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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Near South Side

Food spots

A simple, honest meal is all that is required to get through the day.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Khatoon Cuisine | Persian & Mediterranean Halal Food image 1
Khatoon Cuisine | Persian & Mediterranean Halal Food image 2
Khatoon Cuisine | Persian & Mediterranean Halal Food image 3
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Offers authentic Persian cuisine with freshly made stews that taste homemade. Features automated self-pickup in a no-seating setup. Atmosphere feels comforting and heartfelt, showing care in every dish.

Food here offers authentic Persian cuisine with freshly made, flavorful stews that taste like real homemade dishes. Each meal comes well-prepared and nicely packaged, delivering a warm, personal touch in every bite.

People are saying

"The authentic Persian food here tastes like a flavorful, comforting homecooked meal."

"The takeout stews were flavorful and nicely packaged."

"I found the Persian food here to be authentic and amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only offers takeout with no seating available.

2

Pickup is fully automated in a shared facility with multiple restaurants.

3

Once the order is ready, it gets placed in a secure cabinet for easy self-pickup.

02
Casa Tulum image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with incredible dishes and excellent service. Vibrant setting features live DJ and fire show for an energetic vibe. Two bars with TVs keep the crowd lively and engaged.

Fantastic food stands out with incredible Mexican dishes and excellent service that complements the dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"The service here for Date Spots is attentive and above and beyond."

"You have to try the refreshing coconut cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 3 PM.

2

Ask for the $10 margaritas special on Mondays and Tuesdays.

3

Street parking is easy to find and free on Sundays.

03
Bowls of Rice image 1
Rice restaurant

Cozy spot with a homey vibe and generous portions served in neat bowls. Food is warm, tasty, and arrives early, featuring unique panko-crusted fish and spicy yuzu sauce. Handwritten notes add a personal, friendly touch.

Food arrives warm and delicious with early delivery. Notes included with orders show friendly service alongside the amazing taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The grilled salmon bowl was delicious and filling."

"The delivery included a special note and drawing that brought me joy."

Good to know

1

Bowls of Rice offers generous portion sizes, especially the large bowls.

2

This ghost kitchen specializes in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

3

Orders often include a handwritten note, adding a personal touch.

04
Steve's Bite image 1
American restaurant

Minimal decor and big empty walls create a calm space with fresh, well cooked food served consistently. Staff show care and attention in every dish. The chill vibe and calming music make it great for quick meals or casual chats.

Food comes out fresh and well cooked with consistent quality. Staff prepare meals with care and attention, making the dishes tasty and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the gyros here to be fresh, fast, and consistently good."

"The burgers here are nice, juicy, and thick."

"The food here is super fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

A regular meal costs between $17 and $25 plus taxes.

2

The cheeseburger costs $15.61.

3

All food is halal certified.

05
Haidilao HotPot Chicago Inc image 1

Enjoy robot food delivery and lively performances in a modern interior with city views. Guests cook their own meals, making dining interactive and fun. High-quality, authentic dishes come with special kids' amenities like toys and aprons.

Food arrives via a robot delivery system, adding a unique touch to the meal. The menu offers high-quality dishes consistent with authentic flavors, and kids get special amenities like toys and aprons.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is amazing and always fresh."

"The hot pot experience was so fun and delicious."

"The food here is amazing and very fresh."

Good to know

1

Birthday celebrations include a song and a gift for the guest.

2

Performances of Sichuan Opera face-changing occur during dinner at specific times.

3

The all-you-can-eat option is available after 8 PM for meat lovers.

06
La Calle Tacos y Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vibrant atmosphere with lively artwork sets a welcoming tone. Food is fresh and authentic, served quickly to satisfy cravings. Comfortable space suits casual dining and drinks, making it a top spot for authentic Mexican flavors.

Food comes out quickly and stays consistently fresh and authentic. Many find the flavors excellent and the quality very good with a clear focus on authentic Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

"The steak tacos here are flavorful and juicy."

