Best Tapas Restaurants in Chicago

Discover the best restaurants in Chicago

Explore must-try spots, new openings, and hidden gems.

Price

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Regions

Chicago

Neighborhoods

Bucktown / Wicker ParkDowntown / LoopLakeview / East LakeviewLincoln ParkRiver North (Chicago)South Loop

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

James Beard AwardMICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

22 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Girl & the Goat

4.8

Exceptional(15166)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • West Loop

Booked 224 times today

Girl & the Goat, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, is a must-visit for tapas enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable dining experience. Known for its bold and inventive small plates, the restaurant celebrates locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with flair and creativity. Diners rave about standout dishes like the "goat empanadas with their perfectly flaky crust and savory filling" and the "crispy, flavorful chickpea fritters." The lively atmosphere and friendly service only enhance the experience, making it an excellent choice for groups or adventurous foodies. With each dish designed to share, every visit promises a delightful culinary adventure.

2. Bar Mar

4.7

Exceptional(1162)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 171 times today

Bar Mar, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, offers an unparalleled seafood experience that truly "tastes of the ocean." Chef José Andrés masterfully crafts fresh oysters and ceviches that capture the essence of the sea. Diners rave about the "super amazing" crab cakes and "fabulous oysters," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity. The bright, nautical-themed space complements the beautifully presented dishes, creating an inviting atmosphere. With an attentive staff that makes every visit special, Bar Mar stands out as a premier destination for seafood lovers seeking both classic flavors and innovative twists.

A photo of Bazaar Meat Chicago restaurant

3. Bazaar Meat Chicago

4.9

Exceptional(606)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 47 times today

Bazaar Meat Chicago is a pinnacle of Tapas and Small Plates cuisine, where each dish is a masterpiece that celebrates José Andrés' Spanish heritage. Located in the vibrant River North neighborhood, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its innovative and authentic approach to Spanish tapas. Guests rave about the "incredible jamón experience" and the inventive "cotton candy foie gras," showcasing the restaurant's flair for creativity. With its chic and lively atmosphere, coupled with top-notch service, Bazaar Meat ensures an unforgettable culinary journey. The tasting menus expertly highlight a fusion of traditional and avant-garde flavors, promising a dining adventure that delights all the senses.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | West Loop (Union Park) restaurant

4. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | West Loop (Union Park)

4.7

Exceptional(951)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Downtown / Loop

Booked 26 times today

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Chicago's West Loop offers an unparalleled barbecue experience that truly stands out for its quality and authenticity. At this renowned spot, diners are treated to the unique yakiniku style of grilling, where "the premium cuts of meat are the star of the show." Guests rave about the "tender, flavorful, and fun-to-grill" selections, including the must-try Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib. The interactive dining setup, paired with a lively yet cozy ambiance, ensures a memorable experience. With attentive service and delectable sauces that enhance every bite, Gyu-Kaku promises a barbecue feast like no other.

5. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!

4.8

Exceptional(455)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 67 times today

Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! in River North is a vibrant celebration of authentic Spanish cuisine that never fails to impress. As the beloved younger sibling of the renowned Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba!, this restaurant captures the essence of Spain with its exquisite selection of tapas. Diners rave about the "life-changing croquettas" and signature dishes like the Bacon-Wrapped Dates and Beef Tenderloin Toro Skewer, which are consistently praised for their bold flavors and perfect execution. The atmosphere is lively, making it ideal for sharing plates and enjoying the classic Sangria, which one guest described as "incredible." With outstanding service and a festive vibe, Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a must-visit for Spanish food enthusiasts.

6. Tapas Valencia

4.8

Exceptional(2493)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • South Loop

Booked 18 times today

Tapas Valencia in Chicago's vibrant South Loop is a haven for authentic Spanish cuisine. Celebrated for its "terrific tapas" and "excellent food both in presentation and flavor," this restaurant delivers a genuine taste of Spain. The lively atmosphere, adorned with vibrant mosaics reminiscent of Gaudí's masterpieces, sets the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Guests consistently rave about the "awesome food and atmosphere," and the "great staff" who ensure a memorable dining experience. From delectable paella to delightful desserts, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity, making Tapas Valencia a must-visit destination for lovers of true Spanish flavors.

