Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

“A Chicago staple with a comfort food menu of all the city's staples.”

A Chicago staple with a comfort food menu of all the city's staples. Warm, welcoming atmosphere. I went with the rigatoni with Italian sausage and vodka sauce, while my lunch companion opted for French onion soup and chilli. Perfect meal before a Chicago Symphony matinee. The personal deep dish pizza option is always a hit. Lots of nearby parking garages.

David Gallianetti

Feb 2026

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Exchequer Restaurant & Pub — history, warmth, and great comfort food We stopped by...”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Exchequer Restaurant & Pub — history, warmth, and great comfort food We stopped by Exchequer Restaurant & Pub in downtown Chicago after visiting the Art Institute, looking for a place to warm up, relax, and unwind. What we found was a true Chicago gem with real character and soul. This is not just a bar or restaurant — it’s a piece of history. Al Capone himself used to frequent this place, and you can feel that legacy everywhere. The walls are filled with stylish vintage photos, paintings, and original newspaper clippings from the Prohibition era. At the entrance, you’re even given a small booklet with the history of the pub, which immediately pulls you into the atmosphere of the time — such a thoughtful and unique touch. Special thanks to Niko the Greek, the bartender — incredibly friendly, open, and welcoming. He made us feel like regulars rather than first-time visitors. People like him truly bring a place to life. We ordered the chicken soup and the French onion soup, and they were exactly what we needed after a long museum visit — warm, comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Perfect food to recharge on a cold day. Exchequer is the kind of place where: • history meets genuine coziness • food is simple but done right • the atmosphere feels authentic, not touristy We will absolutely be back. If you want to experience real Chicago, with its Prohibition-era stories, character, and charm — this place is a must-visit.

Maria G (Maria MG)

Jan 2026

“The best pizza I've had in the USA.”

The best pizza I've had in the USA. Hands down. The pizza has a perfect cheese to sauce ratio. The dough is very pleasant and airy. The toppings are fresh. What more can you ask for? The buffalo wings were good. The buffalo sauce itself, I wish I could get some to take home. It's delicious. The atmosphere is mafia vibes. Absolutely beautiful and amazing. Please stop in here people. You won't regret it if you're a pizza/mafia connoisseur like I am.

Kenny Wilson Sr.

Jan 2026

“I came here with my sister and friends, we had a great time amazing service.”

I came here with my sister and friends, we had a great time amazing service. Everyone but me got burgers I got a deep dish pizza in the personal slice I would recommend to get it, it had 9 slices and I got full after 4 but I pulled through and ate the 9 slices and they gave me free pickles because my friend didn't want her pickles but the server took the plate away but still heard she was a gem and got me some pickles for free. It was lively yet also quiet, currently, they have French onion soup which is seasonal and it was DIVINE!!! As a picky eater it was really surprising to taste such rich and delicious broth 10/10 I would recommend!!!

August

Dec 2025

“First time trying a deep dish pizza and it was good.”

First time trying a deep dish pizza and it was good. Great service and lovely atmosphere. I recommend it.

Vlad I

Nov 2025

“We were able to order our pizza ahead, sit down and eat.”

We were able to order our pizza ahead, sit down and eat. This was bake added to our experience as we were limited on time for lunch

Meghan Dailey

Oct 2025

“By far, one of the best steak salads ive ever had.”

By far, one of the best steak salads ive ever had. The ceasar was top notch, food croutons, and the steak was 10/10. I asked for medium rare and thats what I got. The steak sandwich was also so good, soft bread and good steak. The fries were extremely fresh and well made. Nice staff who checked in a lot despite being very, very busy.

Kendra Kristine

Sep 2025

“I love the atmosphere it’s awesome.”

I love the atmosphere it’s awesome! The chicken Alfredo was the best I’ve ever had. 10/10 food!

Gracen Kuhner

Jul 2025

“What a great restaurant/bar with souch history literally hanging on the walls.”

What a great restaurant/bar with souch history literally hanging on the walls. We opted for the crispy Chicago tavern style Mob pizza and it was really good. We loved the vibe and bar. Read about the history when you visit.

Debra Johnson Chin

Jul 2025

“Ever wanted to feel like you've taken a trip back in time? Then come give this place a try.”

Ever wanted to feel like you've taken a trip back in time? Then come give this place a try. The Exchequer was frequented by mobsters and many other influential people who shaped the history of Chicago and it shows. The classic speakeasy vibe, low light ambiance, and historical artifacts on display, all serve to create a fun and relaxing visit. Now, after my incredible experiences, I can definitely see why they have so many regulars. I've only been here a couple times but the bar tenders recognized me and treated me as if I had been coming in for years. Friendly, attentive, and highly skilled staff cater to your every need regardless of how busy they are. World-class drinks are made with care and if you can't decide, simply ask them to surprise you and they'll make you a drink worth ordering again. Even the classics like an espresso martini are made with the love and passion of someone who knows what they're doing and enjoys putting art into their craft. Even if you don't drink or you simply get hungry in between drinks, their food is fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. I highly recommend their chicken parmesan which is served hot and perfectly breaded. If all of this isn't enough to convince you to give this place a try, then I don't know what is. Come down and see for yourself why so many people make this a go-to when they want good food, great drinks, and a friendly face.

Matt F

Jun 2025

“Great prohibition-themed atmosphere and a fantastic burger -- huge enough to be a challenge to eat,...”

Great prohibition-themed atmosphere and a fantastic burger -- huge enough to be a challenge to eat, but cooked just as I ordered and juicy and all around fantastic. Quick and friendly service as well. And despite the look and the quality of the food, the prices were pretty reasonable -- in fact, it was a bit cheaper than some of the seemingly comparable places in the area. Definitely glad I stopped in.

R. Michael Burns

Jun 2025

“A hidden gem that is huge inside and of amazing food.”

A hidden gem that is huge inside and of amazing food. We ordered the ribs and the steak frites. Can strongly recommend both dishes. The meat was cooked perfectly and the fries were absolutely delicious. Staff are very friendly. Beer choice is very nice and tasty! Good value all round. Do recommend visiting!

Thomas Howe

May 2025