somewhat quieter restaurant near Goodman Theater

Question

Hi, there. I met a friend for dinner once at Petterino's near the Goodman Theater and it was not good! We are all a bit sensitive to really noisy places, and prefer a quieter place. Can anyone recommend a place near the Goodman? I have looked at Atwood before, but haven't tried it personally. Thanks!

Answer

If you are looking for a somewhat quieter dining experience near the Goodman Theater in Chicago, there are several options that are a step away from the bustling crowd typical of downtown or theater-adjacent restaurants. The key is to look for places with good acoustics, separated seating areas, or smaller dining rooms rather than large, open, loud spaces.

Recommended Restaurants Near the Goodman Theater:

Atwood – You already mentioned Atwood, and it’s a solid choice. It offers American cuisine with a contemporary twist. The space is not overly large, and while it can get a bit busy, the seating layout generally keeps it quieter than typical downtown spots. Reservations are recommended, especially for pre-show dinners.
Quartino Ristorante – Located a short walk from the Goodman, Quartino offers Italian small plates in a cozy, warm setting. Its communal table concept can be lively, but there are quieter corners if you request seating away from the main area. Great for lighter meals or sharing multiple small dishes.
RPM Italian – Slightly more upscale and quieter, with modern Italian cuisine. The restaurant has booths and private seating sections that provide a more intimate atmosphere, making it suitable for conversation before or after a show.
Francesca’s on Chestnut – A few blocks away, Francesca’s is known for traditional Italian fare and a comfortable dining environment. The restaurant has multiple seating areas, helping minimize noise from other diners.
Maple & Ash – While a bit more on the modern steakhouse side, it offers private dining sections and careful table spacing, so it can feel quieter despite being downtown. Best for those who want a more elevated dining experience.

Tips for Ensuring a Quieter Meal:

Request a table away from the main entrance or bar area. Many downtown restaurants have quieter sections if you specify when making a reservation.
Avoid peak dining times (typically 6:30–8:30 pm on weekends). Arriving a bit earlier or later often reduces ambient noise.
Check if the restaurant offers private dining rooms or semi-private areas; even small partitions can make a big difference for conversation.
Consider pre-theater menus or early dining specials; these often coincide with quieter dining periods.

Overall, Atwood, Quartino, and RPM Italian are probably your best bets for a balance of quality cuisine and a quieter, more relaxed dining atmosphere near the Goodman Theater.