Living in Near West Side
Why we love it
The West Loop is a foodie mecca. An explosion of excellent eateries have taken over this former industrial area, turning the historic warehouses into some of the city’s hottest restaurants.
Insider tips
A former meat-packing district, the West Loop has become one of the most dynamic dining destinations in the city. In particular, a stretch of Randolph Street known as Restaurant Row is where you’ll find many of the neighborhood’s most celebrated spots, from high-end tasting menus to hidden ramen joints to fourth-generation sandwich shops.
The West Loop is also home to Greektown, a bustling enclave overflowing with traditional restaurant restaurants, bakeries, and delis, and the National Hellenic Museum — the second oldest American institution dedicated to Greek culture.
Nearby Fulton Market has a cool industrial vibe that bursts with activity, thanks to tons of trendy restaurants and bars that have taken over the old warehouse spaces. Between meals, you can explore the West Loops’s art galleries, cool shops, and boutique hotels. Check out the year-round Randolph Street Market for unusual vintage and antique finds. In the summer, the market heads outdoors with live music and pop-up bars.
Explore like a local
Head to walk-up window at BomboBar for Instagram-worthy desserts to go. Order a round of crispy pig face at Girl and the Goat where Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard runs the kitchen. Try one of the best burgers in America at refined diner Au Cheval — it’s worth the wait.