I have to share an amazing experience I had yesterday at Allegory. I am currently in a leg brace and on crutches so my mobility is limited. The host staff and server went way beyond to ensure my comfort and that my dinner experience was memorable. The food was fantastic but the staff truly elevated the experience. Thank you so much and I will make Allegory a regular dining destination. read more

Cool English pub setting with great, friendly service, craft beer on tap, and amazing comfort food. Highly recommend the short rib. Generous serving and melts in your mouth. But start with the Kiss My Grits blackened shrimp appetizer! The chili is also delicious. read more

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Stopped in for dinner Madeline was our server. Did a great job Had cocktails , apps, and a dinner Great service Excellent food Good prices Dining room very cozy read more

Enjoyable night out in a really cute restaurant. It's currently decorated for St. Patricks day and is full of Irish Pub charm. We went on a Sunday night and had a delightful waitress, but ultimately we waited an hour after ordering to get our main course dishes. One person with me ordered soup that arrived after his main course, which is just not the order you want to eat it in! We ordered cocktails right away and those also took a long time to arrive. The best bites among our group were the pork belly sliders and the shrimp and grits. The pork belly slider had an Asian flair with a sweet and spicy sticky chili sauce. The shrimp and grits were amazing, the grits are so creamy and buttery with a smoky seasoned shrimp- I would order this as my main meal next time! The short rib was too fatty for me, my husband doesn't mind the fat and enjoyed it but there was a lot of eating around fat for me, so that's up to your personal taste! read more

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Wow! what an absolutely delicious meal and absolutely love the fact that it is farm to table. The menu is well thought out and has such a variety for all different tastes. The whistling past the graveyard burger was one of the best burgers I've had in such a long time. The rich barbecue sauce with the peppered bacon and jam was absolutely phenomenal. They also had a really decent selection of different drinks on tap for beers and multiple specialty cocktails so definitely a place that you could come just to grab a drink but for sure try the food. This has been one of the more exciting restaurants for me to want to return to. read more

Allegory - graveyard burger - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Ambiance good and drinks all 5 stars!! Great time and great experience :) I got the mushroom risotto with scallops and iron steak on the side. Service was excellent! Very attentive without being over bearing. This is a farm to table place . Fresh food good vibes. read more

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Omg!!! The name is just as fitting as the food!!! If you don't pay attention while walking down the sidewalk in the beautiful downtown Naperville, you will miss this hotspot. My husband and I decided to try something new and Allegory is now a date night favorite. The service was fantastic! We have not gone in without feeling like family from each server. As you can see from the photos, our server persuaded us to try something new amazing dishes! The drinks are delicious and the food was mouth watering. The salad was top tier! Some people may prefer frozen lettuce, I don't. The lettuce was just the right temperature. I can't explain it, but when you know, you know! You can see in the photo where they take their old menus and use them as coasters or place mats. It gives the place a cottage feel and I love it!! Go try Allegory and let me know what you think! I'm a fan and I'll be back again! read more

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Incredible food and a great vibe with excellent service. We tried the chicken and waffles, the tacos, the prime rib sandwich, and the burger and they were all exceptional, unique, and perfectly executed - flavor, temp, presentation- all top notch. Well done Allegory! You are truly outstanding. 10 out of 10. read more

I made a reservation for 6 people on a Tuesday evening. The restaurant itself was not overly busy so a reservation was not really needed. Our waitress was very attentive and let us know all the specials. We took advantage of their half priced wine on Tuesdays. It is a great special and includes bottles! I had the scallops and they were average - I'd probably try another dish next time. Overall a nice experience. read more

In area shopping ...friends reccommend this restaurant...they were spot on. Seated in 10 minutes ..worth the wait!! Fresh ingredients from farm which I support 110% Food is nicely presented. Had tacos as delicious & rice was a plus. She had tuna salad plus fries ...said perfect.. Plenty mocktails to choose from too Nice atmosphere Server was attentive Only issue is parking in downtown Naperville but able to find space in nearby garage. Will come back when in area read more

