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Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
$$ · Italian

226 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Italian in Loop

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub 8.3
Loop
Vibes: Happy Hour Hotspots Business Lunch Power Players Group Dining Gatherings Comfort Food Classics
A classic Loop institution built around crisp-edged pizza in a lively pub setting that fits both pre-theater dinners and after-work hangs. It’s strongest when you order like a regular: one signature pie, one comforting side, and keep the meal focused and hot.
Must-Try Dishes: Crispy thin-crust pizza, Sausage-and-giardiniera pizza, Mostaccioli
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 8.9 Food Quality: 8.4 Atmosphere: 7.6 Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A Loop mainstay known for crisp, pub-style pizza and steady reliability.
Who should go: After-work groups and theatergoers craving pizza
When to visit: Pre-theater dinner or weekday happy hour
What to order: Crispy pizza, mostaccioli, a classic pub appetizer
Insider tip: Order one focused pie early—timing tightens when the room fills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby is limited; multiple paid parking garages within a few blocks are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual — work attire, jeans, and polished casual wear all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours — conversation is easy at lunch and happy hour, livelier and noisier at dinner.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak pre-theater hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside the noon rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetarian pizzas, salads, and pasta options available.
Vegan options: Limited — salads and simple modifications possible, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pizza crust available; cross-contamination precautions vary by shift.
Best For
Better for: Reliable Loop pizza with speed, consistency, and a lively pub atmosphere that works for groups and work-related meals.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, romantic setting or a chef-driven Italian experience — this is classic, not experimental.