Chicago, IL Restaurant Guide
They call it the Second City but in Chicago, the food is First Class. Of course, we all love the Windy City classics, but with all of those planes coming in and out of O’Hare, you know Chicago’s an incredibly international city, too. Folks from all over the world follow the winds to the shores of Lake Michigan and bring mouthwatering flavors from Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin American and more. We won’t lie to you, it does get cold there, but it makes those summer months that much sweeter – and the vibes at rooftop bars and outdoor seating restaurants that much better. Plus, they have plenty of fun during the cold months too, thanks to world-class food halls, some of the best sports on the planet, and the most charming neighborhoods in the country.
Let’s start with what everyone knows about Chi-Town – the Deep Dish Pizza is epic. Whether it’s Malnati’s or Giordano’s, the Chicago Deep Dish pizza is a one-of-a-kind, unique bit of culinary artistry, brought to the city by Neapolitan immigrants at the turn of 20th century. We do our best to weigh in on what’s the best between the classics and new up and comers. Plus, the influx of Italian immigrants to Chicago at this time brought about another classic meal the town is known for – The Italian Beef Sandwich. With access to cheap, tougher cuts of meat thanks to the City’s thriving meatpacking business, these immigrants would slowly braise them in a flavorful, spicy broth and place them atop freshly baked Italian bread. Now, there are literally dozens of Italian Beef restaurants around the Chicagoland area.
As we mentioned before, O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, acting as a major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines. Combine that access with a world-class city like Chicago, and it’s no wonder immigrant communities from around the world want to move there. We cover some of the best restaurants from these communities, including Puerto Rican, one of the largest Latino groups in the City traditionally, Indian, Korean, Mexican and more. It won’t take you long to discover something you love from any of our lists, whether you’re looking for Jibaritos or Hotteok.
Whether you watched Michael Jordan become the most recognized athlete in the world, caught the Cubs end their historic 100 year drought, or saw the classic SNL “Da Bears” sketch, Chicago’s sports iconography has been permeating throughout the planet for decades. And since every good fan may want to lubricate their vocal chords with a beer or few during the game, you know there are some great restaurants by the stadiums, both for pre and post game. We share a few on our lists for Wrigley and Soldier field.
During the late Spring, there may be no place on earth that is buzzing more than Chicago (in more ways than one). As mentioned previously, Chicago has an epic amount of rooftop bars and outdoor dining options throughout the City, that’s only grown since the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve shared a few of our faves, including places like the Up Room, Bernie’s Chicago, J. Parker and more – along with some Dog-Friendly places since there’s a good chance you’ll have a canine companion with you in the summer months. And when fall starts to rear its ugly head again, you can go back to the food hall for some beers and a hang if that’s what you’re looking for.
Chicago is famous for its neighborhoods – there are more than 200 distinct neighborhoods in the whole city. We’ll do our best to cover all of them in time, but to start we’re looking at River North, Lincoln Park, Koreatown, Chinatown and more. We also cover some of the parts of town that cater to out-of-owners, like the River Walk neighborhood and Downtown Chicago.
Cheap Eats in Chicago
You can discern a lot from Chicago city through its cheap eats, which are the neighborhood’s backbone. Here are places worth visiting when you want to save on food and experience the different food cultures of Chicago.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago
For people with kids, it is hard to find restaurants that are kid-friendly in Chicago. Well, it doesn’t mean that Chicago doesn’t have restaurants that are kid-friendly. You may sometimes find a restaurant that suits your needs; however, it may be hard to find a spot. To avoid some of these issues, you may start […]
Great Mediterranean Restaurants in Chicago
Mediterranean food is known for its ingredients from countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, such as Italy, Greece, Spain, and Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon, Turkey, Egypt, Syria, and others. There is no shortage of Mediterranean Restaurants in Chicago. If you are looking for kebabs, a shawarma wrap or any other Mediterranean dish prepared authentically. This […]
How to Spend 48 Hours Eating Everything in Chicago
What do Ferris Bueller’s titular day off, the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, and the Valentine’s Day Massacre all have in common? They are each set upon the elusively magnificent backdrop of Chicago. There’s much to be said about the third largest city in America. Despite its magnitude, Chicago still retains its midwestern reputation — a […]
Not-To-Be-Missed Indian Restaurants in Chicago
If you’re ever in the Chicago area and are craving the colorful cuisine, there are many restaurants that you can choose from. We’ve put together some a list of the best Indian restaurants in Chicago.
Best Breweries in Chicago
Ah, the Windy City that is Chicago, Illinois. Home to Wrigley Field, Da Bears, and the River Walk, Chicago also is known for its deep-rooted food and beverage scene. Let’s set out and find some of the best breweries in Chicago.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago
This city is known for its great food. Now you can also share a delicious meal while hanging out with your favorite pet!
10 Best BBQ Restaurants Chicago, IL
When deciding on the best BBQ Restaurants Chicago has to offer, you will find that there are many BBQ options in the city. Some of them are upscale. Some are family friendly. There are even a few that offer live music. Regardless of what you are into, you can find a restaurant that is appropriate for you.
Best Sushi Restaurants in Chicago
When you’re in Chicago, you’ll likely want to check out all the trendy and award-winning restaurants the city has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for soul food, Chinese entrees, Italian food, or Indian food, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for. Chicago is also a great place for sushi, and if you’re a fan of sushi or want to try this Asian delicacy, check out some of the best sushi restaurants in Chicago to satisfy your craving.
8 Must-Visit Chicago Chinese Restaurants (Outside Chinatown)
Chicago is one of the best places for delicious Chinese food, but you don’t have to necessarily go to Chinatown to satisfy your craving for Chinese takeout. Here are some Chicago Chinese restaurants outside of Chinatown that offer appetizers and entrees you won’t soon forget.
Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants: The Ultimate Guide
The Chicago River is a picturesque way to see the city and explore the various communities in Chicago. Having a meal at one of the best Chicago Riverwalk restaurants is a great way to tour the city if you’re visiting or explore more of Chicago if you’re a resident. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or prefer a more refined dining experience, here are a few eateries to check out.
Lincoln Park Restaurants: The American Eats Guide
If you’re planning a visit to Chicago, you don’t want to leave to city without checking out the popular Lincoln Park area. Here are some of the best Lincoln Park restaurants in Chicago, no matter what you’ve got a taste for.
There are only so many cities in the United States that have history and a story to tell. Chicago may be at the top of that list, especially when it comes to its culinary history. Between being known as “the Hog Butcher for the World” and having 24 Michelin-rated restaurants in the City, there is more to know about Chicago every day you spend there. So whether you’re digging into deep dish pizzas, bingeing on Italian Beef, or making a face after a shot of Malört, a night in Chicago will always be unforgettable – for both you and your stomach.