The West Loop, Chicago's vibrant culinary hub, boasts more than just Michelin-starred restaurants. Hidden amongst the upscale eateries are some truly exceptional spots serving up craveable chicken tenders. This guide dives deep into fifteen of the best, exploring their unique offerings, highlighting what makes them stand out, and helping you navigate the delicious chicken tender landscape of the West Loop. We'll cover everything from classic preparations to innovative twists, ensuring you find your perfect tender fix.
Top 5 Chicken Tender Experiences in the West Loop
This section focuses on the top five spots, based on a combination of factors including quality of chicken, unique sauces, overall value, and customer reviews.
1. The Purple Pig: While known for its upscale Mediterranean tapas, The Purple Pig surprisingly boasts some incredibly delicious chicken tenders. Their version is a sophisticated take on a classic, featuring perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken, often served with a creative dipping sauce. The ambiance alone makes it worth a visit, and the tenders are a fantastic appetizer or light meal.
2. RPM Italian: RPM Italian offers a refined take on chicken tenders. They present a more upscale, elegant version, often showcasing high-quality ingredients and a gourmet preparation. Expect perfectly crispy breading, juicy meat, and possibly a creative spin on the classic dipping sauces. Expect to pay a premium, reflecting the restaurant's overall sophisticated atmosphere.
3. Au Cheval: Famous for its legendary burgers, Au Cheval also quietly serves some of the West Loop's best-kept secrets: incredible chicken tenders. They're not on the main menu, but asking nicely often gets you a plate of these crispy, juicy delights. The secret? Their incredible buttermilk batter and perfect frying technique.
4. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This stylish steakhouse doesn't overtly advertise chicken tenders, but they offer a sophisticated off-menu version for those in the know. Expect a similar quality to the high-end cuts they serve as their main menu. These are not your typical bar tenders—think elevated ingredients and an elegant presentation.
5. Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's renowned restaurant isn’t typically associated with chicken tenders. However, their creative approach might lead to a unique, unexpected chicken tender offering as a special or part of a tasting menu. Be sure to check their menu for seasonal surprises.
The Next 10: Excellent Chicken Tenders in the West Loop
This section explores ten more fantastic chicken tender options, offering diversity in style and price point.
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Monteverde: While known for its pasta, Monteverde might offer a unique chicken tender dish on their ever-changing menu, showcasing their commitment to high-quality ingredients.
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Little Goat Diner: Another Stephanie Izard restaurant, Little Goat Diner may have a playful and innovative approach to chicken tenders, playing with different breadings and sauces.
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Osteria Langhe: This cozy Italian restaurant might have some unexpected surprises, and chicken tenders could be on the menu or available as a secret menu item.
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Public House: This gastropub often features delicious, comfort-food-style chicken tenders, perfect for a casual night out.
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Formento's: This sophisticated Italian restaurant might offer a unique take on chicken tenders as part of their more extensive menu.
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Siena Tavern: A lively Italian restaurant, Siena Tavern sometimes incorporates chicken tenders into their offerings.
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Rosebud on Taylor: Another Italian option, Rosebud on Taylor might have unique chicken tender dishes as part of their menu.
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The Dearborn: This upscale tavern might have special chicken tender dishes or appetizers that rotate seasonally.
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Swift & Sons: While primarily a steakhouse, Swift & Sons might offer a well-executed, refined take on chicken tenders.
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RPM Steak: Similar to RPM Italian, RPM Steak might offer a high-end take on this classic dish.
Finding Your Perfect West Loop Chicken Tender
This guide provides a starting point for your chicken tender quest in the West Loop. Remember to check restaurant menus and specials as offerings can vary. Happy eating!
Note: Restaurant menus change frequently. Always call ahead or check online menus to confirm availability. This list is based on general reputation and past experiences; individual experiences may vary.
