Best Comfort Food Restaurants in Downtown / Loop

Restaurant Review: The Girl and The Goat The Girl and The Goat continues to solidify its reputation as one of Chicago’s must-visit dining destinations. With a focus on bold flavors and a playful approach to globally inspired dishes, this restaurant delivers a truly memorable experience. Highlights: •Bread and Pimento: This dish is deceptively simple but executed to perfection. The warm, freshly baked bread pairs beautifully with the creamy, smoky pimento spread. It’s the kind of starter that sets the tone for an indulgent meal, leaving you reaching for seconds (or thirds). •Empanadas: Bursting with flavor, these are a standout. The flaky, golden crust envelops a perfectly seasoned filling that balances savory richness with a touch of spice. Each bite feels like a small, delicious adventure. Drinks to Complement Your Meal: While The Girl and The Goat boasts a full bar menu offering craft cocktails, wines, and beers to suit any palate, the non-alcoholic options are equally impressive. The menu features thoughtfully crafted mocktails, infused with fresh herbs, seasonal fruits, and house-made syrups. Standouts include a refreshing citrus-and-mint blend and a rich hibiscus and ginger cooler, each perfectly balanced to enhance the meal without overpowering the flavors of the food. Dessert Note: •Chocolate and Peanut Butter Dessert: A decadent and satisfying way to end your meal. The harmony of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates a nostalgic yet elevated experience. The textures—silky, crunchy, and smooth—make this dessert unforgettable. The Girl and The Goat’s ability to innovate while staying approachable is what makes it a perennial favorite. From small plates to desserts, and a drink menu that caters to every guest, every dish tells a story worth savoring.

The butternut squash soup was delicious! Friendly, helpful service as well.

French Bistro doesn’t get any more authentic in Chicago than Le Bouchon, which maintains its excellence in the tradition of Jean-Claude. Service is quintessentially Chicagoan in professionalism and personality, while lacking in the typical French diffidence. Can’t misses: steak frites or moules et frites, tarte à l’oignon or crôque madame. Specials are spéciales and a late lunch can make the rest of your day.

The service and atmosphere were both wonderful! The food overall was very good. The sweet potato bisque soup was delicious…the garnish was a little off though - not sure what it was. There was also a spice I could not identify in the otherwise beautifully dressed house salad that was unpleasant enough I didn’t eat it —fine to add unique tastes to other dishes, but not something I’d expect in a basic house salad. I’d ordered the hamburger the last few times I’ve eaten there — always a winner! My friend took my advice and agreed! Glad I ventured out to try the Cuban sandwich - a new favorite. Last but not least the beignets were amazing! Always a great experience at the Gage!

I absolutely adored every single thing about this place. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was so warm and inviting—it felt truly magical. The food was beyond delicious, with every bite better than the last. The jazz music added such a classy and soulful touch, creating the perfect ambiance. The entire experience was simply unforgettable, and the decor was absolutely stunning. It’s a place I’ll definitely be raving about and coming back to