After an outstanding dinner at The Loyalist, it’s easy to understand why this has become one of Chicago’s favorite neighborhood restaurants.
From the moment when we sat down, we decided to give our server, Allison, complete freedom to choose our meal. We simply told her to surprise us, and every recommendation she made was outstanding. Her knowledge of the menu, enthusiasm, and confidence created a wonderful dining experience.
We started with the tête de cochon, a dish I probably would have overlooked on my own. Thanks to Allison’s recommendation, it became one of the highlights of the evening. It was a creative, beautifully balanced combination of flavors and textures that made for a memorable start.
Next came the mussels, served with a rich brandade cream, bacon, and herb butter. The portion was incredibly generous, and the broth was so flavorful that you’ll want plenty of bread to soak up every last bite.
For our entrées, Allison selected the duck special and the legendary Loyalist cheeseburger for us to share. Both were exceptional. The duck was expertly prepared with crisp skin and perfectly cooked meat, while the cheeseburger reminded us why it’s considered one of the best in Chicago—simple, rich, and absolutely delicious.
The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between warm, inviting, and effortlessly cool, with the comfortable feel of a neighborhood pub elevated by thoughtful design and genuine hospitality. Every member of the staff we encountered was welcoming, engaging, and seemed genuinely happy to be there, making the experience feel even more special.
It’s no surprise that The Loyalist shares a home with its three-Michelin-star sister restaurant, Smyth, just upstairs. While the two restaurants offer very different experiences, they clearly share the same commitment to exceptional food and hospitality.
The Loyalist delivers exactly what great dining should be: outstanding food, knowledgeable and personable service, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger. A special thank you to Allison for guiding our entire meal with such confidence and care. We left feeling like we had experienced the restaurant exactly as its chefs intended, and we can’t wait to return.
