Downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood recently welcomed two exciting newcomers to its culinary landscape: Tre Dita, a fresh take on Italian cuisine, and Miru, an upscale Japanese culinary haven nestled within the St. Regis hotel on Wacker Drive. Both restaurants are operated by Lettuce Entertain You, a major hospitality group in Chicago.
Tre Dita
Tre Dita, which translates to “three fingers” in Italian, draws inspiration from Italy’s rich culinary tapestry, Tre Dita offers a contemporary spin on beloved Italian classics, spotlighting seasonal ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship.
At the heart of Tre Dita’s culinary ethos lies a dedication to quality and authenticity. Chef Evan Funke’s passion for pasta takes center stage, with each handmade creation reflecting the time-honored techniques and flavors of Italy. From velvety tagliatelle to delicate agnolotti bursting with savory fillings, every pasta dish at Tre Dita is a labor of love that pays homage to the soulful essence of Italian cooking.
Beyond pasta, Tre Dita’s menu showcases an array of meticulously prepared antipasti, seafood delights, and tantalizing meat dishes, each crafted with attention to detail and respect for tradition. Highlights include the Crispy Calamari Fritti, served with a tangy arrabbiata sauce, and the Grilled Branzino, a succulent Mediterranean delight accompanied by seasonal vegetables and herb-infused olive oil.
To complement the culinary offerings, Tre Dita boasts an impressive wine selection curated to enhance the dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or an adventurous novice, the restaurant’s knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to guide you through the perfect pairing for your meal.
If you’re looking for great date night spots or places to host your next group outing in Lakeshore East, be sure to check out Tre Dita.
Miru at the St. Regis
Perched atop the iconic St. Regis hotel on Wacker Drive, Miru beckons diners on a captivating culinary journey infused with the essence of Japanese tradition and contemporary flair. The Lakeshore East location offers a prime vantage point for getting the best views of downtown Chicago. Upon entering Miru, guests are greeted by an atmosphere of refined elegance, with sleek furnishings and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re indulging in the main dining room or savoring cocktails on the rooftop terrace, Miru offers an ambiance that elevates every moment.
At the heart of Miru’s menu lies a celebration of Japan’s culinary diversity, with a focus on pristine seafood, premium meats, and seasonal produce. Signature offerings at Miru include the Hamachi Crudo, featuring delicate slices of yellowtail accented with yuzu kosho and crispy shallots, and the Wagyu Beef Tataki, a harmonious blend of Japanese Wagyu and citrusy ponzu sauce. For sushi enthusiasts, Miru presents an array of meticulously crafted rolls and nigiri, each showcasing the freshest ingredients sourced from local and international markets.
In addition to its exceptional cuisine, Miru boasts an impressive beverage program featuring an array of sake, Japanese whisky, and handcrafted cocktails inspired by seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors. Whether you’re sipping a classic Old Fashioned or exploring rare sake varietals, Miru’s libations complement the dining experience with finesse.
From handmade pastas to pristine sushi, these new Lakeshore East restaurants offer a feast for the senses that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of downtown Chicago.
Gioia Ristorante and Pastificio is one of the newest restaurants opening on Restaurant Row in the West Loop at 1133 W. Randolph St.
Gioia will serve 12 to 15 pastas made fresh daily, featuring both modern, innovative dishes as well as classic regional favorites. The chef for Gioia, Federico Comacchio, got his “chops” at Michelin Starred restaurant, Ristorante Sadler in Milan, as well as the time he spent as the executive chef at Phil Stefani’s Coco Pazzo and 437 Rush. According to a spokesperson for Gioia, Italian native, Comacchio has been visiting Italy regularly and wants to serve what he’s learned back home.
Handmade pasta at Coco Pazzo where Comacchio served as executive chef. Courtesy of Coco Pazzo.
Gioia was slated to open its doors in spring of 2020, but for obvious reasons, that didn’t happen. Signage on their storefront says they expect to open in the coming weeks. Given how great their menu sounds, we can only hope it’s not much longer!
Randolph Street is known locally and internationally for its high density of top notch restaurants. From Michelin Starred culinary experiences to “the best burger ever”, you can find it all on Randolph Street.
