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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the Loop

Bars and lunch spots

A midday drink that feels like a proper break rather than a rushed stop between meetings.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Momento Cantina image 1
Momento Cantina image 2
Momento Cantina image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Space features vibrant Mexican-inspired decor with colorful lights and intricate metalwork. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, enhanced by live mariachi music and reggaeton beats. Unique self-serve tequila and mezcal stations invite guests to sample drinks at their own pace.

Sebastian's attentive service stands out at the bar. Staff regularly check in, making the experience feel more personal and engaging.

Lunch offers a delicious menu with an innovative payment card system for quick service. The atmosphere suits both casual lunches and after work meets.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"Sebastian at the bar made the best micheladas."

"The tacos here are fire, especially the cochinita."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Friday night features live Mariachi performances starting at 8pm.

3

The venue plans to host live DJ performances in the future.

02
Bistro Monadnock image 1
French restaurant

Historic building hosts a French bistro with European charm and elegant design. Live jazz music creates a relaxing atmosphere complemented by a skilled bar offering standout cocktails. The space feels cozy and stylish, attracting those seeking a refined dining experience.

Cozy atmosphere with skilled bartenders crafting drinks. Offers wines by the glass and bottle at reasonable prices compared to other spots.

Late lunch works well here without a reservation. The mushroom melt stands out as a delicious choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The escargot here is outstanding and alone worth the visit."

"The French onion soup at this lunch spot is amazing."

"The bartenders here are fantastic and have so much imagination."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid being turned away.

2

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

3

Expect a $10 charge for each cheese on the charcuterie board.

03
Copper Club image 1
Restaurant

Stylish escape inside an office building lobby offers a cozy setting with wide chairs and a large bar. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and calm to lively and loud as the evening progresses. Known for affordable meals and a strong whiskey selection, it attracts those seeking good food and drinks after work.

A large bar with wide chairs creates a cozy setting. The bar is lively and a little loud, staffed by just two people including an exceptional bartender named Rodney.

Offers a quick and delicious lunch with consistently good options. Lunch here feels like a perfect experience from start to finish.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and delicious."

"The staff here is super friendly and helpful."

"This bar is the best I've ever been to."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential for happy hour due to high demand.

2

Happy hour specials include discounted drinks and slider options.

3

Copper Club is only open on weekdays.

04
Franklin Tap image 1
Restaurant

Expansive layout with many high-top tables and a dog-friendly patio creates a relaxed setting. Multiple TVs show sports, attracting a diverse afterwork crowd with a lively vibe. Over 100 beers on tap and affordable menu complement the casual atmosphere.

Servers are kind and let people use the spot like a bar while waiting. It offers a huge selection of taps, perfect pours of spirits, and delicious pub fare with great service.

A friendly, professional staff handles lunch rushes smoothly. The spot offers quick lunch options with surprisingly good orders and a chance to enjoy a brew and a bite in a cute setting.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, tasty, and solid."

"The bar food here is great, especially the killer burgers."

"This lunch spot has fantastic food with great flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day with great deals on drinks.

2

Weekend brunch is available with special menu items.

3

Daily drink specials make it easy to unwind after work.

05
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.

A rotating carousel bar creates a fun and unique drinking experience. The bar offers a lively happy hour scene and a pre-theater menu that fits well for a night out before a show.

Classic cheeseburger stands out as a solid choice for lunch. The spot suits business lunches well and offers a great midday meal.

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."

"The Amish chicken here is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

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.

06
The Sterling Food Hall image 1

Open and spacious food hall with ample seating and varied cuisine options including Indian, Mexican, and empanadas. The atmosphere is chill and cozy but loud with poor acoustics, making conversation difficult even when not crowded. It suits groups with diverse tastes and quick dining needs.

A bar opens after 2 pm with a casual vibe. Trivia games happen on Tuesdays, adding a fun activity to the scene.

Open and spacious layout offers many choices for lunch. Ample seating provides plenty of room without feeling crowded, even during busy lunch rush.

People are saying

"The food options here are vast and all were delicious."

"This is a great lunch spot with many delicious food options."

"I found the bar had amazing food options and many choices."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great discounts on drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Restrooms are accessible only with a purchase receipt for a code.

07
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.

Stylish setting with a modern interior creates a great atmosphere for drinks. The bar offers an excellent program and pairs well with the modern cuisine.

Quickly arranged boxed lunches come at a reasonable price. It suits business lunches well with consistent quality and options like a standout salad entree.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and creative."

"I really enjoyed the burger; it was solid and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and creative."

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.

08
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1

Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

A friendly bartender creates a welcoming vibe behind the bar. This spot stands out as a hidden gem for those avoiding traditional clubs and bars.

