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Best Restaurants with a Vibrant Bar Scene in South Loop

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107 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8834)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 120 times today
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse has been a Chicago icon since partners Hugo Ralli and Steve Lombardo opened its doors in May 1989. The classic American steakhouse serves Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef. Gibsons also features fresh fish, classic cocktails, an extensive wine list and exceptional service. Celebrities, Chicago visitors and loyal neighborhood residents enjoy three distinct locations: Chicago, Rosemont and Oak Brook. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14834)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 155 times today
Girl & the Goat opened in 2010 with the goal of offering a menu of bold, flavorful dishes designed to share in a fun and lively atmosphere. To complement the experience, we offer a curated selection of wines from around the world, focusing on small producers, along with a rotating list of craft beers and a playful cocktail menu crafted by our bartenders. The ever-changing menu, driven by locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, features favorites like sautéed green beans, roasted oysters, crispy short ribs, and confit goat belly. While reservations are encouraged for the dining room, our bar welcomes walk-ins, adventurers, and those who prefer spontaneity.
A photo of Gibsons Italia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3890)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 174 times today
Gibsons Italia is built on a tradition & elegance that is relentless in the pursuit of the very best. Chef-driven tastes of Italy are paired with the superiority of Gibsons Steakhouse, creating a restaurant that makes the familiar, exceptional. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of LUXBAR restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2840)
Price: Moderate
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 77 times today
The quintessential American bar, LUXBAR features seasonal and classic cocktails made from freshly pressed juices, premium ice, house made shrubs, and an extensive selection of spirits that runs especially deep in whiskey and bourbon. A "Build Your Own Manhattan" menu, thoughtful, approachable wine list, and beer menu with vintage and local options make the bar a go-to for casual, mid-week drinks and bites with friends, watching weekend sports and post-shopping. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of RL Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(7213)
Price: Expensive
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 112 times today
RL Restaurant is described as a vibrant bar scene due to its modern club atmosphere and diverse cocktail list. Reviews mention the 'trendy atmosphere', 'unique cocktail menu', 'outstanding martinis' and 'great energy' creating a lively and inviting environment. The 'warm, inviting ambiance' and 'spectacular setting' are also praised, contributing to a vibrant bar scene.
A photo of El Che Steakhouse & Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2063)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • West Loop
Booked 69 times today
Located just beyond the West Loop’s famed “restaurant row,” El Che Steakhouse & Bar is Chicago's go-to destination for steak, seafood, and live-fire cooking. The restaurant is modeled after Executive Chef/Partner John Manion’s fascination with Argentinean asados: traditional backyard barbecues surrounding the flame. A 12-foot custom-built grill serves as the centerpiece for this downtown asado which embraces South American-tinged meats, seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and of course, steak. The hearth also serves as the heart of the restaurant’s experiences such as dining at the Hearth Table. Join us for happy hour at our cocktail bar, featuring signature cocktails and fiery bar bites or indulge in a glass of wine from the country’s only South American wine list. No matter what you choose, El Che brings the heat seven nights a week.For large groups, private events, birthdays, or celebrations, email us info@elchechicago.com.
A photo of Bar Siena - West Loop restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3258)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 43 times today
Perfectly Centralized In Chicago's West Loop 'Restaurant Row', The Two-Story, 8,000-Square-Foot Restaurant Is The Sibling Of DineAmic Hospitality'S River North Staple Eatery, Siena Tavern. Bar Siena Offers Diners The Perfect & Approachable Setting To Enjoy Lunch, Dinner, Late Night, And Weekend Brunch. The Menu Features An Expansive Italian Street Food And Pizza Bar Selection, All Served Within The Streets Of Fulton Market. Our Team Of Hospitality Professionals Are Thrilled And Dedicated To Host Your Next Dining Experience, Private Event Or Catering Function!
A photo of The Florentine restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1297)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 28 times today
The Florentine is a lively spot with great ambiance. Reviews rave about the 'good ambience', 'nice seating', and 'quiet but lively setting'. The bar area is loved by many, with one reviewer stating 'eating at the bar is just as enjoyable and comfortable as a table'. The restaurant also serves 'great drinks' and accommodates kids, making it an ideal place for families and groups.
A photo of Barrio restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2875)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 33 times today
Located In The Heart Of River North, At 65 West Kinzie Street, Dineamic Hospitality Added Its First Mexican Restaurant, Barrio, To The Hospitality Group'S Culinary Roster In 2017. A Creative Take On Traditional Mexican Fare With American Influences, Barrio Is A 6,000-Square-Foot Space Accommodating 200 Guests Indoors And Throughout Our 3 Private Dining Spaces And 70 Guests Amongst Our Expansive Outdoor Patio. Barrio Is Located Near The Chicago River, Right On The Cusp Of Downtown In River North.
A photo of Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14268)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • River North (Chicago)
Booked 122 times today
Since 1984, Shaw’s Crab House has earned its status as a Chicago icon with its unwavering commitment to quality and warm, dedicated staff. This generational restaurant embodies timeless seafood traditions inspired by America's coastal crab houses, creating a classic dining experience that stands the test of time. Signature dishes include King Crab Legs, oysters from both coasts, hand-rolled sushi, fresh fish, and more. After 40 years of excellence, Shaw's was ranked #8 in Chicago Magazine's Best Chicago Restaurants of 2024.The restaurant's 1940s-style design features two distinct dining rooms: the lively, casual Oyster Bar and the elegant, white-tablecloth Main Dining Room. Guests who reserve "Hightop" seating will dine in the Oyster Bar, while "Standard" seating is for the Main Dining Room.Located in the heart of River North, Shaw’s is just a short walk from Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a memorable seafood experience.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Brian
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Madison was out server and she was fantastic, patient and knew her craft. The food outstanding, the services top notch, definitely a good place for dinner!
    More info
    Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    4.7
  • Gabrielle
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    we love ugo! he took such good care of us, was super friendly, and will be the reason we go back! the food was brilliant and the service, impeccable.
    More info
    Gibsons ItaliaPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • Naomivip
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This place is definitely worth the hype. Went on a Saturday night, and at first I was worried because of how crowded it was and how loud it was. My worries were unfounded - the service was speedy and accurate, the entrees had a very reasonable portion size, and all the food was delicious. While it was a little difficult to hear conversation at my immediate table, the high energy and kindness of the wait staff was enough to make this a very pleasurable dining experience.
    More info
    LUXBARPrice: Moderate• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    4.6
  • Kyle
    Indiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were running behind due to the parade of lights and Ivan made sure to graciously adjust or reservation which I know isn’t always easy. Upon arrival we were seated immediately and well taken care off by all members of the service team. Food was excellent, prepared as requested and served hot. Couldn’t ask for a better dining experience!
    More info
    El Che Steakhouse & BarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• West Loop
    4.7
  • Kenvip
    Chicago / Illinois •72 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    I cannot count the number of visits we've had to The Girl and the Goat, but it continues to be a favorite for both personal and professional dining. I brought three colleagues, who have never been, to the restaurant for dinner. One diner is vegetarian, but there are menu offerings and options available to provide them with enough to eat. All three were quite impressed with the food. My only complaint would be our table was right next to the kitchen, which can be loud. However, we made due, and had an enjoyable meal. Service is always very good, and the cocktails are fun. If you're interested in dining, make sure you book way ahead, as there is almost no chance to get a table day of.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
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