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Chef Curtis Duffy is a Michelin three starred Chicago chef known for Randolph Street’s ‘Grace’, which closed its doors in 2017. After three years in the works, Duffy and his business partner, Michael Muser, opened their new Fulton Market restaurant, Ever, in July. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions and supply chain obstacles, Ever has pivoted into a new temporary concept called ‘Reve Burger’.
Ever started as a high end, contemporary concept with an 8-10 course tasting menu (starting at $285 per person) featuring seafood, seasonal vegetables, nuts, meats, seeds, and grains. The original menu consisted of ingredients like squab with guajillo, raspberry, and sorrel, hoja santa (also known as “root beer leaf”), and an earthy-looking wagyu beef with sunchoke, orange, and tat soi. However, COVID has made sourcing many of these ingredients much more difficult than usual. Between these supply chain obstacles and COVID-19 indoor dining restrictions, the restaurant’s offerings have changed considerably for the time being.
Osetra caviar and crab with a cucumber and citrus lace; Courtesy of Ever/Michael Muser
Ever’s Fulton Market space is currently being used for Reve, Duffy and Muser’s carryout concept. In addition to being “Ever” spelled backward, “Reve” also means “dream” in French. Reve offers gourmet burgers and American fare for delivery and pick up. The standard “Reve burger” consists of two, four-ounce beef patties, a few slices of American cheese, plus Vienna dill pickles, and special sauce between a brioche bun from Highland Baking Co, served with shoestring fries that supposedly get crunchier after they’re reheated. Reve chef du cuisine, Jason Selk, got his chops working at Culver’s in Wisconsin. Selk hopes eating the delicious burgers from Reve will invoke a feeling of nostalgia for the consumer.
Courtesy of Michael Muser/Reve
Be sure to try Reve burger while it’s here for a limited time!
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Does the recent stay at home order have you wondering what this Thanksgiving will look like? Don’t fret! These downtown Chicago restaurants are offering incredible Thanksgiving dinners for carryout and delivery!
Aba – West Loop
Give your celebration a Mediterranean twist with Aba’s Thanksgiving dinner. For $48.95 per person, you’ll get pumpkin hummus, truffle baked orzo, grilled kababs, crispy Brussels sprouts, and creme brûlée, with an option to add a bottle of wine.
Duck Duck Goat – West Loop
In the spirit of everything this holiday season being somewhat…atypical…ditch the turkey and opt for duck! Renowned chef, Stephanie Izard’s Chinese inspired menu includes peking duck, soy-roasted sweet potatoes, green beans with black bean sauce, char siu bao buns, mashed potato spring rolls and veggie fried rice. Duck Duck Goat’s Thanksgiving menu starts at $175 for four people.
Maple and Ash – Gold Coast
If a decadent holiday meal is your thing, look no further. Maple and Ash’s package includes a whole turkey, lobster bisque, shrimp cocktail, plenty of sides and salads and apple pie, with an option to add the IDGAF add-on, which includes caviar, king crab, filet mignon, truffle jus and more, starting at $70 per person.
Courtesy of Maple and Ash
etta – Wicker Park and River North
Etta’s prix fixe menu features Thanksgiving favorites with an elevated touch (can you say, cacio e pepe mac and cheese?) For $85 per person you’ll also get a bottle of wine, focaccia, salad, turkey breast, bolognese stuffing, veggies and pumpkin cake with spiced cream cheese frosting.
Bang Bang Pies – Logan Square
Are you making dinner yourself but looking for an extra something? Bang Bang Pies is a Chicago favorite for Thanksgiving classics like pumpkin, apple, chocolate, pecan, and key lime pies. Call ahead to order! Their pies go quickly!
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Streets throughout Chicago are being designated as “shared streets”, which means they are closed to auto traffic on weekends to maximize the space available for outdoor dining. In Lincoln Park, North Lincoln Avenue from West Fullerton Avenue to West Wrightwood Avenue has been designated as shared street space for outdoor dining on weekends. During the rest of the week, however, you can still head to these Lincoln Park favorites for outdoor dining.
Cafe Ba Ba Reeba – 2024 N. Halsted St.
