Ratings and reviews
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Columbus Tap Reviews
Have a rough go this morning due to a big Chicago night out... first attempted meal was at Columbus Tap. Ordered soup and a soda... couldn't take a single bite. Our server, Christina A, noticed, inquired and returned with two pieces of toast, PB and whipped butter on the side. She also made me a hangover concoction of soda water and bitters. She nursed me back to life. Shout out to Christina A!! I was finally able to get that toast down thx to the miracle juice.
Stayed at the connected hotel and ate here twice for convenience. Food was really good and the service was great. I had a burger the night before and it was huge and well made. The breakfast was nice as well and we got a nice view from the restaurant
The Tap burger was good and the service was friendly and not slow I was by myself and ate at the bar so maybe it would be different at a table w a group... Drinks were well made and fast. No complaints here.
Stayed at the Fairmont over the weekend and this place is located inside the hotel. Environment was really nice. Order the tap burger and the lobster roll. Both very good!
Columbus Tap was a random find for us one very cold Chicago night when we were trying to kill some time between dinner and a late show. It's pretty much a hotel bar in the Fairfield, but you can see it from the street. We sat at the bar, ordered a couple beers and watched the second half of a Bulls game. It has a diner feel but with a long beer list. Most of the beers are canned, although they have a handful on tap. The bartender was super nice and helpful if you have questions or need suggestions. The highlight of the visit was the fries. Normally I'm not a fries person, but I just wanted something to nibble on. They were so hot, fresh, and tasty and had that little bit of potato skin left on. Served with ketchup and truffle mayo on the side. We planned to have some left over to take with, but we cleaned the plate!
Columbus Tap
Columbus Tap at 200 N Columbus Dr Chicago, IL 60601 delivers an unforgettable dining experience with bold American flavors, seasonal menus, and a warm, stylish setting that captures the spirit of downtown Chicago.
Discover the heart of downtown dining at Columbus Tap
Tucked inside the Fairmont Chicago, Columbus Tap isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a destination for those who want to taste Chicago’s culinary soul. Whether you're a visitor looking for a memorable meal near Millennium Park or a local seeking a familiar comfort, Columbus Tap strikes that perfect balance between elevated and easygoing. The restaurant’s charm begins with its location: just steps from iconic landmarks like Grant Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute. From the moment you walk in, there's a sense of place—an urban tavern with rich wood textures, oversized leather booths, and vintage-style lighting that feels equal parts cozy and upscale.
A dynamic menu that evolves with the seasons
Columbus Tap’s menu reflects a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a bold, Midwestern approach to American cuisine. You’ll find elevated bar fare like beer-battered cheese curds, buttery pretzel bites with spicy mustard, and truffle fries that hit all the right notes. But the main courses are where things get serious: the house burger, made with brisket and short rib, is stacked with sharp cheddar and smoky bacon, while the grilled salmon served over seasonal vegetables balances richness and freshness in every bite.
Behind each plate is a kitchen team that knows what Chicagoans love—hearty, flavorful meals with thoughtful twists. You’ll also spot rotating specials and chef-curated pairings that change with the time of year. Whether you're there in summer for light seafood dishes or visiting in winter for braised short rib and rich stews, there's always something worth trying.
More than just food—Columbus Tap serves an experience
Dining at Columbus Tap isn't only about the food and drink, it's about the mood. The beer list alone deserves its own spotlight: a curated selection of over 20 craft brews, many from the Chicago region, with tasting notes that let even casual beer drinkers find their new favorite. Add to that a thoughtful wine selection and creative cocktails like the spiced maple old fashioned, and it’s easy to see why people linger long after dessert.
The service stands out, too. Staff are welcoming without being overbearing, ready with recommendations or a story behind a local brew. It’s the kind of place where business travelers mix with couples on date night, and groups of friends catch up over shareable plates and good pours.
What people are saying about Columbus Tap
Word of mouth travels fast in a city like Chicago, and Columbus Tap reviews are glowing for good reason. Guests frequently mention the balance between quality and comfort, with consistent shout-outs to standout dishes and attentive staff. One local diner noted, "It's where I take out-of-town guests when I want them to understand what Chicago hospitality tastes like." Another praised the central location, calling it a perfect post-conference meal stop or an easy-to-find meeting point for friends.
Online platforms mirror this enthusiasm. Reviews highlight not just the menu variety and presentation, but the ambiance—an important draw for those tired of overly formal downtown spots. The space feels designed for conversation, whether you're tucked into a booth or grabbing a casual lunch at the bar.
A location made for connection
Columbus Tap’s location is more than just convenient—it’s part of its charm. Positioned at 200 N Columbus Dr, it caters to every kind of guest: tourists looking for reliable quality near major attractions, professionals in search of a smart lunch spot, and locals who just want good food and great beer. It's easy to access by foot, public transit, or even a bike stop from the nearby lakefront trail.
Walk in on a weekday evening and you’ll catch a mix of regulars who come for the consistent quality and newcomers impressed by the energy. For larger groups or special occasions, Columbus Tap also offers group dining options with pre-set menus and private space that elevate the gathering without losing the laid-back vibe.
So if you're hungry for more than just a meal—if you're looking for a Chicago tavern that delivers on flavor, service, and atmosphere—Columbus Tap is the place. It’s where Midwest comfort meets downtown flair, and every bite feels like a little taste of the city.
The food was decent, and as expected for the location. Was nothing special like a fine dining place but good. We were lucky that the place was open on thanksgiving when we traveled since almost everything in town in Chicago was closed. The service was great and quick. Staff were attentive and kind. The ambiance was pretty nice. It was like a normal American restaurant, and not too busy.