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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Old Town, Chicago / Illinois

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90 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of S.K.Y. Restaurant restaurant
1. S.K.Y. Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(251)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park
Booked 29 times today
S.K.Y. Restaurant invites you on a culinary adventure, where contemporary American cuisine meets global influences. Chef Stephen Gillanders, inspired by his travels, crafts an innovative yet approachable menu featuring seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Indulge in flavors like Maine Lobster Dumplings in jade butter, and the S.K.Y. Fried Chicken with habanero butter and creamed corn. The industrial-chic ambiance creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners or gatherings with friends. With exceptional food, attentive service, and a stylish setting, S.K.Y. promises an unforgettable culinary experience that will tantalize your senses.
A photo of Blue Door Kitchen & Garden restaurant
2. Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
4.7
Exceptional(2691)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 43 times today
Blue Door Kitchen & Garden, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Gold Coast, offers an unparalleled Comfort Food experience that is both authentic and heartwarming. Under the talented Chef Art Smith, the restaurant embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, ensuring that every dish is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the "crispy and juicy" famous buttermilk fried chicken, a standout that exemplifies true comfort. The atmosphere is described as "magical" and "cozy," with a lovely outdoor patio perfect for savoring their delightful dishes. Reviews consistently highlight the "amazing food" and "attentive service," making it a must-visit for comfort food enthusiasts.
A photo of Boka restaurant
Icon
3. Boka
4.8
Exceptional(7687)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park
Booked 68 times today
Boka, nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, offers an exquisite take on contemporary American cuisine that is nothing short of a revelation. With its Michelin-star status, Boka crafts each dish as a "miniature masterpiece," highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Executive Chef Lee Wolen, celebrated as “Chef of the Year,” ensures a dining experience that is both innovative and deeply satisfying. Diners rave about the "impeccable service" and "phenomenal" food, making it a must-visit destination. The restaurant’s elegant yet inviting ambiance, combined with its artful presentations and "spectacular" wine pairings, guarantees an unforgettable culinary journey.
A photo of HIDE + SEEK restaurant
4. HIDE + SEEK
4.6
Exceptional(684)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 37 times today
HIDE + SEEK in West Loop, Chicago, is a vibrant Cocktail Bar that elevates the art of drink-making to new heights. Known for its "awesome cocktails" and "top-notch drinks," this establishment is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts. Diners rave about the expertly crafted drinks like the Shadow Play and Midnight in Madrid, which boast "incredible flavor profiles" that cater to diverse palates. The innovative beverage program offers fresh takes on classic cocktails, ensuring each sip is both refreshing and memorable. With a lively atmosphere and attentive service, HIDE + SEEK promises a cocktail experience that's both sophisticated and playful, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
A photo of River Roast restaurant
5. River Roast
4.4
Awesome(3674)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 144 times today
River Roast, nestled along the iconic Chicago River in the vibrant River North neighborhood, offers an exceptional Gastro Pub experience that stands out for its authentic and dramatic presentations. Diners rave about the "simply spectacular" whole roasted chicken and slow roasted beef, carved table-side, which highlight the handcrafted, rustic charm of their menu. The restaurant's lively atmosphere is complemented by a stunning patio that's perfect for enjoying the scenic river views. With "excellent service" and a diverse selection of local beers and craft cocktails, River Roast is celebrated as a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Alpana restaurant
6. Alpana
4.7
Exceptional(1078)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 80 times today
Alpana, located in Chicago's vibrant Gold Coast district, is a haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors and exceptional dining experiences. Guided by the esteemed Alpana Singh, a Master Sommelier, the restaurant offers a menu that perfectly marries food and wine, creating "a symphony of balance, texture, and flavor." Diners consistently rave about the "outstanding food and attentive, friendly service," highlighting must-try dishes like the wild mushroom ravioli and the meticulously cooked salmon. With a cozy ambiance that feels like "the best dinner party ever," Alpana is truly a standout spot for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Dearly Beloved restaurant
7. Dearly Beloved
4.6
Exceptional(182)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 13 times today
Dearly Beloved is a shining star in Chicago's River North, offering a Vegetarian and Vegan dining experience that's both authentic and inventive. The vegetable-forward menu, crafted by Executive Chef Kristofer Lohraff, "surprises and delights" with dishes like the carrot gnocchi, described as "one of the most incredible dishes" by patrons. The ambiance is as chic as the cuisine, creating a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Praised for its "exquisite cuisine" and "exceptional cocktails," Dearly Beloved seamlessly blends bold flavors and unique textures, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking top-tier vegetarian and vegan fare.
A photo of The Franklin Room restaurant
8. The Franklin Room
4.9
Exceptional(2088)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • River North (Chicago)
Booked 25 times today
The Franklin Room in Chicago’s River North neighborhood is a must-visit for lovers of authentic American cuisine. Renowned for its "phenomenal cuisine" and "world-class service," this hidden gem offers a modern twist on turn-of-the-century American tavern fare. Diners rave about its "delicious food" and "extensive bourbon list," making it a paradise for serious whiskey enthusiasts. The atmosphere is described as "cozy, classy," and reminiscent of a sophisticated speakeasy, perfect for any occasion. With standout dishes like the "butcher steak" and "sea bass," and a staff that consistently goes "above and beyond," The Franklin Room promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Brasero restaurant
9. Brasero
4.8
Exceptional(721)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • West Town
Booked 50 times today
Brasero, located in West Town, Chicago, is a vibrant celebration of South American cuisine, where Chef John Manion's mastery of wood-fired Latin cooking shines. Recognized by the Robb Report as one of the Top 10 Best New Restaurants in the country, Brasero brings "authentic Argentinian flavors" to life with dishes like flame-roasted young chickens and sumptuous moqueca. Diners rave about the "tender pork shank" and the exquisite "Black Cod in banana leaf," describing their experiences as "beyond spectacular." With a lively ambiance, attentive service, and a selection of 100 wines under $100, Brasero is a must-visit destination for all food lovers.
A photo of John's Food and Wine restaurant
10. John's Food and Wine
4.7
Exceptional(175)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Lincoln Park
Booked 37 times today
John’s Food & Wine is a chef-owned restaurant in Chicago’s Lincoln Park from chef-owners Adam McFarland and Tom Rogers. The cooking is seasonal, modern American with a big focus on vegetables, pristine seafood, handmade pastas, and dry-aged meats. John’s is a MICHELIN-recognized restaurant with a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and praise from local and national press. The wine list leans toward small producers, thoughtful grower Champagne, and bottles meant to be enjoyed, not just collected. Close to Lincoln Park Zoo, Oz Park, DePaul’s campus, and Steppenwolf Theatre, it’s an ideal stop before or after exploring the neighborhood. The room is bright and intimate with a long marble bar, open kitchen, and relaxed, genuinely engaged hospitality.
‘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.

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