Head to Cafe Ba Ba Reeba for tapas, pinxos, paella, and sangria. Their all seasons enclosed patio is open for up to 50% capacity. Reservations are required for patio dining due to the limited seating and availability. You can make your reservations on OpenTable or here. Not looking to dine out? Cafe Ba Ba Reeba also offering carryout including Spanish cocktail kits, like the popular Mezcal Mule.
Summer House Santa Monica – 1954 N. Halsted St.
Avocado toast with poached eggs and scallion mascarpone
Just up Halsted Street from Cafe Ba Ba Reeba is Summer House Santa Monica, a trendy spot serving California inspired fare with local and market driven ingredients. The front patio and Vitamin D room are now both open with 50% capacity and an all day menu.
The J Parker Rooftop at Hotel Lincoln – 1816 N. Clark St.
Enjoy stunning views of the lakefront, Lincoln Park, and the Chicago skyline from the J Parker rooftop. The J Parker, from Boka Restaurant Group, offers small plates, like spring rolls and elote hush puppies, as well as a few salads and burgers, but is best known for it’s unrivaled selection of signature cocktails.
Take in sweeping views from the J Parker rooftop atop Hotel Lincoln
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Looking for restaurants with outdoor seating near River West? Try one of these neighborhood favorites!
The Dawson– 730 W. Grand Ave
Originally built in 1888 and reimagined in 2013, The Dawson’s ambiance and decor perfectly blend rustic, historic charm and chic, modern aesthetic. With gorgeous topiary work and greenery, trendy but comfortable lounge furniture, an outdoor fireplace, hanging lights, reclaimed wood partitions, and the high fence that surrounds it, The Dawson’s large patio makes you feel transported to a world of its own. There’s a reason The Dawson is known as the “gathering place of River West”. Matcha grilled ahi tuna served with papaya salad, chopped salad topped with chicken fried lobster, house made spirits and expert mixologists, there’s not much The Dawson doesn’t have. See their creative menu here.
Frontier– 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave
James Beard Award winning chef, Brian Jupiter, crafted a menu “dictated by nature” at Frontier. Frontier is probably best known for its signature, “Whole Animal Experience”, which allows you to order a whole boar, goat, alligator, lamb, or salmon, among others. For those who aren’t quite as carnivorous, Frontier has a host of other dishes, like cauliflower or salmon hash, cauliflower steak, ahi tuna sandwich, kale salad, and more.
Twisted Spoke- 501 N. Ogden Ave
Twisted Spoke has both patio and rooftop seating and is a River West go to for burgers, brunch, and drinks. Their brunch menu, which they call, “Hangover Hospital”, features classic brunch favorites, like omelettes and French toast, and innovative twists, like breakfast gumbo, banana fritters, and pears poached in champagne. Twisted Spoke also has an extensive Bloody Mary menu as well as impressive beer, bourbon, and spirit lists.
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What’s a summer in Chicago without a trendy new rooftop lounge or al fresco dining? After months of quarantine and winter, this Chicago summer has made outdoor dining even more of a staple than it already was. Here are some of the restaurants in the South Loop offering outdoor dining.
The Bar at Moody Tongue – 2515 S. Wabash Ave
Moody Tongue’s bar menu is less like what you’d expect to see on a bar menu and a little more like what you’d expect at a contemporary, Michelin Starred dinner place with a month long waiting list. If you’re looking for something light, try the smoked beet and charred strawberry tartare with spruce infused ricotta and sourdough, the salmon crudo, heirloom tomato and compressed watermelon salad, or the butter poached king crab with corn, gnocchi, fennel, and host of other flavorful accoutrements. If you’re looking for something even more decedent, try the confit pork belly, Maine lobster roll, fried quail, or crispy whole summer flounder with fermented bok choi, shiitake, and a chili crunch.
Kurah Mediterranean – 1355 S. Michigan Ave
Kurah Mediterranean has something for everyone. From vegan to gluten free to carnivore, all types of eaters can find a dish to enjoy here. Pomegranate tabouli, roasted eggplant flatbread, bacon wrapped dates, and the shwarma platter are just a few of the menu favorites. Kurah also has a daily happy hour from 4pm to 6pm offering $5 wines, beers, sangria, and appetizers as well as $2 off cocktails.
