Restaurants

Question

First time in Chicago, arriving the first week of August. We will be staying at the Royal Sonesta on Wacker. Would love some suggestions for restaurants, nothing fussy , middle budget, any kind of food just a good experience Thanks

Answer

Staying at the Royal Sonesta on Wacker puts you in the heart of downtown Chicago, close to the riverwalk, Millennium Park, and many dining options. For first-time visitors looking for casual, mid-budget spots that offer a good experience without being too fancy, there are a variety of restaurants within walking distance or a short ride.

Restaurants near the Royal Sonesta / Downtown:

Giordano’s: Classic Chicago deep-dish pizza. Casual, fun atmosphere and a must-try for first-time visitors wanting an iconic local experience.
Beatrix: Modern American fare with healthy options. Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a relaxed vibe.
Shake Shack: For casual, classic American burgers, fries, and shakes. Convenient and consistently good quality.
Portillo’s: Famous for Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and casual comfort food. Quick, casual, and fun.

Restaurants a short walk or short ride away:

Lou Malnati’s: Another iconic deep-dish option. Mid-range pricing and family-friendly atmosphere.
RPM Italian: Sleek but not overly fussy Italian fare. Offers pasta, seafood, and wood-fired pizzas in a lively environment.
Big Bowl: Casual Asian cuisine with generous portions and good variety of noodles, stir-fry, and rice dishes.
Parlor Pizza Bar: Trendy but relaxed pizza spot with craft beers and sharable plates, located in River North.

Tips for dining in downtown Chicago:

Reservations are recommended for dinner in the summer, especially for popular spots.
Consider exploring the Chicago Riverwalk area for riverside dining with views and casual menus.
For a more local experience, try grabbing lunch at a nearby food hall, like Revival Food Hall, which offers a variety of local and international cuisines in one casual space.

In summary, downtown Chicago offers many casual, mid-budget options. For iconic local food, Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s is perfect, while Beatrix, Big Bowl, and Parlor Pizza Bar provide relaxed, well-reviewed dining experiences with a good atmosphere for visitors exploring the city.