The 47 Best Restaurants in Chicago (By a Local)

As a Chicago local, I can attest that dining out and trying new cuisines is one of the best things to do in the city. I absolutely love trying new restaurants and eateries, and I have to say—Chicago is sure to satisfy your inner foodie.

In this article, I’ll cover some of the best restaurants so you don’t have to stress about where to eat during your visit. This guide includes iconic, must-try restaurants and personal favorites.

47 Best Chicago Restaurants

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Time Out Market

A plate of Emparogis with white sauce on the side and topped with sliced spring onions from Polombia — *“Emparogis” from Polombia—a Colombian-Polish fusion restaurant*

Time Out Market is a curated food hall located in the West Loop’s Fulton Market District. Here, a variety of Chicago-based restaurants, bars, and bakeries have vendor stalls for visitors to get a taste of Chicago’s best.

Some of the hand-selected restaurants include Bar Goa, Polombia, Demera, and more. Overall, the atmosphere is buzzing and it’s a great place to take groups because there’s something for everyone.

Time Out Market can get a bit crowded, so I recommend finding seating first. Have your group order in rotation.

📚 Looking for places to stay? The West Loop is Chicago’s ultimate foodie district. Read about this neighborhood and others in our where to stay in Chicago guide.

Cindy’s Rooftop

Cindy’s Rooftop is the place to go for rooftop dining and views. Delicious brunch, lunch, and dinner menus are available, but most people head to Cindy’s to enjoy creative cocktails, lighter fare, and the rooftop ambiance.

Cindy’s overlooks Millennium Park on N Michigan Ave and offers beautiful views of the park and Lake Michigan. To avoid wait times, be sure to make reservations.

👉 Don’t Miss: Cindy’s Rooftop is located near attractions like Cloud Gate and the Art Institute. It’s also a short jaunt to places like Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile.

Kasama

Two glasses of ube lattes served on the table — *Ube lattes at Kasama*

Kasama is a cozy, yet modern, Filipino restaurant that serves meals, pastries, coffee, and drinks. Brunch is the real star of the show here, and lines typically go down the block.

All the food and pastries at Kasama are delicious, but I especially recommend the Filipino breakfast, lumpia, and chicken adobo as well as their French-Filipino pastries.

For a more fine dining experience, you can make dinner reservations for their Filipino-inspired tasting menu. Kasama even earned its first Michelin star back in 2022, so if you have the time, be sure to check it out!

👉 Pro Tip: Be prepared to wait in line. Kasama doesn’t take brunch reservations so it’s first come first serve.

Girl & The Goat

A food starter of Naan and dip, and sauteed green beans of Girl and the Goat — *Starters: Naan and dip, and Girl and the Goat’s famous sauteed green beans*

Girl & The Goat is a Chicago favorite and for good reason. The menu packs a punch when it comes to flavor. Plates arrive tapas style, which is perfect for trying out a variety of dishes.

Depending on how hungry you are, 4-6 plates are enough to feed two people. The pork shank and goat empanadas are especially popular. The green beans and crudo are my personal favorite dishes.

The atmosphere at Girl & The Goat is perfect—cozy yet buzzing. The staff is always attentive and friendly. Make reservations ahead of time, though! It can be hard to get a table.

Pequod’s Pizza

When you think of Chicago, you probably think of deep dish pizza. Look no further than Pequod’s. Located off the beaten path in the Sheffield Neighbors area, this pizzeria looks unassuming but is actually a local favorite.

Pequod’s pizza is thinner than other versions of deep dish around the city, but it’s still a deep dish nonetheless. They’re known for how they caramelize their pizza crusts, which gives it a unique taste and texture.

Au Cheval

Au Cheval’s burger was called “just about perfect” by Bon Appetit in 2012. The upscale burger joint was already a popular restaurant before that, but since, the hype hasn’t died down. Lines are long and wait times vary since they don’t accept reservations. If you ask anyone though, they’ll tell you that Au Cheval’s burgers are worth it.

Order the single cheeseburger (which has two patties on it) or the double cheeseburger if you dare. Either way, adding on an egg and bacon is highly recommended. And don’t skip out on drinks.

Au Cheval is located in the West Loop on W Randolph St. The restaurant itself has a tavern and diner-style vibe that feels old-school.

