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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the Chicago Loop

American food and cocktails

Made for those who want the reliability of classic American fare paired with a sophisticated drink menu.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
One North Kitchen & Bar image 1
One North Kitchen & Bar image 2
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American restaurant

American restaurant offers a cozy, warm atmosphere with sleek, clean design and outdoor seating. It attracts a packed crowd for after-work drinks, lunch, and dinner, creating a lively but comfortable vibe. The space also serves as a co-working spot, adding a unique dynamic to the experience.

Happy hour features great deals and chili cheese fries stand out. Grilled cheese sandwiches come with mozzarella, goat cheese, and pesto. Hamburgers look impressive.

Cocktails feature creative blends with a strong focus on fruity flavors. Drinks like the very cherry and Casa Tamarind cocktails balance sweetness with tequila for a distinct taste.

People are saying

"I found the salads to be amazing and quite large."

"The staff here makes dinner spots feel so accommodating and friendly."

"The American food, especially the fries, is perfectly cooked and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-8pm, Monday to Friday, with various drink specials.

2

The happy hour food menu includes a few taco and fries options.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located across from the Lyric Opera.

02
Grill on 21 image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant occupies a sleek, upscale space on the 21st floor with an art deco and speakeasy vibe. Ambient live jazz music plays softly, creating a lively yet inviting atmosphere. Booths accommodate small groups comfortably, enhancing the overall elegant dining experience.

Steak and eggs come out cooked to perfection and stand out alongside the chicken pot pie and lobster bisque. The lobster roll features just lobster salad, paired with Parmesan fries, and the hamburger offers a generous portion.

Old Fashioned stands out with its bourbon base. Cocktail and wine menus offer a good variety. Staff share menu knowledge and recommend drinks.

People are saying

"The food here tasted lovely and was outstanding."

"The steak and eggs here are cooked to perfection."

"The cocktails here are amazing, thanks to the warm and welcoming service."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances happen every Friday and Saturday evening.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to bills for parties of two.

3

Sourdough bread is often out of stock, so consider alternatives.

03
The Marq image 1
Restaurant

Stylish restaurant and bar with a modern interior and spacious, beautifully appointed rooms. Atmosphere balances classy and laid-back vibes with a pleasant, quiet bar area that encourages conversation. Features include off-sound televisions and a setup that supports group dining and socializing.

Fried chicken sandwich stands out with its crispy, juicy texture. Nachos come with melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork and the short rib grilled cheese offers buttery, crispy bread loaded with tender meat and melty cheese.

Strong but smooth cocktails stand out here. The bar offers a modern interior and a great atmosphere for an evening with friends, including non-alcoholic options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and creative."

"The American Food, especially the nachos and burger, was excellent."

"It's a stylish spot with a great atmosphere for cocktails."

Good to know

1

The Marq can host events for up to 100 people with excellent service.

2

Happy hour is available, making it a great spot for after-work gatherings.

3

Street parking is available around the corner on Dearborn.

04
The L Station image 1
Restaurant

Small, beautifully decorated restaurant offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere with an intimate feel. Live DJ spins strictly R&B music, creating an upbeat and fun vibe that keeps energy lively. Known for spectacular lamb chops, perfect margarita flights, and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Mac and cheese stands out with rich flavor, paired with perfectly seasoned fried chicken. The greens offer a flavorful but slightly salty touch, and catfish with grits appears on the menu.

Cocktails feature beautiful presentation and excellent service. Bartenders like Tee and Jada craft top-notch drinks with care and hospitality.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I'll return for the amazing chicken alone."

"Tee's handcrafted cocktails are unbelievably delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for parties of 10 or more.

2

Expect a two-hour wait without a reservation.

3

The kitchen closes at 7pm, so arrive early.

05
The Grillroom Chophouse & Wine Bar image 1

Steakhouse offers a sophisticated, relaxing atmosphere with warm lighting, wood, and leather creating a classic, comfortable space. Music stays at a conversation-friendly volume, supporting a peaceful, romantic vibe. Guests enjoy high-quality steaks and well-crafted cocktails in a setting that balances elegance with approachability.

Steaks like the 22oz ribeye and 32 oz porterhouse come cooked to order and full of flavor. Sides include creamy mac and cheese and crispy sesame Brussels sprouts, with seafood gumbo also available.

Boop-a-licous signature cocktail stands out as a unique option. Happy hour features a variety of cocktails including a seasonal cranberry cocktail. Staff provide fabulous recommendations for drinks.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is so attentive and helpful."

"You have to try the American Food here; the steaks are so juicy and flavorful."

"I loved the seasonal cranberry cocktail and dirty martini."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drink specials from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

A 3% surcharge applies for credit card payments.

06
The Walnut Room image 1
American restaurant

Dining room showcases historic decor and a stunning Christmas tree that creates a magical atmosphere. Fairy princesses visit tables, adding a whimsical touch to the experience. Space feels spacious and elegant with white tablecloths and a sense of Chicago history.

Chicken pot pie stands out as a traditional and popular dish here. The menu also features affordable options like the Walnut Room Club with garlic fries and a petite Caesar salad.

Attentive service keeps drinks refilled promptly and offers solid suggestions. The eggnog cocktail stands out as a great recommendation and is consistently well received.

People are saying

"The holiday atmosphere and the Great Tree are just stunningly gorgeous."

"The American Food here is a beautiful, nostalgic experience."

