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    Tiny Tapp & Cafe

    3.6 (302 reviews)
    Closed 7:30 am - 10:30 pm
    Updated 1 month ago

    Tiny Tapp & Cafe Photos

    TINY TAPP & CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Trendy
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed

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    Recommended Reviews - Tiny Tapp & Cafe

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    Hot dog basket
    Jacqueline O.

    I've been meaning to try out Tiny Tapp ever since I moved back to Chicago this year! What a cute, fun spot. I met a friend here on a weekday for after-work drinks. It's so conveniently located to my office in the Loop, with River Walk access right on Dearborn. My friend got there right before me and put us on the waitlist - they do NOT take reservations in advance! In the meantime, we were able to order our drinks at their takeout counter and sit on the benches while we waited. We got the text for our table about 15-20 minutes after putting our names on the list. I did find the menu to be a little pricey for what it is, but you're really paying a premium for the view and a place to sit. Our server really only came around to take out order and hand us our bill, maybe stopping once shortly after our food arrived (by runner) to ask if we'd like drink refills. I would've appreciated if they were more attentive about water, but it's not as big of a deal. The tables are really packed together, which we personally didn't mind too much but I know may be an issue for some. Food was quick and pretty good, but again, I think it would've been nice if fries/sides were included and the portions were a little bigger for that price point. Our biggest gripe is that you cannot split checks, it is one, isngular check for the whole table. You'll need to venmo each other afterwards. We'll always be back because it IS super cute and overall a decent experience. Can't beat the views when the weather is nice, and it's excellent for people watching

    Iced lavender latte
    Leslie C.

    What a cute cafe along the river walk! John provided excellent and friendly service and was very patient and gave me time because I was very indecisive and didn't know I wanted. There were so many good things to choose from, from yummy food like sandwiches, to delicious ice cream, and lots of beverages. I was tempted by the idea of an affogato but I got an iced lavender latte and it was delicious. Plenty of outdoor seating by the river. Beautiful views. Next time I'll order food and more things to try.

    Warm chocolate chip cookie
    Ellen F.

    I saw this place for the first time from the architecture boat tour and knew I had to go there. Stretching across the river walk, there's seats galore for some nice water views. It looked like they have waiter service if you're sitting for a full meal, but we just went to the cafe for a quick late night treat around 9 pm. Their cafe is even open that late on a Sunday evening! I just got the warm chocolate chip cookie. It's a decent size and super yummy. It was ~$5.50. Worth it! I'd definitely come back here again if I'm in the area again.

    Frozen aperol
    Cammi P.

    Wow wow wow!!! Tiny Tapp has been on my Chicago bucket list for years and I'm so glad I finally went. Nothing beats the vibes and drinking by the river! The frozen drinks were sugary and delicious, and cooled you off on a hot day. Not pictured: fries, chips and guacamole, cheese curds. All the perfect snacks for sharing and enjoying with friends. Their beer options were also perfect for drinking outside. Stupidly, I spilled a drink and the waitress was so kind to bring me another. Her hospitality was unmatched and made for the perfect experience. It was fun to sit right along the river and watch all the canoes and boats cruise by. The views are the best, and the tranquility mixed with the conversations of people around was the perfect blend for enjoying yummy drinks with friends.

    1/2 Vodka Lemonade 1/2 strawberry margarita
    Lisa P.

    Tiny Tapp is a total vibe! What a beautiful day to chill on the Chicago Riverwalk. I love being around people that are happy and positive because good energy is infectious. Really good frozen drinks on the menu. I tried two different types. For food I enjoyed the chicken czar flatbread, very flavorful. My friend ordered the chicken czar salad and we shared an order of garlic parmesan tapp fries that came with a garlic aioli which we did not use. Beautiful mixed crowd of high energy people embracing waterfront entertainment. There were parades of birds, kayaks, small boats and yachts. We were also treated to a live performance from sultry songtress Meagan McNeal. She came with a live band and brought along a few friends who also entertained us with songs. It was absolutely beautiful. Meagan will be performing July 15th at City Winery on Randolph if interested.

    Barbacoa Nachos
    Kelci M.

    Quick and friendly service with a view! I'm talking lightning fast! My food came out in 5 mins! I got the Barbacoa Nachos. They were tasty but definitely deserved more cheese and would be better with hot sauce.

    Waffle fries and frozen margarita
    Maansi S.

