DineGuides

What's Hot in Loop

30 restaurants in Loop. Part of our Chicago What's Hot guide.

Russian Tea Time Restaurant
#1What's Hot
6 photos

Russian Tea Time Restaurant

Russian·$$
📍 77 E Adams St

This elegant downtown spot transports diners with its authentic Russian cuisine and opulent atmosphere. It's a place where traditional dishes are served with meticulous care, making it ideal for both intimate dates and celebratory group gatherings.

🍽️95Food
95Vibe
💰88Value
75Wait
💬

Honestly, this place is amazing. We got the queen tea service with both savories and sweets for $69 and it was stellar.

💬

The food was delicious. Reminded me of the traditional dishes my grandma used to cook.

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Honestly had the most amazing experience. I went in on a whim with my bestie.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Wagyu House Chicago
#2What's Hot
6 photos

Wagyu House Chicago

Japanese·$$

This is the spot for high-quality, all-you-can-eat Japanese BBQ and hot pot, where the wagyu beef melts in your mouth. Attentive servers guide you through the menu, making it a great choice for both special occasions and casual outings.

🍽️95Food
90Vibe
💰85Value
💬

The quality of the meat truly stands out. Beautifully marbled cuts, impeccably fresh, and seasoned with a subtlety that lets the ingredients speak for themselves.

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Phil was a great and attentive waiter. He made sure we were always being helped and was quick to deliver.

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I’ve been a frequent visitor for a long time and always had great experiences with every server that they’ve all been consistently professional and friendly.

Ideal for
Date nightFamilies with kidsGroup dining
Bistro Monadnock
#3What's Hot
6 photos

Bistro Monadnock

French·$$$

This classic French bistro transports diners with its intimate, romantic atmosphere and a menu that honors tradition. Standout dishes like the French onion soup and escargot are well-regarded, offering a taste of Paris in the heart of Chicago.

🍽️92Food
95Vibe
💰78Value
65Wait
💬

Simon was the best server we have ever had. He was super attentive and charming, he made the whole experience amazing.

💬

The French onion soup is the star of the show and honestly rivals the best I’ve had in Paris.

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Best Burger! Best Snails! Best onion soup! Best service i had in a while!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Acanto
#4What's Hot
4 photos

Acanto

Italian·$$$$

Acanto offers a romantic, candlelit escape in the heart of the city, perfect for date nights or quiet evenings. The Italian menu shines with expertly prepared pastas and a notable wine selection, complemented by attentive service.

🍽️93Food
95Vibe
💰75Value
70Wait
💬

Phillip, our server, was attentive and really seemed to care that we had a wonderful time.

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The Chicken Piccata and the Arancini were truly the best we have ever had.

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Party hearty vehicles on Michigan Avenue with full bass will drown out all conversation, and there's no way to defend against 🤣

Ideal for
Date nightHappy hourTasting menu
Just Salad
#5What's Hot

Just Salad

American·$$

This fast-casual spot focuses on fresh, customizable salads and bowls, offering a healthy and vibrant meal option. It's a go-to for those seeking plant-based choices and a quick, friendly lunch.

🍽️90Food
85Vibe
💰80Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

Alex at the register is personable and efficient, and the other team members like Fiona and Nicole always deliver with perfect portions and fresh ingredients.

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Fiona was very pleasant, knowledgeable and accommodating! She made it very wonderful experience for me!

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This is my go-to place/location for fresh, delicious and healthy salads in the Loop.

Ideal for
Health-conscious diningSolo diningGroup dining
The Village
#6What's Hot
6 photos

The Village

Italian·$$
📍 71 W Monroe St

Transport yourself to a charming Italian village without leaving Chicago. This historic spot offers a warm, rustic ambiance perfect for intimate dates or lively group gatherings, complemented by a full bar and family-friendly atmosphere.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰75Value
💬

My partner got the four cheese ravioli and house salad. She noted the salad was well-organized, not drowned in dressing, and had perfect cuts.

💬

Our waiter, El, was excellent - friendly, attentive, and genuinely made us feel welcome from the moment we sat down.

