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    The Kitchen American Bistro

    3.9 (899 reviews)
    PriceyBars, American

    The Kitchen American Bistro Photos

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    THE KITCHEN AMERICAN BISTRO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Trendy
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

    Recommended Reviews - The Kitchen American Bistro

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    Reviews With Photos

    Crab fried rice
    Trina K.

    The views are to die for, the selection has led me to return a second time within six weeks and the service each visit is better than the last. I had the pleasure of being served by Conner during my last visit and he was very personable and extremely attentive. Add to that I stepped in without a reservation and dining alone, and the hostess, was extremely accommodating and placed me at a table with an absolutely breathtaking view. I have the carrots which were served with feta and pistachio. And I also had the crab fried rice and dessert. I'd order all three again and even had a little to take home as leftovers.

    Baby Lettuce Salad
    Sydney H.

    The food at The Kitchen was overall really good. The Park House Rolls are a MUST. Hands down some of the best rolls I've ever had. The inside of them was sooooo soft and flaky and buttery. They were like if a croissant and traditional dinner roll had a baby - perfection!!!!! The gnocchetti was amazing too. Very small, but very rich. It was also very soft and pillowy and came in a creamy pesto sauce. The salad was just okay, I wouldn't recommend. Although the food here was great, the service was absolutely horrible. We came in around 4:30/5 on a Saturday and it wasn't busy at all. There were plenty of open tables outside, but when we asked to sit out there they said there was a wait even though the restaurant was basically empty. There was 1 person in front of us at the host stand and it still took 20 minutes to be seated AND the host was rude when we asked her about sitting outside.

    Menu
    Candace W.

    Walked in here for lunch and my party was seated and served promptly. You can't see the river from the indoor seating, but that's ok the inside of the restaurant is nice. Wish the river was part of the view though. I had the southern fried chicken sandwich and it was very crunchy with a good sauce and yummy fries. My sister got the black kale caesar salad, and it includes smoked trout and the whole salad tasted a little smokey. We liked that, but beware it's not everyone's taste. Overall: positive lunch experience, a little pricey because of location but the food is decent.

    Beef short rib
    Erin C.

    Everything about this place was amazing. The decor the food the service. I've been here for a restaurant week and I had the four course that began with butternut squash soup that was magnificent. The second course was rigatoni with a Bolognese and it was divine. The third course was short rib with vegan kimchi and oh my gosh I have never had a short rib like this. The fourth course was blueberry, compote cheesecake, and it was heavenly the wait staff had wonderful wine pairings for each course and they were very attentive and pleasant. They invited us to come back for brunch and we made reservations immediately. If you're looking for parking RPM has valet and then there's limited parking within the block, but you should definitely get here before 6 February because they are closing, but you will not be disappointed.

    Shrimp A La Plancha
    Angel A.

    Had dinner here for New Year's Eve and it was definitely a great way to close out the year. The cocktails are incredible and do a fantastic job of complimenting the delicious food. Highly recommend the Ahi Tuna Crudo and Shrimp A La Plancha.

    Margarita & old fashioned
    Sarah M.

    This place was great! Perfectly situated on the river, close to lots of the action. We came at an "off time" on a Friday for their happy hour and small bites which is from 3-5. They only offer a few small plate food items during this time which was actually perfect for us to snack while we grabbed a few cocktails. For drinks we tried their happy hour margarita and old fashioned. Both were fresh and delicious! Then we ordered x2 espresso martinis (not on happy hour but worth ordering!) these espresso martinis were one of the best I have had! They use REAL, freshly brewed espresso!! Highly recommend. Our bartender was so pleasant and nice (I feel bad I don't remember his name). Ambiance is classy but cozy. Highly recommend! The fries came with this delicious sauce! Sliders were yummy. The lolipop wings were not my favorite, very fatty. Wouldn't order those again.

    Salad
    Matt J.

    The ambiance was great. We went with a group of 6 and felt the service was attentive. The burger was quite amazing. Food was better than expected and the location was in a good part of the city. Had reservations due to the under 4 star rating on yelp but felt it was much better than expected.

    Lunch time
    Sada N.

    This place was a HIT! The Kitchen American Bistro was such an astounding VIBE! Views of the riverfront, beautiful skyscrapers, while the tourists sightseeing the beautiful historical buildings and their architecture on boat tours. People just plainly out and about enjoying their gorgeous Friday afternoon. Typically, just an another beautiful day in downtown Chicago! Reservations are highly encouraged but not required. Although, for the patio seating with the great view, I will most definitely make reservations for a secured seat. Parking was also valet which I love the convenience. A little spoiled in that terrible manner. Lol!! I was immediately acknowledged by the staff with her gracious hospitality didn't catch her name. I checked in and was given my complimentary water as I walked to my reserved patio seating. I ordered the lobster roll, and their homemade focaccia along with my tasty Raspberry Beret margarita. Everything was delicious. Menu was simple for lunch and my order had a zero wait time! Couldn't been more happier! Portions and prices were decent for lunch. I just really enjoyed myself. The weather was great, in the presence of good company, great drinks, delicious food with a phenomenal view, YOU just can't beat that! Check em out!!

