Best Upscale Low Carb Restaurants in Gold Coast | Upscale & Low Carb

13 restaurants in Best Upscale Low Carb Restaurants in Gold Coast | Upscale & Low Carb

• Aster Hall — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into a sophisticated sanctuary where the vibrant energy of a modern marketplace meets the polished charm of a high-end lounge. The air is thick with the inviting scent of bubbling, thin-crust pizzas and the zesty aroma of slow-simmered barbacoa and al pastor tacos, each hand-pressed and bursting with authentic, vibrant spice. It is a stylish culinary crossroads that invites guests to linger over artisanal comfort food, offering a seamless blend of casual elegance and diverse, chef-driven flavors perfect for an urban escape.
• Corcoran's Grill & Pub — American · rated 4/5: Corcoran's Grill & Pub captures the spirited essence of a classic neighborhood local, where the rich aroma of hearty Irish comfort food mingles with the lively hum of a bustling, convivial bar. Guests gather around dark wood tables to savor juicy burgers and perfectly poured pints of Guinness, while the adventurous embrace the local tradition of Malort shots and vibrant green beer during festive celebrations. It is a welcoming sanctuary of camaraderie that bridges the gap between a cozy afternoon lunch and a high-energy night out fueled by craft cocktails and cold brews.
• The Spice House — Indian · rated 3/5: Step into a sensory sanctuary where the air is thick with the intoxicating perfume of hand-blended aromatics, from the peppery bite of Back of the Yards garlic to the deep, smoldering notes of Milwaukee Avenue smokehouse rubs. This culinary destination celebrates the alchemy of flavor, offering a journey that spans from the sun-drenched heat of Jamaican jerk to the earthy, salt-free depth of Oaxacan ancho coffee blends. Every visit promises a vibrant exploration of global spices and local heritage, finished perhaps with the nostalgic, velvety warmth of a spiced Mexican hot cocoa.
• Jake Melnick's Corner Tap — American: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with energy, drawing guests into a convivial atmosphere where the aroma of golden-fried pickles and bubbling buffalo chicken dip sets the stage for a spirited gathering. Friends huddle over massive Bavarian pretzels and overflowing plates of nachos, savoring elevated comfort classics that transform a casual night out into a communal celebration of bold, savory flavors.
• Big Wig Tacos & Burritos — Mexican: Vibrant energy pulses through this modern taqueria, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of seasoned meats and the bright, citrusy zing of fresh pico de gallo. Diners dive into overstuffed burritos and street-style tacos piled high with vibrant toppings, or share overflowing platters of nachos drizzled in velvety queso and served alongside creamy, hand-mashed guacamole. Every bite captures the bold, festive spirit of Mexican street food, making it a go-to destination for a satisfying, flavor-drenched escape.
• Can't Believe It's Not Meat — American: This vibrant eatery reimagines the soulful indulgence of classic American comfort food through a clever, plant-based lens, where the sizzle of the griddle and the aroma of golden-brown waffles fill the air. Diners dive into hearty, flavor-packed plates ranging from crispy, syrup-drenched "chik’n" and waffles to savory, gooey Philly cheesesteaks that defy expectations with every satisfying bite. It is a welcoming space where the boundaries of vegan dining are pushed, offering a nostalgic and decadent experience that proves you don't need meat to satisfy a deep craving for soul food.
• Layla & Ringo's — American: Sunlight dances across the counters at Layla & Ringo’s, a neighborhood sanctuary where the rich, toasted aroma of freshly ground beans invites a moment of morning stillness. Skilled baristas transform bold espresso into silken lattes and velvety cortados, while the crisp, refreshing pour of draft cold brew offers a sophisticated jolt of energy in a space that feels like a warm embrace.
• Devil Dawgs — American: This high-energy haunt captures the gritty, neon-lit soul of Chicago street food, where the air is thick with the savory steam of slow-simmered Italian beef and the irresistible snap of perfectly grilled sausages. Whether you’re craving a classic dog "dragged through the garden" or a bold creation loaded with spicy green chiles and melted cheddar, every bite delivers a punch of nostalgic flavor and urban energy. It is a vibrant destination where traditional Maxwell Street polishes and organic vegan options coexist, inviting diners to experience the city's boldest flavors in a fast-paced, authentic atmosphere.
• Penelope's Vegan Taqueria — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the irresistible aroma of charred spices fill this lively taqueria, where traditional Mexican street food is reimagined through a creative plant-based lens. From the smoky depth of mushroom chimichurri to the satisfying crunch of a Baja-style taco, each plate bursts with bold, authentic flavors that prove plant-based dining can be both indulgent and soulful. The experience invites guests to linger over rich, melted quesa tacos and tender barbacoa, discovering a spirited space where heritage techniques and modern innovation meet in every bite.
• Friends Ramen — Japanese: This welcoming neighborhood retreat invites guests into a space where the comforting scents of toasted granola and savory pumpkin sauce mingle in the air. The kitchen crafts an eclectic tapestry of flavors, from creamy mushroom pastas and golden-crusted shrimp shells to tender grilled octopus accented by the smoky heat of ancho chile, creating a soulful dining experience that feels both familiar and adventurous.
• Margeaux Brasserie — French: Stepping into this polished brasserie feels like a swift escape to a bustling Parisian boulevard, where the golden glow of the dining room meets the savory aroma of bubbling French onion soup and slow-braised short ribs. The kitchen balances classic indulgence with refined artistry, offering everything from decadent caviar-crowned deviled eggs to delicate loup de mer and buttery boudin blanc. Whether lingering over a sun-drenched brunch of airy French omelettes or sharing a bottle of wine over a hearty plate of flounder and pearls, the experience is one of effortless sophistication and soulful flavor.
• Tzuco — Mexican: Tzuco unfolds as a sophisticated, earth-toned sanctuary where the vibrant spirit of Mexico harmonizes with the meticulous precision of French technique. Guests are treated to a sensory journey through artfully plated dishes, ranging from the bright, coastal zest of Mayan ceviche and Baja tostadas to the comforting, savory depth of a rich French onion soup. It is a space where tradition is reimagined, inviting diners to linger over tender octopus and heritage-rich tetelas in an atmosphere that feels both elegantly modern and warmly ancestral.
• Gino's East — Italian: Step into a vibrant Chicago institution where the air is thick with the aroma of baking dough and the anticipation of their iconic, golden-crusted deep dish pizzas. The experience begins with indulgent, hand-rolled mozzarella sticks that pull apart in ribbons of melted cheese and charred brussels sprouts that offer a smoky, savory crunch. Whether diving into a bubbling crock of spinach artichoke dip or tackling the formidable Meaty Legend, every bite celebrates a legacy of bold, hearty flavors served in an atmosphere brimming with urban energy.