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This is our first day in Chicago and i think this was my favorite stop so far!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningFamily dinners
Fare
#7What's Hot
6 photos

Fare

American·$$

FARE offers a vibrant, healthy escape with a menu focused on fresh, flavorful bowls and baked goods. The staff consistently provides warm, welcoming service, making it a go-to for quick, satisfying meals.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰85Value
💬

Really fast service which is perfect for work

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This has simplified my lunches. So fast and consistent

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Staff went above and beyond - super friendly

Ideal for
Office workers seeking quick healthy lunchRepeat visitors prioritizing consistency and speedHealth-conscious diners valuing fresh ingredients
LaShuk Street Food
#8What's Hot

LaShuk Street Food

Middle Eastern·$$
📍 125 S Clark St

This food hall stall serves up vibrant Middle Eastern street food, with a particular focus on incredibly smooth hummus and perfectly crisp falafel. It's a casual, family-friendly spot that excels at feeding groups and offers plenty of vegetarian options.

🍽️95Food
💰75Value
💬

Best falafel ever! All the food is fresh and the hummus is extremely smooth.

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The mushroom hummus is incredible, the falafel is the best, and the charred eggplant is impossible to stop eating.

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Would absolutely go again and take the family. Delicious 😋

Ideal for
Group diningFamilies with kidsQuick lunches
Gino’s East
#9What's Hot
6 photos

Gino’s East

Pizza·$

This Chicago institution serves up classic deep-dish pizza with a buttery crust and rich tomato sauce. It's a lively spot perfect for catching a game or a casual meal with friends and family.

🍽️92Food
💰80Value
70Wait
💬

If you're visiting Chi and staying on the loop, this is your perfect place for deep dish.

💬

Hannah was an amazing waitress very attentive to our needs and made excellent recommendations.

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This place was awesome. Perfect pub/restaurant. Food was phenomenal. Location great. Service outstanding.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningFamilies with kids
Seville Chicago
#10What's Hot
6 photos

Seville Chicago

Mixed/Fusion·$$

This rooftop restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with stunning city views, making it a prime spot for both intimate dates and lively group gatherings. Seville Chicago shines with its creative cocktails and a menu that thoughtfully caters to vegetarian and vegan diners, alongside Spanish-inspired small plates and entrees.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰75Value
70Wait
💬

Beautiful decor and design - both inside and out. A great rooftop for a fun happy hour or weekly evening cocktail.

💬

The food was outstanding, with the steak and duck sausage being absolute must-tries.

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Zared was our server and Cody was our bartender. They both were outstanding!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
The Gage
#11What's Hot
6 photos

The Gage

American·$$$

This upscale gastropub offers a refined yet casual dining experience, perfect for everything from a quick business lunch to a romantic date night. Known for its creative American cuisine and lively atmosphere, The Gage provides a welcoming space for groups, families, and solo diners alike.

🍽️88Food
90Vibe
💰75Value
70Wait
💬

Christopher stands out as an excellent employee. His motivation, energy, and dedication to outstanding service set a high standard that others could follow.

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My husband got the Coq au Vin, which was amazing.

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I haven’t been to the Gage, or Chicago, for over a decade. I was extremely happy to see it hasn’t lost its touch.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Millennium Hall Restaurant
#12What's Hot

Millennium Hall Restaurant

American·$$

Millennium Hall Restaurant offers a lively, casual atmosphere right next to the iconic Bean, making it a prime spot for both locals and tourists. It's particularly known for its engaging pizza-making classes and a full bar that caters to a diverse crowd, from families to solo diners.

🍽️88Food
92Vibe
💰75Value
60Wait
💬

Our stop was for convenience. They just have the perfect location to over charge for food & drinks.

💬

Hadassah provided fantastic service, and we were quickly seated with a gorgeous view of the skating rink.

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Emily is genuinely the most amazing person I have ever! Give her a well deserved raise!!

