DineGuides

Cheap Eats in Near West Side

5 restaurants in Near West Side. Part of our Chicago Cheap Eats guide.

Cairo Kebab
#1Cheap Eats
6 photos

Cairo Kebab

Middle EasternΒ·$$

This neighborhood spot serves authentic Egyptian cuisine with generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where the owner often greets guests personally, making it feel like a true home-away-from-home.

🍽️95Food
πŸ’°88Value
πŸ‘‹88Service
πŸ’¬

β€œStaff was so kind and made me feel at home”

πŸ’¬

β€œWe come here every week”

Ideal for
Egyptian food enthusiasts and first-timersHalal-conscious dinersGroups seeking warm, family dining
Fare
#2Cheap Eats

Fare

AmericanΒ·$$

FARE serves up healthy, fresh bowls and plates that are a welcome addition to the neighborhood. The staff's genuine kindness, particularly towards those with dietary needs, makes it a standout choice for a feel-good meal.

🍽️95Food
πŸ’°85Value
πŸ‘‹90Service
πŸ’¬

β€œGabby and Sarah were AMAZING!! Love this place so much, and they made me love it even more!”

πŸ’¬

β€œGreat spot for a quick lunch! This location is one of their best. Food is fresh, staff is very friendly, and the store is remarkably clean.”

πŸ’¬

β€œI love eating here because the food is so fresh and healthy. The bowls are always picture perfect - I have so many photos on my phone.”

Ideal for
Health-conscious diningSolo diningFamilies with kids
Taste 222
#3Cheap Eats

Taste 222

AmericanΒ·$$

Taste 222 offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for both casual dates and lively group gatherings. The menu features a thoughtful selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring something for everyone. With a full bar and a welcoming vibe, it's a go-to spot for happy hour and family outings.

🍽️90Food
πŸ’°85Value
πŸ‘‹92Service
πŸ’¬

β€œThis is my third time at Taste 222, and every single time the food has been absolutely amazing.”

πŸ’¬

β€œFor those with dietary preferences, there were also several vegan-friendly options, like the vegan sliders, which were hearty and delicious without compromising on flavor.”

πŸ’¬

β€œThe vibe is intimate and unique - perfect for a relaxed, quality meal with friends or loved ones.”

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
Oriole
#4Cheap Eats
6 photos

Oriole

AmericanΒ·$

Oriole offers a multi-stage culinary journey, beginning with a hidden speakeasy entrance and culminating in an intimate kitchen-table experience. The tasting menu is a meticulously crafted exploration of global influences, executed with precision and balanced flavors.

🍽️93Food
πŸ’°80Value
πŸ‘‹95Service
πŸ’¬

β€œThe tasting menu moved seamlessly from delicate seafood courses to a rich wagyu beef plate, each dish layered with detail but never heavy.”

πŸ’¬

β€œHidden from the bustling streets of West Loop exists one of Chicago's finest culinary experiences, where glowing warmth and hospitality saturate the entire space with nothing short of magic.”

πŸ’¬

β€œI've been to Oriole 6 times, and for almost 4 years it held the #1 restaurant spot for me in Chicago, with its unpretentious, fine dining experience.”

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningTasting menu
Chilango Mexican Street Food
#5Cheap Eats
6 photos

Chilango Mexican Street Food

MexicanΒ·$$

This casual Mexican street food spot in Little Italy offers generous portions of flavorful, authentic-tasting dishes, particularly noted for its vibrant salsas and hearty burrito bowls. It's a go-to for quick, satisfying meals with a welcoming atmosphere.

🍽️88Food
πŸ’°85Value
πŸ‘‹85Service
πŸ›‘οΈ65Safety
πŸ’¬

β€œEasy parking, beautiful neighborhood, very good location.”

πŸ’¬

β€œThe music playing here is fantastic.”

πŸ’¬

β€œOne of the empanadas had a quarter of an inch bone in it.”

Ideal for
Budget-conscious diners seeking quality Mexican foodUIC/hospital workers seeking quick lunchTakeout orders during off-peak hours