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Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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179 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
1. Peanut Park Trattoria
4.8
Exceptional(240)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 11 times today
Located in the heart of nostalgic "Little Italy" on Chicago's famed Taylor Street, Peanut Park is a traditional Italian joint brought to you by your friends at Coalfire and Tempesta Market.Chicago Magazine voted Peanut Park One of the Top Restaurants in Chicago February 2022 and Tasting Table said we are " One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago" this past May 2022. Our menu is simple and we aim to celebrate Italian classics and timeless bistro favorites.We embody passion, integrity, and excellence while striving to provide an authentic dining experience by celebrating tradition and invoking the modern. Don't miss our handmade pastas, pizza and incredible cocktail menu. Join us in our dining room or dine al fresco on the rooftop for a one of a kind experience!
A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant
2. The Walnut Room - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7711)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 55 times today
For Large Parties 21 or more: please contact us at http://macysrestaurants.com/contact-us/ For Holiday Questions and Menu: http://macysrestaurants.com/walnut-room/holiday2024/The world famous Walnut Room has been a Chicago tradition since 1907. Located on the 7th floor of Macy's on State Street, the Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. Conveniently located in the heart of the Chicago theater district, the Walnut Room is an excellent choice to take a break from shopping or for a meal and a glass of wine before the show. Enjoy our Famous Mrs. Herring's Chicken Pot Pie and other well known favorites on the menu.
A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
3. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(14954)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 242 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 Duck Duck Goat restaurant
4. Duck Duck Goat
4.8
Exceptional(5614)
Price: Expensive
• Chinese • West Loop
Booked 172 times today
Chef Stephanie Izard brings her take on Chinese-American cuisine to Chicago's Fulton Market District with Duck Duck Goat, her third venture with Boka Restaurant Group. The menu features hand-pulled noodles, house-made dumplings, wontons, fried rice, and more, ensuring no diner leaves hungry. On weekends, Duck Duck Goat also offers a delightful dim sum brunch menu, perfect for starting the day with a creative twist on classic favorites.
A photo of Momotaro restaurant
5. Momotaro
4.6
Exceptional(3889)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • West Loop
Booked 151 times today
Momotaro is a multi-level Japanese restaurant located in the West Loop. Led by Executive Chef Gene Kato, Momotaro has had the honor of being named Restaurant of the Year in both Chicago Magazine and Chicago Social. Under Kato’s leadership the restaurant has come to define the balance between traditional values and modern technique, blending the two in a science and art that has resulted in an authentic, innovative menu. The restaurant, designed by the world renowned AvroKO, also contains the subterranean Izakaya at Momotaro (a laid back, lively lower-level bar and restaurant reminiscent of the neon-lit haunts of trendy Tokyo neighborhoods) and an elegant second floor private space that overlooks the main dining room.
A photo of The Palm Court restaurant
6. The Palm Court
4.6
Exceptional(5092)
Price: Very Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 75 times today
For those who love their afternoon teas fresh, fragrant and steeped in history, Palm Court at The Drake Hotel serving tea for over a century. Even the Queen and Princess Diana have made their royal visits here. Your afternoon tea begins with Palais de Thes menu, which features 15 tea blends including classic selections like the English Breakfast to modern yet delightful twists like the Mélange du Cap.Tea is served in individual tea pots accompanied by the traditional three tiered tea tray filled with an arrangement of gourmet finger sandwiches and scones; and dainty petit fours with complements of preserves, lemon curd and English double Devon cream.And let’s not forget about our little tea. The Prince & Princess Afternoon tea service, suitable for children between 3 and 12 years of age is available throughout the duration of afternoon tea service.Reservations are heavily encouraged. Tea service seating duration is 90minAdults $78 / Kids $35 (3-12)
A photo of RL Restaurant restaurant
7. RL Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7343)
Price: Expensive
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 125 times today
If you do not find availability online, please call the restaurant directly at 312-475-1100.Located adjacent to the Ralph Lauren Chicago flagship store on Michigan Avenue, RL Restaurant features the vision and décor of Ralph Lauren in a modern club atmosphere. RL Restaurant offers classic American cuisine inspired by Ralph Lauren’s personal favorites. Seasonal dishes range from a chopped vegetable salad to a lobster roll sandwich, grilled fish of the day and steaks. On the cocktail list, guests can choose from classic drinks and a diverse selection of wines and other fine spirits.
A photo of El Che Steakhouse & Bar restaurant
8. El Che Steakhouse & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2117)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • West Loop
Booked 75 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 Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
9. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago
4.7
Exceptional(8989)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 122 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 Boka restaurant
10. Boka
4.8
Exceptional(7188)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Lincoln Park
Booked 94 times today
Michelin-starred Boka Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s dining scene since 2003. In 2014, following a major renovation, Chef Lee Wolen joined as Executive Chef and Partner, quickly gaining critical acclaim. Named “Chef of the Year” by both Phil Vettel of the Chicago Tribune and Eater Chicago in 2014, and again in 2015, Lee has helped elevate Boka to new heights. The restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine that highlights seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. The sophisticated yet inviting ambiance sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience, with daily-changing tasting menus that showcase timeless and seasonal American flavors.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    Canberra •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I really enjoyed dining at girl & the goat. Their menu selections were spectacular, and they were able to accommodate those with dairy intolerance (which most restaurants are unable to do). Their food selections were great and flavorful, and their staff was friendly. I would definitely recommend the chicken or steak dishes.
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Rosy
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Lex our server was fabulous from start to finish! He explained the starters and entrees beautifully. We got the braised short ribs which were flavorful and tender just as described. It was our first time, from the host warmly greeting us while they gave the kids a stuffie each. The girls ordered from the kids menu which gave them a beautiful mug to take home! The fairy that went our granting wishes was truly magical! And to top it all off they took complimentary family photo to remember the outing. Definitely will be back and start a new family Christmas tradition! Thank you again Lex and staff for making it a very special and memorable evening!
    More info
    The Walnut Room - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.6
  • JulieVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Loved the many tasty vegetarian options. Everything our table had was excellent. Will definitely return.
    More info
    MomotaroPrice: Expensive• Japanese• West Loop
    •
    4.6
  • MerinVIP
    Los Angeles •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Jan 2025
    Service was great. They got us in early when we arrive too early before our reservation. Food was outstanding. We would go back again.  love the vibe of this restaurant.
    More info
    Duck Duck GoatPrice: Expensive• Chinese• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • David
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 19 Dec 2024
    The welcome to the restaurant was very pleasant. The service was friendly and very attentive. This was not my first visit to.Peanut Park. They are consistently friendly and attentive. The food is always excellent and reasonably priced. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
    More info
    Peanut Park TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
    •
    4.8

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Discover the hidden treasures of Little Italy / University Village in Chicago through its collection of neighborhood gem restaurants. This area is renowned for its vibrant dining scene that beautifully blends traditional charm with modern culinary innovation, offering a unique experience for every palate. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on delivering not only exceptional cuisine but also a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the historic and cultural richness of the neighborhood. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a truly local dining experience that often exceeds expectations. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue to enjoy with friends, Little Italy / University Village promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Embrace the opportunity to explore a variety of menus, each featuring dishes crafted with passion and flair, ensuring every visit is distinctively delightful. This neighborhood's restaurants are a culinary nod to both the past and the present, making it a must-visit for food lovers in search of genuine, high-quality dining options.

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