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningSolo dining
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
#13What's Hot

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

American·$$

This Chicago institution feels like stepping back in time, with a speakeasy vibe that honors its mobster past. It's a spacious, casual pub that welcomes everyone from solo diners to large groups, offering a full bar and a menu with solid vegetarian options.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰85Value
65Wait
💬

This is our third time going there and I still say they have the best pizza

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The restaurant is very clean and the food is delicious

💬

We were seated in about one minute, which was impressive

Ideal for
Chicago tourists seeking iconic history and deep dish pizzaHistory enthusiasts interested in prohibition-era atmosphereWeekday lunch or early-evening diners avoiding peak crowds
BellyBowl Kitchen & Boba Bar (Southloop)
#14What's Hot
6 photos

BellyBowl Kitchen & Boba Bar (Southloop)

Mixed/Fusion·$$

This South Loop spot offers generous portions of flavorful Asian-inspired dishes and a wide variety of boba teas. It's a casual, comfortable place perfect for a quick solo meal or a relaxed bite.

🍽️85Food
85Vibe
💰90Value
💬

Ramen broth was the best I've ever had

💬

Calming music made it all the better

💬

Chill and attentive service, good location

Ideal for
Budget-conscious diners wanting large portionsBoba tea enthusiasts seeking quality drinksQuick lunch near downtown/museum district
Cindy's Rooftop
#15What's Hot
6 photos

Cindy's Rooftop

American·$$$

This rooftop spot offers a classic Chicago panorama, making it a prime destination for sunset drinks and romantic evenings. While the views are undeniably the star, the kitchen delivers solid, if not always spectacular, fare, and the bar crafts creative cocktails.

🍽️78Food
95Vibe
💰60Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

Our server, Blake, was very attentive and kind. He always aimed to make it right and did his best to make sure we were happy.

💬

The food here is surprisingly good for a hotel restaurant? We went back twice on our trip because the salmon was that delicious!

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The atmosphere is lively and atmospheric, perfect for an evening with friends or a romantic date.

Ideal for
Date nightWeekend brunchHappy hour
Elephant & Castle
#16What's Hot

Elephant & Castle

British·$
📍 111 W Adams St

This casual British pub offers a lively atmosphere perfect for catching a game or enjoying a relaxed meal. It's a reliable spot for hearty comfort food and a wide selection of drinks, making it a go-to for both locals and visitors.

🍽️85Food
88Vibe
💰80Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Absolutely loved Elephant & Castle! The chicken pot pie was incredibly flavorful - perfectly baked and full of comfort - and the house salad was fresh and delicious.

💬

Krista and Laura were around and clearly run things well. Super friendly, approachable, and everything just felt smooth without trying too hard.

💬

Been here on a couple of occasions and it was a well run establishment. Tonight however is a different story.

Ideal for
Group diningWatching sportsCasual meals
Remington's
#17What's Hot

Remington's

American·$$

This Chicago steakhouse offers a stylish, modern atmosphere perfect for both casual meals and more formal dinners. It's a reliable spot that balances local appeal with tourist draw, featuring a full bar and a menu with options for various preferences.

🍽️88Food
90Vibe
💰80Value
65Wait
💬

We went for Christmas Eve dinner with family and had an outstanding experience.

💬

The best ribeye in the world so far! Highly recommended!

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Our waiter Abraham had very little interest in us and only checked in to take away dishes.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSolo dining
Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar
#18What's Hot

Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar

French·$$

This French bistro's centerpiece is a slowly rotating carousel bar, offering a unique, whimsical focal point. It's a cozy escape with a full bar, perfect for solo diners or catching a game.

🍽️85Food
95Vibe
💰60Value
🔊65Noise
💬

The chicken had a perfect char that locked in the juices and gave it a deep, smoky flavor.

💬

The burger is worth the hype, little more pink on the meat would have been welcomed but didn’t take away from the flavor.

💬

They say that the bar revolves (I presume its the carousel at the circular bar area) but it wasnt in motion.

Ideal for
Solo diningPre-theater dinnerWatching the game
Poke Burrito South Loop
#19What's Hot
6 photos

Poke Burrito South Loop

Seafood·$$

This South Loop spot serves up generous portions of fresh, customizable poke bowls and sushi burritos. It's a casual, family-friendly destination perfect for solo diners or groups looking for a quick and flavorful meal.

