Streeterville, a vibrant neighborhood nestled along Chicago's Magnificent Mile, boasts a diverse culinary scene. While known for its upscale restaurants, Streeterville also offers a surprising number of fantastic diners, perfect for a quick bite, a casual lunch, or a satisfying late-night meal. This guide explores the top 16 diners in Streeterville, highlighting their unique offerings and what makes them stand out. We'll cover everything from classic American fare to international flavors, ensuring there's something for every palate.
Classic American Diners: Comfort Food Done Right
These diners capture the essence of classic American cuisine, offering familiar favorites with a modern twist.
1. Lou Mitchell's: A Chicago Institution
Lou Mitchell's is more than just a diner; it's a Chicago landmark. Established in 1923, this diner has been serving up delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner for nearly a century. Their legendary apple pie is a must-try, and their friendly service adds to the charming atmosphere.
- Speciality: Classic American breakfast, hearty sandwiches, and homemade pies.
- Ambiance: Retro, family-friendly, and bustling.
2. Original RFD Kitchen: Modern Diner Flair
Original RFD Kitchen offers a fresh take on classic diner food, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and creative dishes. Their menu includes comfort food favorites with a modern twist, alongside unique seasonal specials.
- Specialty: Elevated comfort food, creative burgers, and seasonal cocktails.
- Ambiance: Modern, stylish, and slightly upscale.
3. Wildfire: Upscale Diner Experience
While technically a steakhouse, Wildfire offers a diner-like experience with its extensive menu, comfortable setting, and approachable atmosphere. It’s a great option if you are looking for a more elevated diner experience.
- Specialty: Steaks, seafood, and American comfort food classics.
- Ambiance: Upscale casual, warm and inviting.
International Flavors: A Global Culinary Journey
Streeterville's diners aren't limited to American cuisine. Explore a world of flavors with these international options.
4. RPM Italian: Italian-American Fusion
RPM Italian offers a sophisticated take on Italian-American cuisine, with a menu that seamlessly blends traditional dishes with modern interpretations. Their pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy.
- Specialty: Pasta, pizzas, and Italian-American entrees.
- Ambiance: Chic and modern.
5. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: French Bistro with Diner Vibes
Bavette's offers a unique blend of French bistro and classic diner elements, with a focus on prime cuts of meat and an extensive wine list. While pricier than your average diner, it provides a refined and intimate experience.
- Specialty: Steaks, French bistro classics, and an extensive wine selection.
- Ambiance: Romantic, sophisticated, and dimly lit.
6. The Purple Pig: Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes
The Purple Pig's Mediterranean-inspired menu offers a wide array of small plates perfect for sharing, from tapas-style dishes to larger entrees. It's a great spot for a casual dinner or a pre-theater meal.
- Specialty: Mediterranean small plates, tapas, and shared plates.
- Ambiance: Lively, vibrant, and bustling.
Unique & Thematic Diners: Beyond the Ordinary
These diners stand out with their unique themes and distinct culinary approaches.
7. Sunda: Pan-Asian Fusion
Sunda's eclectic Pan-Asian menu is a culinary adventure, with dishes from across Asia, skillfully blended together. Expect bold flavors and visually stunning presentations.
- Specialty: Pan-Asian cuisine, sushi, and creative cocktails.
- Ambiance: Modern, stylish, and upscale.
8. The Dearborn: Modern American with a Twist
The Dearborn delivers a contemporary twist on classic American dishes. Their menu emphasizes seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, offering a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.
- Specialty: Modern American cuisine, seasonal dishes, and craft cocktails.
- Ambiance: Upscale casual, chic, and modern.
9. RPM Steak: Upscale Steakhouse with Diner-like Aspects
Similar to Wildfire, RPM Steak provides a more upscale diner experience focusing on prime cuts of meat. Their ambiance and service are key factors.
- Specialty: Steaks, seafood, and elevated sides.
- Ambiance: Sophisticated, high-end, and stylish.
Quick Bites & Casual Options: Grab & Go
Sometimes you just need a quick and satisfying meal. These diners are perfect for that.
10. Corner Bakery Cafe: Casual & Convenient
Corner Bakery offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or a grab-and-go breakfast.
- Specialty: Sandwiches, salads, pastries, and coffee.
- Ambiance: Casual and relaxed.
11. Starbucks: Coffee & Light Bites
A reliable option for a quick coffee, pastry, or light meal.
- Specialty: Coffee, tea, pastries, and light breakfast items.
- Ambiance: Fast-paced and convenient.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Discover the Unexpected
These diners may be less well-known but offer equally delicious food and unique experiences.
12. Rosebud on Rush: Classic Italian-American
Rosebud offers a traditional Italian-American experience with a focus on family recipes and classic dishes. It's a cozy and inviting spot.
- Specialty: Italian-American classics, pasta, and pizza.
- Ambiance: Warm and inviting, classic Italian-American style.
13. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap: Neighborhood Gem
Tufano's is a beloved neighborhood gem offering a wide array of classic American dishes in a casual and friendly environment.
- Specialty: Classic American fare, burgers, and sandwiches.
- Ambiance: Casual, friendly, and neighborhood-centric.
Late-Night Options: Fueling the Nightlife
These diners are perfect for satisfying late-night cravings after a night out.
14. Andros Taverna: Greek Late-Night Eats
Andros Taverna is perfect for a post-event meal or late-night snack, offering a variety of Greek appetizers and entrees.
- Specialty: Greek appetizers, entrees, and cocktails.
- Ambiance: Lively and vibrant.
15. Portillo's Hot Dogs: Chicago Style Late Night
While not technically in Streeterville (slightly outside), it's close enough for a Chicago-style hot dog fix late at night.
- Specialty: Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and other Chicago classics.
- Ambiance: Casual and quick-service.
Luxury & Fine Dining (with Diner Elements): The Best of Both Worlds
For those who want a luxurious experience with elements of a diner’s approachability:
16. NoMI Kitchen: Stunning City Views & Refined Diner-esque Fare
NoMI Kitchen offers a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views of the city, creating an elegant yet comforting atmosphere.
- Specialty: American cuisine, seasonal dishes, and extensive wine list.
- Ambiance: Elegant, sophisticated, and breathtaking views.
This guide provides a starting point for your culinary exploration of Streeterville's diverse diner scene. Remember to check websites for menus, hours, and reservations before your visit. Enjoy your gastronomic adventure!