19 Best Restaurants in Chicago

Situated on Madison Street in Chicago's West Loop, this Italian restaurant holds the esteemed reputation of being the premier destination in the city for top-notch Italian cuisine. Try classic meals like Pork Shank, Cacio e Pepe, or Stuffed Cabbage to get great flavors without breaking the bank. Even better is the atmosphere, which is ideal for group gatherings or a romantic date on the heated patio.

Galit, a recent addition to Lincoln Park, stands out as one of the most intriguing and captivating establishments in the city. It's a Middle Eastern small plates restaurant with consistently delicious food, from the creamy hummus (the one with brisket is outstanding) to roasted carrots to a thick and spicy shakshuka.

For nearly two decades, Boka has stood as a revered cornerstone in Chicago's dining landscape since its establishment in 2003. Celebrated for its seasonal American cuisine, Chef Lee Wolen curates a culinary experience that revolves around exquisite ingredients and masterful preparations. Boka's menu is a blend of à la carte offerings and a hyper-seasonal tasting menu, all presented within a setting of exceptional design and service. Chef Wolen's tenure at Boka boasts an impressive legacy of 10 consecutive Michelin stars, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing distinctive and timeless dining experiences.

Determining whether this bar with a shabby-chic charm leans more towards being a dining haven or a drinking spot presents a delightful conundrum. Let's kick things off with the culinary delights. Feast on impeccably prepared comfort meals such as duck egg hash, wild-boar sloppy joes, and smoked trout stew adorned with Brie and pickles. The menu offers a rich selection of small bites, perfectly complemented by an array of whiskeys. Whether you opt to perch at the bar for a thoughtfully curated flight or take charge in concocting your own blend, the experience is yours to relish.

Lem's has been in business since 1951, and aside from its historical significance, this Chatham landmark serves some of the best barbeque in the city. The ribs are aquarium-smoked, which is a method specific to Chicago's South Side, and the vinegary, sweet mild sauce (also specific to Chicago's South Side) complements the fatty meat perfectly.

No need for a nudge about Chicago's deep-dish pizza popularity, right? If you're a first-time visitor, diving into this iconic culinary experience is a must. So, where's the prime spot? Kick off your deep-dish adventure at Pequod's in Lincoln Park. They specialize in deep-dish pan-style pizzas featuring a uniquely "caramelized" crust. Brace yourself, though—indulging in a lunch here might just ignite a lively, decades-long debate between you and your New York pals over who has the superior pizza.

The Momo World is a modest counter-service restaurant in University Village that serves some absolutely delicious dumplings. There are numerous preparations available, including the traditional steamed jhol and more creative options like momo chaat or tandoori, which are steamed, fried, and then grilled.

Gibsons on the Gold Coast delivers an authentic Chicago steakhouse experience, boasting delectable steaks paired with exceptional sides. While it exudes a touch of vintage charm, it's a welcomed nostalgia, adding character to the ambiance. Despite its location on the Gold Coast, the atmosphere manages to strike a balance, avoiding an overly formal or stuffy vibe. The clientele forms a diverse blend of regulars, out-of-towners, and locals coming together to commemorate birthdays or anniversaries.

The Publican's menu includes a lot of meat, fish and vegetable alternatives. More importantly, everything is fantastic. Nowhere else in town can you eat barbecued carrots, oysters, and porchetta while sitting at a massive wooden table like you're in the Middle Ages. It's also worth noting that this restaurant serves a delicious weekend breakfast.

Girl & The Goat, a Michelin-starred gem in Chicago, offers a culinary journey featuring modern American cuisine with a global flair. Renowned for its inventive dishes, this restaurant not only tantalizes the taste buds but also cultivates a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The food is served family-style, and the rotating menu emphasizes fresh ingredients combined in strong, globally influenced flavors.

Nestled at the crossroads of West Town and the Ukrainian Village, All Together Now is your go-to, all-day hangout spot. Operating as both a restaurant and a market, this versatile establishment features a cozy setup with a few tables perfect for intimate gatherings. Culinary delights take center stage, with highlights including the impeccably seasoned lamb meatballs and the succulent roasted chicken. The combination of a welcoming ambiance and delectable food makes All Together Now a must-visit destination.

This tiny Latin American restaurant in Wicker Park features a lively environment as well as delicious food with diverse tastes. There are chicken skewers in a spicy huancaina, for example, and yucca gnocchi with a superb rabbit bolognese. Almost everything on the menu is well priced, making it ideal for sharing.

Daisies stands out as an outstanding vegetarian and "Midwestern pasta-focused" dining destination. Although the menu includes two non-pasta main courses, featuring options like beef, chicken, or fish, the real star of the show here is the pasta. The pasta dishes are nothing short of delightful. As you savor these culinary delights, consider seeking out a serene spot on the rear patio for an enhanced dining experience.

Bar Roma is the place to go for rustic Italian food. The room is filled with wood and distressed furniture, as well as bags of wheat. And the food is terrific, with a variety of meatballs (there's a whole part of the menu devoted to them) and excellent pasta. Get the Cacio e Pepe, and possibly a few more to share.

Blue Door in Lincoln Park used to be a modest grab-and-go spot, but it's now a larger, nicer sit-down restaurant in the same area. The interior is decorated with a lot of plants and small watering cans to make it feel like a farmhouse, and the comfort cuisine on the menu fits right in. Expect cheese curds, fried chicken sliders and a plethora of massive salads.

Having a neighborhood restaurant as inviting and exceptional as Vincent is a true luxury. It stands out as one of the most welcoming spots in Chicago, providing a perfect setting to enjoy fantastic cuisine with friends. What sets it apart is its charm and excellence, qualities that make it a standout in the local scene. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it a gem, and its appeal is heightened by the fact that it would be nearly impossible to secure a spot downtown. Make sure you order one of the mussel meals (there are various alternatives) and bring your own great bottle of wine if you plan on staying for a while.

Lula is a Logan Square neighborhood restaurant that has been offering farm-to-table cuisine since 1999. Lula is a full-service restaurant featuring seasonal meals such as roasted squash, cauliflower risotto, and duck breast. The menu changes, but it's always delicious.

If you want the best burger in town, go to Au Cheval and get a cheeseburger with bacon and a delicious fried egg on top. Au Cheval's bacon is a thick piece of pig belly, not the bacon you're used to getting with your breakfast dish.

Located in Logan Square, Middle Brow is a brewery adorned with reclaimed wooden picnic tables, tea lights, and ornamental plants housed in birdcages. Be sure to try their offerings featuring house-made bread, including delectable toasts and spreads. Indulge in the flavorful pepperoni pizza, and don't miss out on sampling their array of light and hoppy beers.

Traveling to Chicago? Book a room at one of our affordable, pet-friendly hotels.