    While visiting Chicago, stopped by here to try their frozen cocktails. The wait for seating is pretty long so definitely keep that in account if you plan to stop by here. I was able to order and find a spot at the bar. The frozen margarita was STRONG! It tasted great and is way to cool down on a hot summer day. The waffle fries was pretty good too! Overall had a good time. I wish there were heat lamps since it got a little chilly and sipping the frozen drink kinda made it feel even colder. But that's just me being overly critical.

    Smash burger and chicken Caesar salad
    Candace W.

    Came here on a sunny Saturday at noon for brunch by the river and it was decent. The table we were seated at was pretty shady and wasn't as close to the river as my party and I would have liked. The service was slow, and our server apologized to us for how backed up the kitchen was. When the food finally came it was just eh. My burger was decent but pretty expensive (around $17) for it to not come w fries. My friend's chicken caesar salad was bland and light on cheese and dressing. My other friend did enjoy the nachos though. Our drinks were decent and strong. Overall: pretty pricey with slow service and alright food. I'd rather try somewhere else on the riverfront than come here again

    Garlic parm waffle fries and fried pickles
    Kelsey B.

    A perfect spot on the river for happy hour! Good drink and food selection - my friend and I split the garlic parm fries and fried pickles, both were fantastic!

    Iced latte
    Lisa S.

    This place is a gem! They're open early in the morning before work which is a treat for runners on the riverwalk. I had a sausage, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich and paired that with an iced almond milk latte. This was the combo I needed post run to help kick start my day. To top it off, the views of the river and tall buildings are stunning. Thank you, Tiny Tapp for being here!!

    Veronica M.

    This spot was such a hit! If you're walking along the river and looking for a place to stop to eat or drink - this is your spot! They offer beer on tap as well as breakfast and lunch. The vibe is great as it's along the river, so we sat outside enjoying the views. The staff was friendly with us and attentive as well.

    Riverwalk area.
    Vanessa B.

    Oh Tiny Tap is our jam. We walk across the river and post up here on a sunny afternoon--we usually bring some board games and the pups. Tiny Tap never disappoints, the views are superb, you're on the water--the staff has always been friendly, I think they hire high schoolers who are eager to serve and make some summer tip money so they are quick to get you what you need and are friendlier than most Chicagoans. We highly recommend this spot.

    Goose Island Beer Hug
    Megh L.

    Have walked by multiple times but had never stopped for a drink or food. I'm glad I did because it was a really nice experience. Located along the Riverwalk, it has outdoor seating and sometimes live music. Service was good - drinks and food were served quickly. Great food and beer!

    Caprese sandwich and garlic Parmesan fries

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    8 days ago

    They spit in my food and I found hair in my drink and it took 45 minutes to get water

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    8 days ago

    They made us pay a mandatory $55 tip on a $245 bill without letting us even change it plus they put cigarette ashes in my food

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    12 days ago

    Great food great service at Tiny Tapp on the Riverwalk. Will definitely make it there again my next visit to Chicago.

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    Ask the Community - Tiny Tapp & Cafe

    Do I need a reservation?

    Yes. Sometimes there are island or barstool chairs available which do not need any reservations.

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    What a nice, moody, intimate bar. I came here for happy hour and was pleasantly surprised at how…read moreit's an actual discounted happy hour menu! You know it is these days - most places just knock a dollar off and call it a day. This one is legit! I'd say you should make a reservation for prime time to ensure you'll have a seat. However when it's early no big deal to just pop by. I enjoyed the plum Moscow mule (not too sweet!) and the espresso martini. Both are on draft which made me nervous from past experiences at other places. However, these were great and I LOVED their espresso martini. The bartender was kind and the vibes were off the charts. Check this place out next time you're in Lincoln Park!

