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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in South Loop

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81 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(15038)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 135 times today
Girl & the Goat, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, is a must-visit for tapas enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable dining experience. Known for its bold and inventive small plates, the restaurant celebrates locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with flair and creativity. Diners rave about standout dishes like the "goat empanadas with their perfectly flaky crust and savory filling" and the "crispy, flavorful chickpea fritters." The lively atmosphere and friendly service only enhance the experience, making it an excellent choice for groups or adventurous foodies. With each dish designed to share, every visit promises a delightful culinary adventure.
A photo of Boka restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7269)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park
Booked 61 times today
Boka, nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, offers an exquisite take on contemporary American cuisine that is nothing short of a revelation. With its Michelin-star status, Boka crafts each dish as a "miniature masterpiece," highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Executive Chef Lee Wolen, celebrated as “Chef of the Year,” ensures a dining experience that is both innovative and deeply satisfying. Diners rave about the "impeccable service" and "phenomenal" food, making it a must-visit destination. The restaurant’s elegant yet inviting ambiance, combined with its artful presentations and "spectacular" wine pairings, guarantees an unforgettable culinary journey.
A photo of Terrace 16 restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2237)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Near North
Booked 37 times today
Terrace 16 in Chicago is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, beautifully capturing the essence of New American flavors. Located on the 16th floor of Trump International Hotel & Tower, it offers diners an "amazing experience" enriched by breathtaking city views. Reviews consistently celebrate the "fabulous views" and "outstanding food," making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. The vibrant menu, crafted from fresh ingredients, speaks powerfully for itself, while the extensive craft cocktail program and thoughtful wine list complement the flavorful offerings. With a warm ambiance and exceptional service, Terrace 16 promises an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Andy's Jazz Club restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5155)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 45 times today
Andy's Jazz Club, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine paired with the soulful sounds of live jazz. This unique venue offers a "fabulous time" with "incredible music and great food," making it a staple for a true Chicago experience. Diners rave about dishes like the "lobster ravioli" and "NY Strip steak," which are crafted to perfection. The atmosphere is described as "warm and inviting," providing a perfect backdrop for enjoying world-class jazz performances. For an evening that "exceeds expectations," Andy's Jazz Club is an American culinary delight you won't want to miss!
A photo of Sepia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5407)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 29 times today
Sepia in Chicago's West Loop masterfully captures the essence of authentic American cuisine with a modern flair. "One of the best meals I've ever had," says a delighted diner, and it's easy to see why. Chef Andrew Zimmerman’s seasonal menu celebrates the purity of ingredients, delivering dishes that are both inventive and delicious. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "elegant, understated," perfectly complements the culinary experience, making it an instant classic. Standout dishes like the duck breast and short rib are praised for their thoughtful presentation and flavor, while the wine pairing is deemed a "must." Sepia promises a memorable dining experience that beautifully honors American culinary tradition.
A photo of HIDE + SEEK restaurant
4.5
Awesome(411)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 42 times today
HIDE + SEEK in West Loop, Chicago, is a vibrant Cocktail Bar that elevates the art of drink-making to new heights. Known for its "awesome cocktails" and "top-notch drinks," this establishment is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts. Diners rave about the expertly crafted drinks like the Shadow Play and Midnight in Madrid, which boast "incredible flavor profiles" that cater to diverse palates. The innovative beverage program offers fresh takes on classic cocktails, ensuring each sip is both refreshing and memorable. With a lively atmosphere and attentive service, HIDE + SEEK promises a cocktail experience that's both sophisticated and playful, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
A photo of Grill on 21 restaurant
4.5
Awesome(226)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 4 times today
Grill on 21 offers an exquisite take on American cuisine, making it a standout in Chicago's vibrant River North. With a reputation for "very delicious" dishes such as lamb chops and mac and cheese, this restaurant provides an elevated dining experience that celebrates quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "excellent" food and "outstanding service," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to delivering exceptional meals with a touch of elegance and comfort. The sophisticated ambiance, coupled with live music and a friendly staff, creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Grill on 21 is a "hidden gem" for anyone seeking genuine American flavors.
