Updated: August 4, 2026
I love finding all the local recommendations for things to do in a new city. Who knows a city better than the people who live there, right? This is why I’m sharing my favorite places to eat in my hometown of Chicago. This list includes everything from beautiful brunch spots to the best Chicago dinners to unique restaurants. If you ask yourself, “Where should I eat in Chicago?” This list is it.
If you’re planning a full trip, don’t miss my guide on the best Chicago photo spots and attractions or my list to the best cafes in Chicago for coffee lovers.
UPDATE: It’s been several years since I first wrote this post, and a lot has changed. There have been COVID-19 closures, management changes, and other disruptions. This is a popular post on my blog, and I don’t want to mislead you. I’ve narrowed the list down to places I keep returning to and still find worthwhile.
Throughout my travels, I’ve also noticed that these lists can be overwhelming when you only have a few days in a new city. I wanted to update this post to note the top 11 places to eat in Chicago (in no particular order), based on my local experience, and to list other restaurants that would also be great if you had more time to explore the city.
The 11 places listed below are where I take out-of-town guests—the best of the best (in my humble, local opinion). If you’ve only got a short time in Chicago, start with the top 11 and work your way down.
Top Places to Eat in Chicago
1. The Crepe Shop
I haven’t tried every crepe in Chicago, but I guarantee these are the best. Take a look at their reviews; I’m not the only one who thinks so.
We frequently return to the Crepe Shop. Our favorites are their ham and cheese crepe and wildberry cheesecake crepe. Don’t miss their lattes, either. They make my favorite cardamom rose latte in the entire city. Jorge loves their French lavender or citrus lattes.
2. Tortello
We spotted a “fresh pasta shop” when getting coffee nearby. They usually have someone hand-making pasta in front of a big window. Once we tried the food, we didn’t stop going back and telling everyone we knew about it.
One of the owners is from Venice. The dishes will transport you back to your favorite Italian town. They use the best ingredients, keep the recipes simple, and leave you wanting more. In the summer, they also have live music on weekdays.
source: tortellopasta.com
3. Smoque BBQ
Located in Irving Park, Smoque offers impressive brisket comparable to that of Austin, Texas. Smoque has become increasingly popular, but that’s not surprising. I’d say it’s up there with the “famous Chicago food” spots.
A sliced brisket platter at Smoque (what I always order) comes with two sides and coleslaw. Their fries are always perfectly crispy and fresh, and the coleslaw is a unique and delicious recipe.
source: yelp.com
4. Spacca Napoli
If you love Italy’s Neapolitan pizza, you must try Spacca Napoli. It’s award-winning and AVPN Certified, so you know it’s the real deal. I know I’m from Chicago, where deep-dish pizza is famous, but no, thank you. Give me authentic, Italian-style pizza any day. Everything about it, from the crust to the imported cheese, is excellent.
We’ve visited Italy numerous times, including Naples, where pizza was born. We’ve tried some of the best pizza places from Naples to Milan, and Spacca is definitely doing something right. I’m so happy I have a little bit of Italy in my hometown.
If you’re in the mood for dessert, be sure to try their tiramisu.
5. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
If you’re celebrating something special, in the mood for fine dining, or don’t care how much your bill is, I highly recommend Bavette’s. The atmosphere is unique, and the food is exceptional.
Try Resy to book a reservation in advance. If you don’t see any good times, try calling because they usually have more options over the phone. You can also walk in and try to get a seat at the bar.
We’ve celebrated several wedding anniversaries here and always have a great experience. Their Filet Mignon – Petite Duchess Cut is my absolute favorite steak meal; it cuts like butter and is perfectly cooked. Be sure to order their homemade sourdough and butter—oh my goodness. The steak frites, burgers, salads, and all the sides are also good. Pair your meal with a Lillet Rosé martini, and you’re all set.
source: facebook.com/BavettesBarBoeuf
6. Aba
Aba is also a Mediterranean restaurant, but unlike Ema (below), it has a rooftop patio where you can enjoy warmer days. It’s a trendy restaurant in Chicago, so I recommend booking a reservation in advance. Even on weekdays, it is packed. Ema is more flexible if you crave Mediterranean food and can’t get into Aba.
Everything we tried at Aba was delicious, from the drinks to the food. The dishes are designed to be shared, but no one says you have to.
source: facebook.com/AbaRestaurants
Here’s a view from their rooftop patio, along with my handsome husband.
7. Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
My beloved Joe’s. I first visited this place during a work lunch and have been obsessed with it ever since. The prices are a little hefty, but we’ve never had a bad meal or service. My favorite dish to order is the salmon au poivre. You can’t go wrong with any of the seafood dishes. Their crab roll is delicious, and their crab bisque is our favorite soup ever.
They also have THE. BEST. PIES. Try the Havana Dream, Banana, or Coconut Cream pie. I love their lemon drop martinis, and Jorge claims they have the best old-fashioned he’s ever tried.
We’ve treated our parents to Joe’s on different occasions, and they all loved it. My mom said the service made her feel like a VIP. It’s just a great dining experience. I recommend making a reservation, unless you’re cool with sitting at the bar.
source: facebook.com/joeschicago
8. The Warbler
Elevated comfort food. The Warbler was a yummy find! Their flatbreads are so good. Their burger is also delicious, but my favorite has been their kale salad. We were so happy with everything we ordered that we’ve returned many, many times.
Whether you order flatbread, salads, main dishes, or cocktails, you will not regret visiting The Warbler.
source: facebook.com/thewarblerchicago
9. Lula Cafe
I had gone to Lula before, but I think I ordered the wrong thing. This time around, I got their pancakes. Now listen, I have a love affair with Clinton Street’s blueberry pancakes in NYC. Despite my attempt to match that pancake energy in Chicago, it has fallen short.
But from all the ones I’ve tried in Chicago, Lula is the best of the best. The pancakes are fluffy yet moist and full of flavor. The dishes J ordered were also great, especially the breakfast burrito and French omelet. They also offer a Farro and Quinoa Bowl that is both delicious and healthy. We’ll definitely keep going back to Lula. They also offer a dinner menu, but we haven’t tried that yet.
10. Pleasant House Pub
Pleasant House has some of Chicago’s best fish and chips (comparable to the U.K. versions). The portion sizes are generous, and the fish is juicy and perfectly seasoned. They only serve this dish on Fridays.
They’re mainly known for their meat pies, which J has liked every time he’s tried one. And don’t miss the cocktails! The restaurant is located in Pilsen, making it a perfect stop if you’re exploring some of the best Chicago photography spots nearby.
Update: We’ve now tried their brunch menu (available only on weekends), and it’s wonderful! Their French toast is now my favorite in the city because it’s simple, perfectly cooked (neither too dry nor too mushy), and topped with homemade blueberry compote. Jorge has enjoyed their English breakfast and breakfast sandwich. It’s also decently priced.
11. Willow Room
We’ve had dinner and weekend brunch at the Willow Room and are fans of both menus. My favorite has been their short-rib dinner, or their halibut dish, which is out of this world good (pictured below). Make sure you try their key lime pie. We’re not key lime pie fans, but Willow Room changed our mind. I also love their cocktails; on weekends, they have different-flavored mimosas.
The restaurant is beautiful, and the service has always been good. It’s one of those places I crave and keep going back to.
source: facebook.com/willowroomchicago
Planning Your Chicago Food Trip?
I’ve created a map of some of the best neighborhoods for Chicago food, bars, cafes and overall best places to enjoy a meal in the city. I selected some of the top restaurants on my list, spread them across areas I know are fantastic for dining, and dropped a pin on this hotel map. That way, you can easily narrow down where to stay for your trip to Chicago. Just follow the pins!
Below are some additional tasty restaurants in Chicago if you have more time.
Places to Eat in Chicago for Brunch:
12. Doppio Coffee House
This is my favorite toast in the city. I don’t eat avocado, so it’s hard to find creative, delicious breakfast toasts that don’t have avocado as the base. Doppio has a unique menu of sweet or savory “open face sandwiches” to choose from.
My go-to is “Eggxtravaganza,” which comes with hard-boiled eggs dressed with housemade mayonnaise, basil, chives, dill and lemon zest. (Pictured below)
Another good option is their “Pomidoro Fresco,” which features slow-roasted grape tomatoes dressed with extra-virgin olive oil, fresh basil, and oregano on a creamy ricotta and mozzarella mix. Jorge’s favorite is, of course, their avocado toast. (Also pictured below) It is a coffeehouse, but I didn’t like the one latte I tried there. Either way, I’ll keep returning for the toasts!
13. Verzênay Chicago
Verzênay is a place that locals love but doesn’t get enough “buzz,” in my opinion.
We initially tried their Raspberry Rose Croissant, which was good. But what kept us coming back was their delicious and unassuming breakfast sandwich. It’s an omelet served on a brioche bun with goat cheese, pickled onions, and pesto. It’s served warm and fresh and is an excellent option if you’re in a hurry but want a filling breakfast.