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    A dimly lit, cramped, dark, and friendly space rests a fondue restaurant made for a night out with…read morefriends, date night, or just a desire for melted cheese. A guitarist sits somewhere against a brick wall and plays music lightly but energetically. Service is friendly from start to finish and smiles are on everyone's faces. The menu is pretty easy to understand. You can get a three-course meal, or you can get each entree à la carte. You have two fondue candles in front of you, one for the cheese and dessert, and the other for the oil. We chose the three-course meal, and it was delightful. We started with the cheese appetizer. You get a basket of bread and fruit and we chose the seasonal cheese to dip. The oil for our meat was then left to heat, and we received a massive platter of veggies and meats for our main course. We chose the option for all selections of meat and seafood. After trying all the meats, I would opt for the lobster and shrimp. You can also substitute the oil for a broth. I would like to try the broth for next time. In one of the shakers, Gejas makes their own meat spice mix. It's recommended to put on the meats and even the desserts. It's a mix of tangy and savory and was a great compliment to the meal. We then chose the seasonal dessert, a white chocolate with vanilla cookies. Fruit, marshmallows, and churros to dip. We were so full by the time dessert came, but we enjoyed a few bites and took it home. The three-course meal, with five types of meat, came with about 10 pieces of meat. It doesn't look like a lot of food, but it truly is, with the apps, veggies, etc, your stomach will be full when you walk out of here. They also start the entire course with a mixed salad (so technically it's a four-course meal). It was very fairly priced, as well. Initially looking at the prices, you may think it's expensive, but it truly is a value with the amount of food they serve. This was rated as most romatic restaurant in Chicago. Its ambiance gives you the romantic feel, the guitarist adds to the atmosphere, and the staff is professional and friendly. This really was a great place and we enjoyed our time and meal.

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    Gemini

    Gemini

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    As a Gemini celebrating my birthday season with other Geminis, it only felt right to celebrate at…read moreGemini! When we arrived, I was a bit concerned because we hadn't received our menus. And that's because the menus were being printed with a personalized birthday message! Our server was attentive, knowledgeable, and struck the perfect balance of checking in without being overbearing. The mussels (provençal-style) were delicious and enough to share among three people. The truffle-parmesan fries: We couldn't tell if they were too salty or just salty enough, but somehow we couldn't stop eating them! I ordered the baby wedge salad with chicken, and while the chicken looked small at first, it ended up being a large enough portion to last the salad. We were also surprised with complimentary desserts: the Chocolate Chunk Cookie Skillet and Buck Russell's Cake. Though I'm not a sweet person, my dining companions thoroughly enjoyed them.

    It's Summer Time Chi season in Lincoln Park. Extensive patio at Gemini is super inviting. Jacob our…read moreserver was exceptional in his engagement & making reco's on drinks and food. Even though half my party was late, I never felt rushed. The FKG mocktail was sweet and flavorful. The Spritzer was a good alcoholic next drink. Truffle Parm fries were a table fav. Burrata was smaller than I expected for $18. Enjoyed my beet salad with salmon. Will def be back and highly recommend!

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    Nice view inside restaurant
    Nice view inside restaurant
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    Burrata crostini
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    Le Mistral

    Le Mistral

    4.9
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    The service is just incredible. That's what stands out the most. We came after having a superb…read moredinner at S.K.Y. and out waitress transferred us to Le Mistral for dessert as we were hoping to end the night with another cocktail. The transition was seamless, the walk through the kitchen was very cool, everyone was very friendly and excited to see guests. Our dessert came quickly to Le Mistral instead of S.K.Y. and was superb. Our waiter at Le Mistral was very friendly, gave some good advice on the cocktails, and was consistently attentive. My cocktail was just OK - sherry-based martini. I don't normally like a martini but all the ingredients actually seemed very much up my alley - the sherry, benedictine, rose vermouth. But the olive just overpowered. And definitely not worth the price of $24... Would definitely return and try the food next time as well.

    We popped in on a Monday night for a nightcap after finishing up at Mon Ami Gabi across the lobby…read more Our experience was meh. I don't know if every Monday is Metal night, but it was that Monday - Black Sabbath, Nu-Metal, everything but the live goldfish. Perhaps they should advertise "Monday Metal at Mistral" if that is to be a regular thing. It does flow off the tongue. To be fair, there was a full house and the other patrons did not seem to mind. We were not looking to feel the noize, however, and so stayed for just one cocktail. Mine was a Sazerac adjacent mix, and it was very high quality. The decor is very low light, but the vibe is pretty basic - more Paint Your Dorm Room black than Parisian Opium Den black. A bit of a missed opportunity for romance.