👉 Pro Tip: Au Cheval has a paired-down version of its restaurant called Small Cheval. Head to any of Small Cheval’s seven locations around Chicago if you aren’t able to get into Au Cheval but still want your burger fix. Small Cheval has shorter wait times, a more casual atmosphere, and a simplified menu.

Lula Cafe

Lula Cafe in Logan Square is a local Chicago favorite. Brunch is especially popular, and the food here consists of top-notch classic dishes like buttermilk pancakes, breakfast burritos, and breakfast sandwiches.

If you’re looking for something a little different, the pasta Yia Yia with bucatini, brown butter, and cinnamon is delicious and totally unique.

Lula has a really warm, relaxed, and welcoming vibe to it. It feels local and is the kind of place that regulars frequent. The customer service is also superb. Come here for a hearty meal and a good conversation with friends.

Monteverde

🍽️ Italian | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 888-3041

The author Lea Rose wishing on her birthday with a cake on her plate — *Me on my birthday at Monteverde*

Closeup look of the egg yolk raviolo — *The egg yolk raviolo*

Monteverde consistently ranks as one of Chicago’s best restaurants, and for good reason. I recently visited for a special birthday dinner and my friends and I enjoyed every minute of it.

We went all out with the cocktails, wine, appetizers, entrees, and desserts, so I can confidently say that the menu holds up across the board. The wok-fired octopus “in umido” was cooked to absolute perfection and the seared tuna crudo was divine. I also loved my spaghetti al pomodoro. Although simple, the sauce was incredibly fresh and flavorful.

By the time dessert rolled around, I was beyond stuffed, but I recall the tiramisu being quite good. If you can manage it, I recommend getting a seat in front of the pasta counter to see the chefs making fresh dough while you eat.

3 Arts Club Cafe at Restoration Hardware

🍽️ American | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 475-9116

The roast chicken with potatoes on a small pan — *The roast chicken with potatoes*

The crowd dining at the atrium — *The atrium where you eat is beautiful*

3 Arts Club at Restoration Hardware in Gold Coast is another fantastic restaurant for special occasions or if you want to impress someone. The restaurant itself is situated under a beautiful atrium with trees and chandeliers. It all feels luxurious and special.

The food is classic American fare. I had the roasted chicken which was cooked perfectly, accompanied by pureed potatoes and au jus. The truffle fries are also tasty.

The coolest part of the restaurant? Before or after you’re finished eating, you can walk around the upstairs showrooms with your drinks. Browse beautiful interiors and maybe even get a little inspiration for home. Overall, it’s a wonderful dining experience.

Sunda New Asian

🍽️ Filipino, Asian Fusion | ($$$) | Website | 📍Google Maps | 📞 (312) 900-0033

Closeup look of a plate with yuzu tuna slices on a sauce — *The yuzu tuna*

The pork belly “sinigang” and pancit canton on a wooden table in Sunda New Asian — *Pork belly “sinigang” and pancit canton*

I’ve been to so many amazing restaurants in Chicago. But I’ll tell you: Sunda may have just shot to the top of my Chicago restaurant list. Eating here was one of the best meals I’ve had, period.

The menu features a lot of Filipino dishes and flavors, as well as other Asian cuisines. I went there with my family and we ordered several dishes. All of them were delicious.

The different crudo dishes we ordered had incredible sauces. I don’t normally eat beef but I snuck a bite of the wagyu with crispy rice and the meat was pillowy soft and flavorful. My favorite dish, though, had to be the crispy brussel sprouts. Just trust me and order it. Between the texture and the mix of tangy and savory flavors, I couldn’t get enough.

Be sure to make reservations ahead of time, and go to the Fulton Market location specifically. Oh, and order an ube espresso martini… or a few.

Green Street Smoked Meats

Green Street Smoked Meats is a cool and eclectic barbecue eatery located in Chicago’s West Loop. It serves up Texas-style barbecue which is smoked and seasoned to perfection.

Everything on the menu is great, but the brisket, pulled pork, pork belly, and pastrami are all held in high regard. The elote-style corn is also really good. This is one of the best barbecue joints in Chicago, so be sure to give it a try!

Another bonus to this place is that Sawada Coffee (one of the best coffee shops in Chicago) is connected!

Tortello

Tortello is a must-try restaurant for any pasta lover. From-scratch pasta is Tortello’s specialty, and everything is made in-house. The menu is small and simple, but everything’s really fresh and delicious. I personally love the Signature Tortelli di Burrata (pictured above) but the Tagliatelle Tina is supposed to be amazing, too.