AO Hawaiian Hideout – 1315 S. Wabash Ave
AO Hawaiian Hideout serves up homestyle southeast Asian and Hawaiian fare. Poke bowls, sushi, short ribs, fish tacos, and curry dishes all grace the menu. AO also has an entirely gluten free vegan menu and a broad cocktail menu. Although AO has postponed their weekly live entertainment due to COVID-19, they still have fantastic specials! Click here to see more details.
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In light of COVID-19 protective measures, rooftop and al Fresca dining has become even more of a Chicago summertime staple than it already was. Here are some of the top places in the West Loop to enjoy outdoor summer dining!
Nobu Hotel Rooftop – 155 N. Peoria St.
One of the West Loop’s newest summer hot spots is Nobu Hotel’s rooftop. Take in stunning views of the Chicago skyline as you enjoy light Japanese inspired fare, a wide range of sakes, wines, and hand crafted cocktails. Menu favorites include the black cod lettuce cups, Arctic char rococo, New Zealand lamb, ribeye Kushiyaki, nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls. Nobu’s rooftop is open daily from 4pm to 10pm and hosts live music and DJ performances throughout the summer months. Reservations are recommended.
Aba – 302 N. Green St.
Aba, a Fulton Market favorite, is a Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop patio. Try one of Abc’s signature dishes, including skirt steak shawarma, short rib hummus, Muhammara with pomegranate molasses, or the whipped feta appetizer. Mixologist Liz Pearce showcases rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits. Aba is open for nightly dinner and weekend brunch.
Beatrix – 834 W. Fulton Market St.
Whether you’re stopping by for their classic freshly squeezed juices, an innovative floral cocktail, farm to table breakfast pastries, or any number of lunch or dinner favorites (like the quinoa burger, truffle risotto, or miso glazed salmon), Beatrix is undeniably a neighborhood staple. Beatrix Fulton Market is open daily for coffee and bakery service starting at 9am, breakfast through dinner on weekends, and for patio dining and carryout for lunch and dinner on weekdays.
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Illinois is now in phase 3 of reopening post COVID, meaning that infection rates are stable or declining, which allows residents to gather in groups of 10 or less and continue to wear a mask in public. Here’s an overview of what’s open and allowed in downtown Chicago as part of phase 3 of Illinois’ post COVID reopening plan.
Courtesy of Jason Mowry
Although restaurants have already been open for carryout, phase 3 allows restaurants to offer outdoor dining and drinking for groups of 6 or less with social distancing measures. Some restaurants that did not previously offer outdoor dining, like Smyth and The Loyalist of the West Loop, have made accommodations on the surrounding sidewalks and outdoor areas to offer outdoor seating.
Courtesy of Megan Markham
As of June 17th, bars that do not serve food were allowed to open for outdoor seating as well.
If you’re looking for summer activities, many outdoor attractions in Chicago are reopening, if they haven’t already. Walking, biking, and hiking as well as boating with no more than 6 to 10 people (depending on boat size) are already allowed. Parks are open with 25% maximum capacity for indoor facilities. The Lakefront Trail is set to reopen on June 22nd with hours from 6am to 7pm, while other parks and beaches east of Lakeshore Drive as well as the 606 trail will remain closed. Pools, playgrounds, beaches, museums, theaters, and zoos are to remain closed for the time being as well.
Kelly Sikkema
For more information on what’s reopening near you, here’s a comprehensive list of what each phase means for each type of site and which phase your area is currently in by zip code.
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Although Lakeshore East is a small neighborhood and one of Chicago’s best hidden gems, it is still home to lots of restaurants. Here are some of our favorite Lakeshore East restaurants offering take out and delivery.
Mezcalina
Mezcalina offers upscale Mexican cuisine with lunch, dinner, and brunch menus. Their menus are full of seafood, vegetarian, and meat based options. Mezcalina is currently offering take out and delivery.
MingHin
MingHin serves Cantonese favorites like hot pots, seafood, and dim sum as well as signature cocktails. Their menu is centered around sharable, small dishes, making MingHin a great place to try with friends. MingHin is currently offering take out and delivery. Check out their menu and order online here.
