Standing on the glass ledge of Skydeck Chicago is an exhilarating experience, but it certainly works up an appetite. Once you descend from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, you are positioned in the heart of the Loop, surrounded by a vibrant culinary landscape. The area is a dense mix of historic institutions, modern food halls, and upscale dining rooms catering to both the business lunch crowd and curious tourists.
Finding a quality meal in a bustling downtown district can be overwhelming, especially when you are tired from walking and navigating the city. You do not want to waste time on a mediocre chain restaurant when Chicago is renowned globally for its food scene. The key is knowing where to walk to find the flavors that define the Windy City, from deep-dish pizza to high-end steakhouses.
The immediate vicinity of Willis Tower offers surprising variety. Whether you are looking for a quick, casual bite before heading to the Art Institute or a leisurely, elegant dinner with skyline views, the options are vast. You can find everything from historic taverns that survived the Great Chicago Fire to sleek, modern spaces pushing culinary boundaries.
We have curated a list focusing on proximity, quality, and the distinct Chicago experience. While the city has amazing food in every neighborhood, these selections keep you within a reasonable walking distance or a very short ride from the Skydeck. This ensures you spend less time commuting and more time enjoying the atmosphere and the food.
The following recommendations span various budgets and cuisines, ensuring there is something for families, couples, and solo travelers. We prioritize establishments with consistent track records, strong local reputations, and menus that capture the essence of the city. You can trust that these spots are worth your time and money.
To help you navigate the options, we have compiled the definitive list of the best places to eat right now near the tower.
Depot 226
| Address | 226 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60606 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 809-6750 |
From the moment we walked in, we could feel that this place was something special. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between cozy and lively — it has that small-town charm where everyone feels welcome, yet the quality of food and service feels straight out of a top-notch city spot.
We came in for dinner and were blown away by how fresh and flavorful everything was. You can tell they take pride in every dish. The portions are generous, beautifully presented, and cooked to perfection. The steaks were juicy and seasoned just right, and the sides were far from an afterthought — creamy mashed potatoes, perfectly grilled veggies, and everything came out hot and well-timed.
Our server was amazing — friendly, attentive, and genuinely cared that we were having a great experience. They checked in just enough without hovering, and you could tell the whole team runs like a well-oiled machine.
One thing that really stood out was the atmosphere — warm lighting, rustic touches, and that comfortable feeling that makes you want to linger a little longer after your meal. It’s the kind of place that makes you wish every town had its own version of The Depot 226.
Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, you won’t be disappointed. We’ll definitely be back soon — and next time we’re trying dessert, because the ones that passed our table looked incredible!
👏 Highly recommend The Depot 226 for anyone who appreciates great food, genuine hospitality, and a place that feels like home with a touch of class
Me and my girlfriend had a late night dinner here and was very pleased with the food and service. Our waiter was very friendly and professional. We both got a burger with tater tots and some chicken wings as an app. The tator tots are a MUST try.
I was staying at the Hilton Garden Inn which is attached to the Hilton Canopy, around 10pm or so I visited the Depot. Mainly a hotel bar (at this time of night) and full of guests catching a night cap & networking.
Paul, my bartender and server was amazing, he served me the Pullman Bees Knees-fantastic! With a crowded bar, I sat window side and Paul went out of is way to check on me and help me order food to go.
It's not common to see bartenders work the whole front of the house like Paul did, I appreciate his efforts!
Kinda hidden gem in the heart of Chicago. Exceptional food and interior, great staff and ambiance 🥰
Chicken sliders, hummus, salmon and shrimp. The have a great charcuterie board 😻 flat bread 🤩full bar ❤️
My visit to 226 Depot had some mixed moments. The brownie cake was a bit heavy and too sweet, maybe overdone, and that extra chocolate sauce seemed unnecessary. However, I'm curious to give their flan a shot; it looked fresh. On the bright side, the service was outstanding, and the setting in the Canopy lobby was simply lovely.
Grill on 21
| Address | 208 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60604 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 634-0000 |
This restaurant is located on the 21st floor on top of the JW Marriot which happens to be the entrance of the Autograph Marriott Hotel. The doorman greeted me, then escorted me to the tables. He kindly toured the restaurant and proceeded to let me know. All of the items that on the menu were curated and service was impeccable. I was only there for happy hour. I ended up going with the crab cake and a glass of wine. I was very impressed with the service the bartender gave me along with great tips for places to go in Chicago. I definitely highly recommend this place.