This was such a unique restaurant.The Dining space was sandwiched between two buildings. There was a covered roof top with windows lined with stringed lights. The design was super simple, cozy with natural elements with clean lines and modern feel. There definite was a sophisticated rustic vibe. The ingredients were fresh and plated well. The presentation was thoughtful and looked carefully curated. I ordered the Phill E and it was top notch. It was hard to eat neatly, but I enjoyed every bite and joined the "clean plate club". The meat was tender, the bread was perfectly toasted, the cheese was melty-- it dripped with goodness. The entire table was eating contently in a chorus of how flavorful and tasty the food was! read more

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The food is awful. I had the shrimp and grits. It was cold; I sent it back. It came back, too hot and chewy - like it was microwaved.

Come Fridays for the fish and chips. It's insanely flakey, almost hard to pick up with the fork. The coleslaw is very flavorful and stood out to me. Service was great and a nice lively environment. read more

Allegory - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

The dreary interior ( think dingy, dark college bar) belies the tasty & creatively presented food. Excellent cheese, meats & olives board, good tacos & fresh salad. Service was attentive & friendly. read more

Cheeses-N-mac (5/10): the bechamel sauce was too gritty. Too much flour and not enough creaminess. The Mac and cheese felt solidified. The pasta itself was fine. It also felt pretty bad paying $7 for a few bonus shreds of chicken on top. Yum Yum Chicken Som (4/10): the peanut sauce was overwhelming. The fried chicken was... Okay. It was crispy but felt like it was missing something. The flavors were really not balanced and I left feeling kind of gross. The fries were decent, though. Here Chickee Chickee (3/10): waffle was ok, but the whole dish was too salty. Chicken was not good at all. Service was very good. Unfortunately, the food is insanely overpriced. Especially the chicken and waffles. read more

The atmosphere is very nice has nice decor friendly service we had ordered. I have got a skirt steak and my husband got scallops. We ordered a piece of chocolate cake to take with us. It was all very good. Would eat here again. read more

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If you're looking for shrimp & grits, this is the place. Allegory's "Kiss my grits", which is blackened shrimp with cheesy white corn grits and browned butter, is absolutely delicious. It is a "small" dish, but I found the portion size to be perfect. Highly highly recommend! read more

Allegory - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Had a wonderful date night here, we didn't make a reservation but were able to sit at the bar, which offers the full menu. The food was really tasty, started with the charcuterie board, which is enough for two people to share, and everything on there was wonderful. The cocktails were also very tasty and made strong which is perfect for a date night ;) We also split the steak and the mashed potatoes were delicious! Would definitely recommend. My only complaint would be that it is very noisy in there, and it was cold when they had the door open. You could feel the draft from outside at the bar. Service was great but with so many people in there it was hard to tell the bartender when we wanted to order, needed more water etc. Check it out! read more

Allegory - Cheese board - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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I've been here twice - looking forward to my next visit! First time I sat at the bar, had food and drinks, it was a great place to people watch and chat with the bartender. Second time I had a lovely little date with me, myself, and I. My waitress was so lovely, we chatted throughout my time there. The food was absolutely wonderful - I highly recommend the soup and quiche! read more

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Stopped in while visiting a store nearby. The restaurant is full of live plants hanging from the ceilings, potted around the front window & draped along the brick walls. I came in the day after St Patrick's so I had the pleasure of seeing all their decor. Adam served me at the bar and was very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. I love the window frames along the walls and all the rustic touches that complement one another. This is a family owned farm to table restaurant with table, window and bar seating. They have a full bar with beer, wine, craft spirits & a huge bourbon list. I got the quiche & it was drool worthy. It came with salad, potatoes and sausage. I also got the lavender lemon pistachio cake for dessert. Dishes were super filling & great price. Will return again :) read more

Allegory - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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The food was very good. Cool, speakeasy type vibe inside. We were a family of 4 and the kids loved the food. The service was good.