Fast service suits tight lunch breaks. Staff like FiFi provide excellent customer care and handle special requests smoothly. Buy1get1 specials add value for quick midday meals.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

"FiFi, our server, made our lunch visit great."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

09
Ceres Cafe image 1

Classic building with an art deco vibe sets a historic tone. Atmosphere blends lively energy with a friendly, local feel, often filled with finance professionals and traders. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option to the strong drinks and solid eats served inside.

A classic Chicago bar with a beautiful bar and a vibe like Cheers where everybody knows your name. Pilar runs the bar with friendly professionalism, handling busy nights smoothly and making the experience comfortable and welcoming.

Offers a quiet spot to meet for business lunches or catch up with friends. Frequented during lunch breaks with happy hour specials and a solid selection of lunch and beverages.

People are saying

"Pilar makes the bar feel like catching up with a friend."

"The Cafe's burgers are juicy with perfectly crispy fries."

"The drinks here are strong, especially the margaritas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 25% off drinks and appetizers.

2

Breakfast service ends at 10:30am; arrive early.

3

The cafe closes at 8pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

10
Seville Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers stunning city views and a relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff. The space features beautiful ambiance suitable for quiet meals or lively happy hours. Cocktails and small plates complement the setting, creating a charming dining experience.

Showplace bar features wall tiles and hanging lights that create a strong visual appeal. It offers great views at night and allows dining without a reservation.

Versatile for business lunch or casual meetups, it respects your time without skimping on flavor or experience. The spot works well for happy hour, lunch, or dinner, offering a solid midday option.

People are saying

"You'll love the inventive cocktails, many are sweet."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing, especially the sandwiches."

"The drinks here are solid, and the food menu is varied."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:30 to 5:30pm on weekdays.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.

3

The restaurant is located on the 16th floor of the Hilton hotel.

11
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.

Jada J crafts drinks that match personal tastes and creates a welcoming, family-like atmosphere at the bar. Candice handles busy times smoothly, ensuring good service during crowded Sundays.

Attentive service guides lunch choices here. It stands out as a nice downtown spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"Our bartender Jada was amazing and so nice."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so sweet and attentive."

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.

12
Danke image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop with an integrated cozy bar offers a laid-back vibe and warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for house-made sourdough bread and elevated sandwich fare, it attracts those seeking quality ingredients and quick service at economical prices.

A cozy bar sits integrated into the deli with a counter service setup. The space is small and friendly, offering local beers like Lilโ€™ Buddy.

Solid option for lunch and dinner with flexible timing. Offers takeout suitable for picnics and casual meals.

People are saying

"I found the turkey sandwich to be the highlight."

"The sandwiches here are fantastic and generously filled."

"You'll find great sandwiches at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Danke makes most of their ingredients in-house, including the bread.

2

The prices at Danke are very economical.

3

They are allergen friendly.

13
Senoritas Cantina On Dearborn image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with legit Mexican decor and Latin vibes offers both indoor and outdoor seating on a quiet street. Atmosphere is chill but music inside can be very loud. Known for fantastic margaritas and underrated vegetarian options.

Bar offers a decent variety of tequilas and seats at the bar for solo visits. It serves as a casual spot to stop in when other bars are packed.

Lunch hours offer easy seating and a relaxed vibe. The spot works well for a quick midday break during work.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is authentic and flavorful, like the carne asada tacos."

"The bartender was so amazing and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with a 20% discount on drinks.

2

Brunch is now offered on weekends with a special menu.

3

A 3% surcharge applies for credit card payments.

14
Cardozo's Pub image 1
Italian restaurant

Basement pub channels old school Chicago with walls lined by legal textbooks, creating a divey yet nostalgic atmosphere. Dim lighting and chill vibes make it a cozy spot for casual drinks and relaxed conversation. The crowd tends to enjoy a laid-back, unpretentious setting away from upscale venues.

Chill and dimly lit vibes create a laid-back atmosphere for drinks. Friendly service enhances the experience at this hidden gem dive bar.

Lunch hours can be unpredictable with the fryer down and sometimes running out of food on a Friday. It still serves as a casual spot to pop in for a midday meal.

People are saying

"This pub feels like a hidden gem, perfect for a laid-back drink."

"I found this place to be a great local bar."

"The food here really hit the spot for lunch."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% automatic gratuity for parties of two or more.

2

Happy hour features $5 call drinks and draft beer on Mondays.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy a burger, fries, and a beer for $10.

15
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.

Effortlessly elegant ambiance with warm lighting and modern yet cozy decor sets a lively yet intimate tone. The bar offers a welcoming spot to enjoy a couple of drinks with friendly service.

Lively professional crowd fills the space during lunch, making it a solid spot for business meals. Options include French onion soup, coffee, and a rooftop bar for a break or after lunch.

People are saying

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

"Juan and Cesar at the bar made our night so enjoyable."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was excellent."