So my husband brought me here for a valentines surprise dinner! From the start our experience was underwhelming! Our reservation was for 8:15pm on Valentine’s Day. I admit due to traffic we only got there around 8:25pm. I get us being late, but to be only sat at a table around 8:50pm was strange! To add on, the host told us to sit by the bar area, but because so many other people were waiting too, we sat on some sofas which had a dirty table filled with leftover napkins, cups etc! Just unacceptable for a high end steak house to have such a dirty waiting lounge area! Their delayed seating seemed a huge issue cause they were sooooo many people waiting by the entrance waiting to be seated! It was crowded and just unappealing! Knowing VDay is such a popular day I’d have thought they’d have expected and planned for such a busy night! The manager did come apologize to us at the end of the night mentioning how busy a night it had been and hoping we return on a more calmer day! Ya no!
Finally seated, we ordered starters off their valentines menu. I got the shrimp firecracker and my husband got the crab cake! I kid you not, it took almost an hour for these ‘simple’ starters to arrive! We had to ask our server several times like should an appetizer take this long? To add insult to injury, people who’d been seated after us had already received their meals! At least both meals tasted great!
Mains were the 16oz ribeye and the halibut with nice shareable sizes of mushroom, grilled Brussels sprouts and lobster Mac n cheese! These tasted lovely and were decently portioned! The ribeye steak was kinda tough even though we’d asked for medium rare!
Dessert was the carrot cake which was nice! Strange they don’t offer simple ordinary ice cream! Everything was either coming with gelato or nothing! Strange again!
They also need to instill some kind of dress code! There was the most atrocious dressing for some of their patrons which was just an eye sore! I’m not saying it’s a high class theater and people need to be dressed to the nines but come on, some families came with kids, others were elderly couples, we don’t want to see barely dressed women with their chest areas falling out as we try eat! They really could have a dress policy, we’ve seen other high class restaurants do so!
To make the chaotic night even more unpleasant, my husband paid the bill (a hefty price cause these dishes ain’t cheap). He ‘tipped’ our server a decent amount which we thought was alright, but the server came back to complain about how small the tip was! I kid you not, after just paying a pretty penny of over +$350 for substandard service (our server was just ok, we’ve had far better elsewhere), mediocre customer care and a so so experience, for that server to say that was madness!
We quickly got out of there! The whole VDay experience was just ok! We’ve been to some real fine dining restaurants before and some casual simple restaurants too and have had a better experience at those places too! Grill on 21; mid experience!
Service was impeccable!! Had the Lobster Bisque and the Del Monico Ribeye cooked Chicago Blue. Far and away the most flavorful and perfectly prepared ribeye I’ve experienced. Went with the truffle butter on the side which was very good but found the steak needed nothing. Fork tender and melted into my tastebuds. The Lobster Bisque was an experience in itself that left me craving another bite.
Had an amazing experience at Grill On 21 ✨ Eric and Perla the managers truly set the tone with their professionalism warmth and attention to every detail 👏🤍 Dorka on the floor was outstanding attentive friendly and made sure everything ran smoothly all night 🙌 The energy the service and the overall vibe made the night unforgettable 🥂🎶 Definitely a place that knows how to take care of its guests and create a great experience. Highly recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service was amazing. We came for a graduation celebration with ~10ppl. The room is gorgeous and our server was phenomenal.
The food was ok but has gotten noticeably lower quality for many of the dishes that were on the menu previously. Like lobster thermidor? But with gnocchi? No, terrible, flavorless and not lobster thermidor. There was little flavor, none of the traditional fixings that come with lobster thermidor, and the little tiny chopped pieces of lobster was definitely not what I received the last time I ordered this at this restaurant.
South Branch Tavern & Grille (The Loop - Chicago)
| Address | 100 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (312) 546-6177 |
South Branch Tavern & Grille is a wonderful lunch spot in the Loop and easily one of my favorites in the city. The food is consistently amazing, always fresh, flavorful, and reliably good every time I visit.
Service is truly outstanding, with a team that is attentive and on top of everything. It can get a little noisy during busy hours, but the energy adds to the experience. The views by the river are beautiful year round and make it an even better place to sit back and enjoy a great meal.
Stopped by here for a quick lunch on the way home from a meeting downtown. Ordered the buffalo rolls and they were honestly some of the best ones I've ever had.
