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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Chicago

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336 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Girl & the Goat restaurant
1. Girl & the Goat
4.8
Exceptional(15170)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 199 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 The Gage restaurant
2. The Gage
4.8
Exceptional(12193)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Downtown / Loop
Booked 196 times today
The Gage, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Chicago, is a true gem in the world of Gastro Pub cuisine. With over a decade of delighting patrons, its menu effortlessly marries European flair with American innovation, creating a dining experience that’s both rustic and refined. Guests rave about its “incredible food service and atmosphere,” highlighting dishes like the “exquisite lobster bisque” and “delectable burgers with truffle fries.” The Gage's commitment to quality and tradition, paired with an award-winning wine list, ensures every visit is a memorable affair. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, The Gage is a “must-visit” culinary destination.
A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant
3. The Oakville Grill & Cellar
4.7
Exceptional(1233)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 174 times today
Nestled in Chicago's vibrant Fulton Market District, The Oakville Grill & Cellar offers an exceptional Californian culinary experience. Inspired by the lush Napa Valley, this restaurant seamlessly integrates the finest ingredients from California and the Midwest. Guests rave about the "wonderful combinations" and "fresh and tasty" dishes that showcase the authenticity of Californian cuisine. The restaurant's atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Patrons are particularly impressed by the seamless blend of flavors and the expansive wine list that features California's best selections. With impeccable service and a warm ambiance, The Oakville Grill & Cellar is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of California in Chicago.
A photo of Swift & Sons restaurant
4. Swift & Sons
4.7
Exceptional(4761)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 102 times today
Swift & Sons in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a testament to the excellence of American cuisine, particularly known for its upscale steakhouse offerings. The restaurant's ambiance, designed by AvroKO, creates a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Executive Chef Chris Pandel elevates traditional American steakhouse classics with a modern twist, as seen in their signature Beef Wellington. Reviews rave about the "superb food," highlighting dishes such as the Steak and Ale Pie and Short Ribs Bourguignon, and commend the staff for their "excellent, courteous, and alert" service. Swift & Sons is the perfect destination for any special occasion.
A photo of avec West Loop restaurant
5. avec West Loop
4.8
Exceptional(958)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 95 times today
Avec West Loop is a shining example of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a unique twist on Mediterranean classics with a Midwestern flair. Nestled in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, this beloved eatery has been delighting diners for over two decades. With an inviting atmosphere and a communal dining experience, guests are treated to "fantastic service" and "food packed with flavor." The menu features standout dishes like the Chorizo-Stuffed Dates and Short Rib Hummus, which are "must-try" items according to patrons. The innovative menu and exceptional wine program make Avec an "unforgettable experience" that consistently exceeds expectations.
A photo of Elina's restaurant
6. Elina's
4.8
Exceptional(248)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Town
Booked 46 times today
Elina's in West Town, Chicago, is a delightful haven for authentic American cuisine enthusiasts. This cozy spot has captured the hearts of many with its "outstanding service" and "top-notch" food. The ambiance is warm and inviting, reminiscent of a classic neighborhood gem. Diners rave about the "creamy vodka sauce" and "delicious chicken parmesan," reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality and rich flavors. The intimate atmosphere, paired with expertly crafted dishes like the "vodka rigatoni," ensures a memorable dining experience. Elina’s promises an exquisite meal every time, making it a must-visit for those seeking genuine American culinary excellence.
