Quick answers — eating in Chicago
- Best restaurant overall
- Alinea
- Best value
- Birrieria Zaragoza (USD 10-20)
- Strongest cuisines
- American, Indian, Mexican & Latin, Korean
- Dishes to try
- Deep-Dish Pizza, Chicago-Style Hot Dog, Italian Beef Sandwich, Jibarito
- Booking window
- For MICHELIN-starred establishments, secure reservations 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Many use Tock or Resy, often requiring full pre-payment or substantial deposits, which are non-refundable within a cancellation window.
Booking at top Chicago restaurants often requires reservations weeks, if not months, in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Dress codes typically range from smart casual to business formal, with jackets sometimes recommended. Tipping usually follows the American standard of 18-25% of the total bill. Dinner hours generally run from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with later seatings on weekends.
American
Best American restaurants in Chicago
Modern American cooking is regional and ingredient-driven, and it is where a lot of the world's tasting-menu formats were loosened into something more relaxed.
Alinea
Three MICHELIN StarsProgressive American · Lincoln Park · USD 295-495
Grant Achatz
Alinea offers an immersive, multi-sensory dining experience, a true theatrical journey through molecular gastronomy. Chef Achatz's boundary-pushing techniques result in dishes that challenge perceptions, often interactive and playful. The modern, minimalist room serves as a blank canvas for the culinary artistry, making each visit an unforgettable event.
Order: Edible Balloon, Hot Potato Cold Potato
Ever
Two MICHELIN StarsContemporary American · West Loop · USD 285-325
Curtis Duffy
Ever provides an elegant, highly refined tasting menu experience, defined by meticulous plating and profound depth of flavor. Chef Duffy's creations are architectural and precise, showcasing seasonal ingredients with understated complexity. The striking, minimalist dining room with its dramatic lighting provides a serene backdrop for an evening of culinary artistry, focused solely on the food.
Order: Wagyu with Matsutake, Scallop with Caviar
Oriole
Two MICHELIN StarsProgressive American · West Loop · USD 285-325
Noah Sandoval
Oriole delivers an intimate, sophisticated dining experience through an ambitious multi-course tasting menu. Chef Sandoval masterfully blends global influences with superb seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are both inventive and deeply satisfying. The understated yet luxurious space fosters a sense of discovery, making it a consistently top-ranked culinary destination in Chicago.
Order: King Crab with Foie Gras, Hokkaido Scallop
Smyth
Two MICHELIN StarsNew American · West Loop · USD 285-325
John B. Shields
Smyth offers a truly distinctive dining adventure rooted in regional ingredients from the Shields' family farm, meticulously crafted into a singular tasting menu. The dishes are artful and thoughtful, highlighting the purity of each component with surprising textures and flavors. The sleek, minimalist room contributes to an atmosphere of focused indulgence, emphasizing the seasonal bounty.
Order: Caviar with Smoked Egg Yolk, Pork Belly with Elderflower
Moody Tongue Brewing Company
Two MICHELIN StarsAmerican | Brewery · South Loop · USD 195-225
Jared Wentworth
This unique establishment pairs sophisticated tasting menus with an expertly curated selection of house-brewed beers. Chef Wentworth creates refined, seasonal dishes that complement and elevate the brewing experience, moving beyond typical pub fare. The elegant, yet relaxed industrial space offers a distinctive culinary journey, proving beer can be as refined as wine in a fine dining setting.
Order: Foie Gras with Beer Gastrique, Stout-Braised Short Rib
Boka
One MICHELIN StarContemporary American · Lincoln Park · USD 145-185
Lee Wolen
Boka consistently delivers an exceptional dining experience with Chef Wolen's elegant, precise, and flavor-forward American cuisine. His dishes often highlight seasonal ingredients with a focus on technique and balance, without unnecessary frills. The stylish, dimly lit dining room, featuring a captivating living wall, provides a sophisticated yet comfortable backdrop for a memorable meal.
Order: Roasted Chicken with Black Truffle, Seared Scallops
Indian
Best Indian restaurants in Chicago
Modern Indian kitchens have moved far beyond curry-house shorthand — regional recipes, live-fire tandoors and tasting menus that put spice work at the centre rather than heat.
Indienne
One MICHELIN StarProgressive Indian · River North · USD 125-175
Sujan Sarkar
Indienne redefines Indian cuisine with a modern, elegant, and progressive approach. Chef Sarkar transforms traditional flavors and techniques into refined, beautifully plated dishes that surprise and delight. The vibrant yet chic dining room sets the stage for a culinary journey that is both innovative and deeply rooted in Indian heritage, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved cuisine.
Order: Butter Chicken Sphere, Lamb Shank Nihari
Mexican & Latin
Best Mexican and Latin American restaurants in Chicago
Latin American kitchens have some of the fastest-moving cooking anywhere: masa ground in house, ceviche cured to order, and Nikkei menus mixing Peruvian and Japanese technique.
Birrieria Zaragoza
Bib GourmandMexican · Archer Heights · USD 10-20
This family-run establishment is celebrated for its Jalisco-style goat birria, a rich, slow-cooked stew served with handmade tortillas. The focus is singularly on this iconic dish, prepared with generations of expertise. It's a no-frills, authentic experience, offering intensely flavorful and comforting Mexican cuisine that truly stands out in the city's diverse culinary landscape.
Order: Birria de Chivo (Goat Stew)
Korean
Best Korean restaurants in Chicago
Korean tables are built for sharing: banchan arrive first, grilled meat or stews follow, and the fermented elements — kimchi, doenjang, gochujang — carry the flavour.
