Dec. 21, 2018
Of the many, many reasons there are to love Chicago, the incredibly diverse restaurant scene stands out as one of the top ones. From straightforward hamburgers to cuisine from all over the world to the fusion dishes dreamed up by top chefs, Chicagoans have a dizzying array of choices. To get you started on a culinary journey of your own, we’ve assembled a list of our own favorite places to eat around the city.
1. Maple & Ash, 8 West Maple Street. For a truly luxe night out, head to Maple & Ash, a totally new take on the steakhouse. Enjoy the cuisine of Chef Danny Grant, who has earned two Michelin stars, as well as the amazing wine list, which Wine Spectator rated as one of the best in the world.
2. S.K.Y., 1239 West 18th Street. Head to Chef Stephen Gillanders’ debut restaurant and try out his unique take on Asian fusion cuisine. The rotating list of indigenous beers and spirits has representatives from India and Japan, as well as local Chicago brews.
3. Revival Food Hall, 125 South Clark Street. Revival Food Hall is the place to go to try offerings from many of the city’s best chefs, all collected in one venue. Get a meal, a cup of coffee, some bakery treats, or cocktails with friends. The All-Hall Happy Hour, from about 3 to 5, depending on the vendor, is a great way to try out some of the best offerings at a reduced rate.
4. Band of Bohemia, 4710 North Ravenswood Avenue. Band of Bohemia boasts that it’s the world’s first Michelin-rated brewpub, and you’ll know they’ve earned their bragging rights after your first visit. Try some of the beers, all brewed on site, as well as the menu options, which give a nod to their Bohemian heritage while being brought up to date.
5. Honey Butter Fried Chicken, 3361 North Elston Avenue. You can’t go wrong with chicken dipped in honey butter, then fried. Honey Butter Fried Chicken also serves up mouth-watering macaroni and cheese, as well as fanciful cocktails invented by guest chefs.
Chicago Restaurants Offer a World Culinary Tour!
6. Pequod’s Pizza, 2207 North Clybourn Avenue. Chicago is associated in the minds of many with its distinctive deep-dish style of pizza. Pequod’s has its own take that’s well worth trying. The waits are legendary but well worth braving, and you can also get carry out.
7. Portillo’s, 100 West Ontario Street. Portillo’s is best known for its yummy take on the classic Chicago-style hot dog, as well as its crispy fries and onion rings. Do save room for dessert, as the chocolate cake and shakes are equally delicious.
8. Au Cheval, 800 West Randolph Street. Come to Au Cheval and taste their rightly famous burger or try their flavorful take on the humble bologna sandwich. Their brunch is not to be missed, and their cocktail list will tickle your fancy.
9. Las Carnitas Uruapan, 1725 West 18th Street. You might not think of Chicago as a place to get great Mexican food, but it is! Locals know that Las Carnitas Uruapan is the place to go for authentic Mexican cuisine, and their tacos are legendary. Try the many homemade salsa options, and don’t forget the homemade rice and beans to round out your meal.
10. Calumet Fisheries, 3259 East 95th Street. Get incredible, naturally-smoked fish at this waterfront fixture. You can take fish by the pound to eat at home or order one of Calumet Fisheries’ dinners. These are served with fresh fries, coleslaw, crackers, and sauce.
This is just the tip of the iceberg! Chicago is home to dozens, if not hundreds, of great spots to eat out. We’d love to hear about your favorites.