When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Toasted
Why Little Toasted is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Toasted stands out as a vibrant and inviting modern eatery nestled in downtown Chicago’s West Loop Gate area, right by the river. Its prime location makes it an ideal meetup spot for friends, couples, work groups, or anyone looking to unwind before heading out to nearby music venues. With a stylish indoor-outdoor setup, including a scenic patio that overlooks the river, Little Toasted offers a casual, chilled atmosphere perfect for any time of day — from morning coffee and pastries to quick lunches and leisurely dinners. The menu features a blend of Contemporary American dishes with creative twists, including fan favorites like stuffed mushroom burgers, protein bowls, pork belly sliders, and truffle fries. Notably, the bar boasts an impressive selection of whiskeys and craft beers, alongside inventive cocktails that appeal to a variety of tastes. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or planning a longer stay for drinks and conversation, the friendly and attentive service enhances the experience. Its accessibility via multiple CTA lines and walking distance to Chicago’s top music destinations further cements Little Toasted as an inviting, convenient, and memorable spot to connect with friends.
Here's what people think of Little Toasted
As of recent, Little Toasted holds a 4.4-star rating based on 377 reviews.
Guest reviews of Little Toasted generally reflect a positive dining and social experience centered around good food, convenient location, and friendly service. Many reviewers emphasize the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, appreciating the indoor-outdoor seating that allows them to enjoy views by the river. Positive comments frequently highlight the creative and well-prepared menu items, such as the stuffed mushroom burger and protein bowls, which offer fulfilling and flavorful options. The bar and drink selection receive praise for their variety and quality, especially the well-crafted cocktails and whiskey offerings. Reviewers also mention the restaurant as a perfect pre-concert spot due to its proximity to popular music venues and quick, efficient service. However, some negative feedback centers on inconsistent service experiences, with a few guests noting a cool or inattentive reception during less busy times, which slightly dampened an otherwise pleasant visit. Despite these occasional service concerns, the general consensus remains favorable, with many patrons recommending Little Toasted for its quality food, lively ambiance, and convenient location in Chicago’s dining scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
karina k
A fun place for groups and couples and friends and work groups. Lots of fun drinks and inside and outside seating and lots of appetizers and food. But the food isn’t great. The jalapeño nachos have too much jalapeño and little cheese and little salsa tomato. Drinks are good… food okay. Beautiful ambiance and modern look. Fun fun fun. Great for corporate events.
Mr. Kellogg
Really disappointing “2.0” grilled cheese with barely any cheese!!! Atmosphere was nice and cool views on a snowy day but food was heavily lacking. The burger was decent and the Barbacoa bowl was really good but overall a pretty dissatisfying experience.
Rachel Geller
Little Toasted is a solid lunch spot if you're in the Loop. I grabbed the Blackened Chicken Sandwich with fries and a cold brew. The sandwich had a nice kick, and the fries were crispy. The riverside patio is a great place to relax, especially on a sunny day. Service was quick, even during the lunch rush. Only downside is the price—it's a bit steep for a casual lunch, but the quality makes up for it.
Marisol Leon
Traveling in Chicago didn’t really know where to grab lunch. Little Toasted caught my eye. I’m so glad we stopped! Had the Teriyaki Salmon Bowl, it was full of flavor! Highly recommended!
Lauren Cono
Great spot near the Amtrak station. Had a passion fruit daiquiri and a blackened chicken sandwich that was deliciously spicy. Sat in a nice chair near the window to get some sun and read a bit before my train ride. There was a Climate Action museum across the way that I didn't have time to visit but would like to another time. Friendly service and great food
How to reach Little Toasted
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Why Little Toasted may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Toasted with your friends?
Little Toasted offers an ideal setting to gather with friends thanks to its perfect combination of location, atmosphere, and menu. Situated along the scenic riverside in downtown Chicago’s West Loop Gate area, it provides a lively yet relaxed environment for any social meetup. Whether you're looking to kick off an exciting night out or simply enjoy a casual meal together, the venue’s indoor-outdoor space with river views creates a refreshing ambiance that encourages lingering conversations and shared experiences. Its proximity to major music venues and easy access to public transit means you can seamlessly integrate a meal or drinks here as part of a broader outing. The restaurant is highly praised for its quick, friendly service which ensures your group is taken care of efficiently, leaving more time to enjoy each other’s company. Furthermore, with a menu designed to encourage sharing—featuring inventive small plates and creative cocktails—Little Toasted fosters a spirit of conviviality that’s perfect for groups. The combination of thoughtful food, a broad craft beer and whiskey selection, and pleasant patio seating makes it an excellent rally point to connect with friends or family before or after events or simply to enjoy a quality gathering in a fun, inviting setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Little Toasted with your group?
Gathering friends at Little Toasted unlocks several enjoyable activities perfectly suited for groups. First, the key feature is the communal dining experience. Their menu encourages sharing with dishes like pork belly sliders, truffle fries, and stuffed mushroom burgers which promote a social vibe as everyone samples multiple flavors together. This shared dining fosters interaction and makes the meal itself a fun event. Beyond eating, the bar is a highlight for drink enthusiasts; the establishment boasts an impressive whiskey selection and a variety of craft beers, alongside creative cocktails that cater to diverse tastes. This variety allows your group to explore new flavors, perfect for conversations centered around favorite drinks. Another activity is outdoor dining by the river, where your group can enjoy the vibrant cityscape and fresh air, especially in warmer months. The laid-back patio atmosphere provides a relaxing backdrop, ideal for casual chats and people watching. Additionally, its close proximity to concert venues means your group can plan progressive meetups—dining and drinks at Little Toasted, then walking a few minutes to catch a live show or event. Finally, the restaurant occasionally hosts events and can accommodate private bookings, enabling your group to celebrate special occasions in a comfortable, festive space tailored to your needs.
