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Best Californian Restaurants in River West

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Aba - Chicago restaurant
1. Aba - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(2594)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • West Loop
Booked 241 times today
Aba in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant shines with Chef CJ Jacobson’s unique, light culinary approach, drawing rich flavors from regions like Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece. Guests are consistently amazed, describing the experience as "astounding" with flavors that are "entertaining to eat" and a setting that immediately sets the tone for a delightful Mediterranean meal. Signature dishes like the Smoky Garlic Hummus and Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak are crowd favorites, often highlighted in reviews as "phenomenal" and "to die for." The carefully curated bar program complements the dining experience with rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits, enhancing the authenticity and quality of the meal. Whether it's the impeccable service, the stunning decor, or the mouth-watering cuisine, Aba offers a Mediterranean dining experience that is truly unforgettable.
A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant
2. The Oakville Grill & Cellar
4.7
Exceptional(1066)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • West Loop
Booked 103 times today
The Oakville Grill & Cellar in Chicago's bustling West Loop is a gem for lovers of authentic Californian cuisine. Celebrated for its fresh, farm-to-table approach, the restaurant showcases the finest ingredients sourced from exclusive partnerships with farms and wineries in California and the Midwest. Diners rave about the "excellent food and wine," with standout dishes like the "branzino with Brussels sprouts" and the "Wagyu hanger steak." The ambiance is described as "always great" and the service "exceptional," making every meal memorable. Whether it's for the "gooey lemon cake" or the "best Caesar salad ever," The Oakville Grill & Cellar is highly recommended for an authentic taste of California right in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Ema - River North restaurant
3. Ema - River North
4.7
Exceptional(4535)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 120 times today
Ema, nestled in Chicago's vibrant River North, is a culinary gem that brilliantly fuses Mediterranean flavors with the essence of Californian cuisine. Praised for its "always fresh high-quality food" and "fantastic cocktails," Ema stands out for its commitment to authenticity and excellence. Diners rave about the innovative dishes like the "Bhel" hummus and the "delicious" chicken kebab, highlighting the creative twist Ema brings to Californian dining. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "beautiful airy space," complements its stellar service, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Whether it's the "impeccable service" or the "outstanding evening sharing small plates," Ema consistently delivers a top-tier gastronomic experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving Californian cuisine in Chicago.
A photo of Summer House - Chicago restaurant
4. Summer House - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7847)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Lincoln Park
Booked 176 times today
Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, Summer House stands out as a beacon of Californian cuisine, transporting diners straight to the sunny West Coast with its beach house décor and seasonal specialties. Chef Ben Goodnick’s menu, bursting with market-driven pasta, artisan pizzas, and fresh antipasti, captures the essence of California’s vibrant flavors. Patrons rave about the "amazing" food and "splendid ambiance," noting that the "atmosphere felt like we were in CA." Summer House isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, where the retractable glass ceiling and all-season courtyard enhance each visit, making it a must-visit for an authentic Californian dining experience right in Chicago.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jamievip
    Chicago / Illinois •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    We always have a wonderful time at Summer House!! The ambience is so warm and bright. The food is delicious!! And there is a perfect table for our large family!! Best is the service. We had a lovely waitress and overall a really great night. We will be back!! Thank you!
    More info
    Summer House - ChicagoPrice: Moderate• American• Lincoln Park
    •
    4.6
  • Susanvip
    Chicago / Illinois •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Service outstanding! It began with a beautiful birthday cinnamon roll and candles for my two birthday friends. From there water always full, staff so friendly and food delicious. Quiche incredible…salads fresh and large…even if a bit pricey. Had the Pearloma…a delicious drink…again pricier for brunch at $17. We always have stellar service and great food there…so it’s worth it. On top of it all: a birthday treat at the end, too. Can’t go wrong here. We’ll be back.
    More info
    The Oakville Grill & CellarPrice: Expensive• American• West Loop
    •
    4.7
  • Shelleyvip
    Chicago / Illinois •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The middle eastern menu is So delicious. Staff was attentive and wine wise. I always leave ABA happy. Minor feedback: I wish the system for delivering food and drinks to the table was smoother. Food came out before cocktails. We had to ask to box food before the next course. Wine came out slowly.
    More info
    Aba - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Ryan
    Las Vegas •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great environment and staff. Quality and freshness of food is fantastic. The environment and menu is great for an elevated relaxing brunch. The brunch menu is in keeping with the Mediterranean theme, but offers a wide variety of options for dietary preferences. The staff took great care to handle food allergies and label servings in an obvious manner. Looking forward to a second visit.
    More info
    Ema - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.7

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