Where to Eat
Chicago is known for its wide array of diverse and exceptional dining. From steak to vegetarian fare, hot dog stands to five-star restaurants, and pizza to pad thai, there is something in Chicago for everyone. There are literally hundreds of restaurants just a short walk or cab ride away from SAIC.
Looking for something on campus? Below are on-campus dining options available to you when visiting SAIC.
SAIC Cafés
Food for Thought is SAIC’s campus food vendor and is dedicated to promoting sustainable and healthy eating while showcasing organic, fair trade, and local ingredients. Menu items include delicious vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, as well as more traditional food selections.
Locations:
MacLean Center
112 S. Michigan, 12th floor
The MacLean café and lounge has wonderful views of Chicago’s Lake Michigan and Millennium Park.
The LeRoy Neiman Center
Sharp Building
37 S. Wabash, 2nd floor
Experience SAIC’s urban setting while dining in the beautiful LeRoy Neiman Center café. The café provides a unique corner view of Monroe Street and Wabash Avenue.
280 building
280 S. Columbus Dr., 2nd floor
SAIC’s 280 café is centrally located and provides a wide range of affordable and delicious menu items.
Restaurants at the Art Institute of Chicago
The Garden Café
111 S. Michigan Ave.
312.443.3600
Located on the lower level of the Art Institute, the Garden Café offers food and snacks made with sustainable, local, and seasonal ingredients. The café features a deli station with a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups; a full grill for burgers; entree specials; an Italian pizza station; and a dessert station with a full array of homemade treats. Enjoy alfresco dining in warm weather, as the Garden Cafe extends seating in the lovely McClintock Courtyard.
Terzo Piano
111 S. Michigan Ave.
312.443.3600
Located in the new Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Terzo Piano restaurant features authentic Italian ingredients and local, organic, and sustainable foods in simple but elegant dishes. Terzo Piano offers indoor seating as well as alfresco dining on the covered piazza adjacent to the Bluhm Family Terrace on the top floor of the Modern Wing, which offers spectacular views of Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue.
