The Smith
Andrew Roberts · 625 Google reviewsThe Smith — trusted american in River North. Always packed, always worth it. Worth ordering a drink, because the bar holds its own, and open late. Meda: "crispy on the outside, soft and juicy inside, paired with a *spicy peach jam that added just the right kick" [$$, patio]
What 2,422 diners keep saying
What 2,422 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Rachel our server was so nice and welcoming. She guided us through the menu and helped us decide. The oysters are incredible and Short rib mafaldina pasta were top.”
“Service and food were great! Our server helped with recommendations that were spot on. My rib eye was seasoned and cooked perfectly. The space a loud. Ever when we first arrived and the restaurant was not that full with all hard surfaces means you do need to really speak up. It looked like they have a few tables that are more incloses and that may make a difference but just be aware that you conversation will need to match the room. Absolutely would return.”
“From the moment we walked in, everything was exceptional. The restaurant was extremely clean, the atmosphere was beautiful, and the service was top notch! We started with the Spicy Salmon Tartare, and it was absolutely delicious fresh, flavorful, and the perfect appetizer. For drinks, I had the Cucumber-Pineapple Mimosa and a Bloody Mary, and both were fantastic. The mimosa was refreshing and unique and the Bloody Mary was perfect and full of flavor. For my main meal I ordered the filet mignon Steak cooked medium rare with sunny side up eggs, home fries, and hollandaise sauce. The steak was cooked beautifully!! Very tender and melted in my mouth and so full of flavor. A huge shoutout to our server, Zach. He was truly amazing! He was attentive to every need and so friendly. He made sure we never had an empty drink. Our water and sparkling water were constantly refreshed, and our empty plates were cleared almost immediately. I also want to recognize Eric, the General Manager, and Kiffa, the manager, who both stopped by our table and introduced themselves to us throughout our meal to make sure everything was perfect. The restaurant was busy, but you never would have known it because of the level of hospitality. It really stood out and made us feel valued that we were there. Sorry for the long review.. But finally, compliments to the chef and culinary team. Whoever created this menu did an outstanding job and deserves recognition as well. Every dish and drink was thoughtfully prepared. We were a party of five, and everyone ordered something different, yet every single item was beautifully presented. The food, drinks, service, and hospitality were all outstanding. The Smith exceeded our expectations and we will absolutely be back. Highly recommend!”
“I was blown away. The staff was extremely knowledgeable of Celiac Disease, but like so knowledgeable and confident I was like “but are you sure?”. Oh they were sure. Then the manager came out to tell me the restaurant was a safe space and they pride themselves on dealing w allergies and celiac. Food was flagged w a red flag when it came out, GF pasta is cooked in a clean pot with new water, clean utensils and gloves were also used. I ordered the tuna crudo 20/10, the royal platter which was raw oysters and chilled shrimp and then for dinner I had the short rub pasta. The gf pasta is fettuccine and honestly 200000/10. I highly recommend and next time I’m getting the mussels OR GF fettuccine with the truffle sauce. Also I didn’t get it this time but they said they had a separate fryer to make fries safe. Again I didn’t try but I would ask and make sure — they had truffle fries!”
“Had a great meal here sitting outside in the warm spring air. There is a nice buzz sitting outside amongst the hustle and bustle of the great River North district in Chicago. The pasta was very tasty and the service was also excellent.”
“Genuinely such flavorful and well presented food! The restrooms are super cute and there is a black and white photo booth outside the restroom as well! I got the grilled chicken sandwich and my boyfriend got the burger with the home fries (which are basically seasoned diced potatoes). We also ordered the breakfast sandwhich and the pancakes—which were GREAT.”
“This was an incredible dining experience. The atmosphere and quality was unquestionable. The whole experience was made whole be our waiter Bobby! Fantastic birthday experience.”
“Great menu, very unique. Excellent bar, best old fashion Ive ever had! Service was great our waiter was hysterical. Atmosphere in a Thursday night was so loud we were yelling across the table! We had a grouo of 8 and really had a very good meal and enjoyable evening.”
“I love this restaurant. Every single dish I've tried of theirs is outstanding. Their vegetable bibimbap is incredibly flavorful, with the perfect rice texture, and had me thinking about for months afterwards. Their spicy shrimp scampi is also incredible. The sauce is to die for and the noodles were cooked to just the right consistency. There are also little crunchy bits for an extra sprinkle of delight. My friend got their late night spaghetti, and our respective dishes so completely captivated us that we were near silent the entire time we were eating. We also enjoyed their shrimp cocktail, which was chewy and fresh and served with two refreshing sauces. Their dessert, also, is worth trying. The quarter pounder cookie is lovely, complete with gooey melty chocolate, but I also have to make a case for their apple pie. The crust is cookie-like in texture, which I enjoyed, and the apple compote is super delicious. Would highly recommend stopping by The Smith if you get the chance!! Their service is also very attentive and friendly, and the whole restaurant is a good vibe.”
“I ordered Braised Short rib Malfadine, Oysters of the day and PEI Muscles. The service was great, my waiter was friendly, gave me a rundown of the menu and checked on me consistently without overdoing it. The meat in the Malfadine was oh so tender, breaking apart under the weight of my tongue, and the flavor fills your mouth making you love every bite. The sauce is warm and delicious, filled with seasoning and bits. The Oysters were a new experience for me, but they exceeded my expectations. The Muscles came in a buttery sayce with toasted bread on the side for dipping. I almost ordered another bowl. And they bread paired beautiful with the sauce from both the Malfadine ans the Oysters. I will DEFINITELY be returning and I will be bringing friends next time.”
“Had brunch here on January 3rd which was Saturday and Tiffany H took care of us it was perfect! Genuinely can say one of the best brunches I’ve ever had. From great service to the food being executed perfectly. Cucumber & pineapple mimosa was so good plus everything we ordered. Can’t wait to be back!”
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