The chicken inside was tender and delicious, and the blue cheese and buffalo sauce on the side were perfect for dipping. top it off with a nice 20 ounce IPA and I had a great lunch. highly recommend
Will definitely come back in the summertime when the patio seating is open.
Visited South Branch Tavern & Grille and had a great experience. The food was fresh with well-balanced flavors—I had the tuna poke nachos and clam chowder, and the nachos alone had me full. The bartender was hospitable, well-trained, and handled the crowd with ease despite there only being two behind the bar. Drinks were well-poured and balanced, and the dessert was truly the icing on the cake. Definitely worth a visit! Excuse the fries on my plate lol
Amberly was absolutely amazing! She served us so well and was incredibly understanding throughout our visit. She took her time to help us pick out our food and made sure we were comfortable with our choices. If you’re dining here, definitely ask for Amberly ,she’s truly the best.
Nice place for a corporate happy hour. Location along the river is great and close to many offices/metra stations. The bang bang shrimp is definitely the best.
The Dearborn
| Address | 145 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60602 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 384-1242 |
This was our first time at The Dearborn, and location wise it's in a perfect spot if you're staying downtown around the loop area. We walked there from our hotel in no time. The interior is warm and welcoming, great atmosphere with a cool bar area.
The restaurant could be a great for a lunch, after work drinks, dinner while downtown, before a show (theatre nearby), or a date ight. It is very versatile.
When we arrived there was difficulty with the reservation as they said they didn't have one for us. When I showed they said they switched from Tock to OpenTable. There was no difficulty seating us thankfully, but I hope they fix that if in fact they've switched and I recommend you checking before going.
We tried 4 items: Prosciutto and White Cheddar Croquettes, Chicago's Finest Fish & Chips, Burger Wellington, and the Basque-Style Cheesecake.
The croquettes were fantastic. I was disappointed with the Fish & Chips. If advertised "The best" and "The one that beat bobby flay" then it did not meet expectations. The fish needed to be crispier and it was way too salty, but the batter was light and not overdone. The fries and coleslaw were great. But the star of the meal could have been better. The burger Wellington was really nice. Note that they tell you it's cooked rare, so if you have an issue with rare ground beef then stay away from that dish. We thought it was a nice dish, but let it sit a few extra minutes at the table to be safe. The cheesecake itself was delicious and a large portion (forgot the photo sorry), but it really needs more pear and honey comb to balance a huge piece like that. Three tiny pieces of pear and a small honeycomb just weren't enough to enjoy with the whole piece and the extra pear would have made the dessert great. The cheesecake wasn't too rich or sweet and well done.
Overall a great restaurant in the downtown area which would suit many nights out. Great location and atmosphere inside.
Total cost listed included a glass of wine each.
Truly a phenomenal establishment! Every facet of our meal, the atmosphere, service and music at brunch. The fish and chips were outstanding as advertised, French 75 was 🤌 . A perfect stop before the theater with family or on a date.
Stopped in after an 8-mile run with a friend, and it couldn't have been a better post-run treat! We shared a little bit of everything and loved it all. The food was fantastic, the service was great, and the atmosphere made it easy to relax and enjoy catching up. Such a fun and memorable dining experience—we'll definitely be back!
This was our first lunch in our epic trip to Chica.
They set the bar very high! Annsling was our server and she was great! She made excellent recommendations and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal! The chef beat Bobby Flay with their Fish and Chips! I couldn't try it due to my allergy.
But my momma did and loved it! Their burger was voted Best in Chicago! I totally agree! It was the perfect mix of meat, Gouda, and toppings!
The Moscato was perfectly sweet and tasty! I will definitely visit again!
6/1/26: Tony is an awesome waiter. I hope to get him next time I'm in. The brussel sprouts are so good! I have enjoyed everything I've had here, just make sure you make reservations.
Original: Fish and chips was very good. I just needed a bit more tartar sauce from the beginning and it would have been perfect. I'm sure I could have got more if I asked, but I didn't. Service was great, atmosphere was good, but very busy that night (Wednesday night).
Seville Chicago
| Address | 243 S Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60606 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 339-0362 |
Went to Seville and it was an amazing experience. They have a nice indoor seating area and outside patio on a rooftop with good views of the city. The food was incredible as well as top notch service.
I ordered the Harissa Lamb Chops which had an excellent flavor profile and the lamb was cooked perfectly. The combination of lamb, chimichurri, Mediterranean couscous and roasted zucchini and onion was an explosion of flavor in the best way.
