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Types of Restaurants in Near West Side
The Near West Side neighborhood in Chicago is packed with diverse dining options. Visitors can find everything from classic hot dog joints to high-end fine dining experiences.
Well-Known Restaurants
Some of the most well-known restaurants in the area include:
- Vienna Beef: A Chicago institution serving up classic hot dogs and other iconic street food.
- Next: A restaurant by acclaimed chef Grant Achatz that offers a constantly evolving menu inspired by different themes and cuisines.
- The Aviary: A cocktail bar that's known for its innovative drinks and creative presentation.
- Girl & the Goat: A popular spot for elevated comfort food, headed by celebrity chef Stephanie Izard.
- Bottom Lounge: A music venue that also serves up pub fare and drink specials.
- Carnivale: A Latin-American restaurant with colorful decor, live entertainment, and a festive atmosphere.
Best Streets for Restaurants
The main streets to explore for dining in Near West Side are:
- Randolph Street: This street is known as "Restaurant Row" and is filled with trendy eateries and bars.
- Morgan Street: A street lined with several popular restaurants, including Girl & the Goat and The Aviary.
If you're looking for a diverse range of dining experiences, Near West Side won't disappoint!
Full list of restaurants
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What people say
If you're looking for a diverse and delicious culinary experience in Chicago, the Near West Side neighborhood is the place to be. With a variety of cuisines and restaurant options, this area has something to offer for both locals and tourists alike.
One of the standout cuisines in the Near West Side is Mexican food. For an authentic taste of Mexico, head to La Lagartija Taqueria. This restaurant serves up traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, along with unique options like cactus tacos. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees costing around $10.
For a more upscale dining experience, try Girl & the Goat. This restaurant offers small plates with a focus on bold flavors and creative combinations. The menu changes frequently, but some standout dishes include roasted cauliflower and goat empanadas. Expect to spend around $50 per person for dinner.
Another popular cuisine in the Near West Side is Italian. For classic Italian dishes like pasta and pizza, check out Formento's. This restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. Prices are on the higher side, with most entrees costing around $20-30.
If you're looking for a unique dining experience, try Avec. This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers small plates with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. The communal seating adds to the convivial atmosphere. Prices are mid-range, with most entrees costing around $15-20.
As far as Michelin stars go, there are two restaurants in the Near West Side that have received this prestigious honor. One is Smyth, a contemporary American restaurant that offers a tasting menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. The other is Roister, which serves up innovative takes on comfort food classics like fried chicken and cornbread.
When it comes to where the locals go versus where tourists tend to frequent, many of the restaurants in the Near West Side attract both crowds. However, some of the more off-the-beaten-path spots that locals love include the Korean barbecue joint San Soo Gab San and the Ethiopian restaurant Demera.
Overall, the Near West Side neighborhood in Chicago offers a wide range of dining options to suit any taste and budget. Whether you're looking for Mexican street food, upscale Italian cuisine, or creative small plates, you're sure to find it here.
Major streets
Some of the best streets for restaurants in the neighborhood are:
W Madison Street W Randolph Street W Taylor Street W Lake Street W Fulton Market N Clinton Street W Jackson Boulevard S Canal Street W Roosevelt Road W Monroe Street W Adams Street West Taylor Street West Randolph Street W Madison N Green Street W. Taylor Street W Fulton Street W. Randolph Street W. Lake Street W Van Buren StreetTop 10 cuisines
The most popular cuisines in Near West Side are:
Italian Donut Shop American Mexican New American Mediterranean Japanese Sushi Steakhouse Barbecue