Courtesy of MingHin
Eggy’s Diner
Eggy’s is the neighborhood go-to spot for all day breakfast and baked goods but they also make great lunch and dinner dishes. Their rotating menu uses seasonal and local ingredients. A little known fact is that Eggy’s is actually named after the David Carlins’ (president of Magellan Development) childhood friend, Robert Mallin, who was nicknamed “Eggy”. Magellan Development is largely responsible for the development of the Lakeshore East neighborhood, so it seems fitting! Eggy’s is currently offering take out only. Check out their menu here.
Courtesy of Eggy’s Diner
III Forks
III Forks serves seafood, steaks, and classic American fare with all the favorite steakhouse sides. Grab a wedge salad, shrimp cocktail, creamed corn, lobster mac and cheese, or roasted seasonal vegetables with any one of their .005% quality hand picked steaks. III Forks is currently offering take out only. See their complete dinner menu here.
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Not only can you enjoy some of your favorite River North restaurants during the stay at home order, many are even offering specials for curb side pick up and carry out. Here are some of our favorites!
Courtesy of Shayda Torabi
Pacific Standard Time- 151 W. Erie St.
The best of California meets the best of the midwest at Pacific Standard Time. In addition to offering carry out for their traditional menu, Pacific Standard Time is offering a $40 option that feeds four people. It includes salad, cheese pizza, rigatoni with sausage, and chocolate chip cookies with gluten free options for pizza and pasta available upon request.
Siena Tavern- 51 W. Kinzie St.
Siena Tavern is another River North hot spot offering curb side pickup specials. If your order by calling their direct line at 312-595-1322 they will include a bottle of wine with your order. Orders over $150 also get a $25 gift card. Additionally, for just $40, you can order a pasta or pizza meal kit or a family style meal. Siena Tavern is a go-to if you’re looking for innovative takes on Italian fare, serving up dishes like squid ink linguine with lobster, truffle pizza, or the giant wagyu meatball with tomato sauce made for dipping (pictured).
Courtesy of Siena Tavern
Gene and Georgetti- 500 N. Franklin St.
As Chicago’s oldest steak house, Gene and Georgetti has been a neighborhood favorite since 1941. Order curb side carry out for menu staples like the Bibb lettuce salad with seared tuna, Italian sausage with peppers, baked clams, huge portions of pasta, and of course, steaks. For a limited time, receive a $25 gift card with every $100 you order for carry out.
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Even with the shelter in place order, you can still enjoy many of the West Loop’s greatest restaurants. Here are some of the West Loop restaurants offering curbside pick up.
Courtesy of Louis Hansel
Aba- 302 N. Green St.
Aba is a favorite when it comes to Mediterranean fare. With an assortment of spreads and hummus, meat, fish, and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Aba is offering both carryout and delivery (including bottles of wine)
Au Cheval- 800 W. Randolph St.
Au Cheval isn’t going to let anything stand in the way of its customers getting their hands on it’s world famous burger. With a high quality patty, dijonnaise, thick cut bacon, fried egg, and even fois gras, it’s easy to see why this burger has developed quite the following. Thankfully, it’s available for curbside pick up.
Monteverde- 1020 W. Madison St.
If homemade pastas, gnocchi, and dishes with truffle galore are your cup of tea, try Monteverde. The menu includes traditional classics like spinach and ricotta ravioli or gnocchi with pesto and innovative creations like wok fried arrabiata with shrimp and tagliatelle.
Momotaro- 820 W. Lake St.
Courtesy of Momotaro
Be as involved or uninvolved as you’d like. Momotaro offers an a la carte menu with sushi, ramen, and other favorites if you’re looking for standard pick up, but you can also spice things up with one of their meal or cocktail kits.
Little Goat- 820 W. Randolph St.
If you’re looking to enjoy your Sunday brunch ritual from home, picking up carryout from Little Goat Diner is a good place to start! Try their beloved hash browns, unique waffles (like the Fat Elvis, which comes topped with peanut butter flavored butter), and in typical West Loop fashion, an assortment of breakfast meats.
The Loyalist- 175 N. Ada St.
