Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Harwood Heights

39 restaurants available nearby

1. Boka

4.8

Exceptional(7175)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park

Booked 72 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, Boka stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Since its inception in 2003, this Michelin-starred gem has captivated diners with its dedication to seasonality and locally sourced ingredients. Under the helm of celebrated Chef Lee Wolen, Boka has consistently been a place of culinary innovation and excellence, earning accolades such as “Chef of the Year.” Patrons rave about the "immaculate and relaxed experience" offering glowing testimonials like, "The food is simply delicious with a combination of flavors that you'll never forget." Whether it’s the highly recommended duck or the eight-course tasting menu, each dish is crafted to perfection, ensuring a memorable dining adventure. Boka's ability to blend exquisite flavors with impeccable service makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the finest in Contemporary American dining.

2. Brasero

4.8

Exceptional(349)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • West Town

Booked 51 times today

Brasero in West Town, Chicago, is a beacon of Contemporary Latin cuisine, celebrated by the Robb Report as one of the Top 10 Best New Restaurants in the country. Chef John Manion’s mastery of wood-fired Latin cooking delivers an unforgettable dining experience with dishes like flame-roasted chicken slicked in garlic-chili oil, and steaks perfected over an open fire. Patrons rave about "absolutely DIVINE entrees" and the moqueca bursting with fresh seafood. Each dish is complemented by an impressive selection of drinks, including caipirinhas and locally brewed, Latin-inspired beers. Brasero not only promises an exceptional meal but also a vibrant atmosphere, making every visit memorable.

A photo of Farm Bar - Lakeview restaurant

3. Farm Bar - Lakeview

4.7

Exceptional(196)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Lakeview / East Lakeview

Booked 46 times today

Farm Bar - Lakeview is a cherished gem in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, renowned for its quintessential Comfort Food that warms the soul. With a farm-to-table ethos, this delightful spot sources organic ingredients from its very own Brown Dog Farm, ensuring each dish is not only comforting but also crafted with the freshest produce. Patrons rave about the "delicious and perfectly cooked" Classic Burger and the "famous Wisconsin Cheese Curds," which are a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Midwestern flavors. Reviews consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, making Farm Bar a go-to for both locals and visitors. Whether it's for a laid-back brunch or a cozy dinner, Farm Bar promises a heartwarming dining experience where every meal feels like coming home.

4. Elske

4.7

Exceptional(1217)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • West Loop

Booked 18 times today

Elske, nestled in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, is a haven of Danish culinary excellence where love and tradition meld seamlessly. Named after the Danish word for love, Elske offers a dining experience that resonates deeply with the clean, simple aesthetic of Denmark, influenced by the travels of Chef David Posey to Copenhagen. Guests rave about the "amazing duck liver" and how each dish from the set menu is "incredible," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authentic and innovative Danish flavors. The minimalist decor and open kitchen contribute to an atmosphere that is both inviting and distinctly Scandinavian. Elske's ability to accommodate various dietary needs while maintaining high culinary standards makes it a standout. As one diner puts it, Elske is "flawless with regard to service and ambiance," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Denmark in the heart of Chicago.

A photo of Hemmingway's Bistro restaurant

5. Hemmingway's Bistro

4.5

Awesome(1248)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Oak Park

Booked 4 times today

Hemmingway's Bistro in Oak Park flawlessly merges the essence of French cuisine with American flair, offering a menu that highlights the freshest Midwest ingredients alongside classic French dishes. The chef's passion for fresh seafood is evident, with daily specials featuring East-coast seafood flown in from Boston, like the praised wild mushroom-crusted halibut and roasted sea bass. Patrons rave about the authentic French American dining experience, noting it's "a slice of Europe in Oak Park!" and celebrating the "superb" rabbit and halibut dishes. The Parisian seafood bar and selection of French and American wines further authenticate the bistro's European vibe, making every dining experience here not just a meal, but a culinary journey.

6. Tala House

4.8

Exceptional(172)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Andersonville

Booked 32 times today

Tala House, nestled in the vibrant Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago, has rapidly become a favorite for its exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. With rave reviews like, "Absolutely fantastic! High quality, flavorful, and chic," it's clear why locals cherish this gem. Diners are enamored by dishes such as the "extraordinary" salmon and the "perfectly seasoned" steak, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The inviting patio and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by attentive service, make Tala House a must-visit. As one reviewer puts it, "Great neighborhood place. Cozy with a beautiful hidden patio and the owner was very friendly and hospitable." This spot is a standout for anyone seeking top-notch Contemporary American dining in Chicago.