A photo of Cindy's Rooftop restaurant
7. Cindy's Rooftop
4.5
Awesome(49)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Downtown / Loop
Booked 94 times today
Perched atop the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel under a glass atrium, Cindy's welcomes guests with sweeping views of Millennium Park, the ever-changing blues of Lake Michigan, and beyond. Providing a remarkable backdrop for Top Chef contestant Executive Chef Kaleena Bliss and her inspired menu featuring local wild and seasonal produce and fresh seafood. With vibrant service, an all-season terrace, and an extensive beverage menu that intertwines naturally with the dishes, every detail of your experience is thoughtfully crafted to make a lasting memory. For private events: please reach out to cindysevents@caa.bokagrp.com.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
8. Mercadito - River North
4.5
Awesome(6410)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 189 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of River North, Mercadito offers an authentic Mexican culinary journey that shines with its exceptional Seafood dishes. Renowned for its "terrific chili relleno with seafood" and "delicious" ceviche, the restaurant has captivated diners with the freshness and quality of its Seafood offerings. Guests rave about the "incredible" lobster tacos and the mixtas ceviche, which are "fantastic" and a true testament to the restaurant's dedication to authentic flavors. The ambiance enhances the dining experience, providing a chic backdrop for savoring exquisite Seafood paired with refreshing margaritas. Mercadito is a must-visit for Seafood enthusiasts seeking a delightful culinary escape.
A photo of Mariscos San Pedro restaurant
9. Mariscos San Pedro
4.7
Exceptional(60)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Pilsen
Booked 45 times today
Mariscos San Pedro is a new Mexican seafood restaurant located in the heart of Pilsen neighborhood in the former Dusek’s restaurant space. Featuring sustainably sourced seafood, a finely curated wine list, seasonal cocktails, and superb spirit list from the trios of chefs of the acclaimed Le Bouchon, Obelix, and Taqueria Chingon. Within the same walls you will find premier music venue Thalia Hall, cocktail bar Punch House, and piano bar Tack Room.
A photo of avec River North restaurant
10. avec River North
4.8
Exceptional(528)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 134 times today
Nestled in the bustling heart of River North, avec River North is a culinary gem that brilliantly marries Midwestern American flair with Mediterranean classics. Under the expert guidance of James Beard award-winning chef Paul Kahan and executive chef Dylan Patel, the menu delights with innovative and flavorful dishes that have diners raving. Guests consistently praise the service, emphasizing how staff members like Jody and Kyle "made the experience 1,000 times better" with their personable and attentive care. With its beautifully designed atmosphere and exceptional wine selection curated by Bret Haire, avec River North ensures an unforgettable dining experience that embodies the essence of quality American cuisine.
‘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
  • Hilary
    Chicago / Illinois •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I love their food- we had the salmon and the Squash rissoto. Always oustanding
    More info
    CeibaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Mexican• Lincoln Park
    •
    4.7
  • SinéadVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    i like the mango margarita with tajin on the rim or mango fresca for n/a and my favorite tacos are the carne asada, brisket and ay papasito. 3 very different options. carne is the classic tiny pieces of steak with a generous amount of onion and cilantro on corn. the brisket comes on a flour tortilla with pickled onion, carrot and a jalapeño slice or two. the ay papasito is a fried purple potato small taco and pickled cabbage topped with cheese
    More info
    Broken English Taco Pub - Lake StreetPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.7
  • RashaylaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 18, 2025
    The wait staff is AMAZING. The hosts are AMAZING. The food is AMAZING. Pilsen Yards never disappoints!!!!!
    More info
    Pilsen YardsPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Pilsen
    •
    4.8
  • NicoletteVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 30, 2025
    We’ve been here several times and it’s always great! We’ve never had a time where the food taste different or not the same, this place is consistent. It’s is a bit pricey, but the quality is great. The drinks are average, more on the sugary side but not mad. Like you have to have a marg at some point! Service is quick and friendly. It’s a bit loud in there between the music and people, but when it’s almost 70 degrees in March then hey if you can’t beat em, join em.
    More info
    Cafe El TapatioPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Lakeview / East Lakeview
    •
    4.9
  • Andrea
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 16, 2025
    The waiter and staff were great! Food came out quickly and was delicious. We had several kids with us and they provided crayons and coloring paper. Thank you big star for being so accommodating!
    More info
    Big Star Wicker ParkPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Bucktown / Wicker Park
    •
    4.7

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