$, Breakfast, Brunch, Business Dining, Date Spot, Family-Friendly Dining, Group Dining, Lunch Spot, Outdoor Dining, Romantic Dining, Special Occasion Dining, Hotel Dining
South Water Kitchen, adjacent to Chicago's hip Hotel Monaco, is a neighborhood restaurant offering American Home Cooking. Located on the Chicago River's south bank, South Water Kitchen is centered by the city's business loop, the Marina Tower Residences, the Theater District, and a selection of retail shops on both State Street and Michigan Avenue. As a tribute to the kitchen table, South Water Kitchen remembers the time when the kitchen was the center of the home and the family meal was the most important time of the day. South Water Kitchen offers a connection to this American heritage. Restaurant designer Bob Puccini Design, Inc. recreates this memory at the 169 seat South Water Kitchen through warm colors, masculine columns and intimate lighting. The restaurant, reminiscent of a classic Chicago saloon, brings the comforts of home to the bustling streets of this great city.
I went here with a couple of friends for lunch. Their lunch prices are reasonable. ( It is more expensive during dinner time.) The atmosphere was relaxing and friendly. The service was great, even though they were busy when I was there.
Posted 12/08/08 | Report Abuse
Was this review helpful to you?
New Chef... Better Food... I'll Be Back
by sarahmill
We had a FANTASTIC meal before going to theatre. I wanted to stay for dessert, but it was getting late, so we''l be back and try some sweets next time. I also appreciated the large selection of wines by the glass and not named Mondavi. Great place to stop when in the Loop.
Pros: Very Affordable Loop Restaurant
Cons: Dining Room Closes at 10PM
Posted 07/25/09
Great location, not so great food or service
by topchef_aj
We sat in a great table outside on a Saturday night, however, overall, our party of three was disappointed with the quality of the food, as well as the service. The filet was overcooked and had to be sent back, and upon return, it was overcooked yet again and the quality of the filet was far less than you would receive at a wedding reception ("bad"). The pork chop was oversalted, but mac and cheese side was pretty tasty. Our waitress was disinterested and unfriendly, even though we were one of her only tables that evening. The after dinner coffee was cold. The dessert was probably the best part of the evening. We would not return, as there are definitely many higher quality restaurants in the area for similar prices.
Pros: Location
Cons: Food, service
Posted 08/18/07
"watered down" on flavor and service
by joankiser
disappointing...food is fair, at best; service slow; not crowded on a saturday evening and we know why! spinach artichoke dip was bland, dinner salad soaked in dressing-unedible, potato leek soup, again, bland ....even the iced tea and coffee were weak. the only saving grace was the dessert. avoid it, too many other great places to eat in the same vacinity!
Posted 03/23/07
Good food, but restaurant is too smoky
by raedward
Upscale American comfort food - we had excellent prime rib and a fork-tender braised lamb shank. The berry cobbler for dessert was delicious.
This restaurant has a very large bar area up front that permits smoking. All the non-smoking seats are downstairs from the bar, and the cigarette smoke descends and is quite noticeable.
Pros: well-prepared food, large portions, great desserts
Cons: smoky, erratic service
Posted 06/02/06
So charming!
by rvandoren
We were very pleased with our visit to South Water Chicken. Nice atmosphere and ambience and the servixe was excellent!! Price/Quality of the food was excellent as well. We will definetely return on our next visit to Chicago. An absolute must for people that like this bistro atmosphere
Posted 11/26/05
Well Kept Secret!!!!!!!
by robertbracklin
Loved this location, the room was so much fun. The service was extremely attentive and the food was moderately priced for the quality and quantity. I'll be back soon.
Pros: food, service, value
Posted 05/12/05