Tortello is located in West Town along Division Street. The restaurant gets pretty busy every night and it doesn’t take reservations, so get there a little early. You can also purchase some fresh pasta and sauce to take home with you!

👉 Pro Tip: You can take private pasta-making classes at Tortello! This is a fun activity for groups of 4-5 people. You can book a class on their website.

Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings

Two plates full of pan fried dumplings with a glass of water and chopsticks on the side — *Pan fried dumplings*

Qing Xiang Yuan is considered by many (including me) to have the best dumplings in Chicago. It’s one of my go-to restaurants when friends and family are in town.

Whether you like your dumplings steamed or pan-fried, Qing Xiang Yuan offers them in a variety of fillings (including some that are seasonal, like seafood). There are even vegetarian and vegan options.

Qing Xiang Yuan is the perfect stop for lunch or dinner if you’re visiting Chinatown. I recommend bringing some friends so you can choose a variety of dumplings and sample them all.

Note that Qing Xiang Yuan doesn’t accept reservations. I recommend signing up for the waitlist on their website. And download the Yelp app so you can check your place in line while you explore Chinatown.

Pizzeria Portofino

Head to Pizzeria Portofino if you’re looking for a riverside restaurant with a fun, lively atmosphere and good food. This is one of my favorite places to hit up with friends for nice dinners and celebrations.

The food at Pizzeria Portofino is always good. I especially recommend the calamari and pizzas. The mixed drinks are tasty, too. Definitely make reservations ahead of time, and if you can, try and get patio seating!

Alinea

🍽️ Fine Dining | $$$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

Alinea is a Chicago institution when it comes to fine dining. This modernist restaurant in Lincoln Park has received international praise and is the only restaurant in the city that’s received 3 Michelin stars.

It’s earned titles like Best Restaurant in the U.S., Best Restaurant in North America, and Best Restaurant in the World. Alinea has received James Beard Awards, too. You may have even seen Alinea on Netflix’s series, Chef’s Table.

A visit to Alinea is not cheap, but this is because it’s an immersive and private fine dining experience. Diners are offered multi-sensory and multi-course tasting menus, sure to be unlike anything they’ve experienced before.

👉 Pro Tip: The dress code is “elevated casual” so be sure to dress appropriately. For help with packing, read our Chicago packing list and get your free, printable Chicago packing list here.

Urbanbelly

A bowl of chicken ramen and another bowl of coconut curry pho with a plate of chicken katsu on the table — *Chicken ramen and coconut curry pho*

Consider stopping at Urbanbelly if you’re in Wicker Park or visiting Time Out Market in the West Loop. It’s one of my favorite spots to grab Asian fusion food.

Urbanbelly really packs a punch when it comes to flavor. It’s known for its ramen and dumplings, but my favorite thing on the menu is the coconut curry pho. It’s perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Note that many things on Urbanbelly’s menu have some spice, so if you have a low spice tolerance, keep this in mind. Nonetheless, there are options for everyone, including a kids’ menu.

Etta

Etta is a crowd-pleaser if you’re in charge of dinner plans. Everything on the Italian and hearth-inspired menu is beyond tasty and the portions always leave me feeling full.

The wood-fired pizzas and pasta are super flavorful and rotate based on seasonal ingredients. They also have an extensive wine list. Monday through Thursday from 3:00 – 5:00 pm, they offer a happy hour with cocktails, wines, and small bites.

Overall, Etta is ideal for getting together with friends because the menu never misses. Everyone is sure to have a tasty meal.

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Head to Chicago’s North Side for a casual, filling brunch of southern comfort food. Honey Butter Fried Chicken serves up one of Chicago’s best chicken sandwiches.

You can order different versions like the OG fried chicken sandwich, honey buffalo sandwich, and the honey butter fried chicken sandwich. Sides like pimento mac ‘n cheese, corn muffins, and grits are all popular!

📚 Related Reading: Honey Butter Fried Chicken is located a little outside of downtown Chicago in the Avondale neighborhood. If you plan on driving, check out our guide for driving in Chicago for visitors.

Doma Cafe

Doma Cafe or “Doma” is a local favorite that I feel like I shouldn’t be sharing (shh!). This unassuming cafe tucked away in River North is a gem that I never see listed on other guides. The atmosphere is calming and the interior is cool with a slight retro vibe.

