Oliver's

If we could only use one word to describe Oliver’s, it would be “rich.” Most of the short menu is made up of ridiculously decadent dishes like beef fat griddled sourdough, oysters topped with blueberry vinegar and smoked trout roe, and truffle gnocchi smothered in cheese. The dining room is full of velvet chairs and vintage dishware you might find at an estate sale. But besides the generally tasty food and the chic, Southern California bungalow vibe, the cocktails alone should entice you to visit this New American South Loop spot. Every drink is well-balanced and deliciously complex—like the ramos gin fizz with strawberry gin and a puffy egg white crown dusted with black lime.

Despite serving only three entrees (and the focus on cocktails), you can still have a full, coursed-out dinner at Oliver’s—but we like it best sitting at the smooth cement bar, which usually has space for walk-ins, making a meal out of standout starters and sides. Don’t forget a slice of pie for dessert.