We went for Friday Fish Fry. Everything was amazing and service was great! Fish was lightly breaded and perfectly seasoned, Brussels were crispy and flavorful. We will be back!! read more

Allegory - Fish Fry and Beet salad - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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We have been here twice. First time was fantastic. We had the mussels, chicken and waffles and a sandwich which i can't recall the actual name of. But what I do remember of this visit was that it took quite awhile for the food, and the fries were cold. However, the chicken and waffles, drinks and ambiance were enough to bring us back again. This time the place was pretty empty. We again had the mussels but we also had the rueben sandwich and the burger. Again, the fries were cold for both our meals. The burger, while large - was incredibly bland with a burnt bun. And the Rueben was, as the kids say, "mid". At $20 for the burger, I really expected to be blown away with flavor - so it was disappointing. I am not sure if we would return. If we did, I'd definitely stick to the mussels and chicken and waffles. read more

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Upon walking in I noticed the noise level from patrons talking was at one of the highest levels I've experienced. My hunger would not let me walk out though. I started by asking my server, Ayanna, what's was their signature dish which she said the shrimp & grits. Let me tell you, these were the best shrimp & grits I've ever eaten in a restaurant. And I've eaten a ton! They're a solid grade "A". The shrimp was seasoned perfectly and not overcooked whatsoever. The grits were absolutely made to perfection: cheesy, savory and creamy without a single lump. Along with that small plate, I ordered the cucumber margarita which was a tad sweet but was still very good. The cucumber played surpringly nicely with the tequila. Grade "B+"! Finally I tried the Chicken & waffles which I was warned would be a little on sweet side...and they were. Not the best I've had for sure because the chicken lacked proper seasoning to counter the sweetness. The bacon topping needs to be of a higher quality as well. More salt and maybe a thicker cut of bacon would help to counter the sweetness as well. Grade earned was a "C-". All in all, the experience was very good. Food came out quickly and the temperature was excellent. I'd definitely return and will for sure listen to Ayanna's menu suggestions next visit. She knows what she's talking about. read more

Allegory - Shrimp & Grits - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Went out to dinner with the parents and had a lovely time. The inside of the restaurant is very much farm to table vibes with mix and match dinnerware and rustic ambiance. The staff were great, and the food was incredible. I love being able to order an entire bowl of deliciously roasted Brussels sprouts. The food was delectable, and I'd love to come back here again! read more

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Naperville is always a hot spot for the weekend of many places to go. Decided to give Allegory a try this past weekend and I was impressed. During our visit I had their Tequila Mockingbird to start the evening off. The drink is refreshing with a spice kick due to their in house made Tajin. I got their seasonal soup which was a spicy carrot and it was hot. The soup was flavorful and I would get it again on my next visit if it was a staple item. For my main course I went for the Fridays - Legendary Fish Fry! -- Which was a great plate and the fish pieces were so warm the breading was coming off. I finished the evening with the Wake Up Bob which was a wonderful cocktail, first time trying a beverage with amaro in it. The taste in the beginning was wonderful however further into the beverage I felt it lost its taste a bit in my opinion. The food was great and the atmosphere was my favorite because yes you are by other people, but you can still converse with the people you're with and do not feel like you have to shout which is what I've experienced at some other establishments. When you walk into Allegory it is warm and inviting which is a perfect mood to escape the Chicago cold. read more

Allegory - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Can't say I expected to be enraptured by soul and seasoning at a restaurant in Naperville named after a literary device, but the Shrimp n Grits at Allegory had me praying with my feet. Maybe the Rose'lita Spritzes were too talkative but Je Vous Salue, Marie! Next thing you know I'm hitting the Cajun Jitterbug with an invisible witch and licking the floral border pattern off my ceramic dinner plate. Makes a man think. read more