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    Esme

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    4.0
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    Esmé, consistently One of Our Favorites in Chicago…read more We went to Esmé last night on a Monday and were pleasantly surprised to see both an event happening in the bar and a solid number of diners in the dining room. Not many Michelin starred restaurants can pull that off on a Monday, but Esmé always seems to have energy. This place has become one of our most reliable favorites. They change the menu a few times a year in conjunction with rotating local artists, and the restaurant itself feels more like a refined art gallery than a traditional dining room with white walls, clean lines, simple and elegant. Last night was no exception to their usual excellence. The experience is really anchored by Chris Gerber, a longtime Chicago hospitality pro, and his team. They are flawless. This is true hospitality in every sense of the word. They usually keep two signature dishes, and for good reason. The caviar supplement sounds odd on paper, but in your mouth it is absolute perfection. The cod sounds simple, but it is anything but, rich, decadent, and always one of the highlights. Everything new on this menu was also outstanding. Every course had beautifully balanced sauces that made sense with the dish, and the presentations were creative without being gimmicky or over the top. The plating always ties in with the featured artist in a way that feels thoughtful, not forced. One tip. Be careful when choosing your beverage pairing. We did not read closely enough and ended up with the more inventive pairing that included cocktails and a beer. It was fun, but afterward we wished we had gone with the higher end wine pairing instead. Bottom line. Esmé remains one of the most consistent Michelin starred experiences in Chicago. It is not just very good. It is reliably excellent every single time.

    My rating of a 3 is specifically for the Restaurant Week menu though I'll say it definitely didn't…read moreinspire me to come back. I really wanted to like it; this was a nine-year anniversary dinner. Service was really attentive and friendly and I did appreciate that they brought out specific utensils for me as a left-handed person, never saw that before! The restaurant felt a bit bare and sterile, I think I was maybe expecting a little more decor on the table for a Michelin star restaurant. To echo several of the reviews below, the salad was awkward to share and scanty, the soup was good but the bread served with it felt like an afterthought, the sturgeon wasn't anything special though the sauce was quite good, and we are pretty sure the cut of beef was not wagyu or if it was it was not cooked the right way. The beef was the most disappointing part, I couldn't even chew through all of it. The add-ons were the best part - pasta was great and our dessert was delicious. But the rest of the meal was unfortunately mediocre. Hoping that others have a different experience with the regular menu!

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    Willow Room

    Willow Room

    4.2
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    2.1 mi
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    Loved everything. Delicious really great foods. Group of four, zero complaints. The service was on…read morepoint. Nice wine pour. Bright fun atmosphere. I thought for the quality and portions and fair prices this is a really great choice. Looking forward to returning.

    Chicago Restaurant week. I reviewed various dining options in search of a good place for dinner…read more Reddit gave me some ideas. I'd never been to Willow Room and liked that they had a four course dinner menu, with items I liked. I was able to make a reservation for a Saturday night at 8:15pm. PARKING Parking on Halsted on a Saturday night can be a nightmare, and it did take a minute to find street parking. North of the 1800 block is busier because there are several restaurants within a two block radius. Side streets are permit parking after 6pm. Meters on Halsted are $2.50/hr. ATMOSPHERE Willow Room was pretty packed. We had a reservation for 8:15pm and my party of two was seated right away. The restaurant features a full bar, dim lighting and is nice and roomy. They have banquette seating around the perimeter, in addition to tables in the middle. SERVICE Our server, who was very nice and accommodating during our dining experience, came by and gave us our menu's. I had already decided on the RW menu and after review, my friend was interested in the Beef Wellington (not on RW menu). Our server informed us that normally the whole table had to order off of the RW menu if one person does, but said she would check with the kitchen since this was the last day of RW. Luckily, we were able to proceed with ordering from different menu's. FOOD I ordered a raspberry Cosmopolitan. I'm a Riesling/Moscato girlie, but I tasted the Riesling and didn't like it. RW dinner was priced at $60. I ordered: First Course: Caesar Salad (Typical salad, was good) Second Course: Mussels (Tasted fine, came with a baguette) Third Course: Short Rib (Could've been slightly more tender and better seasoned. I've definitely had better. Wouldn't order again.) Fourth Course: Orange Ricotta Donuts (Donuts were very good. Three were served, a few more would have been more filling.) My friend ordered a glass of Pinot Noir and: Truffle Fries (Fries were very tasty. I would order again if I went back.) Beef Wellington (The breading was buttery and very good. The beef could've been more seasoned. I wouldn't order.) Key Lime Pie (Was not sweet and had no taste. When our server came back and saw it was uneaten, she offered to take it off the bill. It should be removed from the menu altogether.) The busboys and server were very attentive. Our water glasses were always filled. OVERALL The atmosphere was nice, our server was great. Of all the food we ordered, I would order the truffle fries and Cosmopolitan again. I did leave full and did take my leftover Short Rib to go. Main dishes needed more seasoning. I would dine here again and try a different menu (brunch/lunch), or Happy Hour if they offer it.

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    French 75

    Tiny Tapp & Cafe - tradamerican - Updated June 2026

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