Chicagoans know a thing or two about good food. Looking for suggestions on where to eat in Chicago? Then you’ve come to the right place!
Read along for a list including some of the top spots for every type of cuisine and palate. No matter the ocassion, we have a recommendation for where to eat in Chicago.
So, without further ado, here are our top picks for where to eat in Chicago for every occasion.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria —for casual dining
This well-known Chicago restaurant is ideal for a fun night out with your friends and family. The deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s is delicious, and the menu provides a variety of selections. Gotta check deep dish off your Chicago foodie bucket list, right?
Lou’s Pizza dates back all the way to the 70’s, right when the first pizzeria opened up in Lincolnwood. Lou’s pizza is clearly a chosen Chicago favorite, hence why they’re always our go-to pizza at events and festivals like Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza.
TAO Chicago — for a romantic night out
When we think of TAO, we think of polished and elegant. This is the perfect place for wearing your favorite little black (or red) dress, or your suit and tie to dinner. They serve generous entrees, so this is a great spot for couples that like to sample and share.
Check out the Emperor’s lounge for happy hour cocktails. If you’re a fan of Japanese sake, Tao’s is unmatchable. If you really like privacy while eating, ask for a Quan Yin room when making a reservation. And don’t forget to snap a selfie at the Grand Staircase – your friends won’t believe you’re in Chicago!
Local’s Tip: Need more date night ideas? Check out these 6 romantic spots for the best date night in Chicago!
The Signature Room at the 95th — for a night out on the town
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy cocktails with friends, The Signature Room is the perfect spot. Located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center, this bar offers stunning views of the city.
This spot is ideal if you’re looking for a delicious meal in a classy setting, as it is definitely more of a high-class vibe.
Alinea — for special occassions
Alinea is perfect for celebrating those once-in-a-lifetime moments. The contemporary American cuisine is inventive and delicious, and the service is impeccable.
The most popular option at Alinea is their infamous 36-course meal. It is definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you’re looking to experience some of the most unique and delicious food that Chicago has to offer, this is the place to go.
The Duck Inn — for something trendy
The Duck Inn has a cool, rustic vibe and offers a unique menu that features southern-inspired cuisine. We highly suggest checking out the garden at The Duck Inn. It’s intimate and almost feels like hanging out at your best friend’s patio!
The Duck Inn has received several awards, including, Chef of the Year by The Chicago Tribune, & even Restaurant of the Year by USA Today You can expect excellent service and drinks as their bartenders have also been voted Bartender of the Year by The Chicago Tribune.
Insider’s tip: Don’t miss the shrimp and grits, which are seriously delicious.
Bonchon — for great Asian cuisine
Bonchon is a great option if you want to explore Chinatown and want somewhere a little bit more laid-back. Korean chicken wings are the main draw at this casual spot. But don’t skip out on the seasoned fries, either!
Irazu — for a fab BYOB spot
If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy a glass of wine, Irazu is the perfect place for you. This BYOB restaurant offers a delicious menu of Latin American cuisine. In particular, we recommend the empanadas (our favorite is the plantain and cheese variety)!
Irazu does a good job of serving up authentic Costa Rican empanadas. The flakiness of the crust is browned to perfection and the contrast of the sweetness of the plantain against the saltiness of the cheese make these great appetizers.
Cruz Blanca — for delicious Mexican food
There are four Rick Bayless restaurants in Chicago, and Cruz Blanca is one of them. This location is in Fulton Market, making it the perfect spot for happy hour margaritas.
The brewpub has a cool, rustic vibe and offers a unique experience that is perfect for those who want to explore Mexican food. We would highly recommend the barbacoa tacos for some authentic bites.
If you’re big on Mexican food, don’t miss our list of the best Mexican food in Chicago.
Raised Bar— for a great rooftop vibe
If you’re looking for a rooftop spot to enjoy cocktails with friends during Chicago’s summer months, Raised Rooftop Bar is the perfect place for you. This trendy bar offers stunning views of the city skyline. Perfect for some drinks while enjoying the sunset!
Via Carducci — for authentic Italian food
Via Carducci presents authentic Southern Italian flair and is a true hidden gem! It’s the perfect spot when you are in the mood for an intimate, cozy dinner and wine.
Not sure what to get? If you’re not vegetarian, go with the Rotini Santa Lucia, corkscrew pasta sauteed in red wine with onion, peas, mushrooms, and Italian sausage in a tomato cream sauce. Alternatively, pizza margherita is never a bad choice. Wood-fired to perfection and topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, extra virgin olive oil, and oregano, you truly can’t go wrong.
3 Arts Cafe — for brunch!
If you’re looking for a delicious brunch spot in Chicago, we love 3 Arts Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast items, as well as sandwiches, salads, and desserts. The service is also wonderful, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. We’d recommend coming here on a Sunday with your girlfriends!
The Original Maxwell Street — for late-night eats
Fast food doesn’t usually come to mind when you think about where to eat in Chicago. But iff you’ve worked up an appetite at 2 or 3 a.m., head to The Original Maxwell Street for a Polish hotdog or double cheeseburger, This classic haunt is open 24 hours – perfect for those late nights after partying!
Frida Room — for artsy vibes
Frida Room is a Mexican-American restaurant located in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago. The restaurant is named after artist Frida Kahlo, and pays homage to her life and work. The menu features a variety of Mexican dishes, as well as cocktails and desserts.
The quality of the food and the attention to detail that’s gone into the decor is incredibly impressive. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