The Loyalist serves American favorites with an upscale twist. Order dishes like the homemade biscuit with n’duja butter and honey, beet and avocado salad, or their signature dish, the cheeseburger, complete with cartelized onions and seasoning.
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Looking for places to grab breakfast in Old Town? Check out these Wells Street restaurants!
Kanela Breakfast Club– 1552 N. Wells St.
The name Kanela (which means “cinnamon” in Greek) is apropos for this restaurant, which serves up brunch favorites with a Greek twist. Everything on Kanela’s menu is made from scratch with local and organic ingredients wherever possible. Menu favorites include chia seed pudding, loukoumades (Greek donuts), red velvet French toast, the California Benedict (made with avocado mash and vegetarian bacon), and the impossible burger.
The Vig– 1527 N. Wells St.
Brunch by day; bar scene by night. The Vig keeps a full house in it’s prime Wells Street location around the clock. With a brunch menu that includes lobster and waffles, breakfast nachos, and ginger donut holes, a dinner menu with king crab bar, superfood salad, and cauliflower au gratin, a large dessert menu, full bar, and a late night menu that even includes a bone in ribeye and roasted eggplant Bahn mi, you can find pretty much anything you’re looking for at The Vig.
Nookies-1746 N. Wells St.
Nookies has been a neighborhood favorite for over 47 years and still has original items on the menu! (Where else can you order a phosphate?) Nookies doesn’t just serve breakfast and brunch. Their eclectic menu also includes dinner entrees like steak, pasta, salads, stir fry dishes, and innovative sandwiches like their salmon pita.
Hashbrowns Cafe-1155 N. Wells St.
In addition to being a beloved and cost friendly neighborhood place to meet for brunch or a coffee meeting, Hashbrowns Cafe is known for pioneering sweet potato hashbrowns. Menu items are named after Chicago neighborhoods and are made from all fresh ingredients. Stop by for breakfast or lunch favorites all day. Gluten free options are available.
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Whether you live in the South Loop or are looking for places to eat before you visit Museum Campus or Grant Park, here are a few of the top breakfast and brunch places in the South Loop.
Courtesy of Rachel Park
Yolk- 1120 S Michigan Ave
Yolk offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch options with creative twists on classic favorites, like the smoked salmon scrambler, the brisket breakfast burger, and red velvet French toast. Diners love the sizable portions and reasonable pricing. Yolk even has their own private label coffee and house made Greek yogurt.
Eleven City Diner- 1112 S Wabash Ave
Eleven City Diner was created in the vision of the “classic friendly diner”. The black and white family photos on the walls, nostalgic “band box”, neon signage, counter seating, milkshakes with barbershop straws, subway tile, and ice cream parlor style tables and chairs create the reminiscent ambiance. Eleven City Diner offers breakfast all day (including vegan and vegetarian breakfast options) as well as a walk up deli to go.
Courtesy of Matheus Frade
Spoke and Bird- 205 E 18th St
Spoke and Bird is a rustic chic breakfast spot that uses local, organic, and fair trade ingredients sourced from over 30 local and urban farms. The employee owned restaurant strives to offer delicious and healthy food at a reasonable price in a welcoming environment. Try a homemade quiche or Spoke and Bird’s many pastries.
Meli Cafe- 500 S Dearborn St (in Hotel Blake)
Meli serves up favorite American breakfast and lunch dishes with a Greek twist and is known for its farm to table dishes, fresh squeezed juice, large portions, and homemade marmalade. Meli has great daily specials and full service juice, espresso, and liquor bars. If you can’t decide whether to get a corned beef hash Benedict or a wheatgrass shot, get both.
Courtesy of Ben Kolde
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Your furry friends shouldn’t have to “sit” and “stay” home while you soak up all the West Loop has to offer. Bring them with you to these dog friendly spots in West Loop.
Ericka Rios, Director of Leasing, with Ruben Oliver, the “DAC Doodle”
Saint Lou’s Assembly- 664 W Lake St
The patio at Saint Lou’s Assembly is a prime pooch social spot. Bring your dog for a “dog beer”, which comes in a regular beer-esque bottle. Stop by for one of many dog oriented events, like the dog halloween costume contest!