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.

16
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.

The bar offers a nice atmosphere to relax and enjoy an evening. Seating is available without a reservation, and the service is great, including attentive servers at the bar.

Lunch offers include a shredded pork sandwich with house chips. The atmosphere suits lunch meetings or casual gatherings. It tends to be empty during the downtown lunch crowd.

People are saying

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

"The service at the bar was quick and attentive."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and professional."

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.

17
Momento Taquerรญa image 1
Taco restaurant

Modern taco restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with authentic Mexican decor and a self-serve tequila and mezcal bar. The space combines a fast-casual setup with a separate sit-down dining area, creating a lively and welcoming vibe.

A self-service bar offers a variety of beers to try. Bar placement limits tables and creates circulation pinch-points. Staff at the bar lack detailed knowledge about drinks.

Quick service makes it a solid choice for lunch. The spot offers fast lunch options and quick drinks for a brief midday break.

People are saying

"These tacos taste authentic, like they're straight from Mexico City."

"The tacos and salsas here have excellent flavor."

"This is a great lunch spot for quick service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a $10 special that includes a full meal with tortillas.

2

The restaurant is open late for evening dining.

3

They have a vegetarian version of the veggie birria available.

18
One North Kitchen & Bar image 1
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.

Many people sit, eat, drink, and chat in a lively pub-style atmosphere. The bar offers quick seating and excellent service for after work drinks.

Creative cocktails complement a great lunch menu here. Frequent visits confirm it as a solid choice for lunch and happy hour.

People are saying

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

"The bar's service was great and the food was delicious."

"It's a great lunch spot, perfect for happy hour too."

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.

19
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.

A large bar with a huge projector TV creates a lively spot for watching games. Bartenders like Ivan, Omar, Lilly, and Jesus deliver well mixed drinks and warm hospitality with attentive service.

Lunch here offers a chance to enjoy meals while watching ice skaters nearby. It suits both casual stops and work lunches with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff are attentive, kind, and provide well-mixed drinks."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was friendly and attentive."

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.

20
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.

Seats at the bar are available even after the wait list closes, with staff helping guests get in before 6:30 pm. The bar offers great service and features Holiday Drinks to enjoy while waiting or sitting at the bar.

Lunch includes visits from winter princesses who grant wishes at the tables. Group photos are taken during holiday lunches, adding a festive touch.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's Christmas tree is stunning and festive."

"The bar staff here is amazing and always keeps your glasses full."

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.

21
FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar image 1

Bar and grill with a full bar and outdoor patio offers a warm, inviting vibe with live piano and vocal entertainment. Seating is comfortable and well-designed for dining. The atmosphere can be loud due to acoustics and music volume.

A full bar sits in a relaxing dining room with an outdoor patio. The bar offers amazing service and lets you order from the restaurant menu while you lounge.

Grilled chicken sandwich stands out as a lunch choice, drawing repeat visits. Lunch service begins at 11 a.m., making it a reliable spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared."

"Dan and Maria at the Bar made the evening so fun with their attentive service."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Mondayโ€“Thursday from 4โ€“7 PM, offering good value.

2

Live music occurs on Fridays and Saturdays at the upstairs cocktail bar.

3

Reservations require full payment upfront, refundable upon arrival.

22
Cantina on Madison, Casual Mexican Restaurant & Bar, Voted #1 Tacos image 1

Mexican restaurant with quaint decor and beautiful murals creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a chill atmosphere suitable for relaxing after a busy day. The place stays quiet and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy the surroundings.

Bar manager Jesus creates a welcoming vibe with friendly chats and humor. Bartenders JP and Jen provide great service while guests enjoy food, drinks, and atmosphere at the bar.

Affordable lunch deals make this spot a solid choice. Advice suggests avoiding the restroom before eating, as it might affect your appetite.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The drinks and tacos at the bar are delicious."

"The lunch deal here is very affordable."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesday features select tacos for $2 each.

3

Live DJ on Saturday evenings creates a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

23
All Star Seafood and Sports image 1

Sports bar filled with numerous big screen TVs showing games loudly, creating a high-energy atmosphere where conversation requires shouting. Seafood dishes stand out as top-quality offerings, complementing the laid-back and friendly vibe favored by sports fans.

Seafood stands out with great quality and flavors not typical for a sports bar. The atmosphere combines a nice restaurant feel with the casual vibe of a sports bar.

A 4-course lunch meal costs $30.00 and offers a solid value. Lunch happens on weekends, including Saturdays.

People are saying

"You can grab tasty food while watching live sports on the many TV screens."

"This sports bar has tons of big screen TVs for watching games."

"I look forward to seeing Liz again at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Salsa lessons are offered on Wednesdays, followed by a Latin dance night.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with a two-drink minimum.

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