"I'll order the amazing eggnog cocktail again."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for holiday dining at least two months in advance.

2

The Walnut Room hosts a popular drag brunch every Sunday at 11 AM.

3

Parking costs $28 for three hours, so plan accordingly.

07
Hoyt's Chicago image 1
American restaurant

Space centers around a bar in the middle with seated dining around it and a small outdoor patio. Atmosphere stays cozy and subdued, with quiet music and a mix of families and solo diners. Views of the city add to the modern yet inviting vibe.

Smoked brisket sandwich offers packed flavor with tangy sauce. Cheeseburger comes juicy and tasty, paired with sweet potato fries. Peach Crisp Waffle and hash browns stand out as delectable sides.

Expertly crafted cocktails show attention to detail and deep knowledge of drinks. Unique options like The Hancock with smoked pineapple and The Botanic Gardens with hibiscus tea stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"The American food here, like the juicy cheeseburger, really hit the spot."

"Paul's expertly crafted cocktails made me feel so welcome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant is conveniently located within the Royal Sonesta hotel.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait for food pickup after ordering.

08
Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar image 1

Rotating carousel bar moves slowly, completing a full turn about once per hour, creating a unique focal point. Upscale ambiance combines with comfortable seating and a perfect noise level for conversation. Jazz duo adds to the atmosphere, making it lively yet approachable.

Classic cheeseburger stands out after lunch hours. Lobster roll offers a good portion of lobster with solid flavor. Crab cakes vary, with some being great and lump-style, while others fall short.

Cocktails here are very well made and creative, with standout drinks like the old fashioned and French 75. The bar's vibe matches the drinks, looking just like a carnival carousel.

People are saying

"The Amish chicken at this Bar is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"The cocktails are creative and the bar looks just like a carnival carousel."

"This American food, especially the burger and fries, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy a $10 cocktail and oyster night with live jazz music.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Expect to spend around $60 per person for a meal with drinks and tip.

09
Bandol Brasserie & Raw Bar image 1

Space combines art deco style with southern France beachy decor, creating an upscale, classy atmosphere. Music features French pop and chill house, setting a low-key but lively vibe. Cocktails and French-inspired dishes attract those seeking a luxurious dining experience with a trendy touch.

Steak Cobb salad offers a solid choice with fresh ingredients. The Eggs Benedict sandwich features a satisfying portion size. The lobster roll stands out as a popular selection.

Dark, brooding cocktails like the Black Manhattan offer a smoky, slightly sweet, and complex flavor. Bartenders like Cesar and Brian craft drinks with care, including the Manhattan Noir featuring bourbon and chocolate bitters.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the steak frites."

"Cesar makes fantastic cocktails and provides great service."

"The American Food here is served by staff who make you feel like royalty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

The rooftop menu starts at 3 PM, perfect for afternoon gatherings.

10
Millennium Hall Restaurant image 1

Architecture features Frank Gehry's dancing metal design with indoor and outdoor seating offering views of the ice rink and cityscape. Atmosphere ranges from festive and chill to lively with large projection TVs showing sports. Popular for group outings and casual dining with a bar-focused vibe.

Windy City Nachos come loaded with Italian sausage and beer cheese, making a huge and satisfying entree. Hot dogs offer a classic American touch, while grilled cheese paired with tomato basil soup stands out as a comforting combo.

Bartenders craft custom cocktails like curaรงao drinks tailored to outfits. Signature cocktails cost about $15 and come with well mixed flavors served with kindness.

People are saying

"Chef David's pizza making class was so fun and awesome."

"The drinks here are mixed with kindness and professionalism."

"You have to try the loaded American Food nachos; they were divine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for pizza-making courses and private events.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Karaoke night starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

11
Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant combines robotic food delivery with a live DJ playing old school R&B, creating a lively and modern vibe. Walls display Chicago-themed artwork honoring athletes and entertainers, adding local character. Spacious seating supports a sports bar atmosphere with a slight Black Art influence.

Mac and cheese stands out with rich flavor and creamy texture. Chicken wings come in a perfect size with bold, spicy taste.

Happy hour offers $10 cocktails and small plate combos. The punch bowl cocktail stands out and lives up to its reputation. Bar service and cocktails maintain high quality throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is always amazing and fire."

"The American Food, especially the rib tips and mac n' cheese, was delicious."

"I found their popsicle margarita delicious, like a spiked slushie."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $10 cocktails and small plate combos.

2

Expect small portion sizes during happy hour.

3

The restaurant automatically adds gratuity to all bills.

12
Chรขteau Carbide image 1

Rooftop bar offers gorgeous sunset views and a cozy holiday atmosphere with blankets, heaters, and fire pits. The space features comfortable couches and a notable absinthe selection. Music varies from jazz to violin performances, creating a relaxed but sometimes uneven vibe.

Lobster rolls appear frequently but vary from just okay to perfection. The s'mores platter offers a fun twist with marshmallow roasting by the fire.

Rooftop setting offers a nice backdrop for a good selection of cocktails and absinthe. Mezcal cocktails stand out as interesting and well-crafted.

People are saying

"The city views from up here are really great."

"Alondra crafted the best mezcal cocktail I've ever had."

"The American Food, especially the lobster roll, was just okay."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for booking a hut with a fireplace.

2

A $300 food and beverage minimum applies for booking a chateau.

3

The menu is limited, with no vegetarian options except olives and popcorn.

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