Courtesy of Saint Lou’s Assembly
Wishbone West Loop- 161 N Jefferson St
Chef Joel Nickson serves up southern classics and a mix-and-match menu of side dishes. Wishbone has been a West Loop favorite for 30 years. Their dog friendly patio is a great place to go for Monday through Friday happy hour light bites, including fried chicken sliders, jambalaya, and catfish nuggets.
City Mouse Chicago- 311 N Morgan St
Looking for great brunch in West Loop? Look no further! City Mouse Chicago serves up seasonally inspired fare in the Ace Hotel. Dogs are welcome in the indoor lounge, where both you and your pet can order food. The pet menu includes meat based items and water is served in doggie bowls. The “human” lounge menu has great selections and happy hour specials as well.
A reservation is recommended for the dog friendly lounge area.
Photo Courtesy of Anjali Pinto, citymousechicago.com
Kuma’s Corner- 852 W Fulton Market
Kuma’s Corner is known both for serving up some of the best burgers in the city with unique twists, as well as their support of local heavy music artists. Bring your pet to their dog friendly patio to check out their eclectic menu and hear a great mix of Chicago heavy musicians. You can also listen to the Kuma’s playlist on Spotify.
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It seems like the weather started cooling off as soon as the clock struck “September”. Warm up with some ramen at one of these spectacular spots near West Loop.
Courtesy of Ramen Takeya
Ramen Takaya
Ramen Takeya tops the list for its ambiance and great menu selection. The pork belly buns, poke bowl appetizer, and classic Tokyo shoyu are go-to favorites, but with the vegan seitan ramen option, there’s something everyone can enjoy. The trendy-casual decor and narrow, deep layout makes Ramen Takeya feel like a spot in Tokyo only locals would know about. Ramen Takeya is on Fulton Market in the heart of West Loop. Click here to see a menu.
Courtesy of Ramen Takeya
High Five Ramen
If a ramen restaurant was a speakeasy, it’d be High Five Ramen. This hidden gem is located under Green Street Smoked Meats in the heart of West Loop and is a Hogsalt concept, the same restaurant group that manages Au Cheval and Bavettes. Seating is extremely limited to make sure to arrive early!
Courtesy of High Five Ramen
Oiistar
Oiistar Wicker Park is just a rocks throw from West Loop and combines traditional ramen with French and Italian influences to get the best of multiple cuisines. The pork-based broth is made daily and stewed for 18 hours and combined with fresh ingredients. Unique appetizers, like a kimchi French onion soup, give Oiistar its unique flare. Based on the minimalist aesthetic, you’d never guess the complex array of dishes on Oiistar’s menu. if you’re looking for traditional ramen with a twist of something a little different, check out Oiistar Wicker Park.
Courtesy of Oiistar
Ramen San
Courtesy of Ramen San
Watch the lively West Loop scene on Green Street from the outdoor patio seating at Ramen San. The hip decor, 90’s music, and great beer selection make Ramen San the perfect spot for a laid back Sunday afternoon.
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Meet West Loop’s Landmark apartments—a charming luxury rental building in one of Chicago’s trendiest neighborhoods! This LEED-certified, 30-story masterpiece, designed by Morris Adjmi Architects, reflects and pays homage to the unique historic architecture that can be found throughout the West Loop.
Upon walking into any luxury apartment at Landmark West Loop, you’ll find an open-style, modern kitchen with sleek, modern finishes. Complete with features like high-performance Bosch appliances, a stainless steel island, custom storm grey cabinetry, and subway tile backsplash, these kitchens are the epitome of luxury dining and excellent for entertaining guests and hosting dinner parties.
Each residence includes large, 9’ floor-to-ceiling windows that give you spectacular views of downtown Chicago near the West Loop, custom-designed plank flooring, and cutting-edge Nest thermostats to create the perfect ambiance for your home.
The glamorous bathrooms feature a frameless glass shower, dual sink, Quartz countertops, and a custom-designed vanity.
For entertainment, check out the Landmark Sport & Social amenity area—complete with a swimming pool, hot tub, sun deck, grilling stations and a fire pit for those perfect summer days when you want to BBQ, or roast marshmallows with your friends. There is also a fully-furnished demonstration kitchen for your convenience.
