My friends and I have started a burger crawl throughout the city, and we had to have Gretel on the…read morelist! First time here for all of us, but definitely will not be our last! We started with a bunch of cocktails (I wish I remember the names.. but they were all so good!). Food to start, we ordered the Charcuterie, and the House Made Pretzel. We were obsessed with both! The charcuterie did not skimp out like some cheese/meat plates do.. it was a satisfying amount that we kept going back for more. The pretzel was outstanding, twisted and hot, perfectly soft and salty. To eat, I split the Gretel Griddle Burger and the Fried Chicken Sandwich with my friend because although we were there for the burger, I kept reading about the chicken sandwich being fantastic. Booyy they were not wrong!! As much as I loved the burger, the chicken sandwich was my favorite! Perfectly crispy, with this sweet and spicy glaze and the crunchy Asian pear slaw... OMG. I'm still dreaming about this! One thing we were excited about were the Elote Riblettes.. but I wouldn't order these again. I accidentally bit the whole thing and didn't realize they kept the core in, and I had to spit it out. And even after eating it properly it didn't feel like I got enough of it from those little bites. Loved the fries though! We didn't see a dessert menu but we would have definitely been interested in that. After all the drinks apps and the chicken sandwich I was feeling so full so I couldn't finish the burger so I got it wrapped to go. But let me tell you even when I reheated that burger the next day.. it was fantastic!! Overall we may have been the loudest and most obnoxious group (we get a bit excited haha) our waiter and the vibe were all matched! Genuinely loved this place, and looking forward to coming back soon.

I don't know, maybe I'm just a hater, but I've given Gretel a shot twice now and left disappointed…read moreboth times. It was mainly about the service. Disclaimer that both times we sat at the bar. So this has nothing to do with servers at the tables. It just felt cold and not at the level I would expect for the prices and reputation. For example, we ordered the smoked trout caesar salad once at the recommendation of a friend, and didn't love it. It was very, very fishy. Like not just the smoked trout itself, the dressing also tasted way heavier on the anchovies or something than we're used to. And we love caesars! We didn't say anything about it because it's literally in the name that it may be fishy. The issue was that it was so obvious we only took one bite that the bartender commented on it when he was clearing our plates. "Too fishy?" We confirmed. And then he took the full plate of food away that he himself had just agreed with wasn't great, and returned with our bill that still charged us $20 for a salad. I mean, it's fine. But it's just an example of the kind of service you get there. We were barely checked on, even when drinks were empty. Even when making eye contact. Even when we were obviously done eating for several minutes and the bartenders were staring at our plates.Even after asking for a check and watching conversations happen leisurely behind the bar while we sat there. I know sitting at the bar is a different style of service, but it ventured more into inattentive than spacious. The space is cool. The food is fine. It just doesn't make up for feeling like a burden when I'm paying $100+ for lunch for two.

::Be Advised:: This is a hotel restaurant - Marriott…read moreCourtyard to be exact. That's not necessarily a bad thing - and for me it was one of the best things tbh - but if you're looking to get out and explore the Chicago restaurant scene you may want to keep pushing. As for me, I just wanted biscuits and gravy within walking distance - and the possibility of a beermosa before 11am on a Thursday. So I walked from my one Bonvoy property that didn't have it down the street to another that did. Very delicious. Nicely presented. Attentive service. It is what it is.

Don't be tricked and read recent reviews. Rating should be much lower…read more Walked in for an early lunch behind the only other group just before us. It took awhile for the one waiter to come to us. We could also see only one cook in the kitchen. Took exactly an hour to get our food. While the waiter and cook were trying their best, staffing is was a problem. And the food is nothing special. Pressed, processed breaded chicken patty with minimal toppings. Fries are also nothing special. Hushpuppies were also nothing special. Big pass on this place for the lack of staffing which effected wait time and for the food to being nothing worthwhile.

There's just something about a burger that actually lives up to the hype--and Little Bad Wolf does…read moreexactly that. Stacked unapologetically high, this burger is everything you want and more: juicy, perfectly seared patties layered with melty cheese, crispy bacon, and those golden, crunchy fried onions that take it completely over the top. Every bite is rich, savory, and just messy enough to remind you you're eating something seriously good. The toasted bun somehow holds it all together (barely), soaking up every bit of flavor without getting lost in the chaos. And then... the shoestring fries. Thin, crispy, golden perfection--light but addictive, with that ideal crunch that makes it impossible to stop at just one (or ten). They're the kind of fries you keep reaching for without even realizing it, especially dipped in that creamy, tangy sauce on the side. And let's not forget the drinks--just as good as the food. Refreshing, perfectly balanced, and the kind you sip slow while taking it all in (but somehow they disappear way too fast). It's not just a burger--it's one of Chicago's most iconic bites for a reason. Bold, indulgent, and absolutely worth every single napkin you'll need after. The ambiance inside is GORGEOUS!