The Chef/Owner was trained in France and uses locally sourced and clean ingredients. The place is always packed, and the menu is tempting. Plus, the shop is adorable inside and out.
photo source: facebook.com/verzenay
14. Loaf Lounge
Loaf Lounge has quickly become my favorite spot for a Chicago breakfast sandwich. I’ve realized that in my search for a good breakfast sandwich without spice—since I can’t do spicy—they almost always end up dry.
They’ve got a handful of breakfast sandwiches on the menu, and my go-to is simple but perfect: bacon, eggs, and cheese on a soft-seeded bun, plus a little herby mayo to tie it all together. It has a great flavor, and the restaurant is always packed with a line out the door.
source: facebook.com/loaflounge
15. Truce
Truce is a cafe/bar concept, but they offer drinks all day, so there’s no limit on when you can get a coffee or a cocktail. They’re on this list because they serve an outstanding breakfast sandwich and beautifully balanced lattes to go with it. The sandwich has eggs, turkey sausage, aioli, herbs, and white cheddar.
When Jorge and I tried it, we knew it was the best breakfast sandwich we’d had in the city. It just packs a lot of flavor. Besides the delicious sandwich, it’s easily one of the best cafes in Chicago for unique lattes. The syrups are housemade and carefully curated. We haven’t gone for cocktails, but that’s next on the list.
source: instagram.com/trucechicago
16. Sweet Maple Cafe
Sweet Maple is a classic. The tiny restaurant with a southern flair has long waits on weekends, so get there early or an hour before they close. My favorite (and only) order is the “Sweet Maple Special,” which includes eggs, bacon, a side of their heavenly homefries, and toast. I’ve yet to find homefries that beat Sweet Maple’s. Jorge enjoys their omelets.
The portions are oversized and will keep you full for half the day! It’s a good place to go if you plan a light dinner. UPDATE: They now have a large outdoor patio for those warmer days.
source: yelp.com
For Chicago Dinner:
17. Longman & Eagle
We visited Longman & Eagle several years ago and keep returning! It’s as good as it looks in this photo. They offer a “farm to table, nose to tail aesthetic.” You’ll find classic burgers, foie gras, and vegan options on the menu.
It is considered a whiskey bar, so its crafted cocktails are whiskey-heavy. Jorge loves it and says they have one of the best old-fashioned in the city (second only to Joe’s).
I ordered a classic burger and fries and couldn’t stop saying, “This burger is SO good.” Jorge got a spicy chicken sandwich and loved it, but he mainly wanted to go to Longman for their old-fashioned.
18. Menya Goku
We’ve tried several ramen places around the city, and Menya has been our favorite! We recently revisited, and we’re still blown away by how good the ramen bowls were. We also loved their gyoza dumplings, and I am newly obsessed with their lychee martini. Years ago, I tried a lychee martini in NYC and hated it, but I gave it another try at Menya, and I’m a believer.
source: instagram.com/menyagoku
19. Pierogi Kitchen
After our trip to Poland, we naturally became obsessed with pierogi (and zapiekanka–still searching for a good one in Chicago). But if you want delicious pierogi, we’ve loved the brisket or potato-and-cheese options at Pierogi Kitchen. They also have great cocktails and a popular Kielbasa Platter.
source: pierogikitchenchicago.com
20. Small Cheval
This is the smaller, faster version of the famous Au Cheval. You’ll get the same delicious burgers without the long wait. Yes, we’ve tried both. These are some of our favorite burgers in town.
The owners of Small Cheval are the same as those of Bavette. Prices aren’t bad either, and they serve cocktails at select locations. If you have your choice of locations, go to the one in Lincoln Park (on Halsted). It is so damn cute!
source: smallcheval.com
21. Ēma
They have a Mediterranean menu with some incredible spreads. We first went during Restaurant Week in February and tried many dishes. They’re a “shared plates” kind of place.
The hummus and house bread are also favorites. There are so many great options. Oh, and the interiors are gorgeous. It’s such an inspiring space. They open all the windows during the summer, so it feels more “al fresco.” They also have a cute patio.