A photo of Alpana restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(467)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 57 times today
Alpana, located in Chicago's vibrant Gold Coast district, is a haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors and exceptional dining experiences. Guided by the esteemed Alpana Singh, a Master Sommelier, the restaurant offers a menu that perfectly marries food and wine, creating "a symphony of balance, texture, and flavor." Diners consistently rave about the "outstanding food and attentive, friendly service," highlighting must-try dishes like the wild mushroom ravioli and the meticulously cooked salmon. With a cozy ambiance that feels like "the best dinner party ever," Alpana is truly a standout spot for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of The Franklin Room restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1926)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 13 times today
The Franklin Room in Chicago’s River North neighborhood is a must-visit for lovers of authentic American cuisine. Renowned for its "phenomenal cuisine" and "world-class service," this hidden gem offers a modern twist on turn-of-the-century American tavern fare. Diners rave about its "delicious food" and "extensive bourbon list," making it a paradise for serious whiskey enthusiasts. The atmosphere is described as "cozy, classy," and reminiscent of a sophisticated speakeasy, perfect for any occasion. With standout dishes like the "butcher steak" and "sea bass," and a staff that consistently goes "above and beyond," The Franklin Room promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Roanoke restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1506)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Loop
Booked 31 times today
Roanoke, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Loop, is a shining example of Contemporary American cuisine at its finest. The restaurant takes pride in offering "artisan comfort food" with a modern twist, delighting palates with dishes such as the "roasted carrots with whipped feta and pistachios." Guests rave about the "fantastic" burgers and signature rotisserie creations, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The inviting ambiance, featuring luxurious finishes and cozy, warm lighting, complements the exquisite meals perfectly. Roanoke’s commitment to quality and service makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic and innovative Contemporary American cuisine in downtown Chicago.
‘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
  • Joe
    Memphis / West Tennessee •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our meal at Girl & the Goat was wonderful! The service was friendly and helpful. He knew the menu and ensured our experience delicious. We began our dinner with the naan. The dips served alongside were excellent. Next we enjoyed the chickpea fritters that we crisp with creamy inside, accented by pomegranate. We definitely wanted to try the goat empanadas, and were glad that we did. Our next course that we enjoyed were the wood-fired mussels. The broth was delicious. We ended with the roasted pig face. Our server enticed us with dessert. We finished our meal with the apple hand pie. Overall, we loved this place.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
  • ShannonVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food was amazing! I usually don’t order chicken at fine dining restaurants but so glad I did. Best chicken I’ve ever had. Our server, Kevin, was super personable and fun. Highly recommend!
    More info
    BokaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Lincoln Park
    4.8
  • JaniceVIP
    Greater Boston •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great to hear live music. Paul Marinaro quartet were amazing. Service very good and food and wine good enough. We will be back ! Glad there is a podium ask to keep voices down but some could have used a reminder during the set
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    Andy's Jazz ClubPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• River North (Chicago)
    4.7
  • Chad
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Great atmosphere and great food, definitely worth its price. The staff provided excellent service and were very kind/professional. The view was amazing and the volume of the restaurant was perfect. Didn’t need to shout or keep my voice too low in order to make conversation with my girlfriend. First time experience and it went exceedingly well.
    More info
    Terrace 16Price: Expensive• Contemporary American• Near North
    4.4
  • Clark
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The absolutely best meal of my life. A symphony! A genuine work of art. Every note true. Every bite better and different than the one before. All enhanced by service that was warm, genuine, knowledgeable, and felt entirely personal, like they had no place they wanted to be other than making our dining experience the best it could be. I was buzzing, my brain fizzing with delight all the way back to the hotel and then some. I can’t wait to come back to Chicago to see what these gastronomic magic makers come up with next!
    More info
    SepiaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
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