For your fitness needs, enjoy the state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center including cardio and weight equipment. There is also a luxurious, serene yoga studio.
Next time you’re near the West Loop, check out Randolph and Halsted Streets for the best entertainment and nightlife options. Halsted Street has plenty of shopping, theatres, boutiques, coffee shops, and bars. Additionally, Randolph Street offers many fine dining experiences for you to choose from. Furthermore, Randolph Street is famous for its annual market street festival, Taste of Randolph, that features the best cuisine in the West Loop and live music performances.
Looking for Downtown Chicago luxury apartments near the West Loop? Give us a call today! We’d be happy to keep you in the loop!
Ashley Lemaine
DAC Contributor
Just as the weather’s cooling down, the restaurant scene is heating up! Check out these three noteworthy restaurants in Downtown Chicago opening this upcoming week.
Phil Stefani (Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants) and Adolfo Garcia (Pearl Tavern) are bringing a taste of 1940’s Cuba to River North. The new River North spot will host one of the country’s largest rum selections as well as live Cuban music with an intimate, speakeasy vibe. Furthermore, decor will feature gold leaf oval ceilings and island chic wallpaper with palm trees. Stylish accents include a brass bar, cement tiles imported from the Dominican Republic, and an eight foot mounted marlin.
Opening Saturday, October 8th at 601 N Wells Street.
Chef Derek Rylon already has a loyal fan base with Batter & Berries (Lincoln Park). Therefore, his new Kansas City style barbecue concept is being met with great excitement in the South Loop for its downtown Chicago opening. Moreover, Rylon’s Smokehouse will feature a rotating menu of whiskey-based sauces. The 2400 square foot sit-down restaurant will host a selection of pit grilled and smoked dishes.
Opening Wednesday, October 12 at 67 E Cermack Road.
Finally, the highly anticipated Beacon Tavern opens this week in the heart of the Loop, steps from Michigan Avenue. This new concept from Billy Lawless (The Dawson, River West) will feature an large meat selection. Along with the impressive oyster selection, Beacon will offer a wide array of seafood options. “Our guests can expect a menu loaded with fresh interpretations of tavern classics and seafood-forward dishes and libations, which play heavily on classic American cocktails with a twist,” Lawless said in a statement, courtesy of DNA Info. Furthermore, Beacon Tavern will house an extensive wine selection.
Opening Tuesday, October 11 at 405 N Wabash.
Courtesy of Beacon Tavern
Looking for apartments near River North, the Loop, or near South Loop? Give us a call today!
Lakeshore East offers tons of amazing options when it comes to great food and a luxurious dining experience. Here are the best restaurants to check out when you’re in the Lakeshore East neighborhood.
#1 III Forks
Only the finest Prime steak makes the cut at this mouthwatering steak house. Paired with ocean-fresh seafood like Wild Yellow Tail Hamachi and Seared Scallops, you’re in for a feast! Additionally, there’s an awesome rooftop patio for those who’d love to enjoy great food and great views of Chicago.
Courtesy of III Forks
#2 Filini
Another gem of Lakeshore East is located in the luxe Aqua building. Filini is an upscale Italian restaurant and bar featuring renowned chef, Rick Starr. Braised Veal Cheeks, Tortellini, Avocado Fries, Coconut Chocolate Mousse — these are just a few of the delicious items that await you at Filini.
Courtesy of Filini Restaurant and Bar
#3 MingHin Cuisine
Featured on WTTW’s “Check, Please!” Series, MingHin Cuisine is famous for its authentic Cantonese dishes. This stylish, contemporary restaurant has all of the dumplings, egg rolls, and stir-fry dishes that you can imagine!
Courtesy of MingHin Cuisine
#4 Mezcalina
This upscale Mexican restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and mosaic of ingredients. With dishes like Chile-Marinated Pork, Lamb in Adobo Sauce, and Carnitas Tacos on the menu, there are tons of mouthwatering options to choose from. Furthermore, to top it all off, savor the Tres Leches dessert — a special vanilla cake infused with three delicious milks.
Courtesy of Yelp
The possibilities are endless! Ready to live in the Lakeshore East neighborhood? Then call us or stop by our office at 180 N. Wacker to get started. We’d be happy to keep you in the loop!