Went with my mom, great service, cute ambiance! I only wish they would have mentioned how crazy spicy the pork sliders are. They tasted delicious but the spice level was nearly unbearable (for me personally) but I finished it regardless. My mom enjoyed her mushroom burger, I would go back again and just try something else. read more

Allegory - Pork sliders - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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4.5 - easily one of the best restaurants on Naperville! Chef owned with a farm to table feel that changes menu items an d cocktails seasonally. Went with a group of 4 with a reservation on a Saturday. Reservations are definitely recommended especially on the weekend. We started with the pork belly sliders which were so flavorful and had a lot of nice texture elements. They were also a generous size for sliders! I had the black cod for my entree which was nicely cooked and came with veggies and crispy smashed potatoes. The portion was generous and the flavors all went well together. We ended with the cheesecake which was nice and tart. Service was great and I love the ambience. Will definitely be back to try more! read more

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We've dined at Allegory several times now over the years, and it continues to impress us on every visit. The food is consistently outstanding, thoughtfully prepared, flavorful, and clearly crafted with care. Their cocktail program is just as strong, with some of the best Old Fashioneds in Naperville. What really sets Allegory apart, though, is the experience. As one of the few truly independent restaurants in downtown Naperville, it has a distinct personality and pride of ownership that you can feel. The owner and Chef, Chris Mason, is often walking the dining room floor, engaging with guests, gathering feedback, and sharing his vision and passion for both the food and the service. That level of involvement makes a difference, and it shows! If you're looking for a restaurant that delivers both quality and authenticity, Allegory is an easy recommendation. read more

5 Stars Isn't Enough for Allegory! I recently went here downtown Naperville for lunch with my family, and I was seriously impressed. We were seated in the main dining area, which has a warm, inviting vibe--especially with the stunning hanging plants cascading from the ceiling. It's a space that instantly makes you feel at home. Our server, Liz, was absolutely fantastic. As a former restaurant employee, I tend to notice the little things--and Liz nailed them all. She brought clean share plates and silverware without us needing to ask and cleared empty glassware and dishes right on cue. She also knew the menu inside and out, which made ordering a breeze. I'd definitely request her again! We kicked things off with the meat and cheese board, which was so beautifully presented--and devoured so quickly--that I didn't even get a chance to snap a photo. Manager Jason was incredibly hospitable and genuinely charming. I was torn between a few dishes, and he helped steer me toward the "Rub it for Luck"--a dry-rubbed skirt steak cooked perfectly rare (as requested and just how I like it). It melted in my mouth. The steak came with fresh chimichurri, crispy Brussels sprouts, and the BEST cilantro-lime rice I've ever had. Jason also recommended the ideal wine pairing: a 2023 Chenin Blanc (Gautier Vouvray - France). Chef's kiss. That combination changed my life! I can't wait to return and explore more of the menu--especially with my work crew on Tuesdays for half-price bottles of wine. Allegory easily earns 5 stars, and honestly, deserves even more. Do yourself a favor and check out this hidden gem in the heart of downtown Naperville. read more

Allegory - Skirt steak "Rub it for Luck" - served with chimichurri, crispy Brussels, and cilantro-lime rice. (NOTE I like my steak Rare). - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Outstanding food and wine selection at the Naperville restaurant. Our server Chris was excellent and knowledgeable. He was also patient with our group of four. He gave us helpful tips on the food options and wine. read more

Food was meh Service was super Sound carries Not planning on coming back. Good location read more

It has the potential to be a great place, however on our visit it fell short in many ways. Parking is along the street and can be hard to find, I don't hold that against them, just letting people know what parking is like. The restaurant itself is rather dark and tight together. There were 4 of us and we were seated at a 4 top table and one chair was a high chair so we traded it for a regular chair from another chair. We sat quite a while before our drink order was taken so we were ready to place our order by time he came to take our order. Some drinks were delivered in a timely manner however the server needed reminded when he brought the food out he had yet to bring one person's drink. The drinks were ok. However, I do not recommend a Moscow Mule as it was not made correctly at all. The Reuben was ok. The server said it was made with a unique sauce however it was just a basic sauce and the sandwich and fries were room temp. The salad tasted good until near the bottom of the salad there was a long black hair mixed in. Our server was not efficient in any way. We had to ask him for our bill then after waiting and waiting we had to ask him to take it. There are too many nice places with great service to go here. read more

