The Christkindlmarket is in full effect, and the Loop is never short of good dining spots. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, or a fancy dinner after a successful shopping day, this list of the best restaurants near the Christkindl market has something for you. After all, how can you say you’ve enjoyed Chicago’s festivities without diving into the Windy City’s dining scene as well?
Petterino’s
150 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60601
Red is the color of Santa, but red is also the color of one of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago. Cozy up in a red booth at Petterino’s after a day of exploring the Christkindlmarket. Enjoy timeless flavors, authentic Italian fare, comfortable interiors and warm hospitality. From chicken pot pie to spaghetti and meatballs to eggplant parmesan, there’s a warm comfort meal waiting for everyone. Petterino’s is open for both lunch and dinner.
Boleo
122 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
Enjoy a dinner underneath the magic of the city lights. Boleo is located at the top of The Kimpton Gray Hotel and features a retractable roof. Inspired by Peruvian street food, Boleo offers a menu of snackable ceviches, anticuchos and other small plates with a contemporary touch. Behind the bar, you’ll find Southern Hemisphere standbys like Fernet & Cola, Chilcano’s, plus seasonal Pisco creations. Don’t forget to grab a large format punch bowl for your group of Christmas shoppers!
Vol. 39
39 S La Salle St #200, Chicago, IL 60603
If you’re not looking for a meal, but want to toast to the holidays among friends, check out Vol. 39 located on the second floor of The Kimpton Gray Hotel. With a sophisticated cocktail bar atmosphere, Vol. 39 offers up a menu of bespoke cocktails with a nod to the classics and an extensive list of fine wines and spirits. Cheers to the Christmas shopping season!
Elephant & Castle
111 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603
A casual, friendly British pub and restaurant, Elephant & Castle is a hidden gem in the loop. Their menu features classic shared plates like mini sausage rolls and fried pickles, delicious starters like traditional poutine and pretzel bites, and a variety of soups, salads, and entrees. For those looking to warm up, they have some delicious savory pies, too!
Broken English Taco Pub
75 E Lake St, Chicago, IL 60601
We can’t be friends if you’re not a taco-all-year-around person too. But if you are, Broken English Taco Pub is the perfect place for a quick bite after exploring the Christkindlmarket. Share some chips and guac with your fellow shopper, then dig into their gourmet tacos! You can mix and match taco trays for six or twelve tacos, or order a la carte. Before you leave, make sure to order some horchata to go!
Pittsfield Cafe
55 East Washington Street Lobby, Chicago, IL 60602
What if you need to fuel up before heading to the market? Pittsfield Cafe is perfect for that purpose! Located inside the historic Pittsfield building, this quaint little joint has been serving Chicagoans delicious breakfast and brunch since forever ago. We love their skillets (they come with three eggs by default!) and the fact you can customize your french toast and pancakes!
The Purple Pig
444 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Style, taste, and vibe. The Purple Pig is still one of our favorite spots in the loop. If you’re on a date at the Christkindlmarket, dinner at The Purple Pig would sure add a few points to your impression. From their menu to cocktails, The Purple Pig is the definition of intricacy and elegance. There is nothing more that needs to be said. If you care about your dining experience, come here after a long day of shopping!
Siena Tavern
51 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
When setting foot into Siena Tavern’s 10,000-square-foot eatery for lunch, dinner, late night cocktails, or weekend brunch, you can expect to taste the same “from-scratch” Italian cooking fundamentals in pastas, pizzas, mozzarellas, gelato and everything between. Therefore, this is the perfect place for you to grab a bite before, during, or after the Christkindl market exploration.
Ema
74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654
Ema features Mediterranean small plates and spreads with fresh breads. For drinks, you have to try something from their extensive wine list. This is the perfect place for someone looking for a comfortable environment and a light dinner or lunch. Even if you just sit down for a glass of wine, Ema’s bright interior and delicate decorations will sure help you relax after all that walking and shopping.
Featured Image: The Purple Pig