I met with a friend there, and she raved about it the whole walk back to the train. We especially love eating multiple dishes from the menu and not leaving feeling stuffed and bloated—the good old Mediterranean diet. So, if you’re looking for delicious Mediterranean food that won’t disappoint, be sure to check out Ema.
source: facebook.com/emarestaurantchicago
22. Ramen Wasabi
Another fantastic option for ramen in Logan Square. Ramen Wasabi is a minimalist spot serving a variety of Japanese street fare. We loved the ramen; it was full of flavor and tender meats. But what really sold me were the pork belly buns. Those buns had me singing! So good. I also ordered a lychee martini (to compare with Menya), and it was equally delicious. I believe it’s the same owners? Either way, when I shared our outing on Instagram, several locals messaged me to say it’s their favorite spot! I’d say it’s worth a visit.
source: facebook.com/wasabichicago
23. Bonci
We were so excited when we learned Bonci was coming to Chicago from Rome! They serve Roman-style Pizza al Taglio. All fresh ingredients, many options, cut to your desired size, and all so good. We visited their original location in Rome in 2013 because Jorge had seen it on Anthony Bourdain’s show. We now have multiple locations throughout our city!
source: facebook.com/bonciusa
24. 3 Arts Club Cafe
Another posh, unique restaurant located inside Restoration Hardware in the Gold Coast area. Every corner is photogenic.
Instagram has helped make 3 Arts one of those iconic Chicago restaurants. The food is delicious as well. We’ve tried the burger, lobster roll, and turkey club, and they are all great. It’s also an excellent spot to hang out on a rainy day since you can walk the many levels of Restoration Hardware.
source: 3artsclubcafe.com
25. HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
We visited for Jorge’s birthday, and the food was fantastic! It’s run by a husband-and-wife team in the heart of the Pilsen neighborhood. My favorite of the night was the Bò Nướng Tỏi (grilled ribeye with a side of house-fried rice). J loved the wings in fish sauce and the crab stir-fry the most. The cocktails are also great. They also offer a generous happy hour.
photo source: @cosmic_ghost
For Chicago Dessert:
26. Do-Rite Donuts & Coffee
With several locations around the city, you’ll undoubtedly run into one of their delicious doughnut shops. So far, my favorite doughnut has been the classic Old Fashioned, followed by the Pistachio-Meyer Lemon and coconut cream. Jorge loved the Chocolate Old Fashioned. So many flavors are left to try, though; we can only eat so much at once.
photo source: facebook.com/doritedonuts
27. Chocolat Uzma
We discovered this delicious chocolate shop back in 2020 when searching for chocolate to soothe our quarantine stress.
Uzma is a 100% women-owned local shop that sells handcrafted chocolates inspired by their South Asian culture. We loved their hot chocolate offerings with homemade marshmallows. Their chocolate chip cookies are my favorite in the world! And in spring/summer, they offer unique ice cream flavors.
We return to Uzma throughout the seasons and stock up on their hot chocolate during winter. It’s also a great local spot for Christmas gifts. We love Uzma.
source: facebook.com/chocolatuzma
28. Molly’s Cupcakes
Molly’s has multiple locations and offers creative and delicious cupcakes. I recommend visiting the adorable River East location. My favorite cupcakes so far are crème brûlée and carrot cake. Whenever we buy Molly’s cupcakes for a birthday or to hang out with friends, they all become fans.
29. Kurimu
They offer delicious soft-serve ice cream with unique, rotating flavors year-round. For example, the image below shows their Thai iced tea + Ube swirl flavors. They have four locations across Chicagoland, each serving different soft-serve options. You can follow them on Instagram to see the month’s specials. The experience has always been great at Kurimu. You can tell they put a lot of thought, creativity and quality into their ice cream.
source: instagram.com/kurimuchicago
Craving Chicago Cocktails?
30. Scofflaw
We first visited for Jorge’s birthday, and it quickly became one of our favorites. It’s a gin-focused bar with the coziest ambiance; you won’t want to leave.
It’s nice to sit next to their fireplace in winter, enjoying a *gin* hot toddy. They also have a delicious selection of tropical-ish cocktails and whiskey options. I love tropical drinks, and Jorge loves whiskey, so we’re both happy here. They change parts of their menu with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try.
*Update* I’ve gone back multiple times. It’s a great hangout year-round. If you’re hungry while there, the burger and fries are delicious.
source: scofflawchicago.com
31. Three Dots and a Dash
Three Dots is one of my favorite bars in Chicago. I love tiki! Their drinks are pricey, but don’t skimp out on the liquor. All the cocktails are creative and beautifully garnished. It’s undoubtedly an experience there. I suggest you make a reservation beforehand because it gets jam-packed.
source: facebook.com/threedotsandadash
32. Remedy
The drinks are good, and the prices are better. Everything is half off during happy hour (Monday through Friday, 4-7 pm). This is unheard of! They also change their menu for new seasons, so you’ll find new goodies whenever you visit.
