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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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80 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14925)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 104 times today
Girl & the Goat, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, is a must-visit for tapas enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable dining experience. Known for its bold and inventive small plates, the restaurant celebrates locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with flair and creativity. Diners rave about standout dishes like the "goat empanadas with their perfectly flaky crust and savory filling" and the "crispy, flavorful chickpea fritters." The lively atmosphere and friendly service only enhance the experience, making it an excellent choice for groups or adventurous foodies. With each dish designed to share, every visit promises a delightful culinary adventure.
A photo of HIDE + SEEK restaurant
4.4
Awesome(346)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 58 times today
HIDE + SEEK in West Loop, Chicago, is a vibrant Cocktail Bar that elevates the art of drink-making to new heights. Known for its "awesome cocktails" and "top-notch drinks," this establishment is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts. Diners rave about the expertly crafted drinks like the Shadow Play and Midnight in Madrid, which boast "incredible flavor profiles" that cater to diverse palates. The innovative beverage program offers fresh takes on classic cocktails, ensuring each sip is both refreshing and memorable. With a lively atmosphere and attentive service, HIDE + SEEK promises a cocktail experience that's both sophisticated and playful, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
A photo of Sepia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5387)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 25 times today
Sepia in Chicago's West Loop masterfully captures the essence of authentic American cuisine with a modern flair. "One of the best meals I've ever had," says a delighted diner, and it's easy to see why. Chef Andrew Zimmerman’s seasonal menu celebrates the purity of ingredients, delivering dishes that are both inventive and delicious. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "elegant, understated," perfectly complements the culinary experience, making it an instant classic. Standout dishes like the duck breast and short rib are praised for their thoughtful presentation and flavor, while the wine pairing is deemed a "must." Sepia promises a memorable dining experience that beautifully honors American culinary tradition.
A photo of Boka restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7175)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park
Booked 72 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.
A photo of Terrace 16 restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2202)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Near North
Booked 31 times today
Terrace 16 in Chicago is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, beautifully capturing the essence of New American flavors. Located on the 16th floor of Trump International Hotel & Tower, it offers diners an "amazing experience" enriched by breathtaking city views. Reviews consistently celebrate the "fabulous views" and "outstanding food," making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. The vibrant menu, crafted from fresh ingredients, speaks powerfully for itself, while the extensive craft cocktail program and thoughtful wine list complement the flavorful offerings. With a warm ambiance and exceptional service, Terrace 16 promises an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Andy's Jazz Club restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5091)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 63 times today
Andy's Jazz Club, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine paired with the soulful sounds of live jazz. This unique venue offers a "fabulous time" with "incredible music and great food," making it a staple for a true Chicago experience. Diners rave about dishes like the "lobster ravioli" and "NY Strip steak," which are crafted to perfection. The atmosphere is described as "warm and inviting," providing a perfect backdrop for enjoying world-class jazz performances. For an evening that "exceeds expectations," Andy's Jazz Club is an American culinary delight you won't want to miss!
A photo of Elske restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1217)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 18 times today
Elske, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, offers an exquisite Contemporary American dining experience that is both unique and memorable. This culinary gem has captivated diners with its "delicious, unfussy and creative" dishes, blending premium and unexpected ingredients with a Danish-inspired minimalist aesthetic. Chef David Posey's creations are praised for their "complex but simple" flavors that elevate the essence of each component, making every dish a masterpiece. The tasting menu is particularly celebrated, with patrons describing it as the "best gastronomic experience" of their lives. Elske's friendly and professional staff enhance the experience, ensuring every meal is a delightful journey.
A photo of Brasero restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(349)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Town
Booked 51 times today
Brasero, located in West Town, Chicago, is a vibrant celebration of South American cuisine, where Chef John Manion's mastery of wood-fired Latin cooking shines. Recognized by the Robb Report as one of the Top 10 Best New Restaurants in the country, Brasero brings "authentic Argentinian flavors" to life with dishes like flame-roasted young chickens and sumptuous moqueca. Diners rave about the "tender pork shank" and the exquisite "Black Cod in banana leaf," describing their experiences as "beyond spectacular." With a lively ambiance, attentive service, and a selection of 100 wines under $100, Brasero is a must-visit destination for all food lovers.
A photo of The Franklin Room restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1900)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 23 times today
The Franklin Room in Chicago’s River North neighborhood is a must-visit for lovers of authentic American cuisine. Renowned for its "phenomenal cuisine" and "world-class service," this hidden gem offers a modern twist on turn-of-the-century American tavern fare. Diners rave about its "delicious food" and "extensive bourbon list," making it a paradise for serious whiskey enthusiasts. The atmosphere is described as "cozy, classy," and reminiscent of a sophisticated speakeasy, perfect for any occasion. With standout dishes like the "butcher steak" and "sea bass," and a staff that consistently goes "above and beyond," The Franklin Room promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Roanoke restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1460)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Loop
Booked 81 times today
Roanoke, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Loop, is a shining example of Contemporary American cuisine at its finest. The restaurant takes pride in offering "artisan comfort food" with a modern twist, delighting palates with dishes such as the "roasted carrots with whipped feta and pistachios." Guests rave about the "fantastic" burgers and signature rotisserie creations, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The inviting ambiance, featuring luxurious finishes and cozy, warm lighting, complements the exquisite meals perfectly. Roanoke’s commitment to quality and service makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic and innovative Contemporary American cuisine in downtown Chicago.
‘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
  • DanVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were surprised to be seated at the counter overlooking the kitchen and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The chefs and front-of-house teams are amazing to watch in action. Every dish is so flavorful and creative and you never know what is coming next from your selections. Just note, it can get very loud since orders are being called out in addition to the already energetic restaurant behind you if you're seated in this location. Another great dinner at Girl & the Goat!
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
  • Rob
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Birthday dinner. All of the staff was great, offering complimentary treats along with the meal. Cocktails and the meal was very good. Sauces overpowered some of the dishes, but overall very good.
    More info
    BokaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Lincoln Park
    4.8
  • KerryVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Our family had an absolutely fantastic dinner here! We opted for the tasting menu and, with four of us, decided to order one of everything on the menu. Every dish was phenomenal—beautifully prepared, with perfect plating that showcased the attention to detail. Alex, our server, took excellent care of us, and Jake, the sommelier, offered outstanding wine recommendations from their incredible wine list. We finished the evening with the cheese course paired with a fantastic bottle of wine—a perfect way to end the meal. On our way out, we stopped by the bar because we noticed some rare bottles on display. We ended up staying to try a couple of new ones, and the bartender’s knowledge and passion made the experience even better. We thoroughly enjoyed everything about our evening and will definitely be back!
    More info
    SepiaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
  • JonathanVIP
    New York City •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    1st time with Hide + Seek, We cannot wait to come back again. The food was outstanding, however the service is what did it for me. NICK is the man! So accommodating, such a sweet guy & took care of us! So I’m going to have to say 6 stars for the service! See you soon! 🤗
    More info
    HIDE + SEEKPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.4
  • Jeffery
    Chicago / Illinois •58 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The appetizer selection was impressive. My wife and I shared oysters and the bone marrow. Both were very good. The house cocktail list was tasty. I had the Fame in Chicago. My wife had the spicy lobster pasta dish that was outstanding. For dessert, we split the apple, butterscotch, carmel, and creme brule. Overall, great food and service with an amazing view of the Chicago river.
    More info
    Terrace 16Price: Expensive• Contemporary American• Near North
    4.3
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