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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown / Loop

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168 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Acanto restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3913)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 28 times today
Across from Millennium park and along Chicago’s Cultural Mile, Acanto Restaurant + Wine Bar is a treasured destination for those who appreciate authentic and approachable Italian food in a conversation-friendly atmosphere. Acanto serves seasonally-driven Italian cuisine from both regions of Italy utilizing artisanal ingredients from Midwest farmers and producers. Acanto boasts one of the most lauded wine programs in the US, including a 3-star rating by World of Fine Wine and a two-glass “Best of Excellence” rating by Wine Spectator. The libations menu is rounded out by Italian classics including spritzes and negronis along with craft cocktails, beer, and spirits. The word Acanto is the Italian translation of Acanthus, the flowery leaf featured prominently in Roman architecture. Famed architect Louis Sullivan used Acanthus in his distinctive terra cotta ornamentation found on the facade of the historically-landmarked building that houses Acanto.
A photo of Pizano's Pizza & Pasta - Madison restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(339)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 31 times today
Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta blends classic Italian recipes and fresh takes on traditional fare in one satisfying menu. The son of Pizzeria Uno founder and deep dish creator Rudy Malnati Sr., Pizano’s owner Rudy Malnati Jr. knows what makes an Italian dish truly delicious; high-quality ingredients, authentic recipes, and excellent service. Bowls of seafood marinara and chicken alfredo share menu space with bubbling deep dish pizza and Pizano’s award-winning thin crust pizza, a favorite of critics and visitors alike, including Oprah Winfrey, who featured the restaurant on her show. Located in the heart of Jeweler’s Row, the Madison Street location embodies historic Chicago dining, as timeless songs by Sinatra and Martin fill the air while diners gaze at numerous photos of famous athletes and entertainers line deep, rich wooden walls.
A photo of Elephant & Castle - Chicago Wabash Ave. restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(778)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lakeshore East
Booked 41 times today
Nestled on the corner of Wabash and Lake, Elephant & Castle is your go-to British pub in the heart of Chicago's vibrant theatre and shopping districts. Just steps from the iconic Chicago Theatre and two blocks from the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, we offer classic British pub fare like fish and chips, hearty breakfasts, and live sports on big screens. Whether you're stopping by for happy hour, catching a football match, or grabbing a bite before a show, Elephant & Castle delivers an unforgettable pub experience right in downtown Chicago.
A photo of Bandol restaurant
4.1
Excellent(273)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary French / American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 30 times today
Bandol blends French and Mediterranean classics with modern seafood, a raw bar, and American influences, inspired by the coastal town of Bandol. Its light-filled, art-deco space is ideal for everything from a morning espresso and pastry to a business lunch, memorable dinner, or late-night digestif. Parisian-style outdoor seating offers a relaxing escape in the heart of the city. Bandol serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekday happy hour, and weekend brunch.The upscale to-go coffee bar and bakery counter offers Lavazza coffee, grab-and-go breakfast items, and house-made pastries, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.Parking validation is available for guests parked at 172 W Madison Self-Park Garage. After 4 p.m. on weekends and weeknights, enjoy free parking with a $25 meal purchase. Bring your parking slip for validation. Not valid for valet parking.
A photo of Emerald Loop Bar and Grill restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1069)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 48 times today
Located in the Loop in the historic 35 East Wacker Drive Building. The fare is traditional Irish and American favorites. Serving Lunch & Dinner - indoor & outdoor seating available (max 6 guests per table)
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(6335)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 101 times today
We are the city’s top Mexican restaurant for authentic modern cuisine, specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails, located in the heart of River North. Our culinary team features popular Mexican dishes, including our signature tacos, as well as fresh salsa and guacamole, ceviche, esquites and more.Mercadito's lounge is nestled in the lower level of Mercadito. It offers a speakeasy-style experience with a chic and exclusive ambiance. The space features banquet-style booths and dim lighting that enhances the elegant wood furniture, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Once inside, guests can enjoy the full Mercadito menu, with the same delectable cuisine and beverages that our restaurant is known for.
A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1108)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • River North (Chicago)
Booked 72 times today
Housed in Chicago’s Belle Époque building, the unique Art Nouveau-inspired space honors the iconic building’s legacy while providing guests with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere and menu. La Grande Boucherie blends the ambiance of an indulgent steakhouse with a refined Parisian brasserie charm, and fuses traditional French cuisine with Chicago’s River North culinary heritage. The two-story restaurant boasts custom curved stained-glass windows overlooking the bustling streets of Chicago. The interior features custom mosaic marble floors, authentic fixtures, and a racetrack bar sourced from France. Guests can lean into the view and take in all that Chicago has to offer.
A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(11071)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 78 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.
A photo of RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(12338)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 96 times today
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, RPM Italian is modern in approach and Italian in spirit, featuring a contemporary menu with dishes meant to be shared. The sister restaurant to RPM Steak and RPM Seafood, RPM Italian marks the first collaboration between partners RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic.
A photo of Bistronomic restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6125)
Price: Moderate
• French • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 37 times today
Bistronomic brings guests together with the ambiance of an authentic Parisian bistro while exhibiting the "je ne sais quoi" and romance only found in Chicago's Sister City, the City of Lights. Three seating options are available: the Main Dining Room, the Grand Salon and the Petit Salon. Also, the bar is another offers a more casual experience. Dark wood, subdued lighting and French accents set the inviting mood. During the holidays, Bistronomic is festively adorned with garland, lights and red bows to make holiday get-togethers even more special. Whether guests seek an inviting holiday experience, social gathering or have business to conduct, Bistronomic's inviting seasonal and locally grown French food is the answer. Bistronomic is a Family Owned Business, Chef Martial & Lulu Noguier as well as the incredible Staff will welcome you with warmth a for a very French Experience!

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown / Loop

Discover an array of authentic dining experiences in the lively Downtown / Loop area of Chicago, Illinois. This bustling culinary hub is renowned for its diverse range of restaurants that masterfully blend local and international flavors to offer truly genuine tastes in every dish. Whether you're craving an Italian feast, Brazilian barbeque, or classic American fare, the Downtown / Loop district promises an authentic dining experience that caters to discerning palates. Each restaurant in this area maintains a high standard of quality, celebrating both traditional cooking techniques and innovative culinary practices. Patrons often praise these establishments for their exceptional food, outstanding service, and inviting atmospheres, making each meal memorable. The dining scene here is vibrant and highly rated by both locals and visitors, reflecting Chicago's rich gastronomic culture. When you dine in Downtown / Loop, you're in for an authentic treat that captures the essence of Chicago's expansive culinary landscape.

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