Best Southwest American Restaurants in Chicago

Price

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$$$
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Regions

ChicagoNear WestNorthwest SuburbsSouth SuburbsWest Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Albany ParkAndersonvilleAvondaleBedford ParkBelmont Central / CraginBerwyn

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

James Beard AwardMICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

327 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Girl & the Goat

4.7

Exceptional(15106)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • West Loop

Booked 215 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 Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant

2. The Oakville Grill & Cellar

4.7

Exceptional(1205)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • West Loop

Booked 116 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.

3. The Gage

4.7

Exceptional(12170)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Downtown / Loop

Booked 156 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.

4. Swift & Sons

4.7

Exceptional(4738)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • West Loop

Booked 70 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.

5. avec West Loop

4.8

Exceptional(941)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • West Loop

Booked 74 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.

6. Elina's

4.8

Exceptional(238)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • West Town

Booked 49 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 Mercadito - River North restaurant

7. Mercadito - River North

4.6

Exceptional(6387)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • River North (Chicago)

Booked 95 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 Beatrix - Fulton Market restaurant

8. Beatrix - Fulton Market

4.8

Exceptional(2699)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • West Loop

Booked 99 times today

Beatrix is a neighborhood coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place in Chicago’s River North, Streeterville, Fulton Market, The Loop and Oak Brook neighborhoods. The restaurant is the brainchild of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ Founder Rich Melman, Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs and Chef Partners Andrew Ashmore, 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 our house blends from Beatrix Coffee Roasters, featuring Light, Dark, Espresso and Decaf roasts.

A photo of Mariscos San Pedro restaurant

9. Mariscos San Pedro

4.7

Exceptional(45)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Pilsen

Booked 57 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 Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant

10. Costera Cocina Tulum

4.5

Awesome(1030)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • West Loop

Booked 57 times today

Costera Cocina Tulum brings the vibrant flavors of Tulum's coastal and Mayan cuisine to life, blending land-and-sea principles with traditional Mexican dishes. Step into a lively yet serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Tulum's unique intersection of jungle, beach, and bohemian nightlife. Experience our day-to-night philosophy, where "the jungle has two attitudes," and enjoy a dining experience that transports you to this enchanting Mexican getaway.

‘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

M
MegVIP
Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
My husband and I had a great time. Drinks were really good and food was incredible. We had the chile relleno which was my personal favorite with the pepper perfectly stuffed with goat cheese. Fauntas which was my husbands favorite, were amazing. The barbacoa lamb shank was perfectly cooked. The ceviche came out in the most beautiful presentation.
More info
CeibaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Mexican• Lincoln Park
•
4.7
A
Ab
Miami - Dade •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
great food and good service! weather was nice too
More info
Pilsen YardsPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Pilsen
•
4.8
M
Mireya
Columbus •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 18, 2025
It was great! Our server was wonderful! We had a lot of fun.
More info
La Cantina GrillPrice: Moderate• Mexican• South Loop
•
4.8
A
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
•
4.6
G
GiannaVIP
Chicago / Illinois •71 reviews
5.0
Dined on Mar 1, 2025
Loved tasty fish taco, burrito was terrifically tender beef Great for anytime Will definitely return
More info
Broken English Taco Pub - Lake StreetPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown / Loop
•
4.6

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