🍽️92Food
80Vibe
💰88Value
💬

Took over 45 minutes for 4 people's orders

💬

You get price is unreal

Ideal for
Downtown lunch rush (quick, fresh, affordable)Customizable bowl enthusiastsBudget-conscious sushi lovers
Luke's Italian Beef
#20What's Hot
5 photos

Luke's Italian Beef

American·$$

This no-frills Chicago joint serves up authentic Italian beef sandwiches that are messy in the best way possible. It's a casual spot perfect for a quick, satisfying bite, whether you're flying solo or with family.

🍽️88Food
80Vibe
💰85Value
💬

Consistent spot for Italian Beefs and Chicago dogs

💬

It was fairly quiet, right before the lunch time busyness

💬

Service was quick, there was almost no waiting time

Ideal for
First-time Chicago visitors seeking iconic sandwichesQuick downtown lunch near Willis TowerBeef and hot dog enthusiasts
Niu B
#21What's Hot

Niu B

Japanese·$$

This Michigan Avenue spot offers a vibrant atmosphere with a full bar and a laid-back vibe, perfect for solo diners or groups. It's a go-to for fresh sushi and flavorful ramen, especially during their popular happy hour.

🍽️88Food
88Vibe
💰75Value
💬

I really loved the lychee martini and the lava cake.

💬

Niu B was conveniently located near my hotel on the corner of S Michigan Ave and E 9th Street.

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We have been there three times in 4 days and it was delicious everytime.

Ideal for
Solo diningHappy hourDate night
Brown Bag Seafood Co.
#22What's Hot

Brown Bag Seafood Co.

Seafood·$$

This fast-casual seafood spot offers a refreshing take on healthy eating with build-your-own bowls and fresh catches. The lobster roll is a standout, rivaling New England versions, and the truffle parmesan tots are worth trying side. It's a great option for a quick, satisfying meal with a pleasant, casual atmosphere.

🍽️88Food
85Vibe
💰85Value
🧹65Hygiene
💬

The staff were great listeners with helping us choose which food items would work best for us!

💬

I ordered the lobster roll, and it genuinely rivals any lobster roll you’d find in New England - fresh, perfectly prepared, and loaded with flavor.

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Happy to have caught their happy hour today, 4-6pm. Got to try more of their dishes and all great!

Ideal for
Happy hourHealth-conscious diningQuick lunch near Millennium Park
Sofi Restaurant
#23What's Hot

Sofi Restaurant

Italian·$$$

This cozy Italian spot offers a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere, perfect for intimate evenings. The kitchen turns out authentic, flavorful dishes, with a tasting menu that consistently exceeds expectations.

🍽️88Food
92Vibe
💰70Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Francesco was our amazing waiter. When he found out we had lived in Italy, we had great conversations!

💬

Sofi is that perfect mix of cozy and upscale - ideal for a date night or just treating yourself.

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What a fabulous meal, al fresco, in Chicago. Wonderfully attentive staff, full of conversation, and terrific high-end Italian cuisine to boot.

Ideal for
Date nightTasting menuSolo dining
Luke's Lobster City Hall
#24What's Hot

Luke's Lobster City Hall

Seafood·$$

This is the spot for a no-fuss, high-quality lobster roll. Expect fresh, generously portioned seafood on a perfectly toasted bun, with a friendly crew ready to guide you through the menu.

🍽️92Food
75Vibe
💰75Value
💬

I had the pleasure of meeting Kate and Colleen, whom were phenomenal in their service, the food was sold delicious.

💬

Talk about love at first bite! I tried the lobster roll flight and my tastebuds literally went on a flight because I've never had such delicious lobster in Chicago!

💬

Such a cool place. The food looked and smelled amazing. The vibe of the restaurant was amazing and the staff are some of the coolest people.

Ideal for
Tasting menuQuick weeknight dinner
Panchos Rooftop Cantina
#25What's Hot

Panchos Rooftop Cantina

Mexican·$

This rooftop cantina offers a lively atmosphere with a casual vibe, perfect for after-work drinks or a fun night out. While the food is generally tasty, the real draw is the energetic ambiance and the extensive drink menu, especially during happy hour.