My husband and I walked in on a Sunday evening for dinner and were able to be seated right away…read more The atmosphere is dark and moody, and it made sense once I realized it was the same owners as Gretel. Loved the 90s female R&B playlist they had going! Little Bad Wolf has been on my list FOR YEARS to try the burger! My husband got the burger with fried onions and I got some Bao because those also looked delicious and were a popular menu item. Honestly the 3 stars are only that high because of the service. Our server was friendly and attentive + the food came out hot and quick. Unfortunately, the food was pretty disappointing. The burger was swimming in a puddle of grease and just picking it up made your hands greasy + was dripping grease. The fries that came with it were floppy, soggy, and sad...but at least warm? I personally wouldn't order this again. The Bao were better, but small for the price and honestly were just okay? It was nice they gave you sauces you could add, but I found the Bao's to already have enough sauce so I didn't need them. Overall I left feeling confused and disappointed. I don't feel the need to come back here - Little Bad Will was a one and done experience for me.

I got the strawberry Negroni drink and loved it! Very smooth and flavorful. They have good non…read morealcoholic options as well. I enjoyed all the food we received, it was tasty, warm, fast, and you get a good portion. The lobster roll was good, the lamb was good and the zucchini was as well! We got Brussel sprouts for the app and those were my favorite. The dessert was also very delicious and I would get again! They validate parking if you park in the north parking garage for $13. Make sure to bring your ticket with you! More details are on their website. The service was great and the place was clean. I loved the aesthetic!

We've been to The Gage many times over the years since it's one of our top sit-down spots near…read moreSymphony Center before or after concert. Our favorite dish is definitely the PEI mussels. The broth is the kind you want to keep dipping bread into and practically lick off your fingers afterward -- flavorful, savory, and a little briny without being the heavy creamy type of sauce that some places do. Very comforting but not overly rich. Honestly, I don't even remember all the other dishes we've ordered over the years, but our experiences have consistently been good. Service is polished, the space feels classic Chicago, and it's a great place to relax before or after a performance downtown.

New favorite! Came downtown from the 'burbs for a show - my sweetie called ahead and we got a GREAT…read moretable just inside the door, perfect for people watching. Tasty drinks - the grapefruit pilsner was a perfect choice for a warm spring evening, and our server was funny and sweet. Sticky ribs appetizer was spot on, with just enough heat to keep it interesting. We shared the fish and chips - perfectly cooked, crunch and sweet, great fries! House made slaw and tartar sauce was out of this world! Gotta make one comment on something we didn't have. The next table over, two middle aged women order cheeseburgers. When they came out I almost regretted ordering the fish. They were huge, juicy, and looked incredible. This two ladies, drinking their Chardonnays polished them off, that's how good they were. Next time... Dessert? Why not? Sticky toffee cake please. Perfect with a cup of black coffee. Out the door and on our way - we'll be back! Thanks!

We dined at the Dearborn on a Saturday afternoon with my family. Our reservation was strategic we…read morearrived hours before we assumed it would become very crowded. The seating was tight. Overall I was having a good experience. The food was OK. The menu was limited. Oh btw, the special that day was a $70 wag goo burger. That interaction between me and the server reminded me of a car salesman trying to sale me undercoating for the car i just purchased. REALLY I can't make it up. The experience dropped to a single star as our dining experience was nearing an end. The manager of the front of the house. Made a conscious effort to make it clear that the table we were dining was needed by waiting customers. I've never ever experienced this before in any restaurant in the Loop. I can't and will not recommend dining here. This is why I'm giving 1 star. I my opinion The Dearborn maybe they need to be in a different location. Maybe located far west of the Loop. I would suggest instead of Dearborn maybe Halsted St. and probably change their name to The Halsted. Im not going back. OH btw good luck in your new location.