"The chips and guac here taste incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

The chips and guacamole cost $9, and the side of guacamole is the same size as Chipotle's, which costs $5.

2

Expect a busy lunch rush with potential wait times.

3

The food came out quickly, which is helpful for those needing a quick option.

07
Brûlée image 1
Restaurant

Warm, modern space with thoughtful decor and a spacious bar sets a lively tone with R&B music. Food arrives fast, tastes delicious, and service handles allergies with care, earning a 10 out of 10 for flavor. Tables sit close, blending elegance with a busy vibe.

Food comes out quickly and tastes delicious with excellent service that accommodates food allergies well. The overall experience rates a solid 10 out of 10 for flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The shrimp and grits at brunch were some of the best I've ever had."

"The honey biscuits here are so good they should be illegal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups or after 10 PM on weekends.

2

Expect a wait for tables, especially during peak brunch hours.

3

Brûlée enforces a strict 90-minute table limit for diners.

08
Mae District image 1
Event venue

Modern black and white design sets a Gatsby-inspired atmosphere with a stunning staircase and balcony. Wedding food impresses with beautiful sushi presentations and delicate desserts. Spacious indoor areas and an enclosed garden patio offer versatile settings for events.

Wedding food stands out with excellent quality and beautiful sushi presentations. The team serves amazing hors d'oeuvres and delicate desserts, making events run flawlessly.

People are saying

"It's like stepping into a private, modern Gatsby estate."

"The wedding food here was excellent, truly the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Mae District is perfect for weddings, quinceañeras, and other celebrations.

2

The venue offers private event spaces like the Jade and Palm rooms.

3

The Food for Thought team provides catering services for events.

09
Southern Chicago image 1

Elegant space offers beautiful décor and a warm atmosphere with great music. Guests enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails and high-quality Southern-inspired dishes served with top grade hospitality. Comfort food shines with delicious flavors and consistent quality.

Comfort food stands out with delicious flavors and consistent quality. Service matches the food with top grade hospitality and a welcoming vibe.

People are saying

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

"The desserts here are phenomenal, sealing the deal for me."

"The branzino was tender with an outstanding sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available for guests.

10
MIKAMI IZAKAYA & RAMEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant blends industrial-chic design with a quiet, spacious atmosphere perfect for dates or chats. Enjoy excellent tempura and unique ramen with peanuts, paired with a full bar featuring Japanese beer on tap and rare cocktails.

Food features excellent tempura, peanuts in the ramen, and a tangy invisible salad dressing that adds unique flavor. The menu offers a perfect combination of great food with a cool, relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is flavorful and comforting."

"The gyoza here are great and crispy."

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $21.95, including a side, main dish, and drink.

2

Happy hour features discounted cocktails and appetizers, making it a great time to visit.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes beyond ramen, like gyudon.

11
Hyderabadi Thaal image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Ghost kitchen serves authentic Hyderabadi flavors with aromatic biryanis that taste like home-style cooking. Food is high quality with generous portions and affordable prices. Packaging is clean and professional, matching the chill vibe despite no dine-in option.

Food offers authentic Indian flavors with excellent quality and generous portions. Dishes taste like home-style cooking but with a high-end restaurant feel.

People are saying

"The biryani here is aromatic, perfectly spiced, and tastes just like home."

"This food tastes like home, especially the Mudda Pappu Avakaya."

"The Lassi here tastes homemade with authentic Hyderabadi flavor."

Good to know

1

Hyderabadi Thaal is a ghost kitchen with no dine-in option.

2

Google, Uber Eats, and DoorDash indicate that the restaurant is open for pickup and delivery.

3

The prices are surprisingly affordable, making it easy to indulge without breaking the bank.

12
The Staley image 1
Sports bar

Large sports bar offers huge projector screens and a dark basement vibe for strong game focus. Food boasts amazing flavors and pairs well with drinks. Free arcade games add casual entertainment beyond sports viewing.

