The Berghoff Restaurant
German restaurant · Loop ·
Traditional German cuisine & house-brewed beer in an old-world setting
Traditional German cuisine & house-brewed beer in an old-world setting
"One of the oldest restaurants in Chicago is a timeless landmark that offers traditional German fare and beer brewed in-house. The Berghoff (America’s Classics, 1999), which originally opened as a saloon in 1878 and started serving meals during World War I is notable for snagging the the first liquor license the city issued after Prohibition and also for operating a men’s-only bar until 1969. The historic 45,000-square-foot building closed briefly in 2006 during a transition in ownership but has since returned to its role as a reliable spot for a Reuben or schnitzel in the downtown area." - Naomi Waxman
"A Chicago institution that’s been around for more than a century, the Berghoff continues to serve traditional German fare to both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is certified by Beyond Celiac and places a strong emphasis on providing gluten-free dishes. Diners can try sauerbraten, cedar plank salmon, barbecue chicken salad, and flourless chocolate cake. Make a reservation through OpenTable." - Sam Nelson
"This German spot opened back when only men were allowed to perform Shakespeare. Ok, it’s not quite that old, but it did open in 1898 (making it Chicago’s oldest restaurant) and definitely has a classic bar/tavern feel. You can expect dishes like wiener schnitzel, sauerbraten, and a pretty fantastic reuben sandwich. Come here for a casual meal before seeing something charmingly historic, like Macbeth or Jurassic World Live." - adrian kane, john ringor
"If you're at Christkindlmarket in the Loop and “eat bratwurst” is a non-negotiable on your holiday market checklist, head to this stall. Just make sure you’re very okay with eating two slightly salty sausages in a slightly stale bun for $12." - John Ringor
"This German spot opened in 1898 and has an old-school bar/tavern feel. Expect to find businesspeople, tourists, and a menu with plenty of gluten-free dishes—from sauerbraten and whitefish to flourless chocolate cake. Come for lunch, or if you’re in the Loop and looking for something casual before a show." - adrian kane, veda kilaru, john ringor