The cafe menu has classics like soups, sandwiches, and baked goods with Croatian and Mediterranean influences. I always go for the chicken Caesar salad with an orange fizz to drink. Both are SO good. The brown butter cookies, breakfast sandwiches, and homemade hashbrowns are menu highlights as well.

Come here for a tasty, laid-back brunch with a friend or even to work remotely.

The Lunchroom at SPACE 519

View from the interior of the adjacent boutique in The Lunchroom at SPACE 519 — *The restaurant’s adjacent boutique*

The Lunchroom at SPACE 519 is another hidden gem. It’s located in the Streeterville neighborhood, just one block north of the Museum of Contemporary Art. SPACE 519 also has a bit of a gallery feel. A variety of art pieces are available for purchase, as is designer clothing, jewelry, and more.

Its restaurant is located towards the back of the boutique, and the vibe is undeniably chic. Expect mid-century modern furnishings and light, delectable plates. Breakfast and lunch are available on weekdays, as is brunch on the weekends. Pair fresh salads, sandwiches, bowls, and other entrees with a glass of wine or a beverage from its curated cocktail menu.

Mi Tocaya Antojería

Mi Tocaya Antojería is a colorful and casual Mexican restaurant located in Logan Square. Here, chef Diana Dávila pays homage to the roots of Mexican food while bringing in a modern touch.

The atmosphere of Mi Tocaya is welcoming and the food is flavorful and fresh. The steak burrito and queso fundido con birria are especially loved by diners.

If you come with a group, try ordering family-style so you can taste different dishes. In the warmer months, Mi Tocaya offers patio dining, perfect for sipping cocktails and eating outside.

📚 Love festivals? Then check out our list of the 18 best Chicago festivals, including the best food fests!

Andros Taverna

A fresh fish served at Andros Taverna — *Fresh fish of the day with side dishes*

I don’t see Andros Taverna on many of Chicago’s top restaurant lists, but it should be. This Greek restaurant in Logan Square is all about fresh, high quality ingredients with simple and classic, yet delicious, Greek flavors. It’s the perfect place to share dishes family-style in a more upscale atmosphere.

I highly recommend ordering fresh seafood from the restaurant’s daily selection. There are typically different size options, which is perfect for sharing. I also recommend ordering a handful of sides like the classic Andros salad, lemon potatoes, and a spread with pita.

Evette’s

This Middle Eastern fusion restaurant is located in Lincoln Park with a fast casual vibe, but the food itself will make you think otherwise. Everything’s made fresh and the flavors are punchy.

My favorite thing on the menu? Chicken shawarma fries. I should probably branch out and try something new, but these fresh, hot fries are slathered in cucumber yogurt, Evette’s special mayo, herbs, and smoky chicken. They’re hard to resist. But other things like the halloumi tacos are great, too.

I recommend ordering to-go (the restaurant is pretty tiny) and eating your food picnic-style in a nearby park like Lincoln Park or Oz Park.

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is a long-time classic when it comes to all things steak and meat in Chicago. Arrive hungry and ready to eat.

The meat-heavy menu includes steak done a variety of ways (the Chicago cut is by far the most popular), as well as other local favorites like pork chops, roast chicken, ribs, and burgers. Drinks are also great. If for whatever reason you still have room for dessert at the end of your meal, snag a piece of cake, too.

As far as ambiance goes, the inside looks like a timeless steakhouse. Think of warm tones with lots of wood. They even have a wall dedicated to autographed photos.

👉 Don’t Miss: Gibsons is right around the corner from the top of the Magnificent Mile and a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art. Check out our picks for the best museums in Chicago.

The Dearborn

The Dearborn is located just a few blocks west of the northern edge of Millennium Park and is the perfect go-to spot if you’re on the Loop. The atmosphere is nice and modern, the service is friendly, and the food is always excellent.

Basically, you can’t go wrong with dining here. If you watch Food Network, you might even know that The Dearborn’s fish and chips are the ones that “beat Bobby Flay.” The parmesan truffle fries are also popular. Stop in anytime between brunch and dinner!

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Chicago’s Starbucks Reserve Roastery is the largest Starbucks in the world. It has five floors that consist of a gift shop, bakery and cafe, coffee and cocktail bars, and a rooftop. It’s located on the Magnificent Mile, making it the perfect place to stop for a drink and light snack when you’re out shopping.

