The Loyalist

As someone who’s always searching for restaurants that truly understand the soul of American cuisine while pushing creative boundaries, I knew I had to visit The Loyalist. When multiple trusted foodie friends kept raving about this place, mentioning everything from their innovative takes on classics to their stunning cocktail program, I knew this was a spot my subscribers would want to discover. There’s something special about finding a restaurant that honors tradition while fearlessly innovating, and I’m thrilled to share this hidden gem with all of you.

Restaurant Info

• Restaurant Type: American (New), Cocktail Bars, Venues & Event Spaces
• Address: 177 N Ada St Ste 001 Chicago, IL 60607 , USA
• Phone: (773) 913-3774

💬 Real opinions from real diners — here’s what they had to say about Fork to see what makes this place worth a visit.

Walking into The Loyalist feels like discovering Chicago’s best-kept secret. The space masterfully blends industrial chic with warm, inviting touches - exposed brick walls meet plush banquettes, while soft lighting creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for everything from date nights to celebratory gatherings. What struck me most was the energy - there’s a palpable buzz of excitement as patrons share plates and cocktails, yet the acoustics allow for easy conversation. The open kitchen lets you glimpse the passionate team at work, and the knowledgeable, attentive staff make you feel like a regular from your first visit. This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination that understands the art of creating memorable dining experiences.

The Loyalist’s burger is an absolute masterpiece that I’m still dreaming about days later. Imagine biting into a perfectly seared patty with that satisfying crust giving way to juicy, medium-rare perfection. The aged cheddar melts into every nook of the beef, while the house-made pickles add just the right tangy crunch. What really sets it apart is the brioche bun - buttery, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold everything together without overwhelming the star of the show. This isn’t just a burger; it’s a culinary experience that redefines what American comfort food can be.

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Their fries are the kind you can’t stop eating even when you’re full. Golden-brown and perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining fluffy and tender inside, each fry has that ideal potato-to-crisp ratio. They’re generously seasoned with sea salt and what I suspect might be a hint of smoked paprika, giving them a subtle complexity that elevates them far above ordinary fries. Served piping hot with their signature aioli for dipping, these fries could easily be a meal on their own - though they’re the perfect companion to that incredible burger.

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The cocktail program here is nothing short of spectacular. I tried their signature ‘Chicago Loyal’ - a beautifully balanced concoction of small-batch bourbon, local honey syrup, and aromatic bitters with an orange twist. The drink arrives chilled to perfection, with just the right amount of dilution to let the flavors sing. Each sip reveals new layers, from the warmth of the bourbon to the subtle sweetness of the honey, finishing with that citrusy brightness. It’s clear their bartenders are true mixologists who treat cocktail crafting as an art form.

The restaurant has a casual and intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting and a warm color scheme. The tables are set with white plates, glasses, and silverware, and there are candles on the tables. The background of the image is a brick wall, which adds to the cozy atmosphere. Overall, the image suggests a relaxed and comfortable dining experience.

Rating is 4 out of 5. reviews:

I went a few weekends ago for brunch! It was incredible, so many fun dishes to pick from - I loved the sweet corn scone. They also had such fun breakfast…

Love the burgers and frys, and wonderful service. We would certainly return. It is a cute little basement dirt high end dive bar. The cocktails are…

Overhyped 3 star burger at best. Let’s face it, you came here for the burger. The two drinks I had were fantastic (Purple Parlez-Vous,Lavender Haze) but…