There’s plenty of parking available right on the street (but don’t drink and drive). And there’s usually a steady flow of people coming and going, so you’re highly likely to get a table right away (we always do).
Below is my favorite, the Owlington (I hope they bring it back), with a fireplace in the fall. It’s pretty perfect.
Things to Do in Chicago + Top Photo Spots
Want to explore other aspects of Chicago besides its food? I’ve got you covered! This great city has many exciting things to do, see, and eat. You can easily spend weeks exploring its many attractions.
But first, coffee. To start your morning off right, check out the best cafes in Chicago.
For the best skyline views, unique photo opportunities, and possible tours, visit the post here: Chicago Photo Locations.
If you have a short trip and want to stay in the best location, check out 2 Days in Chicago.
Are you planning your holidays and looking for a winter/Christmas guide for Chicago? Read this: Things to do in Chicago in December.
If you’d like to read what restaurants other locals are raving about (including some vegan and vegetarian options), you can find that post here: Where Locals Eat in Chicago.
Want a Curated Chicago Food Experience?
Prefer someone else to plan it? These food tours hit some very “Chicago” hotspots. I use Viator or GetYourGuide when traveling to a new place, and I like the options and the easy cancellation if plans change.
- Bikes, Bites, and Brews: Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour
- Underground Donut Tour: Chicago’s First Donut Tour
- Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour
Useful Chicago Guides
I hope these recommendations help you enjoy some great eats while visiting Chicago.
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23 Comments
Great list and I’m looking forward to trying many of them. Disappointed the list is a bit too Western-oriented, though. Despite many, many good Asian, Latin, and African options in Chicago, there is pretty minimal representation in this list. Maybe that just reflects your tastes, which is fair, but its a shame to not include some of those gems with cuisines from other parts of the world.
Thanks for reading! And yes, it’s definitely based on my taste and local experience. I love trying new cuisines when traveling, but this is what I crave when I’m home. I wish I could rave about more of our Asian and Latin restaurants (I’ve tried quite a few), but I haven’t found many that are worth writing about. Let me know if you find one, I’d love to try it. As I’ve mentioned, this list is always getting updated.
Great suggestions! I also highly recommend Summer House Santa Monica in Lincoln Park. I frequently go here for brunch when visiting family in Chicago. The sunny atmosphere and California inspired ingredients feel like a little piece of sunny SoCal in the middle of Chicago.
I’ll need to check it out! Thanks for the tip 🙂
I think Chicago might be the first place to visit after this pandemic. We will drive 12 hours so that we can bring back a couple cakes from Brown Sugar Bakery (across from Lem’s BBQ). I hope they are still open and operating and selling the best cakes I have ever tried when we are able to travel again.
I loved these recommendations! You also have a couple other great posts on Chicago too that I loved! Margeaux Brasserie looks delicious and Molly’s Cupcakes looks too cute! I’ll definitely have to visit these during my visits to Chicago this summer! Thanks Lily!
Thanks so much Linnea, means a lot! Margeaux’s french toast are honestly out of this world hope you can try several of the spots I mention. Report back with your thoughts 😉
Hope to make it to Chicago this year, so this will be handy!! Nothing like tips from a local!
Excited for you to explore this awesome city! 🙂
National Pancake Month? I need more of that in my life….yummmm!
Those cocktails look absolutely divine. I must hit up these places in Chicago. Thanks for the great list!
Right?!? It’s currently that month again🙌🏼 And yeah there are some pretty great bars here. Thank you for the love!
Wow this looks so yum. Would happily eat my way through the entire list. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for reading Sarah! Hope you can visit and eat your way through soon 🙂
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I can’t believe how many amazing restaurants there are in Chicago! That pie (is it banana?) looks amazing and those swing benches are so innovative! Also, I am dying to visit your fave pancake house in NYC.
Thanks!! Can you believe I’ve only tried a fraction of them!😱 The pie is banana foster, seriously amazing! And yesss, you need to try Clinton Street, so so good.
I was just talking to a friend about taking a day trip to Chicago, and we wanted to do/see more local-y stuff rather than the overdone Sears Tower, Bean, etc. These are great!
Thank you!! Ahh yes this will be perfect for a day trip! So many great options 🙂
Three Dots and a Dash has been on my list of places to visit forever, but I hadn’t heard of Lost Lake. Thanks for the recs – so helpful! 🙂
You’re welcome!! Three dots is so great, but lost lake isn’t far behind 🙂 You can reserve for three dots on open table as well!
This is such a cool guide!! Will definitely use this next time I head to Chicago 🙂
Yay! Glad I can be of help 🙂