Lines are often out the door and around the block, so know that the atmosphere is busy and buzzing. Many items on the menu are specialty so you won’t be able to find them at other Starbucks.

One of my favorites is the Nutella cornetto. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a little touristy, but visiting is still a fun thing to do.

📚 Related Reading: The Magnificent Mile isn’t too far from the lakefront. If you’re looking to see the lake, check out our guide to Chicago beaches.

Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits

Closeup look of the chicken pot pie and pumpkin cheesecake from Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits — *Chicken pot pie and a pumpkin cheesecake*

Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits is a small and cozy local pie shop in Logan Square. It’s the kind of place that feels like it should be in a small town. I visit on a monthly basis (at least) to get a slice of what’s arguably the best pie in Chicago.

Bang Bang offers a mix of sweet and savory pies, as well as a few sides. Everything is delicious and there are always seasonal specials to try. The chicken pot pie is the best I’ve had anywhere and the sweet pies are unbeatable. I especially love their seasonal cheesecakes.

avec

Head to one of avec’s two locations in the West Loop and River North for modern Mediterranean cuisine and a great selection of wine and cocktails.

The West Loop location is known for its extensive wine list accompanied by small plates and select meals. But if you’re looking for more of a meal, head to the River North location. Here, enjoy lunch or dinner at the restaurant before heading up to bar avec on the 8th floor, where you’ll be greeted with beautiful city views.

At either location, though, be sure to try the chorizo-stuffed Medjool dates!

👉 Pro Tip: Visit the West Loop location on a Tuesday when all bottles of wine are half off!

Beatrix

A plate of sliced toast bread, egg, burger patties, and hash browns with other breakfast meals on the table — *Classic “eggs your way” breakfas*t

Beatrix makes a great option for visitors because it has locations in the Loop, Streeterville, River North, and the West Loop. The restaurant is open all day long, but Beatrix is especially known for its delicious brunch menu.

They offer classic American dishes with other selections mixed in, which are all equally tasty. The fresh-squeezed juices are a must-try and the pastry counter has tons of delicious options.

Simply put, everything at Beatrix is a hit. If you’re looking for the brunch place to hit up with friends, this is it.

Beatnik On The River

Nothing beats dining on the Chicago River, especially when the atmosphere is as colorful and vibrant as it is at Beatnik. The restaurant offers indoor dining as well as patio dining with beautiful views of the city and river.

Many come just for the ambiance and tasty selection of creative cocktails, but the restaurant offers a great weekend brunch menu, too. As for food, the baba ghanoush and hummus are popular choices.

I’d recommend this place for small plates, drinks, and the beautiful ambiance. Beatnik does get booked up, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time!

👉 Don’t Miss: Beatnik is in a central location. Spend your morning sightseeing in the Loop, stop for lunch or brunch at Beatnik, and then head up to River North for more exploring!

Smyth and The Loyalist

Fresh oysters with ice and lemons on a plate

Smyth and The Loyalist is a dual-concept restaurant located in the West Loop. The first floor, Smyth, is a tasting menu restaurant with an open kitchen and dining room concept. Just below Smyth is the restaurant’s bar and lounge, The Loyalist, which has a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

The burger is a fan favorite at The Loyalist, but both floors shine a light on seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. This is a great restaurant for special occasions.

Bonci Pizzeria

Spice up your pizza game with a trip to Bonci Pizzeria in the West Loop. Bonci serves up Roman-style pizza with crispy crusts and a constantly rotating variety of flavors and toppings. The ever-changing combinations keep Bonci interesting, but always good.

There are no set pizza portions or slices, and instead, they cut how much or how little you like. Then, you pay by weight. So, go to town and try as many types of pizza as you like!

Coyotes Restaurant

Coyotes Restaurant is a no-frills restaurant in Pilsen that serves up all your Mexican food favorites like tacos, burritos, and tortas. It’s open 24 hours a day, so it’s the perfect place to grab some food after a night out.

Chips and salsa are complimentary and always good. My favorite thing to get is the tacos al pastor, which is super flavorful with just the right kick. Coyotes Restaurant is really affordable, too, so get as many tacos as you want!

Galit

Galit recently earned its first Michelin star, and it’s easy to see why. This Lincoln Park restaurant serves up a flavor-packed, customizable four-course tasting menu. Dishes are a combination of flavors from the Middle East as well as Israeli cuisine.

