The Berghoff Restaurant

“We visited The Berghoff while in Chicago for a national convention, and it ended up being one of the best surprises of our trip. We had a party of 9, and everything from the food to the service to the atmosphere was excellent. The restaurant has that classic old Chicago feel the moment you walk in. You can tell it has history, but it does not feel like a place relying only on its reputation. The food was authentic, hearty, and exactly what we were hoping for. Everyone in our group found something they enjoyed, and the beer and drinks added to the whole experience. What really stood out was how well they handled our group. A party of 9 can sometimes feel like a burden at a busy restaurant, but the staff made it easy and welcoming. The service was attentive, friendly, and professional without ever making us feel rushed. We went to Chicago knowing we wanted deep dish pizza and the usual classics, but The Berghoff ended up being the hidden gem of the trip. If you are staying near the Palmer House or visiting downtown Chicago, this is absolutely worth putting on your list. Great food, great history, great service, and a true Chicago experience.”

“The Wiener schnitzel is the dish that earns the most consistent praise and it's the one to order first, a broad, thin-pounded veal cutlet that's properly breaded and fried until the crust is golden and crackly, served with a lemon wedge and nothing else that it doesn't need. The sauerbraten is the other cornerstone, slow-braised beef marinated in a sweet and sour sauce that has a depth that comes from a recipe that hasn't been overthought or updated away from itself. Both come with spaetzle or German potato pancakes depending on what the kitchen is running, and either choice is the right one. The Berghoff's own draft root beer and their house-made cream soda are worth ordering even if you're also having a beer, both available on tap and genuinely made well. The Berghoff Dortmunder lager, brewed to the restaurant's own recipe, is the one to get alongside the schnitzel: clean, malty, and not fussy about itself. Apple strudel at the end is the dessert this room was built for, warm pastry and cinnamon apple filling with whipped cream. The restaurant is loud at lunch, when the Loop fills it with businesspeople and tourists in equal measure, and quieter in the early evening when it takes on a more unhurried quality. Both versions are worth experiencing.”

“Popped in here on a Saturday afternoon super hungry and thirsty after spending a couple of hours at the art museum. We were seated right away and food and water came out fast which we really appreciated. We tried the bratwurst and the spaetzle and really enjoyed both. Would definitely come back.”

“GOOD GERMAN GRUB This Chicago institution is worth a visit once, but I’m not sure it’s worth coming to twice. Maybe I didn’t have “the dish” that would keep me coming back… Service is exceptional and my hub loved his large beer. Cheese curds were the best thing I ate. The schnitzel and spätzle were under-seasoned while served at a less than desirable temperature.”

“The food was good, the service was solid, and the atmosphere was pleasant. Everything was just good but not outstanding. I had the German gnocchi and it was tasty but desperately needed some bread to go with it. It was very saucy. I didn't realize I could have ordered a breadbasket appetizer, although as one person that was probably more than I needed. But in any case, the server did not come back until I was finished with my meal. I probably would not go back to this restaurant on my own but if I was with somebody that wanted to go I wouldn't mind trying something else.”