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Our friends invited us to this chef owned, farm to table restaurant!, right in downtown Naperville! It was a very hip looking restaurant. The food was exceptional! With my beef and pork allergy they walked me through a variety of options and offered to cook me anything in a pan or a separate area! I was most impressed with presentation of the Here Chickee, Chickee. Not pictured, but we also had Kiss My Grits with blackened shrimp which was excellent! Fresh wonderful food, great atmosphere and great location! Full 5 stars from me! read more

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Stopped in and sat down for what ended up being a rushed lunch (no fault of the staff or the restaurant - we just misjudged our time). The restaurant was short staffed that day with two servers covering all the tables, and they did an outstanding job. Because we were short on time, we asked for everything to come out at once - we started with the Kiss my Grits small plate - which were honestly some of the best blackened shrimp and grits I've ever had. Delicious seasoning, moist and snappy shrimp, and outstanding cheesy grits. This was followed by Phill E steak sandwich which was equally tasty. Overflowing with tender steak and cheese and house picked Giardiniera, it was an elevated cheesesteak. All of this was accompanied by a Thyme Will Tell cocktail - a bright and refreshing mix that was perfect for the season. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit, and look forward to another. read more

I've been to Allegory twice so far. Each time was an experience to remember. My visit was a few years ago with my husband for a date night. Most recently, we took some friends visiting from out of town for an impromptu dinner. Lucky for us, it was early on a Sunday, about 05:30 PM, and we were able to walk in and get a table for 4 without a reservation. (I did call beforehand to ask about availability and our chances of being seated if we walked in. I'd recommend always calling if you're planning to do walk-in.) For our group of four, we shared two appetizers, each got a drink, and a main dish. We had a fabulous meal and I love that Allegory is chef-owned. Their farm-to-table dishes are so fresh and there will be seasonal items available that change from time to time. We came on Cinco de Mayo, so there were some specials printed on a mini menu in additional to their regular items. What I ordered: La Violetta (cocktail) Chicken Som (Thai-inspired fried chicken sandwich that came with fries) My husband ordered the Chilaquiles and a side of fries. Our table shared the cheese board ("Chef's Never Bored, Board") and mussels ("Oooh! Nice Mussels!"). Ask for extra bread with the mussels, you will need it to mop up all the white wine juices, and it will come piping hot and soft from the oven. Our server was super nice and was able to accommodate a tree nut allergy when we ordered the cheese board, so the candied pecans were served in a separate little ramekin. If our friends did not have a flight to catch right after dinner, we no doubt would've ordered dessert. The food here is phenomenal and as I'm slowly beginning to explore all Naperville has to offer, this restaurant is already an instant, darling favorite. Allegory is such a gem to have in downtown Naperville! Five shining stars all around for food, service, and ambiance. read more

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Came in for the first time recently and was starving. Bartender told me try the reuben. Im so glad i did because the Reuben Sandwhich was outstanding! The way that they grilled the bread even was such a great presentation!! read more

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My review is solely based on my experience at the bar. Bartenders were excellent! It was a busy weekend, and they were friendly and keeping up with the crowds. I had an amaretto stone sour and a Moscow mule and both were excellent. Their glass wear was fun and vintage. Drinks are a little pricey, but you are definitely paying for the experience. read more

Allegory - Moscow mule - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Stopped in for a quick bite and drink before going to a cooking class next door so sat at the bar. Nice ambiance and not too busy as we got there at 5 pm on a Saturday. Enjoyed the food and drinks and bartender was attentive. read more

Allegory - Burger - American Near Me - Naperville, Illinois