The hummus can’t be raved about enough (especially the brisket hummus). Galit also offers a unique lineup of cocktails and an impressive selection of wines, including less commonly known options from the Middle East.

The atmosphere at Galit is comfortable, relaxed, and welcoming. The staff is also quite knowledgeable. Come hungry and leave full and feeling good.

📚 Related Reading: Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s best neighborhoods with tons to do.

Big Star

Big Star is the perfect place to go for a fun, casual meal with friends. Although Big Star has Wicker Park and Wrigleyville locations, the Wicker Park location is trendy and a go-to for its patio dining at the center of the neighborhood.

They have a variety of tacos to choose from, but I especially love the pescado and camarones fritos. If you come with a group, order a margarita pitcher and split the Big Star nachos—they’re to die for.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re in Wicker Park but pinched for time, head to the taco window right next to Big Star. Here, you can order your food to go.

Bloom Plant Based Kitchen

Gone are the days of vegetarian options being bland and boring. Bloom Plant Based Kitchen on N Milwaukee Ave in Wicker Park proves just that. Upon entry, the restaurant is light and bright with lots of greenery.

The food is inspired by a variety of cuisines. The tacos and aguacate are especially tasty. Save room for dessert, too, and try the camote cheesecake. Vegetarian or not, the food here is fresh, flavorful, and just good. The only downside is that portions tend to be smaller.

Iraźu

Iraźu is the first and only Costa Rican restaurant in Chicago. Located in Bucktown, it’s a restaurant full of healthy, fresh, and hearty dishes like the shrimp ceviche, casado (try the skirt steak one!), and sweet plantains.

They also have a good selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant itself is casual and colorfully decorated. If you go, be sure to order the oatmeal shake.

West Town Bakery

A plate of omelet filled with vegetables, hash browns and two small bowls of sauces on the side — *Fats omelet with hash browns*

Head to West Town Bakery on W Chicago Ave for a comfortable, casual, yet delicious brunch if you’re in the area.

It’s the perfect spot to snag some pastries and catch up with friends over coffee and breakfast classics (eggs benedict and breakfast sandwiches are really great).

The interior is cool and diner-esque, and it has a real local, neighborhood vibe. If you want something for the road, snag some cake balls to go.

Jeong

Jeong will not disappoint if fine dining is your style. This Korean-inspired restaurant features a multi-course tasting menu with superb flavor combinations. The courses are inventive and all-around beautifully plated, making the visit to Jeong an experience, too.

Standout courses include the wagyu beef and salmon tartare. For couples and those wanting to plan a special dinner, Jeong’s minimalist, modern dining room provides the perfect peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The staff is attentive and welcoming.

👉 Pro Tip: There is no defined dress code, but most diners dress business casual.

Demera Restaurant

Pay a visit to Demera’s Restaurant in Ravenswood for some delicious Ethiopian food. Here, the atmosphere is casual with an emphasis on “tradition served family-style.”

It’s the perfect place for group dinners with friends so you can share a messob (a combination platter with proteins and vegetables), which is the best way to try different dishes and experience a variety of flavors. Demera’s also has a good selection of dishes for vegetarians and vegans.

Luella’s Southern Kitchen

Even though Chicago is in the Midwest, the city still boasts some delicious Southern Soul Food. This can be seen (and tasted!) at Luella’s Southern Kitchen in Lincoln Square along Lincoln Ave.

Think southern comfort foods like shrimp and grits (so good), chicken gumbo, and chicken and waffles (these are a must-try). Come hungry, order at the counter, and leave happy.

Virtue Restaurant

The blackened catfish, collard greens, and mac & cheese from Virtue — *Blackened catfish, collard greens, and mac & cheese at Virtue*

Virtue is a Hyde Park restaurant serving up elevated Southern classics with an occasional twist. The restaurant has a cozy, contemporary dining room and the atmosphere is welcoming. The Virtue team boasts unpretentious service and a sense of Southern hospitality.

Try the melt-in-your-mouth short ribs or blackened catfish. You won’t regret it. Remember to make reservations ahead of time at this Michelin star restaurant.

👉 Don’t Miss: If you’re headed down to Hyde Park, be sure to check out nearby attractions like the Robie House and the Museum of Science and Industry.

