Growing up around Chicago, I never appreciated it until I left. Coming back to the city, the West Loop has caught my eye as one of the most up and coming foodie destinations in the whole country. If you don’t believe me, go to these five restaurants and tell me differently.
Leña Brava
A Mexican restaurant like no other. This place has left me speechless. Please enter this restaurant with an empty stomach and I promise you’ll leave happy.
Must Try: Wood-Fired Oysters, Charred Avocado, Butterflied Striped Bass, Short Rib
Address: 900 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Everyday 4:30–10:15PM
Au Cheval
It’s the best cheeseburger I’ve ever had! There’s almost always a wait, but it’s definitely worth it.
Must Try: Any of their cheeseburgers, Crispy Fries, Thick Cut Peppered Bacon
Address: 800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Everyday 11AM–10:15PM
Cabra
On top of the Hoxton Hotel in West Loop, something about this atmosphere just feels right. This place is consistently at the top of their game and one of my favorite spots for drinks. A pool, amazing views, and killer empanadas is hard to beat.
Must Try: Hot Chorizo & Queso Dip, Any of their empanadas, Brunch: Bacon & Egg Solterito
Address: 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Monday-Friday 11AM–10PM / Saturday & Sunday 10AM-12AM
Monteverde
One of the best Italian restaurants in the entire city. This quiet little restaurant is explosive with flavors and a wide selection of wine. Definitely not a place to miss!
Must Try: Artichoke & Sunchoke Crostino, Rotolo di Zucca, Soppressata Meatball, Whole Bird Chicken Parm
Address: 1020 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Wednesday & Thursday 4:30-10:00PM / Friday & Saturday 4:30-10:30PM / Sunday – Tuesday Closed
Duck Duck Goat
How do I even describe this place? It’s one of those “you have to eat here to know.” Best Chinese food I’ve ever had.
Must Try: Jiaozi, Xiao Long Bao, Duck & Goat Springrolls, Duck Fried Rice, Grilled Beef & Broccoli
Address: 857 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 4:30-10:00PM / Thursday 4:30-9:00PM / Friday & Saturday 4:30-9:30PM / Sunday 11:00AM-10:00PM / Monday Closed
Trivoli Tavern
The old-world, dark wood interior gives Trivoli Tavern an extra sexy feel. The food is comforting and the cocktails are delicious.
Must Try: Skillet Cornbread, Truffle Bucatini, Baked Crab Cake, Classic Ribeye, Mushroom Casserole
Address: 114 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Saturday & Sunday: 10:00am-1:45pm / Sunday – Thursday 4:30pm – 10:30pm / Friday – Saturday: 4:30pm – 11:00pm
Lyra
Lyra is always a fun time. This hotspot brings the party while serving up some of the best Greek food in the city.
Must Try: Breads and Spreads, Oysters Two Ways, Grilled Octopus, Cast Iron Moussaka, Deconstructed Pastitsio
Address: 905 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Hours: Monday-Thursday 5:00PM-12:00AM / Friday 5:00PM-1:00AM / Saturday 10:30AM-1:00AM / Sunday 10:30AM-12:00AM
THE WATERS EDIT 
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