A photo of Boqueria - Chicago restaurant

7. Boqueria - Chicago

4.5

Awesome(355)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • West Loop

Booked 22 times today

Boqueria - Chicago shines as a beacon of authentic Spanish cuisine in the bustling West Loop. Guests rave about the "mouthwatering" tapas that transport diners straight to Spain, with dishes that mirror the flavors of Barcelona. The lively atmosphere complements a menu brimming with Spanish classics, such as the "pulpo" and "patatas bravas," which are frequently highlighted as customer favorites. Boqueria's vibrant setting, paired with a chic ambiance and attentive service, ensures every visit is special. Whether it's a memorable brunch or an energetic evening, Boqueria’s culinary delights make it a must-visit destination for Spanish cuisine enthusiasts.

8. Ambar Chicago

new

4.8

Exceptional(44)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 94 times today

Ambar embodies the lively essence and shared joy of Balkan cuisine through a dedication to outstanding service. With established locations in Washington DC and a forthcoming debut in Chicago in Spring 2025, Ambar delivers a distinctive Dining Without Limits encounter, inviting diners to savor more than 30 distinctive Balkan dishes in a single remarkable dining experience. Balancing heritage with contemporary palates, Ambar honors the rich tapestry of Balkan cultures through a welcoming menu that showcases the tastes of Northern and Southern Serbia, Montenegro, and Croatia. Delight in the finest Balkan dining, where remarkable service harmonizes with daring, memorable flavors.

A photo of Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago restaurant

9. Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago

4.4

Awesome(4939)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Tapas • South Loop

Booked 18 times today

Mercat offers an authentic dining experience that combines fresh meats and produces with the energetic spirit of a Barcelona market.

A photo of Ghost Donkey - River North restaurant

10. Ghost Donkey - River North

4.6

Exceptional(47)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • River North (Chicago)

Booked 32 times today

A warm and inviting space with a healthy dose of city grit, Ghost Donkey is rich with vibrant colors and a carefree, fun-loving attitude that evokes notions of Mexican celebration. A true high-low nightlife destination with elevated mezcal and tequila-focused cocktails, classic bites with just enough twist to keep your palette guessing, and an extensive mezcal and tequila list. Ghost Donkey creates an experience-driven, unforgettable moment for every guest that joins the fiesta. Immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Mexican Hospitality while savoring sips of agave-based spirits. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the show, or break out a dance move underneath the sway of the swinging lights.

‘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

A
AllenVIP
Denver / Colorado •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Exactly what I was expecting from this restaurant. Fantastic, anticipatory, staff, clean, beautiful restaurant with accommodating host. Anyone in the business can tell you that finding quality staff is one of the largest challenges of the industry right now I didn’t say that they had it dialed in. He is fresh and beautifully related, top to bottom. It was a fantastic experience.
More info
Bar MarPrice: Moderate• Spanish• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
K
KellyVIP
Tampa / Central Florida West •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Phenomenal restaurant - service was excellent and the food was superb. Especially the goat belly!
More info
Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
•
4.8
T
Tara
Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We consistently love this place; Easter brunch was no exception. Goody bags for the kids and the Easter bunny who was quite entertaining was a fun bonus!
More info
Tapas ValenciaPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• South Loop
•
4.8
D
Daniel
Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •1 review
5.0
Dined on Apr 17, 2025
Food was phenomenal! Make sure to make a reservation.
More info
Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!Price: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• River North (Chicago)
•
4.8
L
leslie
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on Apr 15, 2025
Everything was terrific. The service, steaks and ambience were all exceptional. The small bites were good but I would skip them and focus on the meat. We had steak tartar, roast chicken, waygu ribeye and spinach. Portions were large and perfectly prepared. We would definitely go back.
More info
Bazaar Meat ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Spanish• River North (Chicago)
•
4.9

Explore OpenTable

Neighborhood
Cuisine Nearby
Tapas Cuisine

Chicago

Tapas

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