Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown / Loop

279 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant

1. The Walnut Room - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(7457)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 361 times today

Nestled in the bustling heart of Downtown Chicago, The Walnut Room offers a truly authentic Vegetarian dining experience that captivates both the palate and the heart. Celebrated as a local tradition since 1907, this iconic venue inside Macy's on State Street shines with its commitment to quality and service. Patrons frequently praise its "delicious" offerings and the "wonderful atmosphere" that make every dining experience memorable. Highlights from the Vegetarian menu include creatively crafted dishes that emphasize freshness and flavor, making it a prime destination for those seeking a culinary delight. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, "The food is always delicious. The service is always great. And just a lovely place to dine." Whether it’s the charm of the historic setting or the exquisite Vegetarian cuisine, The Walnut Room is a must-visit for those seeking exceptional dining in Chicago.

2. The Gage

4.7

Exceptional(12009)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 159 times today

The Gage in Downtown Chicago is a haven for comfort food enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic and innovative flavors. Praised for its "terrific service and amazing food," this restaurant offers a menu that delights with dishes such as the indulgent chicken fried lobster and perfectly cooked Scotch eggs, which one patron from England described as "cooked to perfection." The Gage's ability to maintain high standards, even on busy days like St. Patrick's Day, speaks volumes, with reviews highlighting their "phenomenal food" and seamless service. This spot is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience where every meal is crafted with care and served in a lively, welcoming atmosphere, making it a "must visit" in Chicago's dining scene.

3. Roanoke

4.3

Awesome(1451)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 75 times today

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine at Roanoke, nestled in the vibrant Downtown / Loop area of Chicago. Celebrated for its luxurious setting and a culinary showcase featuring a rotisserie and brick oven, Roanoke delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the diverse menu, highlighting dishes like the "outrageously huge and delicious turkey club" and the "rotisserie chicken - so delicious!" The ambiance, complemented by copper accents and warm lighting, creates the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy dinner by the fireplace or a lively gathering with friends, Roanoke promises an excellent service and a menu that has "something fresh for everyone." Join us for a meal where each dish is a testament to refined American cooking.

A photo of The Berghoff Restaurant restaurant

4. The Berghoff Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(2530)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 32 times today

The Berghoff Restaurant, a cherished landmark in Downtown Chicago, masterfully blends its rich heritage with contemporary American flair. Steeped in a tradition that dates back to 1898, The Berghoff stands out for its ability to innovate while maintaining the soul of its original German cuisine. Diners rave about the "excellent food" and the "vibrant atmosphere" that make every visit memorable. The addition of newer, lighter dishes to the menu showcases a seamless integration of contemporary tastes with classic styles. Guests consistently celebrate the "fantastic food" and the exceptional service, making it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of contemporary American cuisine with deep historical roots.

A photo of State and Lake Chicago Tavern restaurant

5. State and Lake Chicago Tavern

4.0

Excellent(1541)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 44 times today

The sleek contemporary State and Lake Chicago Tavern combines the flair of artisanal American cuisine with the warm, welcoming vibe of a neighborhood pub. Named after the iconic intersection in the heart of the city, State and Lake Chicago Tavern serves up new twists on tavern fare, with an emphasis on featuring the finest locally sourced and wholesome ingredients.Putting a modern spin on traditional tavern dining, the inviting decor features cork floors, leather walls and plush banquettes, radiating upscale hospitality and exceptional service. Cozy enough to lounge in and stylish enough for business, State and Lake Chicago Tavern is ideal for guests and locals alike looking to unwind over a drink, gather together to watch a game, or grab a pre-theater bite before heading to the nearby historic theater district. Whether it's a lunchtime escape or a Happy Hour go-to at the intimate bar, theWit's award-winning eatery takes traditional tavern dining to the next level.

6. Remington's

4.7

Exceptional(3256)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 66 times today

At Remington's in the heart of Chicago's bustling Downtown/Loop area, near Millennium Park, American cuisine is elevated to an art form. Celebrated for its "fabulous food, service, and ambiance," this gem consistently impresses with its array of dishes like "the best French dip in the city" and the much-raved-about "lobster deviled eggs." Patrons often highlight not just the food but the atmosphere, describing it as a place where "everything was simply wonderful." Whether it's for a casual meal or a special occasion, Remington's delivers a quintessentially American dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic, high-quality American fare in a vibrant setting.

7. Atwood

4.2

Awesome(4561)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 26 times today

Atwood, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Chicago, is your go-to destination for exceptional comfort food, blending traditional flavors with modern flair. Executive Chef David Fingerman masterfully crafts all-day American favorites that consistently delight guests, as one reviewer exclaims, "We have never had a more delicious waffle. The berries and whipped butter were so yummy. It made my day!" Praised for its "beautiful ambiance in a historic building" and "amazing service," Atwood offers a dining experience where every meal feels like a special occasion. Whether it's the highly recommended breakfast burrito or the indulgent cheeseburger and Caesar salad, Atwood's menu is sure to satisfy your cravings for hearty, comforting cuisine.