I also ordered the Brie with blackberries, jam, pistachio crumble honey truffle and it was incredible. It worked well as an appetizer and the truffle honey an and fruit also made it work well as dessert. I also strongly recommend the FLUID Margerita, it was a great flavor profile and was consistently made to perfection.
Cindy took amazing care of me, she was interactive, enthusiastic and very attentive. Her and Michelle, the manager, really brought the whole
experience together. Michelle was always walking around the restaurant checking in with tables and her team to ensure it all ran smoothly. She was very hands on and personal and I enjoyed her making time to have a conversation with me during a busy night.
I highly recommend this place and will absolutely be coming back.
This Mediterranean style restaurant is located on the roof of the Hilton Garden Inn on S Franklin. This was my first time here and having this style of food. It was so good!!! Our waiter, Allen, described the food and drinks so well and he was spot on with his recommendations. I had the Jamon & cheese croquettes, and gambas al jello (a shrimp dish steeped in a tomato-based sauce) and my son had a cheesy pinsa (similar to a flatbread style pizza). The cooks were on their game with this food and I wish I had time to try more dishes. And let's not forget the cocktails... on point of course! Thanks to everyone from the hostess, our waiter, and even the manager who checked on us. They really made this an unforgettable birthday experience!!
What a vibe!! This place makes me want to never leave. The skylight is everything and food was great! But the service was absolutely exceptional. During my most recent visit, Cindy was our server and took such great care of us. She gave great recommendations, walked us through the menu, and answered all of our questions. She seemed to genuinely love what she does. 10/10 would recommend!
We went here after my wife saw it on a list for best steak tartares in Chicago. The steak tartare was very good but the highlight for us ended up being the truffle churros which had the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
For entrees, the wagyu Bolognese my wife got was excellent despite my first impression of it on the menu as boring. I really loved the pork shank I ordered with the extra kick of spice from the sliced chili peppers and the pistachio chimichurri added some nice crunch and flavor. My wife also appreciated that the pork shank wasn't too salty since that's usually her complaint about dishes like that.
Both of our drinks were also very tasty. I had gotten the one whiskey cocktail and she got the non-alcoholic cocktail with the non-alcoholic tequila (forgot the names and forgot to take photos of the drinks but both were fruity).
Service was great, not pushy at all, available when needed and left us to our conversation otherwise.
Ambiance was a nice--they have a skylight and city views with a quasi-Spanish / Portuguese vibe (at least I associate painted tiles more with Portugal).
All in all, much nicer than I expected entering it though a Hilton hotel lobby and will be back.
Dined here with friends for my birthday celebration, and we had a great time. Our server was amazing and made sure we were never left wanting for anything. The chicken could’ve been better, but the duck sausage pasta, shrimp, manchego bread and drinks were phenomenal. There’s also an outdoor rooftop, perfect for taking photos. Looking forward to visiting again soon!
Elephant & Castle
| Address | 111 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (312) 236-6656 |
We were searching for a place that served a proper British breakfast and were thrilled to find Elephant and Castle on W. Adams Street. From the moment we arrived, the staff gave us a warm welcome and quickly seated us. They were friendly, attentive, and gave us plenty of time to look over the menu before taking our order.
Our breakfasts arrived promptly, and they were absolutely delicious. I ordered the small breakfast, which was surprisingly filling and more than enough for a satisfying meal. The pub has a fantastic atmosphere, with charming British-themed décor, from traditional pub details to fun touches like the London Underground sign leading to the restrooms. We enjoyed our first visit so much that we returned the very next morning for breakfast again. If you're looking for an authentic taste of Britain while in Chicago, this is definitely a place worth visiting.
The food was good. Service was good. I would recommend this place.
I got the pie flight with a side of poutine and my husband for their standard hamburger and fries.
Addendum: Went back for another lunch. We had the crispy chicken sliders and we both had the fish and chips. Probably the best fish and chips we've ever had, 100% amazing!
Elephant & Castle Pub was exactly what I needed today, a reliable spot for good pub food, comfortable seating, and great service. The atmosphere makes it an easy place to relax and hang out without any stress.
The food was absolutely top tier, simple, satisfying, and well prepared. Everything came out just right and hit the spot perfectly. It’s the kind of place that consistently delivers without trying too hard.