Summer House Santa Monica

A chicken burger and a glass of cocktail on a table — *Crispy chicken sandwich with snappy pickles and the Tropical Dreams cocktail*

Light, airy, and well—summer-y, is how I’d describe the atmosphere at Summer House Santa Monica, which is located on N Halsted St in Lincoln Park. Considering the large atrium and ambiance of the summer-inspired dining room, this makes sense. On the wall, they even have a “countdown to summer.”

Most of the food is New American cuisine, with some Italian, Asian, and Mexican influences blended in. Each time I’ve dined here, the food and drinks have never disappointed. I always get the crispy chicken sandwich. The truffle fries are also delicious.

Visit Summer House Santa Monica in the summer if you can. This is one of the best times to visit Chicago and the restaurant opens up it’s atrium to help you enjoy the nice weather.

Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen

Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen has been serving up Jewish deli classics since 1942. The place is no-frills and has a large dining room set up cafeteria-style. As soon as you walk in the door, you’ll be hit with old-school vibes.

The corned beef sandwich is the most popular item on the menu, stacked high with meat. But they also offer an array of other hot dishes such as matzo ball soup.

To top off your Manny’s experience, head to the gift shop area in the back where you can get baked goods, coffee, candy, and more.

Topo Gigio Ristorante

Head to Topo Gigio in Old Town if you’re a big fan of pasta like me. The Italian restaurant has a warm, old-school feel, and the servers are friendly.

Everything on the menu is pretty traditional, which is the appeal. There’s also an extensive wine list, especially for red wine. All the food is tasty but the pasta dishes are my favorite because the sauces are so good.

Most seating is found throughout the indoor dining room, but a front and back patio is available on warmer days.

👉 Don’t Miss: Topo Gigio is right down the street from The Second City comedy club. Stop for dinner before or after a show!

Blue Door Farmstand

At Blue Door Farmstand, you can expect farm-to-table cuisine and a homey, cozy atmosphere.

The menu is full of hearty classics like burgers, salmon, and spaghetti, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The farm-to-table approach is really apparent, too, and all the ingredients are fresh.

The real stars of this restaurant are the grilled cheese and tomato basil soup. It’s to die for. If you’re in the mood for something warm, hearty, and filling, head to Blue Door Farm Stand in Lincoln Park.

Redhot Ranch

Redhot Ranch is a go-to for greasy bites in Chicago. It’s a casual neighborhood joint best known for its burgers, hot dogs, and fries. This is also where you can try a Chicago-style hot dog.

Redhot is known to use sausage with natural casing, which gives their hot dogs a different bite than the typical Vienna beef sausages. The smash burgers are also quite popular.

There are two locations—in Bucktown and Lakeview. Redhot is cash only, so come prepared.

***

No matter your taste buds, you’re sure to find something delicious. Next up, check out my guide to Chicago foods you have to try or my favorite dessert spots in Chicago.

Have you been to any of these Chicago restaurants? Let us know which one is your favorite in the comments. And be sure to let us know if there are any restaurants you think we missed!

5 Comments

Diana says:

February 15, 2025 at 6:11 pm

Could you recommend a good lunch spot in the Gold Coast, near the water?

1. Lea Rose Allbaugh says:
  
  February 19, 2025 at 11:00 am
  
  Hi Diana, for Gold Coast, I’d highly recommend 3 Arts Club Cafe! The indoor dining atrium is beautiful, and it’s fun to explore the upstairs showrooms after your meal. Just be sure to make reservations because they book up! The restaurant is only a short walk from the lake. You might also like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse or Maple & Ash. Unfortunately, there aren’t really any restaurants directly on the water, as the lakefront buildings are mostly residential. I hope this helps!
  
Su Crutchley says:

August 24, 2024 at 11:47 am

Any restaurants in South Loop you can recommend?

1. Lea Rose Allbaugh says:
  
  August 26, 2024 at 9:21 am
  
  Hi Su, Sweet Bean is a great Taiwanese bakery that makes sweet and savory items. My friend also loves Tilly Bagel Shop in South Loop. As for more traditional sit-down restaurants, try Eleven City Diner or Nepal House. There’s also a Lou Malnati’s if you’re looking to try deep-dish pizza. Hope this helps!
  
David Mason says:

November 18, 2022 at 9:09 am

You didn’t mention Italian beef. I remember a very small place on N Western near Rosehill Cemetery that may not be there anymore, but my brother in law took us to Ken’s Grill on McCormack and Dempster in Skokie and it was very good and real busy.