Where globally-inspired small plates meet Chicago's most convivial dining scene, Girl & The Goat Chicago has redefined shared dining since 2010 through Chef Stephanie Izard's bold, wood-fired creations in the heart of the West Loop's Restaurant Row.

The brainchild of Top Chef winner and James Beard Award recipient Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat emerged as Chicago's pioneering shared-plates destination when fine dining still meant formal courses. Named after the French word "izard" (Pyrenees mountain goat), this Boka Restaurant Group flagship transformed a gritty West Loop corner into Chicago's most sought-after reservation. Izard's vision of family-style dining with restaurant-quality execution earned immediate acclaim, including Chicago Tribune's coveted three-star review and recognition as Saveur's Best New Restaurant in America. Her 2013 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes cemented the restaurant's position among Chicago fine dining institutions.

The ever-evolving menu showcases Izard's mastery of bold, globally-influenced flavors through meticulously crafted small plates designed for sharing. Signature dishes like the legendary Goat Empanadas, Wood-Fired Whole Branzino with seasonal accompaniments, and the iconic Green Beans with fish sauce vinaigrette and cashews demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to unexpected flavor combinations. The wood-fired cooking adds distinctive smokiness to seasonal vegetables and proteins, while large-format offerings like the glazed Pork Shank accommodate groups seeking dramatic presentations. Each dish reflects Izard's philosophy of balancing familiar techniques with surprising global influences, from Chinese-inspired preparations to Peruvian-inflected seasonings.

Designed by 555 International, the 140-seat space balances rustic industrial charm with sophisticated comfort across multiple dining areas. The open kitchen with chef's counter seating offers front-row views of the culinary theater, while the full bar serves craft cocktails designed to complement the menu's bold flavors. The atmosphere remains refreshingly unpretentious despite the restaurant's acclaim—servers celebrate birthdays, conversations flow freely, and the energy builds throughout the evening. The comprehensive wine program features selections chosen specifically to pair with intensely flavored dishes, while seasonal cocktails like "For Your Health" showcase the same creative spirit found in the kitchen.

Reservations at Girl & The Goat remain among Chicago's most coveted, with booking windows filling rapidly for this best restaurants Chicago destination. The restaurant accommodates walk-ins at the bar when available, though advance planning ensures the full experience of Izard's innovative approach to contemporary American cuisine.