Overall, a great experience from start to finish. Definitely a place worth coming back to, and 100% recommended if you’re looking for a solid, easygoing pub meal.
We had a great casual lunch in this English Restaurant Pup.
Great draft cool beer. I highly recommend the German Style Lager
We shared the Pot-Pie Flight. All four pot pies where good, and it’s nice to try all of them.
The service was welcoming and very attentive.
Great cosy atmosphere. All in all a very nice visit and we will definitely come back.
My husband who has moved here from England said I made a great choice for dinner that night. The food was excellent! The atmosphere left a little too be desired as there was some very loud purple next to us, expected at a pub though unfortunately.
Giordano's
| Address | 223 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60606 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 583-9400 |
I had to work trip to (chicago) and a colleague has never been before. Definitely needed to try some Giordano’s pizza before we left.
The NBA finals was on TV in a room body was really into that so it made for a little bit louder atmosphere than normal, but it was a great time.
He’s definitely more of a pepperoni fan so he got the double pepperoni deep dish and I opted for the (chicago) classic which is always my go to.
We did start with the the calamari appetizer I love the fried lemons to go along with the fried calamari which was tender and soft and perfectly fried and it always great with the marinara dipping sauce.
As you can see in the pictures in the video, the cheese pool was outstanding. The pizza was delicious. The cheese was crispy. The ingredients were soft and tender 10 out of 10 would recommend.
Parking is as you would expect downtown Chicago parking garages and paid parking further down. You will have to walk to get to the location arrive early and pre-order any deep dish that you want to get they also have thin crust and the famous Chicago Tavern style, but deep dish is always my favorite. Just can’t get it from where I live in Oklahoma.
You have many options whenever it comes to (chicago) deep dish trial all figure out which ones for you I like Giordano’s but use your own best judgment give it a shot. Definitely would recommend trying any of the locations especially this one right here in Jackson the atmosphere was fantastic
They have three different styles of crust, all amazing and delicious. I had the Chicago style, wow, a delight! The place was clean, I was close to the bar, and my waiter was super friendly and attentive the whole time. It's no lie, it's a really delicious pizza 🫰🏼
We got a heads up beforehand that the deep dish pizza would take 40 minutes, but the wait was so worth it.
We got half margherita half meat & more meat. I loved how the tomato sauce of the margherita pizza balanced out its cheesiness. The meat & more meat flavor was a bit salty in my opinion.
We also got a house salad, which also tasted great. The server also often checked up on us and was very friendly.
If you come here, definitely stick to the deep dish and fries—both were great! However, the thin crust chicken pizza left a lot to be desired. Service and wait times were average—though it took close to 35 minutes for them to make the thin crust pizza, even though the restaurant wasn't very crowded. They gave us a heads-up that it would take time, but 35 minutes is a stretch. Still, it was a scorching hot day, so we didn't mind hanging out inside to cool off for a bit!
I had the caesar salad, personal deep dish with pepperoni and bacon, and a sangria.
Salad was okay, I'd prefer if they grated the cheese. The pizza was really good, a bit too much cheese for my liking personally but for others this would be perfect. The sangria was pretty standard and tasted nice.
Old Town Pour House (The Loop, Chicago)
| Address | 120 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60602 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (312) 265-7122 |
The service here was amazing! The food was great and Jessica was able to recommend substitutions to make my meal vegetarian without any issue. She was very mindful of my dietary restrictions and was checking in consistently to make sure my boyfriend and I were always taken care of.
Plus, the drinks were delicious 🙂 would highly recommend stopping in here!
We had the Spicy shrimp as appetizer, was not very spicy but that was perfect for me as I do not tolerate very spicy food. Steak and potatoes were very good. Chicken fingers with fries good, fries had alot of lemon pepper I think. Cole slaw was okay but I am not a big cole slaw fan. BBQ sauce and honey mustard sauce were okay. The churro bites were super warm soft and came with caramel sauce on the side. Berry lemonade was very good! Dirty soda was also good.
Great atmosphere and delicious food! Pablo was a great server!
10/10! Jenna was the sweetest, and the entire staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The food was amazing and definitely did not disappoint. We'll absolutely be coming back!
Opening Day lunch was a success!! We sat outside on the LaSalle Street patio. People watching was excellent. We ate Popcorn Chicken in the Nashville Hot style, Kung Pao Cauliflower & Blackened Salmon Salad. We even had a sample of the Peanut Butter Snickers Pie. Everything was fresh & delicious. Service was friendly & prompt. Inside is warm and inviting - perfect for colder times. Definitely will keep in our rotation!
Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails
| Address | 202 S Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60606 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (312) 789-5992 |
Ok FINALLY a food network star that has a place that lived up to even surpassed the hype. We started with the grilled Octopus it was amazing cooked firm yet tender man it had great char and a great little sauce the potato bed was perfect as well. The scallop with hollandaise was perfection in every bite, so creamy so well cooked. The tiger prawns were also perfectly grilled and seasoned. Then the entree and sides. We got the NY strip it was cooked perfect with an awesome crust to the outside. The filet was rare like I like it and still had an amazing crust and seasoned to perfection. I apparently forgot to take a pic of the grilled carrots but they were great. The mushroom and shallots were flavored in a way I have never had I loved it.
This was only our second time eating at Kindling but it was just as awesome as the first time. Instead of going the traditional route of appetizers, then entree then dessert, we made an entire meal and experience of all appetizers. Zack & Maya our servers were very attentive but not intrusive and Matt the restaurant manager was keeping a close eye on all the diners to ensure everyone had a great experience. We dined at the “Hearth” that overlooks the fire pits where all the meats and other proteins are cooked. It is a very unique and special experience that I highly recommend. There is not one item on the menu that is not phenomenally delicious, but I have to say that the Peruvian-inspired Hamachi was a standout! Find the time to make a reservation and you won’t be disappointed.
We loved this Chef Jonathan Sawyer restaurant in downtown Chicago. The good was very delicious and the"smoked" theme throughout the menu was delightful. I think the carrots were the best carrots we've ever had - so naturally sweet and yummy!
Beyond the food, Kindling has very comfortable atmosphere with plants and calm decorations. All the employees we interacted with were friendly and were genuinely excited about the food here. Thanks for a great meal!
We had lunch at Kindling on Friday and it was a fabulous experience.
We started with the Chef’s Choice Wood-Fired Oysters, which included two bone marrow butter, two Oysters Hillbilly Riviera and two with blue cheese and bacon. They were served on a tray of smoldering wood - a really cool presentation - and were all really, really good. Next, we had two of the Saku Gold Tuna on crispy rice cakes. Also very good and different from anything we have eaten before. For our mains, one of us had the prime steak frites - properly cooked and nicely presented. The other had a Caesar salad with the grilled Faroe Islands salmon skewer - also well cooked and flavorful.
The staff were all super-friendly, helpful, cheerful and accommodating. Our server, Andreas, really understood details about menu items and happily helped us choose our dishes. We unexpectedly had a chance to meet Chef Sawyer, which was a really cool surprise. Simon Unthan, the area director of operations for the restaurant group happened to be in the restaurant and he checked in with us as well. We really appreciated the attentiveness and willingness to touch base with diners. It capped off an already great experience..
We would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who appreciates great food and hospitality.
What a great experience. The staff was warm and welcoming, and the decor is gorgeous. The whole space feels like tropical travel meets a high end hotel lobby, with the delicious smell of BBQ throughout.
We ordered the crispy Brussels, I had the burger, and my husband got the lobster roll. Phone eats first definitely did not apply here because everything looked and smelled too good to wait.
Our server was very knowledgeable about which menu items contained gluten and dairy, and they were careful to make modifications for my food allergies. They also made sure my burger was cooked medium well since I’m pregnant, which I really appreciated.
A big bonus: they have a separate fryer for gluten free items, which is always great to hear and definitely sets them apart.
We also toured the upstairs area for a future event we may host there. It was open, spacious, and had fun game tables like foosball and shuffleboard. They also have a huge outdoor area for parties that faces north, so it is not overly sunny and seems like it would be really pleasant in the summer.
Overall, a great experience all around
Beatrix
| Address | 155 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (312) 736-0404 |
I visited The Loop Beatrix location one weeknight after leaving the office. I’ve been to other Beatrix locations before and, I have to be honest, I always leave content.
Starting with the environment, the decor makes the place feel cozy. I especially like the dimmer lights in the evening, which are not only easier on the eyes, but make for a moody setting. The chairs are comfortable and the restaurant even has a coffee bar with some seating, turning that space into a little coffee shop.
As for the food and drinks, no disappointment there either. For my drink, I had the Mango Gin & Tonic. It’s a more fruity tasting drink, but absolutely delicious. I almost ordered another one. For my meal, I had the Chicken Terri D - and it was fantastic. Very flavorful and a great portion. It’s served with asparagus, which happens to be one of my favorite veggies. I highly recommend this dish.
