Chicago｜Your Guide to Eating in West Loop (Part 1) 🍽️

Having lived in Chicago’s West Loop food district for a full year now, I’ve compiled some recommendations (and a few passes) based on real experience. I rarely post food pics since taste is so personal—and I’m no professional critic—but hope this helps! 🥩 Western Cuisine: 📍 Chez Joel Bistro Francais – French bistro (reservation recommended). Elegant, cozy, and delicious. Perfect for birthdays or dates. The shaded backyard feels like a villa restaurant in Shanghai’s Xuhui district—so charming! 🍣 Japanese / Sushi / Ramen: 📍 Kimura Sushi & Ramen (BYOB) – Super affordable, ~$1 per piece, and tasty! Always a line. 📍 Sumu Tokyo Ramen & Sushi – No disappointments here, everything’s great. 📍 KINTON RAMEN – Decent with lots of options, a few standouts. 📍 RAMEN-SAN Whisky Bar – Amazing vibes! Great for dates or casual hangs. 📍 Ramen Takeya – Solid octopus balls (takoyaki), next to Ramen-San. Good for solo dining. 📍 Tamashii Ramen – Rating: 4.9/5! New, near Hmart—cheap and delicious. A must-try! 📍 Tsukiji Sushi & Sake Bar – Feels upscale but reasonably priced. Fresh and refined. 📍 Gyuro Ramen – Adorable aesthetic, great for solo meals. 📍 Sushi DOKKU – Sushi restaurant with sake/whisky lounge. Elegant vibe, good service, wide variety. 📍 KOMO – Beautiful plating, book way ahead. Not Michelin prices but similarly small portions. 📍 Momotaro – Has izakaya and dinner sections. Tried dinner—good service, food is decent. Worth one visit. 🧁 Bakeries / Desserts: 📍 Artopolis Bakery, Cafe & Agora – A gem! Beautiful, tasty, not too sweet. Pre-order online for cakes, bread, and coffee. 🍹 Bars: 📍 The Press Room – Fancy little wine bar, perfect for dates or photos with friends. 📍 The Aviary – Said to be one of the top bars in the U.S. Stunning presentation—glassware like art. 🍔 American Dining: 📍 Green Street Smoked Meats – A must for meat lovers! Cool industrial vibe, entrance is a bit hidden. Lots of BBQ options. 📍 Black Barrel Tavern & Dugans – Both dog-friendly! They offer water and whipped cream for pups. #ChicagoEats #WestLoopFood #ChicagoFoodGuide #FoodieFinds #RamenLovers #SushiSpot