My friend (shoutout to Hunter) has been grilling me to check this place out, and now I totally get…read morethe hype. The service was genuinely friendly, and the ambiance gives off such a welcoming, cozy vibe. There's even a fireplace you can sit by during cold Chicago winters, which is a really nice touch. I sat at the bar, and the bartenders -- honestly, the entire staff -- were super personable. You can crack jokes and they'll play right along with you, which makes the whole experience feel relaxed and fun. I ordered the pulled pork skillet and it did not miss. They make your eggs however you want (within reason), and everything came out perfectly. While not the cheapest in town, the value is absolutely there given the quality of the beers and food -- prices feel totally reasonable for River North. Shoutout to Tessa, Tony, and the whole crew -- they really make you feel like a regular. As Tessa would say: Go Birds!

Bavarian Pretzel was incredible. Happy Hour beers are a bit of a sham. They have $6 pints, but out…read moreof the ~50 beers on the menu, only 3 of them are pints.... the rest are odd sizes that you'd need to pay full price for. Great ambience for some bar food and an evening of trying unique beers. They have a great hosting space upstairs too for grad parties, work events, etc. Main reason for my lower rating was our waitress was insanely slow for a light Thursday crowd. Waited 20 minutes before seeing anyone after being sat, waited 30 minutes for the check, waited another 20 minutes for her to run the check so we could leave. I've never experience service quite that bad... would recommend sitting at the bar if you have a small party.

We tasted many delicious plates at Armitage Alehkuse but the absolute must try item was the Sticky…read moreDate Cake. Probably the best dessert I've ever had at a restaurant, if not ever. You must get it!! We also tried: - trout Caesar salad (4.5/5, great dressing but no croutons ) - spinach and paneer samosas (4/5 - the sauce it comes with is very good) - truffle tagliatelle (4/5 - very good truffle flavor) - sticky date cake (100000/5)

From the moment we walked into Armitage Alehouse, we felt welcomed. We were celebrating our…read moreparents' anniversary, and the entire afternoon was unforgettable. Our server, Rebecca, was outstanding. She was so thoughtful of our special occasion, her attention to detail and expertise was amazing. The atmosphere is everything you hope for in an English pub: warm, inviting, unique, and beautifully designed. The menu is sensational. We especially loved the Chicken Pot Pie, Pike Fish & Chips, Wagyu Double Cheeseburger, and Chicken Tikka Masala. Be sure to start with appetizers, the Steak & Anchovy Tartare was outstanding. And absolutely save room for dessert because the Sticky Date Cake is pure heaven. Basically, just get EVERYTHING that Rebecca recommends. ;) Every member of the staff made the experience feel special, and our parents said it was one of the most memorable dining experiences they have ever had. Eddie, the manager, is fantastic too and we can't wait to come visit again (and again and again :). 5,000 stars for Armitage Alehouse!

"We stopped at The Purple Pig for lunch and we were pleasantly surprised at how great everything…read morewas. From the impeccable service to the great food, ambience and extensive wine list, we couldn't have been more pleased with our dining experience.

Just an amazing experience all around!! The tuna tartare was exceptional as well as the sorbet with…read moreBailey's. A little tight on seating but no complaints!!

best place ever i loved it food so good small price and there is karaoke room ! best place ever !read more

The food and service is always great here! Nice place to gather with friends and chit chat…read more 9/10: bulgogi and beef brisket is always a solid choice 8/10 silken tofu soup was okay - more of a mala hot pot style 9/10: so tteok so tteok a classic! 5/10: fried dumplings were meh

The Construction crew enjoying a lunch hosted by the client, River Roast Chicago. The union crew…read morewho remodeled the restaurant. A client celebrating the project with the crew is a rare event for construction crews. And this wonderful Thank you note. Thank you to River Roast in Chicago for recognizing the construction crew. Check out riverroastchicago.com the food is amazing according to Nathan. #riverroast

(Kari's Rating 7.75/10)…read more Came here on a Friday for a quick happy hour bite and was happily surprised with how everything was. They had a nine dollar sangria, which was really delicious, it didn't really taste like there was a lot of alcohol, but was refreshing and sweet. The burger was relatively average (a good sharing size) it came with this pimento cheese sauce -which I thought really put it over the top. Unfortunately, the chips that it came with didn't really taste like potato, but just pain oily. The pretzel wasn't that bad, but it also came with a side of the pimento cheese and I thought it was pretty heavy and repetitive because it was on two items. Overall, I think this is a great place and I can definitely see it being crowded over the summer when the patio is open, but I wouldn't necessarily go out of my way to come here.