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Best Southwest American Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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321 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Smith - Chicago restaurant
1. The Smith - Chicago
4.7
Exceptional(2667)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 83 times today
At The Smith in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood, burger enthusiasts are treated to an exceptional dining experience that centers around crafting perfection between two buns. Known for its lively atmosphere and stellar service, The Smith has made a name for itself with its mouthwatering burgers. Patrons rave about the quality and authenticity of their burgers, with one diner exclaiming, "I had the Smith burger and it was amazing!" This casual American brasserie not only promises a great time but also delivers with its standout burgers that keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more. Whether it's the prime ingredients, the expert preparation, or the craft cocktails that complement each bite, The Smith stands out as a must-visit for burger aficionados in Chicago.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
2. Mercadito - River North
4.6
Exceptional(6255)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 40 times today
Mercadito in River North, Chicago, is a beacon of authentic Mexican cuisine, delighting diners with its modern twist on traditional dishes. Known for its "out of this world" food, guests rave about everything from the "delicious traditional guac with chips" to the "best tacos I’ve ever had." The signature tacos, filled with vibrant and flavorful ingredients, alongside perfectly balanced margaritas, ensure a dining experience that is both exciting and deeply satisfying. Patrons consistently praise the "amazing service" and the "fantastic atmosphere," making Mercadito a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Mexico right in the heart of Chicago. Whether it's the "flavorful and fast" meals or the specialties like the lobster tacos recommended by many, this spot is celebrated for making every visit memorable.
A photo of Beatrix - River North restaurant
3. Beatrix - River North
4.6
Exceptional(5315)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 81 times today
Beatrix is a neighborhood coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place in Chicago’s River North, Streeterville, Fulton Market and Oak Brook neighborhoods. The restaurant was created by Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Founder Rich Melman, Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs and Chef Partners John Chiakulas, Rita Dever and Susan Weaver. The menu features healthy meets delicious options, and is known for its iconic coffee and bakery counter including signature cookies, in-house pastry favorites and house blends from our very own, Beatrix Coffee Roasters. Beatrix is open daily for coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.
A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant
4. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(853)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 88 times today
Nestled in the heart of Chicago's River North, La Grande Boucherie offers a transcendent blend of traditional French cuisine and Chicago's rich culinary heritage. Housed in the stunning Belle Époque building, this restaurant provides an atmosphere that evokes the charm of a Parisian brasserie with its authentic fixtures and custom mosaic marble floors. Diners rave about the "exceptional food and outstanding service," with dishes like the creamy crème brûlée and perfectly prepared steak frites consistently earning high praise. Whether it's the indulgent ambiance, the meticulously crafted menu, or the attentive staff, La Grande Boucherie delivers an authentic French dining experience that is truly "the closest thing to a Paris bistro in Chicago."
A photo of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab restaurant
5. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
4.9
Exceptional(17491)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 158 times today
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood is a jewel of American cuisine. Celebrated for its partnership with the iconic Joe's Stone Crab of Miami Beach, this restaurant brings you the freshest seafood alongside sumptuous prime steaks. Diners rave about the "delicious King Crab legs and Stone Crab" and the "superb Crab Bisque," highlighting the authenticity and quality of its offerings. The service at Joe's is equally commendable; as one patron noted, the service was "exceptional, Lamar was amazing," adding to the overall exceptional dining experience. Whether it's for a slice of their famous key lime pie or their hand-carved 24 oz. Bone-In Rib Eye, Joe's consistently delivers a top-notch American dining experience that is both memorable and indulgent.
A photo of avec River North restaurant
6. avec River North
4.7
Exceptional(414)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 78 times today
Avec River North, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary French/American cuisine. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its "consistently delicious" fare, under the guidance of James Beard award-winning chef Paul Kahan and executive chef Dylan Patel. Patrons rave about the "creative and perfectly prepared food," with dishes like the bacon-wrapped dates and duck confit agnolotti receiving high praise. The ambiance of Avec River North matches the quality of its dishes, described as "a great vibe" and perfect for any occasion. As one diner put it, "Every dish was heavenly," making Avec River North a must-visit for a quintessential Chicago dining experience.
A photo of Barrio restaurant
7. Barrio
4.3
Awesome(2875)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 25 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 Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
8. Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(9098)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 86 times today
