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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown / Loop

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226 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Acanto restaurant
1. Acanto
4.8
Exceptional(3854)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 48 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 The Berghoff Restaurant restaurant
2. The Berghoff Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2530)
Price: Moderate
• German • Downtown / Loop
Booked 32 times today
---The Berghoff Restaurant is a Chicago landmark, serving German-style cuisine and culture since 1898. One of the oldest family-run businesses in the nation, now run by the fourth generation, Pete Berghoff. Today's Berghoff menus have evolved to add newer, lighter, and more contemporary dishes, but it's still the same old Berghoff, down to the famous root beer. In December 2018, the Berghoff family opened Adams Street Brewery, aptly named after the street they have called home for over a century, to nod to their brewing roots and commemorate the restaurant's 120th anniversary.
A photo of PERILLA steakhouse - Riverwalk restaurant
3. PERILLA steakhouse - Riverwalk
4.6
Exceptional(145)
Price: Very Expensive
• Korean • Downtown / Loop
Booked 37 times today
A modern interpretation of the classic Chicago steakhouse inspired by traditional Korean flavors. The MICHELIN-recognized PERILLA brand pays homage to the city’s iconic steakhouse roots while introducing a new iteration of the classic dining concept. Designed to be an energetic and explorative dining experience, the restaurant features custom grill tables and a one of a kind tasting menu featured on the Chef Counter.
A photo of Pizano's Pizza & Pasta - Madison restaurant
4. Pizano's Pizza & Pasta - Madison
4.6
Exceptional(330)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 45 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
5. Elephant & Castle - Chicago Wabash Ave.
4.5
Awesome(763)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lakeshore East
Booked 58 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
6. Bandol
4.2
Awesome(261)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary French / American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 21 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 Boleo restaurant
7. Boleo
4.3
Awesome(566)
Price: Moderate
• Latin American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 16 times today
The cuisine and culture of Latin America make their way to the Windy City in our industrial-chic rooftop bar and lounge, Boleo, where you can find small plates for snacking and sharing, delicious cocktails that transport you to Peru, and house music that will make you want to learn to salsa. Come rain or shine we have you covered with our retractable roof!
A photo of Emerald Loop Bar and Grill restaurant
8. Emerald Loop Bar and Grill
4.5
Awesome(1066)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 34 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 Esta Loca restaurant
9. Esta Loca
3.3
Good(13)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 14 times today
Esta Loca on Randolph is an elevated Tex Mex and Mexican restaurant in the heart of Chicago, just off of Millennium Park. Join us for a bite in the dining room, or take Esta Loca with you for a convenient and delicious meal on the go. Host your next event or special occasion with Esta Loca! Located next to Millennium Park with gorgeous views and a rooftop patio, it’s the perfect venue to celebrate your next milestone or corporate gathering.
A photo of il Carciofo restaurant
10. il Carciofo
new
4.8
Exceptional(74)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 146 times today
Located in the historic Fulton Market district of Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets in one of Chef Joe's favorite cities, Rome. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of elevated yet familiar Italian fare with traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas produced daily in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains that highlight the season's bounty.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Carrie
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Delicious deep dish pizza that took about 35 minutes. Appetizers were tasty, one pasta dish that was super as well as a huge serving. Christmas decor made it so special along with low lighting and music.
    More info
    Pizano's Pizza & Pasta - MadisonPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • Mary Jo
    Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I would give this 5 stars except for the price - a bit steep for lunch -,but the food was amazing except for the risotto which was too sweet for a main course. I have just returned from Italy and I would say this food was very authentic. The calamari was exceptional and I’ve ordered it in a lot of places. I loved the ambiance and appreciated the quietness of the restaurant especially given that so many places thrive on a high noise level. We also enjoyed the music selection.
    More info
    AcantoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Dirk
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Wonderful staff, fantastic food. Must visit when in Chicago.
    More info
    The Berghoff RestaurantPrice: Moderate• German• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • HyeVIP
    Houston •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The quality of the meat is outstanding, but the food overall is delicious! Everything we ate was amazing. We had the wagyu set, soybean soup, dumplings, tteokboki, steak tartare, raw oysters, monkey bread, and banana sesame. Homemade kimchi!!! All delicious and the service was phenomenal. Thomas, Kellen, Eric, and Alexis were all attentive and made everything perfect. Will be back every time we visit Chicago from Ohio. Could not have been happier with the experience.
    More info
    PERILLA steakhouse - RiverwalkPrice: Very Expensive• Korean• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • Chris
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    As a Brit myself the fish and chips and Sunday roast were pretty good! The bread pudding was excellent but i was beaten by the huge portion size. Nice atmosphere, quite busy on a Friday night, would definitely go again.
    More info
    Elephant & Castle - Chicago Wabash Ave.Price: Moderate• American• Lakeshore East
    •
    4.5

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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