Food comes with amazing flavors and pairs well with drinks. Service stays excellent, with helpful seating arrangements for groups.

People are saying

"The food here is unique, delicious, and top-notch."

"The staff here is super friendly during live sports."

"The food at this bar is amazing and top notch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted on game days; plan accordingly.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to bills on game days.

3

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

13
Momentum Coffee - South Loop image 1

Small coffee shop has a cozy atmosphere with a spacious coworking zone and outdoor patio. Food and coffee arrive hot and fresh, pairing well for a delicious experience. Loud music creates a lively vibe, so noise-cancelling headphones help focus.

Food arrives hot and fresh with consistent quality across both dishes and drinks. Coffee and food items pair well, offering a delicious experience.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing coffee here."

"The breakfast sandwich on a fresh croissant was out of this world."

"The food here is hot, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is metered street parking available.

2

Customers can order online and pick up their orders.

3

The cafe has outside seating available.

14
Reggies Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Multilevel bar and grill offers delicious food at reasonable prices and a lively bar atmosphere with live bands. Rooftop deck with a basketball hoop adds unique fun. Seating includes comfy balcony spots and ample bars, all set in a punk rock vibe.

Food here is delicious and pairs well with the lively bar atmosphere. Prices stay reasonable, making it easy to enjoy good eats alongside drinks.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the pulled pork, is some of the best I've had."

"It's a live music hub with gritty charm and energetic vibes."

"The pulled pork here is some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshares.

2

The venue hosts live music events almost every weekend.

3

Food service ends at 10pm, so plan accordingly.

15
BASSLINE || 2239 - CHICAGO image 1

Lounge features a spacious dance floor and vibrant blacklight artwork for a colorful vibe. Live DJs spin '90s and 2000s hits, keeping energy lively yet chill. Food is top tier flavors, making it a cool spot to enjoy great eats and music late into the night.

Food here is consistently delicious and ranks highly in quality. Every dish delivers top tier flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"I found the bar to be nice and spacious for dancing."

"The nightclub has a cool, attractive atmosphere for dancing."

"The food here is delicious and top tier."

Good to know

1

Entry is $20 on Fridays, increasing to $25 before midnight.

2

Parking is limited in the area, so plan accordingly.

3

The venue has no elevator, which may affect accessibility.

16
Kruthika Spice Kitchen image 1

Carryout-only spot offers a cozy vibe with authentic Andhra cuisine. Spicy biryanis and lamb shank deliver home-cooked flavors with fresh, bold spices. Regulars love the traditional spice levels and quality taste.

Authentic Andhra cuisine shines with fresh, spicy flavors that stand out. The food offers a home-cooked feel with great quality and taste.

People are saying

"The biryani here is incredibly flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"I found the authentic South Indian flavors truly amazing and homemade."

"The food here is so authentic, with bold, aromatic spices."

Good to know

1

Kruthika Spice Kitchen is a carryout only restaurant with no dine-in option.

2

The restaurant offers delivery service for its menu items.

3

Expect authentic South Indian cuisine, especially spicy biryani.

17
Williams Inn Pizza & Sports Bar image 1

Big-screen TVs create a sports-focused environment with rustic charm. Catfish tacos and turkey burgers pair well with 3 Floyd's Gumball Head beer. Loud music from a live DJ adds energy, making it great for family dinners and lively game nights.

Food includes catfish tacos, turkey burger, wings, and pizza. Meals pair well with drinks like 3 Floyd's Gumball Head beer. Service complements the good food and casual vibe.

People are saying

"This deep dish pizza is amazing and straight out of the oven."

"The bar staff treated me like a regular with a smile."

"The food here was quick, fresh, and really good."

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking is difficult; consider using a ride share or park a block away.

3

A DJ performs on Friday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.