    Happy Hour salad. Huge.
    Jeff K.

    We went here twice on recent trip as we were staying up the street. First time for happy hour at bar. Cold beers and ordered salad w strawberries & assorted goodies and an order of their drenched chicken wings. Salad was dressed w amazing lemon zest vinaigrette and a happy hour portion was enough for 2 to share. Wings are in a chili type sauce and equally amazing. We went back 2 days later and sat outside overlooking the river. Split the salad and a small gnocchi dish. Bartenders were awesome and gave us their dive bar food and drink reqs.

    Crab Fried Rice (gf)
    Bonny L.

    I went here for some lunch with my sister the other day and we got the crab rice and the burger with fries. Food was pretty good. The rice has a big portion so we had some leftover. Server was also very friendly and nice. Inside is very unique looking and modern too. I definitely recommend if you go to Chicago, seems like a great place to grab drinks as well!

    Wine room
    Anthony R.

    In town for some doctor visits and Thanksgiving and looking for a fun new place to try and a Kimbal Musk restaurant was the definite move. The restaurant website lets you choose a day and time. It even asks of any special occasions and/or dietary restrictions. I marked down my restrictions and that it was my birthday and they were well versed. I really appreciated that they actually read what I submitted ahead of time. You walk in to the restaurant and it is so spacious and open. We had a high top by a window looking out over the river. Awesome view! The menu was so descriptive with the main ingredients and the dietary restrictions. We got a couple appetizers and WOW! I'm glad we got the Crispy Cauliflower. Excellent flavor. Definite crispness. The broccolini had a fun garlic flavor to it, a pleasant surprise! Then our entrees came and wow!! My mom really likes crab and the fried rice had a wonderful flavor blend with crab. She enjoyed it just as much on day two! And my roasted chicken came. At first glance, could be seen as underwhelming. I take a bite and wow; I am someone who has ketchup or Barbeque sauce with chicken. It didn't need it. It was great on It's own. Again, on day two, did not lose any tenderness or flavor. The fries were the same. A high quality potato, no extras necessary. The non alcoholic drink I had was good. A bit heavy on the non alcoholic spirits for my liking. I will definitely be back!! Bringing family, friends and the like. Kimbal and his team are amazing.

    The view from the patio
    Garnier A.

    Carrots entry is just amazing. Very good service, wonderful view of you get the patio.

    Mocktails
    Rahima J.

    The inside is really cute and they were able to accommodate a larger party for brunch. It's also on the river, which is really nice! But the food itself was very bland with very few options, especially for meat substitutes - which there were none. The food and drinks are both a bit pricey for the food quality.

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    Page 1 of 23

    The Kitchen American Bistro Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Kitchen American Bistro

    Would the patio accommodate party of 6?

    Is there a patio?

    Hi there! We do have a patio located on the Riverwalk. It is primarily two person table tops with one 4 person table at the end. The patio is first comer first serve, however you can let us know if you would like outside seating on the patio and we… 

    Do they have Brunch menu or is this place good for brunch? Also, how is the noise level here and is it lively or cozy?

    Yes, there is a brunch menu. It is noisy even when its not full. If noisy means lively to you then yes. There are no quiet spots.

    View All 5 Questions

    Trivoli Tavern

    Trivoli Tavern

    4.5
    (1k reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    What started off as an embarrassing night (got stood up lol. life happens it is what it is) turned…read moreinto something memorable and a whole lot more tolerable, especially since it was my first time at this restaurant. I have to thank John and Vanessa for going above and beyond making me feel so welcomed despite what happened. Vanessa's ability to read my emotions without me saying a word and redirecting them into positivity was immaculate. John was super attentive and upbeat I couldn't even sulk if I wanted to. Those two deserve so much recognition for their hospitality and work. The food was amazing. I had the rigatoni vodka and the golden hour drink. 10/10 for both and I see why they are chosen often. Definitely recommend giving this place a try and I am most definitely coming back, whether it be by myself or with friends!