Overall, this place is good for any occasion, but is very suitable for business meetings or date nights. I will note that while I’ve never had a problem getting a table, it has usually been quite busy. They do accept reservations in case you want to plan ahead.
The environment, drinks, staff, and food were amazing. I got the salmon and it was so delicious 🤤 If you’re stopping in for a visit, make sure to check this place out, it’s definitely worth it! I highly recommend the pineapple habanero margarita. 🍍🌶️🍹
This place was excellent. Open dining room. Well lit. The design is beautiful and more importantly the Peime Cheeseburger and the Kids Chicken Tenders were better than expected. Even the ketchup was tasty. Had like a hint of cinnamon or something. I would so return if I were in town longer. They play the game well. Go check them Out.
Beatrix (Loop) feels like stepping into a cozy, sunlit greenhouse that decided to learn how to cook. 🌿✨ From the moment you walk in, the space wraps around you with warm lighting, hanging greenery, and that low hum of people actually enjoying themselves.
The food? Quietly excellent in that “why is this so good?” kind of way. The avocado toast situation was stacked just right—creamy avocado, perfectly cooked eggs, fresh greens, and hearty bread that didn’t collapse under pressure (a rare but heroic feat). Every bite felt balanced, like it had been thought through instead of just assembled. Even the little side of cheese felt intentional, not an afterthought.
And then the cappuccino arrived like a soft cloud in a cup—smooth, rich, and topped with that thick foam that makes you pause for a second before taking the first sip. It’s the kind of coffee that doesn’t just wake you up, it convinces you to stay a little longer.
Overall: relaxed but polished, simple but done really well. Beatrix Loop isn’t trying too hard—it just is good. Perfect for a slow breakfast, a casual meeting, or pretending you have your life together for an hour. ☕🥑
First of all we sat at the bar and had chosen this place to get brunch at but their menu had changed to lunch only around 11:30.
The burger was AMAZING, asked for medium but got medium rare tho. The pesto chicken sandwich is not chicken pieces, it’s cold cuts. Could rave all day about the angel food cake muffins!
Lou Mitchell's
| Address | 565 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 939-3111 |
I finally waited in line to try Lou Mitchell’s, a true Chicago classic that’s been around for years, and I can definitely see why it’s so popular.
One thing that really stood out is that everything is made from scratch, from the bread to the jam, which gives the whole experience a homemade, comforting feel. The portions are very generous, so you’re definitely getting your money’s worth. On top of that, the service was friendly and impressively quick despite how busy it was.
That said, the pancakes personally weren’t my favorite. They weren’t bad, just not something I’d go back specifically for.
Overall, it’s a solid spot with great service and quality food. I’d definitely come back to try more of the menu next time.
Lou Mitchell's has been sitting near Union Station since 1923, and the second you walk in you understand why it's become such a fixture for travelers passing through downtown Chicago. It's a classic diner setup, counter seating, booths, a lot of energy in the room, the kind of place where the staff move fast and know exactly what they're doing. We waited a short while on a weekend morning, but the wait moved quickly and came with a small treat that set a nice tone before we even sat down.
The pancakes were the first thing that arrived and they were properly fluffy, soaked up the syrup well without falling apart. We also got an omelet loaded with cheese and vegetables, simple but well executed, the kind of breakfast that doesn't need to be fancy to be good. A side of hash browns rounded things out, crispy on the edges in the way you want. Someone at the table tried the French toast, thick-cut and not too sweet, and it disappeared fast. Coffee kept coming without us having to ask, and the staff moved through the busy room with a kind of practiced ease that made the whole experience feel smooth despite how packed it was.
Right before you leave, they hand out a little cup of soft serve ice cream, which feels like a small but genuinely nice touch that most diners don't bother with anymore.
Delicious food, huge portions, and friendly service! I love the complimentary treats they give you 🥹 and the orange juice was so good! Such a wonderful diner! The two of us went around 12:30pm on a Sunday. The wait was inside, just a handful of groups ahead of us and we were sat within 10 minutes!
We made a special trip to Lou Mitchell's while visiting downtown Chicago because of its iconic reputation, and overall we had a very good experience.
