted beef, carved table-side, which highlight the handcrafted, rustic charm of their menu. The restaurant's lively atmosphere is complemented by a stunning patio that's perfect for enjoying the scenic river views. With "excellent service" and a diverse selection of local beers and craft cocktails, River Roast is celebrated as a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience.

4. Frontier

4.4

Awesome(559)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Gastro pub • West Town

Booked 15 times today

Frontier, nestled in the vibrant West Town neighborhood of Chicago, offers an unparalleled Gastro Pub experience that is both authentic and innovative. Executive Chef Brian Jupiter has masterfully curated a menu that celebrates American contemporary cuisine with a twist, seamlessly blending game and seasonal ingredients into classic dishes. Diners rave about the "absolutely outstanding" food, from the flavorful crab-stuffed flounder to the "best pancakes" they've ever had. The restaurant's lively atmosphere, especially during Saints games with live New Orleans jazz, adds a unique charm. Frontier's dedication to quality and creativity makes it a must-visit destination for Gastro Pub enthusiasts.

5. Diversey House

new

4.7

Exceptional(13)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Gastro pub • Logan Square

Booked 1 time today

## Diversey House: Where Craft Beer Meets Elevated Pub Fare Diversey House is a vibrant new restaurant and brewery in the heart of Logan Square, offering a unique blend of delicious food, craft beer, and lively atmosphere. **Elevated Pub Fare:** Chef Bynum, known for his elevated pub fare, brings a fresh and exciting menu to Diversey House. Indulge in mouthwatering ribs served with pickled watermelon rind and espresso-chipotle BBQ sauce, or savor the Rockaway fries loaded with oxtail ragout, beer cheese fondue, and charred corn. A variety of sandwiches and burgers, including vegetarian options, are also available. **Craft Beer Haven:** Diversey House is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, featuring a rotating selection of 20 beers on tap from both Moor's Brewing and Steep Ravine Brewing. Sample unique brews, including the limited-release series honoring Patsy Young, a formerly enslaved woman who brewed beer for a living. **Sports Bar & Entertainment:** With 25 TVs and personalized audio at each table, Diversey House is the perfect spot to catch your favorite sporting events. Live music, resident DJs, and trivia nights add to the lively atmosphere. **More Than Just Beer:** Diversey

6. Slightly Toasted

4.9

Exceptional(4)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • West Loop

Booked 9 times today

Award-winning cocktail and bourbon bar that is home to one of largest whiskey collections in Chicago with over 900 selections, 30+ private barrels, and 200+ vintage and rare bottles. Also home to 18 taps & 80+ cans of craft beer, and chef-driven comfort food.

7. The Marq

4.7

Exceptional(708)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • Downtown / Loop

Booked 25 times today

The Marq, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Loop, is a shining star of Gastro Pub cuisine, celebrated for its "delicious, upscale, and easily approachable" dishes. This chic and modern venue offers an ever-evolving menu brimming with globally inspired, seasonal fare that consistently delights guests. Reviewers rave about the "excellent service" and the "high quality of food," with standout dishes like the "Sangwich" and "Carnitas tacos" earning high praise. The Marq's dedication to crafting hand-made cocktails and offering a dynamic wine list further enhances its reputation. Whether for a business lunch or pre-theater dinner, The Marq promises an unforgettable dining experience.

A photo of Haymarket Pub & Brewery restaurant

8. Haymarket Pub & Brewery

4.7

Exceptional(52)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • West Loop

Booked 2 times today

The West Loop's original brewpub, Haymarket has been making Great Beer For Great Beer Drinkers in Chicago since 2010. Two bars and two dining rooms offer plenty of space for groups of all sizes. Along with a wide variety of beers and spirits, the eatery provides a diverse menu, which includes sandwiches, salads, pizza and house made sausages from our scratch kitchen. A convenient Chicago location, it is also a popular venue for private parties, showers and corporate meetings. Shoot pool and throw darts in our Tavern Bar. We appreciate your patronage and support!

A photo of LG's Bar & Kitchen restaurant

9. LG's Bar & Kitchen

4.3

Awesome(136)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • Old Town

Booked 8 times today

LG's Bar & Kitchen is a standout in the heart of Old Town, Chicago, offering a premium Gastro Pub experience that brilliantly marries Irish American flavors with global influences. Known for its diverse craft beer and cocktail selection, this hotspot on Wells Street is celebrated for its genuine Irish roots and "love of Irish whiskeys." Guests rave about the "phenomenal food" and "top-notch cocktails," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The vibrant atmosphere, complemented by engaging events like Bingo Night and Trivia Thursday, ensures that guests "come for the food and stay for the party!" With a pet-friendly patio and warm, attentive service, LG's truly excels in delivering an authentic and lively Gastro Pub experience.

A photo of Matisse Tavern & Grill restaurant

10. Matisse Tavern & Grill

4.5

Awesome(170)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Gastro pub • Lakeview / East Lakeview

Matisse Tavern & Grill, nestled in the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, is a shining beacon of Gastro Pub excellence. Renowned for its "made-from-scratch" menu and top-quality meats, this tavern offers an eclectic and authentic dining experience. Guests rave about the "fabulous drinks" and "outstanding food," highlighting standout dishes like the goat cheese bacon-wrapped dates and the succulent BBQ wings. With its cozy lounge featuring a fireplace and an inviting outdoor patio, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. The "Pearfect Martini" and famous Moscow Mules are not to be missed, making Matisse a must-visit for both locals and visitors.

‘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

F
FrancescaVIP
Chicago / Illinois •38 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Another outstanding meal at The Gage. The hamburgers, the mussels, the Caesar salad with chicken, even the french fries were veggies awesome. As usual, the service was excellent.
More info
The GagePrice: Moderate• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.7
A
Annette
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Really enjoyed the ambiance and music. Unfortunately there was only 1 entree available this day. And 2 of the beers were not available. Otherwise the service was great.
More info
Diversey HousePrice: Expensive• Gastro Pub• Logan Square
•
4.7
B
BeckyVIP
Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
It was amazing!!! We enjoyed to food, especially the meatball appetizer and the whole chicken with potatoes!
More info
River RoastPrice: Expensive• American• River North (Chicago)
•
4.5
A
Anndrea
Iowa •32 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
They have a nice selection of interesting dishes, and most everything was really tasty. I did have a cocktail that was horrible though – a gin old-fashioned, which sounded interesting but was a murky blue green color and tasted like cleaning fluid. No one ever asked me if it was OK. And I don’t think we were over staying our expected time at the table, but at the end the server told us that the next table was ready for our spots when she brought the bill.
More info
FrontierPrice: Expensive• American• West Town
•
4.4
A
Aaron
Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jan 16, 2025
Service, selection and ambiance make this a place to go back to time and again.
More info
Centennial Crafted Beer & EateryPrice: Moderate• Gastro Pub• River North (Chicago)
•
4.9

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