Best Tapas Restaurants in South Side

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Chicago

Neighborhoods

Bucktown / Wicker ParkDowntown / LoopLakeview / East LakeviewLincoln ParkRiver North (Chicago)South Loop

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

22 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Bar Mar

4.7

Exceptional(1300)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 189 times today

Bar Mar, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, offers an unparalleled seafood experience that truly "tastes of the ocean." Chef José Andrés masterfully crafts fresh oysters and ceviches that capture the essence of the sea. Diners rave about the "super amazing" crab cakes and "fabulous oysters," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity. The bright, nautical-themed space complements the beautifully presented dishes, creating an inviting atmosphere. With an attentive staff that makes every visit special, Bar Mar stands out as a premier destination for seafood lovers seeking both classic flavors and innovative twists.

A photo of Bazaar Meat Chicago restaurant

2. Bazaar Meat Chicago

4.9

Exceptional(683)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 38 times today

Bazaar Meat Chicago is a pinnacle of Tapas and Small Plates cuisine, where each dish is a masterpiece that celebrates José Andrés' Spanish heritage. Located in the vibrant River North neighborhood, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its innovative and authentic approach to Spanish tapas. Guests rave about the "incredible jamón experience" and the inventive "cotton candy foie gras," showcasing the restaurant's flair for creativity. With its chic and lively atmosphere, coupled with top-notch service, Bazaar Meat ensures an unforgettable culinary journey. The tasting menus expertly highlight a fusion of traditional and avant-garde flavors, promising a dining adventure that delights all the senses.

3. Tapas Valencia

4.8

Exceptional(2512)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • South Loop

Booked 23 times today

Tapas Valencia in Chicago's vibrant South Loop is a haven for authentic Spanish cuisine. Celebrated for its "terrific tapas" and "excellent food both in presentation and flavor," this restaurant delivers a genuine taste of Spain. The lively atmosphere, adorned with vibrant mosaics reminiscent of Gaudí's masterpieces, sets the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Guests consistently rave about the "awesome food and atmosphere," and the "great staff" who ensure a memorable dining experience. From delectable paella to delightful desserts, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity, making Tapas Valencia a must-visit destination for lovers of true Spanish flavors.

A photo of Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago restaurant

4. Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago

4.3

Awesome(4937)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Tapas • South Loop

Booked 16 times today

Mercat offers an authentic dining experience that combines fresh meats and produces with the energetic spirit of a Barcelona market.

5. Chateau Carbide

4.1

Excellent(236)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 43 times today

At Château Carbide, the Tapas / Small Plates cuisine shines with an authentic, botanical twist that elevates the dining experience to new heights. Nestled on the rooftop of Pendry Chicago, diners can savor light bites crafted by expert Pendry Chefs, all while enjoying breathtaking city views. Guests rave about the "outstanding presentation" and "so many flavors" present in dishes like the cheese and meat hors d’oeuvre and uniquely seasoned fries. This al fresco destination captures the quintessential charm of the French countryside. With a vibrant ambiance and staff known for their "amazing service," Château Carbide is a must-visit for tapas enthusiasts.

6. Boleo

4.4

Awesome(584)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Downtown / Loop

Booked 16 times today

Boleo, nestled in the heart of Downtown Chicago, is a vibrant celebration of South American cuisine that promises an unforgettable culinary journey. This industrial-chic rooftop bar and lounge captures the essence of Latin America with its small plates perfect for sharing, like the "delicious and very fresh" Ceviche Mixto and the "incredible" Bisteca de Res. Guests rave about the "spectacular" service and "outstanding" craft cocktails, which transport you straight to Peru. The lively ambiance, complete with house music and a retractable roof, makes Boleo a "wonderful experience" for any occasion. Whether you're here for happy hour or a birthday celebration, Boleo ensures an authentic taste of South America that will have you coming back for more.

7. Girl & the Goat

4.7

Exceptional(15383)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • West Loop

Booked 221 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.

8. Café Ba-Ba-Reeba

4.8

Exceptional(9550)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Lincoln Park

Booked 195 times today

Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park, Chicago, is a must-visit for those craving authentic American cuisine with a delightful twist. This vibrant restaurant is renowned for its delicious tapas and energetic ambiance, making it "one of the all-time favorites" for locals and visitors alike. The "amazing food, drinks, and service" consistently receive high praise, with many highlighting the delectable seafood paella and flavorful sangria. The lively atmosphere paired with attentive service ensures a memorable dining experience. Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! effortlessly combines traditional American flavors with a contemporary flair, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

9. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!

4.9

Exceptional(504)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 93 times today

Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! in River North is a vibrant celebration of authentic Spanish cuisine that never fails to impress. As the beloved younger sibling of the renowned Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba!, this restaurant captures the essence of Spain with its exquisite selection of tapas. Diners rave about the "life-changing croquettas" and signature dishes like the Bacon-Wrapped Dates and Beef Tenderloin Toro Skewer, which are consistently praised for their bold flavors and perfect execution. The atmosphere is lively, making it ideal for sharing plates and enjoying the classic Sangria, which one guest described as "incredible." With outstanding service and a festive vibe, Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a must-visit for Spanish food enthusiasts.

10. Ambar Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(147)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 52 times today

Ambar embodies the lively essence and shared joy of Balkan cuisine through a dedication to outstanding service. With established locations in Washington DC and a forthcoming debut in Chicago in Spring 2025, Ambar delivers a distinctive Dining Without Limits encounter, inviting diners to savor more than 30 distinctive Balkan dishes in a single remarkable dining experience. Balancing heritage with contemporary palates, Ambar honors the rich tapestry of Balkan cultures through a welcoming menu that showcases the tastes of Northern and Southern Serbia, Montenegro, and Croatia. Delight in the finest Balkan dining, where remarkable service harmonizes with daring, memorable flavors.

‘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

L
leslie
Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Edwin was a wonderful server. Always there with a drink, an offer to take our pictures AND a warm blanket on a chilly night.
More info
Chateau CarbidePrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• River North (Chicago)
•
4.1
R
ROBERTVIP
Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
Good food and good service. Very nice location on the river.
More info
Bar MarPrice: Moderate• Spanish• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
M
Mohammed
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Excellent ambience and nice for Business Dinners definitely to go place
More info
Bazaar Meat ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Spanish• River North (Chicago)
•
4.9
D
Dana
Baltimore / Maryland •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Excellent drinks and tapas and dessert! Lamb chops and filet and shrimp dishes were wonderful.
More info
Tapas ValenciaPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• South Loop
•
4.8
P
Phoebe
Kansas City / Kansas •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jul 3, 2025
I went with couple friends. We ordered a few dishes to try out. I highly recommend íberico pork tenderloin, pulpo, ocean trout, and lamb chops. Paella wasn’t as amazing as what I had in Barcelona. Overall great experience!
More info
Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• South Loop
•
4.3

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