We arrived around 1:30 PM, so there wasn't much of a crowd since they close at 2:00 PM. The food was delicious, and the portions were surprisingly large. I especially enjoyed the gluten-free pancakes, which had great flavor and were much better than many gluten-free options I've tried elsewhere.
The coffee was also very good and paired perfectly with breakfast. The service was friendly, and the restaurant has the classic atmosphere you'd expect from such a well-known Chicago institution.
Overall, a very enjoyable breakfast experience with generous portions, tasty food, and a bit of Chicago history. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.
We loved this place. It’s iconic for Route 66 and it exceeded our expectations. Had breakfast, my wife said it was the best scrambled eggs she’d ever had. I had corned beef hash, also great. Our server, Tony B (I think) couldn’t have been better, he helped make it a good experience. We were told to expect a line but there was none at 8:30 on a Thursday. We found street parking on Quincy, a block away (had to download the Chicago parking app). Highly recommend this place.
Catalog at Willis Tower
| Address | 320 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60606 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 875-0066 |
Great food hall with options such as Shake Shack, Sushi san, Sweetgreen, Starbucks, Brown bag seafood,Cava, DoRite Donuts, Tortazo (Rick Bayless) and ice cream place Van Leeuwen !
Kindling was an awesome experience. Starting with the decor and ambiance and ending with the food and service it was all around excellent. We went with a group of seven and tried as many items on the menu as possible. None disappointed. I heard from multiple people in our group that they dish was the best dish they have ever had. The oysters, soup, steak, Hamachi crudo, and itialian beef were u real. They also have an extensive and creative drink list that was a hit. Can't wait to see the rooftop over summer.
Great food court in the Willis Tower. Main entrance on Jackson but can be accessed from other doors to the tower until evening. If you're coming late in the day then expect to enter on Jackson. Multi-level food court. Plenty of seating. Lots of culinary options if you're in the neighborhood for work or are visiting the Skydeck. Some, but not all of the vendors were open when we were leaving around 8pm.
Lots of great choices for dining. Also a great place to take a break from the heat or cold in Chicago.
Lots of great lunch places. Fun Christmas market this week.
Tips for Dining Near Skydeck Chicago
Navigating the dining scene in a major metropolitan downtown area requires a bit of strategy, especially during peak business hours. The Loop is unique because it operates on two distinct schedules: the weekday corporate rush and the weekend tourist flow. Understanding this rhythm will significantly improve your experience and help you avoid long waits or closed kitchens.
First, always consider the time of day and the day of the week. Many restaurants in the financial district cater almost exclusively to the lunch crowd and may close early on weekends or remain entirely shuttered. If you are visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, verify the hours of operation before walking over, as some of the best spots in the Loop do not open for dinner service.
Second, leverage the reservation system. Even if a restaurant looks casual, popular spots near major attractions fill up quickly, especially during dinner hours and theater nights. Booking a table in advance, even just a few hours prior, can save you from a forty-five-minute wait on the sidewalk.
Third, be aware of the weather implications. Chicago is known for its wind and sudden rain. If you are walking from Willis Tower to a restaurant that is a few blocks away, a sudden downpour can ruin the mood. Check the radar and consider taking a short rideshare if the weather looks threatening, or choose a location connected to the Pedway system during winter.
Fourth, do not be afraid to explore the food halls. Revival Food Hall and the French Market offer a solution for groups with differing tastes. They provide high-quality, chef-driven concepts in a fast-casual setting. This is often the best choice if you have children or if you want to sample a variety of Chicago staples without sitting down for a full-service meal.
Finally, remember that portion sizes in Chicago are famously generous. When ordering deep-dish pizza or a steak, consider sharing. Over-ordering can leave you feeling sluggish for the rest of your sightseeing. Splitting an appetizer and a main course often provides the perfect amount of energy to continue exploring the city.
The area surrounding Skydeck Chicago offers a culinary journey that mirrors the city itself: bold, diverse, and unapologetically indulgent. Whether you opt for a slice of history at a classic steakhouse or a modern twist on Italian cuisine, you are participating in a vital part of the local culture. The convenience of these locations allows you to seamlessly integrate a memorable meal into your itinerary without straying far from the heart of the city.
As you plan your visit, remember that the best travel experiences often happen when you slow down and savor the moment. Rather than rushing to the next landmark, take the time to enjoy a proper Chicago meal. It is the perfect way to refuel, reflect on the incredible views you just witnessed, and prepare for the rest of your adventure in the Windy City.