8. Copper Club

4.2

Awesome(23)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 1 time today

Copper Club, nestled in the heart of Chicago's bustling Theater District, is truly a haven for café enthusiasts. This cozy brasserie and cocktail bar offers a delightful escape with its chef-driven comfort food and an extensive selection of classic beverages. Patrons rave about its café offerings, highlighting the exceptional Espresso Martini as a must-try. One guest enthused about the "rotating soup" and "salmon toast," praising the chef's evident pride in crafting fresh, flavorful dishes. The inviting atmosphere and consistently "attentive and unobtrusive service" make it the perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience. Whether it's for a business lunch or a casual meet-up, Copper Club stands out as a gem in Downtown Chicago, offering both quality meals and a warm, welcoming environment.

9. The Grillroom

4.6

Exceptional(3142)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 20 times today

Treat yourself to expertly crafted dishes, bold flavors and a stylish vibe at our modern Steakhouse in the heart of Chicago. We proudly serve Allen Bros. award winning steaks, the freshest seafood, pastas, and more. Enjoy steak and style all just steps away from the top hotels, theaters, shopping and the bustling business district.Having dinner before a show or event? 🎭We are located directly across the street from the CIBC theater & within close proximity to several surrounding venues including the Cadillac Palace Theater, Nederlander Theater and Chicago Theater. To ensure the dinner experience standards we pride ourselves on, please allow at minimum 1.5 hours for your reservation with us.• For 7:00 PM shows: Last seating at 5:45 PM• For 7:30 PM shows: Last seating at 6:15 PM• For 8:00 PM shows: Last seating at 6:45 PM •After these times, pre-theater guests are welcome to enjoy offerings at the bar. We look forward to making your time with us special!

A photo of Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern restaurant

10. Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern

4.2

Awesome(179)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • River North (Chicago)

Booked 21 times today

Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern is a beacon of American cuisine in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood. This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic, scratch-made BBQ that captures the true essence of American culinary traditions. Patrons rave about the "Best Damn BBQ joint in town," where the chicken is described as "perfection on a plate" and the rib tips are "sauced up to the max, tender, and so juicy." It's not just the food that gets high marks; the atmosphere is consistently praised for its good vibes and the staff, like Ariel and Raven, are highlighted for their exceptional service. Wilma's offers an all-around superb dining experience that resonates with the heart of American BBQ. Whether it’s the soul rolls, the catfish, or the signature drinks, every visit promises a memorable taste of American hospitality and flavor.

‘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

Z
zenaiya
Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
It was amazing . I’ve been wanting to go there for a minute. My boyfriend took me after a long 9 hour shift. I couldn’t be anymore grateful. The service was 10/10. Barely waited 10 minutes for our food . Will be back again ! Thank you for having us .
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Regional American (Southern)• River North (Chicago)
•
4.1
J
JosephVIP
Chicago / Illinois •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great service, great food, great wine selection...and they remembered me form a visit a month ago.
More info
Chicago qPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.3
L
LaKia
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
This was my first time at Yardbird and we had a great time. My bf loves bourbon and we opted for the “Dealer’s Choice” bourbon flight. Leni our server was amazing and she took the experience seriously. It was a joy to watch her and her crew select the options and even more of a joy for my bf to try them. When we go back, we would definitely request her service.
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Regional American (Contemporary Southern)• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
C
Cynthia
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
My daughter and I dined there last night and we were really impressed all the way around. From being greeted at the door (he was fabulous) and our server was equally fabulous. I sat and watched the servers and they were "on-point". There wasn't a glass that wasn't filled immediately, a plate taken away when meal completed in the most timeliest facet. The decor was great - felt like a really vibrant atmosphere and the food, the food, the food was the best. I enjoyed this experience and will definitely refer my friends but more importantly will be back. Chef's Kiss! This is a restaurant you don't want to skip.
More info
ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.7
Z
ZackVIP
Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
4.0
Dined on 13 Dec 2024
Get the wings! They are definitely the best thing on the menu.
More info
Briny Swine - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Barbecue• Lincoln Park
•
4.2

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Downtown / Loop

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown / Loop

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279 restaurants available nearby

1. The Walnut Room - Chicago

2. The Gage

3. Roanoke

4. The Berghoff Restaurant

5. State and Lake Chicago Tavern

6. Remington's

7. Atwood

8. Copper Club

9. The Grillroom

10. Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern

See what locals rave about

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