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Best Californian Restaurants in Jefferson Park

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Aba - Chicago restaurant
1. Aba - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(2582)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • West Loop
Booked 318 times today
Aba in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant shines with Chef CJ Jacobson’s unique, light culinary approach, drawing rich flavors from regions like Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece. Guests are consistently amazed, describing the experience as "astounding" with flavors that are "entertaining to eat" and a setting that immediately sets the tone for a delightful Mediterranean meal. Signature dishes like the Smoky Garlic Hummus and Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak are crowd favorites, often highlighted in reviews as "phenomenal" and "to die for." The carefully curated bar program complements the dining experience with rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits, enhancing the authenticity and quality of the meal. Whether it's the impeccable service, the stunning decor, or the mouth-watering cuisine, Aba offers a Mediterranean dining experience that is truly unforgettable.
A photo of Ema - Glenview restaurant
2. Ema - Glenview
4.7
Exceptional(306)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Glenview
Booked 188 times today
Ēma is a Mediterranean and California-inspired restaurant from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants located at 1320 Patriot Blvd. The menu, crafted by Chef Partner CJ Jacobson features spreads, dips and assorted mezze, Mediterranean small plates, with an emphasis on Hummus & Spreads, Raw, Vegetables and Kebabs. Signature dishes include Moroccan Onion Dip, Spinach & Feta Spread, Tahini Caesar Salad, Octopus Carpaccio and Spicy Brisket Kefta Kebab. The beverage program showcases cocktails with flavors crafted from Mediterranean ingredients like chinola, fig, fresno chile and coriander. The wine program, curated by Sommelier John C. Slatter, features a globally sourced list of over 70 selections with a strong focus on wineries practicing organic and natural production across the Mediterranean, including ancient grape varieties from Greece, Lebanon and Italy.
A photo of Summer House - Chicago restaurant
3. Summer House - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7834)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Lincoln Park
Booked 265 times today
Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, Summer House stands out as a beacon of Californian cuisine, transporting diners straight to the sunny West Coast with its beach house décor and seasonal specialties. Chef Ben Goodnick’s menu, bursting with market-driven pasta, artisan pizzas, and fresh antipasti, captures the essence of California’s vibrant flavors. Patrons rave about the "amazing" food and "splendid ambiance," noting that the "atmosphere felt like we were in CA." Summer House isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, where the retractable glass ceiling and all-season courtyard enhance each visit, making it a must-visit for an authentic Californian dining experience right in Chicago.
A photo of The Oakville Grill & Cellar restaurant
4. The Oakville Grill & Cellar
4.7
Exceptional(1058)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • West Loop
Booked 102 times today
The Oakville Grill & Cellar in Chicago's bustling West Loop is a gem for lovers of authentic Californian cuisine. Celebrated for its fresh, farm-to-table approach, the restaurant showcases the finest ingredients sourced from exclusive partnerships with farms and wineries in California and the Midwest. Diners rave about the "excellent food and wine," with standout dishes like the "branzino with Brussels sprouts" and the "Wagyu hanger steak." The ambiance is described as "always great" and the service "exceptional," making every meal memorable. Whether it's for the "gooey lemon cake" or the "best Caesar salad ever," The Oakville Grill & Cellar is highly recommended for an authentic taste of California right in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Ema - River North restaurant
5. Ema - River North
4.7
Exceptional(4532)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 96 times today
Ema, nestled in Chicago's vibrant River North, is a culinary gem that brilliantly fuses Mediterranean flavors with the essence of Californian cuisine. Praised for its "always fresh high-quality food" and "fantastic cocktails," Ema stands out for its commitment to authenticity and excellence. Diners rave about the innovative dishes like the "Bhel" hummus and the "delicious" chicken kebab, highlighting the creative twist Ema brings to Californian dining. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "beautiful airy space," complements its stellar service, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Whether it's the "impeccable service" or the "outstanding evening sharing small plates," Ema consistently delivers a top-tier gastronomic experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving Californian cuisine in Chicago.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Marc
    Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The bass was excellent, and the Kofta was tasty. However, the humus was a disappointment—not better than what one can buy in a grocery store. The cauliflower/broccoli dish was a good surprise. Overall, the food was good, but not surprising. The place was full (on a Friday night) -- crowded and noisy. Service was slow.
    More info
    Ema - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.7
  • Terryvip
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •43 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great choice. Every dish was top level, well imagined and expertly crafted. I highly recommend aba.
    More info
    Aba - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Kristin
    Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My branzino and my friend’s truffle pasta were excellent. Our appetizers were delicious and the waiter was very patient as it took us a long time before we were ready to order. He had to come back several times. The atmosphere is lively. I’d recommend it!
    More info
    The Oakville Grill & CellarPrice: Expensive• American• West Loop
    •
    4.7
  • Stevevip
    Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The food, service, Sam V was our outstanding server, and overall ambiance were all fantastic. We are so happy to have this new dinning option on the NorthShore. This was our first time at EMA celebrating our 53rd wedding anniversary with friends and we definitely will be back again
    More info
    Ema - GlenviewPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Glenview
    •
    4.7
  • JOHNvip
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Our waiter James B. was wonderful helpful, patient and fast. The entree’, ravioli, while delicious was not as hot as it should have been and the charge was removed. The guacamole was tops, the soups were delicious and both were enjoyable. The booth was perfect for us and noise level was conversational friendly.
    More info
    Summer House - ChicagoPrice: Moderate• American• Lincoln Park
    •
    4.6

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