A photo of The Little Gem Restaurant restaurant

7. The Little Gem Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(1147)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Oak Park

Booked 13 times today

The Little Gem Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Oak Park, epitomizes the essence of European cuisine with its intimate and stylish setting. This cozy establishment has garnered glowing reviews for its authentic European dishes, making it a beloved neighborhood favorite. Diners rave about their experiences, with one guest mentioning, "The food was delicious and my guest was a first-time diner who was very impressed and left with a FULL BELLY!" Another diner highlighted the quality of specific dishes, exclaiming, "The French onion soup and Fig & Honey Crostini were amazing!" From the warm, inviting ambiance to the carefully curated menu that features everything from Mussels to Burrata, The Little Gem offers an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the best of European culinary traditions. Whether you're enjoying a casual brunch or a romantic dinner, The Little Gem ensures a memorable meal with exceptional service and a touch of European flair.

8. Ada Street

4.9

Exceptional(1052)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 21 times today

Ada Street, nestled in the eclectic Elston Industrial District between Bucktown and Lincoln Park in Chicago, serves up an exquisite selection of Tapas/Small Plates that have captivated diners with their authenticity and flair. The restaurant has garnered glowing reviews for its "incredibly flavorful" and "beautifully prepared" dishes such as Thai steak tartare, gnocchi, and shrimp ceviche, making it a culinary gem in the city. Patrons rave about the "fantastic flavors" and the creative twists on traditional dishes, ensuring a dining experience that is both unique and memorable. Adding to the charm is the cool, cozy ambiance complemented by a "cool vibe" and exceptional service, making Ada Street a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Tapas experience in Chicago.

9. Wood

4.5

Awesome(2078)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Lakeview / East Lakeview

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, Wood shines as a beacon of Contemporary European cuisine. With a dynamic menu that celebrates the best of each season's offerings, Wood's kitchen, led by the acclaimed Executive Chef Devin Kreller, a 6-time Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, masterfully combines French cooking techniques with multicultural inspirations. Diners rave about the authenticity and innovation in dishes like the lamb ragu and braised pork shoulder. "The best restaurant we have eaten in while visiting Chicago," and "Everything from the service, appetizers, entrees, wine, and dessert... I can’t believe this restaurant does not have a Michelin star 🌟" are just snippets of the glowing testimonials that underscore why Wood is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Contemporary European fare.

10. Fora

4.4

Awesome(100)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • West Loop

Booked 33 times today

Fora, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Global, International cuisine. This premium casual dining spot dazzles with its globally inspired menu, where high-quality ingredients meet traditional cooking techniques. Guests rave about the "unbelievably diverse and mouth-watering dishes" such as the Ahi Tuna Tacos and Sausage & Goat Cheese Flatbread. Reviewers consistently praise the "perfect ambiance" and "outstanding service," making Fora the go-to destination for any occasion. Whether it's enjoying live music on the patio or savoring the highly recommended brunch, Fora ensures every visit is memorable, with one guest noting, "We'll be back soon!"

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
DanVIP
Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We were surprised to be seated at the counter overlooking the kitchen and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The chefs and front-of-house teams are amazing to watch in action. Every dish is so flavorful and creative and you never know what is coming next from your selections. Just note, it can get very loud since orders are being called out in addition to the already energetic restaurant behind you if you're seated in this location. Another great dinner at Girl & the Goat!
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Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
•
4.8
R
Rob
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Birthday dinner. All of the staff was great, offering complimentary treats along with the meal. Cocktails and the meal was very good. Sauces overpowered some of the dishes, but overall very good.
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BokaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Lincoln Park
•
4.8
K
KerryVIP
Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Our family had an absolutely fantastic dinner here! We opted for the tasting menu and, with four of us, decided to order one of everything on the menu. Every dish was phenomenal—beautifully prepared, with perfect plating that showcased the attention to detail. Alex, our server, took excellent care of us, and Jake, the sommelier, offered outstanding wine recommendations from their incredible wine list. We finished the evening with the cheese course paired with a fantastic bottle of wine—a perfect way to end the meal. On our way out, we stopped by the bar because we noticed some rare bottles on display. We ended up staying to try a couple of new ones, and the bartender’s knowledge and passion made the experience even better. We thoroughly enjoyed everything about our evening and will definitely be back!
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SepiaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• West Loop
•
4.8
J
JonathanVIP
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
1st time with Hide + Seek, We cannot wait to come back again. The food was outstanding, however the service is what did it for me. NICK is the man! So accommodating, such a sweet guy & took care of us! So I’m going to have to say 6 stars for the service! See you soon! 🤗
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HIDE + SEEKPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• West Loop
•
4.4
J
Jeremy
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great food eclipsed by tremendous service from everyone in the restaurant. Highly recommend.
More info
BraseroPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• West Town
•
4.8

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Harwood Heights

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Harwood Heights

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39 restaurants available nearby

1. Boka

2. Brasero

3. Farm Bar - Lakeview

4. Elske

5. Hemmingway's Bistro

6. Tala House

7. The Little Gem Restaurant

8. Ada Street

9. Wood

10. Fora

See what locals rave about

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