    The ambience is beautiful. It was my friend's 21st birthday. I remembered this night very vividly…read more I am still there. It is so interesting because everyone was so sweet but everyone looks like they are in school uniform uniforms from over the pond. This was a nice place and the ambience and lighting is beautifully dim and my friends look so beautiful and the match their food as well. We have tried vodka pasta from everywhere in Chicago and this one tasted uniquely like Gigi Hadid's pasta from TikTok. They were amazing with food allergies and so attentive and caring. Great staff and great service. The sticky Date cake was just absolutely heaven sent. Epic

    Photos
    Gelato & sticky date cake
    Gelato & sticky date cake
    Butterfinger pie
    Butterfinger pie
    Chicken pot pie

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    Chicken pot pie
    Au Cheval

    Au Cheval

    4.4
    (9.6k reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    Burgers were awesome. But Antonio was perfect, and went above and beyond making our dinner special…read more It was my first time in the restaurant and asked if the fries of hash was better, he recommended the fries but later surprised us with the hash comped. But that's not all-- he also came with a sunday "just to celebrate" it wasn't anyone's birthday or anniversary but we definitely were in the mood to celebrate after a night talking with him. Thanks for great service and great food, give Antonio a raise he is AWESOME

    Arrived before having to wait more than 30 minutes as others after me had to. I waited no more than…read more20 minutes for a seat. I got sat at the bar area where you can see all the action of the kitchen. The place is busy and full and I think it's awesome that it's an open kitchen cause you can see the magic happening. My waitress was super friendly and seems like she's used to everyone coming in to try the burger lol I heard her repeat the spiel many times. A single patty is 2 and a double is 3z I went with a double but honestly should have done a single. Food came out quick and the burger is super juicy. Fries were hot and delicious and even though it was the simplest burger I've ever had in my life I would say it's one of my top three favorite burgers I've ever had. Can't wait to come back.

    Photos
    The cooks were very attentive!
    The cooks were very attentive!
    Crispy Fries & Potato Hash
    Crispy Fries & Potato Hash
    Wings (very sticky so they come with hot towels)

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    Wings (very sticky so they come with hot towels)
    Bar Siena

    Bar Siena

    4.2
    (2.4k reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    We recently took a large party from work for lunch at Bar Siena. Beautiful restaurant, fantastic…read moreservice, great food. There is indoor and outdoor seating and both are elegant. Outside, vibrant with hanging flowers and tasteful covers. Inside is bright with stark woods and black accents creating a classy but casual atmosphere. We had a table of 8, and our waiter was on point, making great suggestions, was charismatic and did a great job. Every time service came, there was help to expedite the service. We ordered the calamari and meatballs for appetizers. Both were exceptional. They went quickly. I couldn't get pictures. I had the focaccia with prosciutto which was a suggestion and it was the perfect blend of savory and sweet...fantastic. Likewise, my rigatoni was exceptional. Most of the table had their signature burger and they raved about it. If you're in Chicago looking for really solid Italian food, I highly recommend Bar Sienna.

    Bar Siena is such a hidden gem! My husband and I stopped by for drinks, and it ended up being one…read moreof the highlights of our evening. The ambiance is cozy, intimate, and perfect for date night, but it's also a great place to pop in for a quick cocktail if you're out enjoying the city. Their handcrafted drinks were delicious, and I loved that they offer a full wine selection as well. We were able to grab seats at the bar with no problem, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. If you're looking for a chic, laid-back place to connect over great drinks, I definitely recommend Bar Siena.

    Photos
    Industrial bar
    Industrial bar
    Parmesan Potato Skins appetizer
    Parmesan Potato Skins appetizer
    Front corner

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    Front corner
    Bandit

    Bandit

    4.0
    (672 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    It has been forever since we dined and had drinks downtown, so when an errand brought us in the…read morearea, we couldn't leave without stopping somewhere. Decided we would hit the Fulton Market area and landed at Bandit. Was lucky to find street parking just a few storefronts away. Sat at the bar, it was not a 3-digit heat wave day and the front windows were all open, so it was confortable. Started with Jose Cuervo traditional margaritas which were refreshing. I had the chicken lettuce wraps which were really good. The lettuce was fresh and crisp, the peanut sauce had a little bit of zing and the chicken salad was very tasty. Spouse ordered the Nashville Chicken Tenders and also really enjoyed them with the scallion pancakes. 3.95% surcharge is added but states it can be removed if requested

    Bandit is a solid option if you're looking for bar food with the vibes. They had a pretty good…read moreplaylist going, and even though we visited during Taste of Randolph, they were not too busy. Our table started with the mozzarella sticks which I enjoyed, but the others didn't due to the very thin tempura batter. The entrees we felt 50/50 on. I did the chicken gyro which had a nice flavor, however felt like it was mostly pita bread and fries. For the price I would have expected a bit more filling. They also have a full bar but were unable to make a Hugo spritz which seems like a miss, especially during the summer. Overall we will return, but it isn't high on the priority list.

    Photos
    Christmas decorations
    Christmas decorations
    Chilaquiles
    Chilaquiles
    Espresso Martini

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    Espresso Martini

    The Kitchen American Bistro - bars - Updated August 2026

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