Smith & Wollensky in Chicago, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood, is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, offering diners an unforgettable riverfront dining experience. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and preparation of the seafood, with one guest highlighting, "Our dinners were excellent. Lobster was cooked perfectly and the filet mignon was tender and delicious." Another diner praised the variety and taste of the seafood starters stating, "Delicious as always. The crab cakes, oysters, and Wollensky salad were so tasty." This iconic Chicago staple not only promises a feast for the taste buds with its authentic and high-quality seafood but also enchants with its scenic views and outstanding service, making every visit genuinely special.
A photo of River Roast restaurant
9. River Roast
4.5
Awesome(3285)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 56 times today
Nestled along the scenic Chicago River in the vibrant River North neighborhood, River Roast stands out as a premier destination for authentic American cuisine. This bustling social house offers a unique dining experience with dramatic table-side carvings of whole roasted chicken, fish, and beef, highlighting the rustic yet refined flair of American tavern fare. Many patrons rave about the "AMAZING" whole roasted chicken and the perfectly seasoned roast dishes, making it clear why this spot is a favorite. The atmosphere is complemented by "spectacular views" and a "lively" vibe, ideal for any occasion. Whether it's enjoying a "top notch" brunch or savoring a meal under the stars on one of Chicago's best patios, River Roast delivers an unforgettable American dining experience, as echoed by many: "Food was amazing," and the service is consistently "excellent."
A photo of Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago restaurant
10. Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(14268)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 134 times today
Shaw’s Crab House & Oyster Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood is a beacon of American cuisine, expertly blending a rich tradition with top-tier seafood offerings since 1984. Celebrated for its exquisite seafood, Shaw's provides a "step back in time" to when dining was a grand affair. Patrons rave about the "unbelievable Narragansett bay scallops as sweet as candy" and the consistency that makes every visit memorable. The ambiance, described as a classic "supper club" charm, coupled with "exceptional" service, ensures that Shaw’s stands out as a premier destination for both locals and visitors seeking the pinnacle of American dining in Chicago.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Edvip
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our 2nd visit since they opened and both times have been great. Everything, including drinks, was excellent. High quality, great flavors. Came for dinner both times and looking forward to trying brunch.
    More info
    CeibaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Mexican• Lincoln Park
    •
    5
  • Vanessa
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Ryan was our server and he was excellent in his knowledge of food and very kind. He went above and beyond.
    More info
    Pilsen YardsPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Pilsen
    •
    4.7
  • Vanessa
    Austin •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Tomas was an awesome waiter. He was quick and helpful, offering to get us the 6 pack when we landed on 2 tacos each to save us a couple dollars. We said we were on a tight schedule and we were somehow in and out in maybe 40 mins total. Might have been 30. The tacos were also great. Al Pastor de Pollo and Carnitas killed. Tacos are overstuffed and therefore appropriately priced. Had to eat some of the eat out of them at first in order to pick up and eat. At the end when I said I was taking my guests to their first architecture boat tour, he shared his enthusiasm even after 10 years here and psyched them up. Thanks for a great quick meal.
    More info
    Broken English Taco Pub - Lake StreetPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • Skylarvip
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 10 Nov 2024
    Had a great dinner with some friends at Big Star! Thanks so much
    More info
    Big Star - WrigleyvillePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Wrigleyville
    •
    4.5
  • Alison
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 8 Nov 2024
    Antonio our server was amazing. The appetizers we ordered came out so fast we were still placing our taco order. Our 2 and 4 year old enjoyed playing with the foosball table. Tacos and margaritas were good. Elote portion was smaller than I expected but delicious. We arrived at 5 pm and it started to really get busy around 6 pm. Large indoor seating space.
    More info
    Big Star Wicker ParkPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Bucktown / Wicker Park
    •
    4.6

Discover best Mexican / Southwestern restaurants in River North (Chicago)

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right in the heart of River North, Chicago. This area is renowned for its dynamic dining scene, offering a variety of Mexican restaurants that cater to everyone from the casual diner to the gourmet enthusiast. Each restaurant in River North provides a unique take on traditional Mexican dishes, blending authentic flavors with innovative culinary techniques. Patrons can expect a diverse menu ranging from savory tacos and enchiladas to exotic ceviches and creative cocktails. Reviews consistently praise the high-quality food, festive atmosphere, and attentive service, highlighting the overall excellence of the Mexican dining experience in this locale. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Mexican restaurants in River North promise an unforgettable dining experience that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. This neighborhood is truly a cornerstone for those looking to indulge in top-notch Mexican cuisine in Chicago.

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