Parachute
Bib GourmandKorean American · Avondale · USD 60-90
Beverly Kim & Johnny Clark
Parachute offers inventive Korean-American dishes in a cozy, intimate setting that feels both personal and welcoming. Chefs Kim and Clark create small plates and mains that are boldly flavored, incorporating fermented ingredients and unexpected textures. It's a consistently exciting and approachable spot for creative cuisine, reflecting a true passion for blending culinary traditions.
Order: Bing Bread with Bacon and Chives, Dolsot Bibimbap
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Chicago
Portillo's Hot Dogs
A Chicago institution for classic hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake shakes. Expect fast service and lively atmosphere, with main items under $10.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Famous for its buttercrust deep-dish pizza, a quintessential Chicago experience. A small deep dish can feed two for around $20-25, making it a delicious and hearty option.
Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken
Offering artisanal donuts with unique flavors and excellent fried chicken sandwiches. A donut and coffee or chicken sandwich will cost around $5-15, perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Al's #1 Italian Beef
A historic spot serving arguably the best Italian beef sandwich in Chicago. Get it 'wet' or 'dipped' with hot giardiniera for an authentic experience, typically $9-12.
Big Star
A vibrant Wicker Park taqueria known for its delicious, affordable tacos and bustling patio. Tacos are generally $4-5 each, allowing for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Local dishes
What to eat in Chicago
Deep-Dish Pizza
A Chicago icon, this pizza features a thick, buttery crust, a generous layer of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce. It's baked in a deep pan, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Try it at Lou Malnati's, Pequod's, or Giordano's for a classic experience.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A Vienna Beef frankfurter served in a poppy seed bun, 'dragged through the garden' with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. No ketchup allowed!
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef, dripping with savory juices, served on a long Italian roll. It’s often dipped ('wet') or doused ('dipped') in the beef's cooking liquid and topped with giardiniera (spicy pickled vegetables) or sweet peppers. A messy but delicious staple.
Jibarito
A unique sandwich where flattened, fried plantains replace traditional bread. Typically filled with savory steak (or other meats), cheese, lettuce, tomato, and garlic-infused mayonnaise. It’s a delicious, gluten-free Puerto Rican invention perfected in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood.
Pierogi
These traditional Eastern European dumplings consist of unleavened dough wrapped around a savory or sweet filling, often boiled and then pan-fried. Common fillings include potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or meat. Served with sour cream and sometimes caramelized onions. A hearty comfort food.
Garrett Popcorn Mix
A beloved Chicago snack combining two distinct popcorn flavors: sweet, caramelized CaramelCrisp and savory, cheesy CheeseCorn. The unique blend of sweet and salty creates an addictive taste that has become synonymous with the city. Perfect for a snack or souvenir.
Fried Chicken
While not exclusively Chicagoan, Harold's Chicken Shack has been a local institution since 1950, serving up crispy, flavorful fried chicken with a distinct sauce. Often served with fries and white bread, it's a no-frills, deeply satisfying meal that’s a local favorite.
Tacos al Pastor
Marinated pork, cooked on a vertical spit (trompo), then shaved off and served in warm tortillas. Topped with pineapple, onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos offer a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Pilsen is a great neighborhood for authentic options.
How to book a table in Chicago
- · For MICHELIN-starred establishments, secure reservations 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Many use Tock or Resy, often requiring full pre-payment or substantial deposits, which are non-refundable within a cancellation window.
- · Consider weekday lunch menus at fine-dining restaurants; they often offer a more accessible price point and easier reservation availability while still showcasing the chef's culinary philosophy and refined techniques.
- · Be aware of strict cancellation policies. Most top-tier restaurants charge a significant fee or the full menu price for no-shows or cancellations within 72 hours, ensuring commitment to limited seating.
- · Utilize waitlists diligently for fully booked dates. Openings can appear last-minute due to cancellations. Being flexible with dining times or opting for bar seating can also sometimes secure an otherwise unavailable spot.
FAQ
Chicago restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Chicago?
Alinea in Lincoln Park is the benchmark table — Progressive American, led by Grant Achatz, three michelin stars, around USD 295-495 per person. Order the Edible Balloon, Hot Potato Cold Potato
Where is the best American restaurant in Chicago?
Alinea in Lincoln Park is the American table to book in Chicago (USD 295-495 per person). Other strong options: Ever, Oriole, Smyth.
Where is the best Indian restaurant in Chicago?
Indienne in River North is the Indian table to book in Chicago (USD 125-175 per person).
Where is the best Mexican and Latin American restaurant in Chicago?
Birrieria Zaragoza in Archer Heights is the Mexican and Latin American table to book in Chicago (USD 10-20 per person).
Where is the best Korean restaurant in Chicago?
Parachute in Avondale is the Korean table to book in Chicago (USD 60-90 per person).
Where can I eat well in Chicago without spending a fortune?
Birrieria Zaragoza is the best-value table on this list at roughly USD 10-20 per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to Portillo's Hot Dogs, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken.
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Chicago?
For MICHELIN-starred establishments, secure reservations 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Many use Tock or Resy, often requiring full pre-payment or substantial deposits, which are non-refundable within a cancellation window. Consider weekday lunch menus at fine-dining restaurants; they often offer a more accessible price point and easier reservation availability while still showcasing the chef's culinary philosophy and refined techniques.
What food is Chicago famous for?
Deep-Dish Pizza, Chicago-Style Hot Dog, Italian Beef Sandwich, Jibarito, Pierogi — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A Chicago icon, this pizza features a thick, buttery crust, a generous layer of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce. It's baked in a deep pan, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Try it at Lou Malnati's, Pequod's, or Giordano's for a classic experience.
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