The Loyalist — The Secret Basement Bar Under a Two-Michelin

Beneath the two-Michelin-starred Smyth lies The Loyalist — a chic gastropub. Many friends complain Smyth’s portions are too small to fill up — maybe that’s the capitalist trick? On the way out, you notice this more affordable spot downstairs… perfect for another round of food and drinks. I’d tried their “best burger in Chicago” here before (though Au Cheval still holds my #1), and loved it, so I returned for a full dinner. 🧁 Foie gras éclair — rich, smooth, not gamey at all. 🧅 Onion jam éclair — like a savory dessert version of French onion soup, topped with melted cheese — surprisingly appetizing. 🍲 Pot-Au-Feu — braised short rib in its own rich broth, with potatoes and extra baguette for dipping. Carb heaven. 🥩 Steak Diane — tender filet in a simple butter-pepper sauce with sautéed maitake mushrooms. Served with a light vinaigrette-dressed salad (not that the steak needed cutting, but it was fresh). 🍔 Original cheeseburger — just looking at it makes you drool. Charred onions, melty cheese, perfect patty. Plus, the fries are exceptional — a rare case where both burger and fries shine. Overall, a great experience. My Steak Diane arrived overcooked, and the kitchen remade it immediately, also gifting us the onion jam éclair as an apology — service was top-notch. But really — you can skip other dishes, but don’t miss the burger. The Loyalist: 177 N Ada St, Chicago, IL 60607 #ChicagoEats #TheLoyalist #Gastropub #ChicagoFoodie #WestLoop #BestBurger #HiddenGem