18
Fruitful Delight Smoothie, Juice & Bubble Tea Cafe image 1

Bright space with plenty of seating and soulful music creates a friendly vibe. Menu offers all non-dairy options that appeal to vegans and health-conscious guests. Smoothies and wraps are popular choices known for fresh, flavorful, and nutritious taste.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful with a focus on nutritious options. Smoothies and healthy dishes taste delicious and satisfy well.

People are saying

"I found the smoothies here to be incredibly tasty and delicious."

"The jerk chicken wrap is spicy and amazing."

"I found the food here to be delicious and stellar."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of smoothies, bowls, and wraps for healthy eating.

2

Online ordering is available for quick pick-up.

3

The menu features all non-dairy items, catering to vegan and health-conscious customers.

19
L'afrique Market image 1
African goods store

Cozy store offers authentic African goods with fresh produce and diverse ingredients. Shelves are well-organized for easy shopping. It acts as a cultural hub with positive energy and strong community focus.

Great quality produce and a wide range of authentic African foods fill the shelves. The market offers diverse ingredients beyond just Nigerian staples, covering many African cuisines.

People are saying

"I found all kinds of African food I couldn't find elsewhere."

"The staff at this grocery store make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

L'afrique Market offers a wide selection of authentic African groceries.

2

Prices at L'afrique Market are generally reasonable compared to larger stores.

3

The market is well-organized and easy to navigate.

20
Signature Steak image 1
Restaurant

Upscale sports bar buzzes with large screen TVs and lively crowds. Signature Steak shines with fantastic food like burgers and chicken sandwiches. Dim lounge offers a private vibe with great music and signature cocktails.

Signature Steak stands out with its fantastic food and drinks. The menu features an excellent burger, sides, and chicken sandwich served in a nice and cozy atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are thoughtful, indulgent, and expertly executed."

"The cocktails here are delicious and perfectly balanced."

"The oysters were the best bite, perfectly balanced and decadent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

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

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

21
Arc Bar image 1

Bar inside a convention center offers a lively atmosphere with many seats facing TVs. Food arrives fast with salmon BLT and gyros as standout dishes. Staff provide helpful tips, making it a solid spot for quick, tasty bites despite higher prices.

Food arrives at super speed with solid bar options and a decent variety. The salmon BLT and gyros stand out as top notch dishes, complemented by cocktails and helpful staff tips.

People are saying

"I found the food here surprisingly good and delicious."

"Darryl at the Bar is so kind and personable."

"It's a great dinner spot if you want to stay in after a busy day."

Good to know

1

Arc Bar is the only full-service restaurant open for lunch and dinner at the hotel.

2

Expect the Arc Bar to be very busy during dinner hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quick transactions.

22
Chicago Oyster House image 1
Seafood restaurant

Cozy seafood spot shines with fresh, high-quality seafood and a beautiful decor perfect for romantic or casual vibes. Food is consistently delicious and served promptly. Enjoy a fun martini selection in an inviting, lively atmosphere.

Food features top-notch quality and arrives in a reasonable time. Every bite tastes dreamy and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the oysters to be fresh and phenomenal."

"It's a cozy spot, perfect for a romantic date night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid missing out on a table.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all checks.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

23
Little Branch Cafe image 1

Cozy indoor tables and a shaded patio create a relaxed vibe perfect for breakfast or lunch. Food arrives fast, with a meat and egg platter that includes toast and French toast. Enjoy meals with a nice lake view in a quiet, friendly setting.

Food arrives quickly, often in less than 5 minutes. The meat and egg platter comes with toast and French toast, offering a well-packaged meal enjoyed with a nice lake view.

People are saying

"I had the best breakfast during my business trip."

"The chilaquiles here are authentic with amazing salsa verde."

"The food here is great, especially the coffee."

Good to know

1

Finding parking nearby is difficult; most options are paid.

2

The cafe is within walking distance of the Hilton in McCormick Place.

3

There was no wait during my visit, making it a quick stop.

24
Buttercup image 1

Small, intimate space shifts from cozy cafe to swanky speakeasy with 1940s decor and soft lighting. Food offers delicious flavors paired with an evening amaro selection. Chill vibe suits quiet dates and after-work drinks with relaxed music.

Food and drinks come with great taste and delicious flavors. The menu includes an evening amaro selection alongside the food.

People are saying

"The cafe's specialty coffees are unique and fantastic."

"You have to try the cocktails; the menu is unique and they taste phenomenal."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with a great menu of drinks and appetizers.

2

Buttercup transforms into a cocktail bar after 4pm.

3

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

25
Sumi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with calm atmosphere offers beautifully presented sushi featuring fresh fish and standout rolls like Hedgehog and lobster. Quality beats typical all-you-can-eat spots, with excellent service enhancing the relaxed dining experience.

Food here stays consistently fresh and delicious. Quality beats typical all-you-can-eat sushi spots, with excellent service enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat sushi here is a great value."

"The all-you-can-eat dinner here is made to order and worth it."

"The all-you-can-eat food here is an unbeatable deal."

Good to know

1

They offer an all-you-can-eat lunch special at a great price.

2

The all-you-can-eat option costs $30.

3

An 18% mandatory tip is added to your bill.

26
Row 24 Chicago image 1
Event venue

Exposed brick walls and gorgeous chandeliers set an elegant, intimate mood. Brunch vibes add a lively touch, though food quality is average to below average. Spacious layout with an outdoor courtyard supports flexible events with a hip hop flare and welcoming vibe.

Brunch vibes mix with music and atmosphere to create a lively setting. Food quality varies, ranging from average to below average.

People are saying

"This place is gorgeous, perfect for Date Spots with its beautiful ambiance."

"Lydia made my party special and was a pleasure to work with."

"The food here is awesome and creates a vibing experience."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for guests driving to the event.

2

The venue accommodates events for up to 200 people.

3

There is a mandatory coat check for all guests.

27
My Place South Loop Restaurant image 1

Spacious dining area and patio seating offer a relaxed vibe. Food features authentic Chinese flavors with fresh, generous portions. Free parking and BYOB make dining easy and affordable.

Food stands out for its freshness and generous portions. Many diners enjoy authentic Chinese flavors that consistently impress with their taste.

People are saying

"The lunch specials here are a great deal, often including a drink."

"I found the Cantonese food to be authentic and tasty."

"This food, the Hong Kong French toast, is life changing."

Good to know

1

There is free parking in the back.

2

My Place South Loop Restaurant is BYOB.

3

The meal cost less than $10 during lunchtime.

28
Doughboy's Chicago image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot offers fresh ingredients and unique dishes like veggidough. Peaceful vibe with nice music and welcoming community feel makes dining relaxing and enjoyable.

Food comes fresh to order with quality ingredients and punctual preparation. Unique items like veggidough and Judy juice appeal even to picky eaters.

People are saying

"The spaghetti here is the best Italian food I've ever had."

"Their spaghetti is the best I've ever had."

"The catfish and spaghetti food here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Takeout service is quick and efficient, ensuring food arrives well-packed.

2

This eatery has quickly become a neighborhood favorite among locals.

3

Expect a community vibe that fosters togetherness and connection.

29
Subway image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop serves generous ingredients on perfectly toasted bread with quick service. Space feels clean and refreshing with fantastic energy despite occasional loitering. Food quality stays consistent, making it a reliable quick stop.

Food comes out quickly with good quality and perfectly toasted bread. The meals are consistently delicious and satisfy expectations for a quick bite.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"I saw a barefoot employee making sandwiches on the counter."

"I thought the cookie tasted perfect."

Good to know

1

This Subway location stays open late after major events for late-night dining.

2

Cleanliness is well-maintained at this Subway location.

3

Customer service is generally good, with friendly staff available.

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