🍽️85Food
92Vibe
💰75Value
🔊55Noise
💬

The atmosphere was great, nice vibes, the drinks were flowing and the server Andrea was AMAZING!!!

💬

It was really loud there for no particular reason and at one point someone raised the volume higher of the music.

💬

The menu is not what is shown on their website. Very limited in food and they didn't have certain liquor as well.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Sopraffina Marketcaffe
#26What's Hot

Sopraffina Marketcaffe

Italian·$$

This cafeteria-style Italian market offers a wide selection of fresh, flavorful sandwiches and salads, making it a reliable go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth ordering process even during busy lunch rushes.

🍽️92Food
75Vibe
💰85Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Their sandwiches, made with fresh artisan breads, are packed with high-quality ingredients that bring out incredible flavors.

💬

It’s set up cafeteria-style: you order at the counter, food’s made fresh in front of you, and you pay when you’re done.

💬

I got bread with my meal (already eaten!) and everything hit the spot.

Ideal for
Quick lunchSolo diningBreakfast
Meli Cafe
#27What's Hot
6 photos

Meli Cafe

American·$

This casual cafe offers a wide range of breakfast and brunch options, with a notable focus on accommodating dietary needs like vegan and gluten-free preferences. It's a family-friendly spot with a full bar, making it suitable for groups and casual outings.

🍽️82Food
85Vibe
💰70Value
60Wait
💬

The mimosas were excellent and the food, salmon eggs Benedict were fenominal.

💬

The server kept dodging us, and whenever I asked her, she would say she will get it and she would not comeback for 5 mins.

💬

However, I was less impressed with the sausage breakfast sandwich on my second visit, as the sausage had a slightly sour taste.

Ideal for
Weekend brunchFamily diningGroup outings
Bandol Brasserie & Raw Bar
#28What's Hot

Bandol Brasserie & Raw Bar

Mediterranean·$$
📍 100 W Monroe St

This brasserie offers a lively atmosphere with a full bar, making it suitable for both group gatherings and intimate dates. While the ambiance is upscale, the food can be inconsistent, with some dishes shining while others fall flat.

🍽️85Food
85Vibe
💰65Value
🔊65Noise
💬

The French fries were outstanding, though the burger patty was a bit under-seasoned.

💬

They were also showing a rerun of an AFC divisional game on NFL Network, while the Big Ten Championship was happening?

💬

The ambiance and atmosphere is great. Very elegant and great for a fancy dinner out.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Morton's The Steakhouse
#29What's Hot

Morton's The Steakhouse

Steakhouse·$$$
📍 65 E Wacker Pl

Morton's The Steakhouse offers a classic, intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated night out. While known for its high-quality steaks and extensive wine list, recent experiences suggest inconsistency in execution and service, particularly around promotional offers.

🍽️82Food
85Vibe
💰65Value
💬

Sebastian, the manager, handled a few very minor issues immediately and professionally, and kept checking on our table to make sure everything was perfect.

💬

The steak was cooked perfectly and packed with flavour, and the side dishes were delicious, though there was far too much for us to finish.

💬

Lighting was romantic and the music was perfect steakhouse music and thankfully NOT blaring!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSpecial occasions
Blackwood BBQ
#30What's Hot

Blackwood BBQ

BBQ·$
📍 307 W Lake St

This fast-casual spot serves up classic BBQ with a focus on tender, smoky meats and a variety of house-made sauces. It's a solid choice for a quick lunch or a family meal, offering a casual atmosphere that's good for groups and solo diners alike.

🍽️88Food
💰70Value
💬

And the cleanliness and cleanliness is FANTASTIC! Please keep up the great work and know that we really appreciate all that you do!

💬

One of my favorite spots to head for lunch even though it is a long walk for me.

💬

I ordered the Thanksgiving Dinner package this year and my family loved it all!!

Ideal for
Quick lunchFamily mealsGroup dining
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