Why is Little Toasted perfect for group meetups?
Little Toasted excels as a meetup spot for groups due to several thoughtful design features and service qualities. Its versatile layout includes ample indoor seating and a spacious outdoor patio, catering to various group sizes and preferences without feeling cramped. This adaptability ensures that whether your party is intimate or larger, everyone can be comfortably accommodated, encouraging extended visits. The restaurant’s menu supports communal dining, with numerous shareable plates and well-curated drink options that spark shared enjoyment and discovery among group members. Furthermore, the friendly and efficient staff are known to cater well to groups, offering prompt service that avoids long waits—crucial for keeping the mood lively and allowing for flexible plans such as catching nearby concerts. Its central location in downtown Chicago’s West Loop area, close to transportation and cultural hotspots, means your group can easily combine dining with other urban activities like visiting theaters, galleries, or music venues. In addition, the inviting and laid-back atmosphere creates a pressure-free environment where conversation flows easily. These factors combine to make Little Toasted an outstanding venue for groups wanting a pleasant, adaptable setting that accommodates diverse desires, from casual lunches to pre-concert dinners or celebratory gatherings.
What makes the food and drinks at Little Toasted ideal for sharing?
The menu at Little Toasted is thoughtfully crafted to enhance the shared dining experience, making it especially attractive for friends or family meeting in groups. The emphasis is on small plates and inventive appetizers that encourage tasting across the table, allowing everyone to enjoy a variety of flavors without committing to large individual meals. Items such as pork belly sliders, truffle fries, and stuffed mushroom burgers combine creativity with comfort food familiarity, appealing to a wide range of palates. These dishes are sized to be shared, supporting a communal atmosphere where food becomes a central conversation starter. On the drink side, their specialty lies in whiskey-forward cocktails and craft beer selections, offering group members interesting and varied options to sample. The creativity behind their cocktail menu ensures that drinks can be matched to mood and preference, making the bar as much a part of the group activity as the food. Also notable is the quality and freshness of ingredients, ensuring the shared plates are not just social conveniences but genuinely delicious offerings. This focus on shareability, diversity, and taste makes the dining experience at Little Toasted a centerpiece for group enjoyment and bonding.
How does Little Toasted’s location and atmosphere enhance the group experience?
Little Toasted’s location in the West Loop Gate area of downtown Chicago provides tremendous benefits for groups gathering there. Nestled riverside, the venue offers scenic views and a lively urban vibe that energizes meetups. The indoor-outdoor design with patio seating overlooking the river means groups can opt for fresh air and city sights when weather permits, enhancing the overall experience with a pleasant, open atmosphere. Its central location is also within walking distance of major music venues, enabling seamless transitions from dining to concerts or nightlife activities, perfect for groups planning an extended social outing. Easy access to multiple public transit lines further simplifies coordination and travel logistics for everyone attending. The venue’s relaxed ambiance—with a blend of modern sleekness and casual comfort—creates a welcoming environment where groups can feel at ease, whether they arrive for a quick bite or a longer gathering. Furthermore, the friendly, knowledgeable staff contribute to the positive atmosphere by offering attentive yet unobtrusive service that anticipates group needs. This combination of attractive surroundings, strategic location, and an inviting vibe makes Little Toasted an exceptional place for groups to connect in Chicago’s bustling social scene.
What do reviews say about hosting group meetups at Little Toasted?
Customer feedback consistently highlights Little Toasted as a great place for group outings. Many reviewers note the friendly and efficient service, which helps groups feel well taken care of without long waits, keeping the mood upbeat and interactive. Guests often praise the creative, flavorful food and shareable menu options, which foster a communal dining experience ideal for friends and family catching up. The outdoor patio receives special mention, appreciated for its ambiance and views, especially during warm weather, making it a popular choice for leisurely group dinners or casual meetups. While some reviewers have pointed out occasional variability in service, the majority emphasize the positive vibe and the venue’s suitability for both quick bites and longer social occasions. The proximity to Chicago’s entertainment venues also earns praise, as diners find Little Toasted an excellent pre-show or post-show location, perfectly blending dining with urban nightlife plans. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a dependable, enjoyable spot that balances quality food, drinks, and atmosphere in a way that satisfies group diners regularly.
How can you make the most of your group visit to Little Toasted?
To maximize your experience at Little Toasted with friends or family, consider planning around its strengths. Since the menu focuses on shareable plates, ordering a variety of small dishes to sample is ideal. Encourage everyone to pick a few favorites or adventurous options, making the meal a collaborative tasting event. Arriving during warmer seasons allows you to enjoy the coveted riverside patio, giving your group a memorable setting enhanced by fresh air and city views. If your meetup is tied to a concert or event nearby, use Little Toasted as the perfect launch point to start or end the evening, benefiting from its convenient location within walking distance of music venues. It’s best to call ahead or make reservations if possible, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating arrangements that suit your party comfortably. Taking advantage of the knowledgeable bar staff by trying some of the whiskey-forward cocktails or craft beers can add an extra layer of fun, spurring lively discussions over new drink discoveries. By planning around these elements, your group will enjoy a seamless and satisfying outing crafted to combine excellent food, drinks, and ambiance.