Elevated Lunch: Best Chicago Spots for a Mid-Day Meal
"Ask not what you can do for your country. Ask what’s for lunch!" - Orson Welles
Lunch is an often-underappreciated meal. It doesn’t have all the pizzazz of brunch or the high-end glamour of dinner and dessert. But it shouldn’t be forgotten or overlooked! A good lunchtime meal can mean a business deal gets signed, an occasion is celebrated, or a new favorite dish is found. And all before the sun sets! Here are our favorite places for a delicious mid-day meal, whether it’s for business or pleasure…
Bar Siena {832 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.492.7775}: Perfect for a lunch date, co-worker catch up or one of those Friday lunches that turns into happy hour that turns into dinner…Bar Siena can do it all! Plus, pizza for lunch is always a good idea ;)
Le Colonial {57 East Oak Street, Chicago; 312.255.0088}: A meal always tastes better in the right surroundings, and Le Colonial has some of the most beautiful interior design touches of any restaurant in the city. It can also swing from a gorgeous summery patio atmosphere to cozy comfort if sudden showers turn up.
NoMI Kitchen & Garden {Park Hyatt Chicago; 800 Michigan Avenue Seventh Floor, Chicago; 312.239.4030}: What’s a great lunch without a great view to go along with it? This oasis in the Park Hyatt Hotel is removed from the chaos of Michigan Avenue, but still serves views of our gorgeous city alongside the menu of fresh, locally-sourced dishes.
Bernie’s Chicago { 660 North Orleans Street, Chicago; 312.624.9892}: After being closed for a few months, this River North favorite is back in action with menu items like their famous Falafel Sandwich and Korean Deviled Eggs. Book on their rooftop for the perfect mid-day outdoor break.
The Dearborn {145 N Dearborn Street, Chicago; 312.384.1242}: Celebrity chef Bobby Flay gave his stamp of approval to The Dearborn’s Fish & Chips, and that’s enough to put them on our list. Throw in their Confit Rabbit Poutine and Midwest Fried Chicken and you won’t be able to keep us away even if you tried!
Sociale {800 South Clark Street, Chicago; 312.588.1100}: The South Loop’s restaurant scene is growing in influence and flavor, with Sociale as the perfect neighborhood spot in the center of it all. Their intimate patio is perfect for warm weather lunches, brunches and all other meal groups!
The Village at Italian Village {71 West Monroe Street, Chicago; 312.332.7005}: NInety plus years of serving delicious meals means this is a reliable and delicious choice for any lunch. And while much of the Loop’s biggest buildings are not as full as worker bees as they used to be, this is still a perfect central location to meet.
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor