Summary
Chicago, it’s my kind of town. Really. Since moving here more than 15 years ago, it’s become my home, my favorite city in the world, and one of the best places to eat. Formerly known as a meat and potatoes town, this Midwestern city has come a very long way and I’m here to share all my picks for the best places to eat in Chicago.
Chicago has more than 24 Michelin-starred restaurants and this year is home of the first James Beard Awards (dubbed the “Oscars” of the American culinary scene) ever to be held outside of New York City.
Where to Eat in Chicago
The “Second City’s” acclaimed, world-class dining scene is second to none. From BYOB and friendly neighborhood joints to swanky, see-and-be-seen hotspots, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of my favorites.
1. Xoco
I bring many of my out-of-town guests to Xoco. Run by award-winning and Top Chef Master, Rick Bayless, this modern, counter-service restaurant serves up amazing tortas (Mexican sandwiches), soups, great guacamole, and thick, decadent Mexican hot chocolate (you must get this; you will thank me).
Everything is made from scratch with fresh and local ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
My favorite is the Woodland mushroom with wood-roasted River Valley Ranch mushrooms, chipotle-garlic mojo, Prairie Fruits Farm goat cheese, black beans, wild arugula, and 3-chile salsa. It’s so rich and gooey that I can’t stop ordering it!
2. Spacca Napoli
Chicago may be “known” for deep-dish pizza, but statistically, more Chicagoans eat thin crust regularly. I recommend skipping the deep dish (I know, blasphemy!) and heading to Spacca Napoli, tucked away on a quiet neighborhood corner in Ravenswood (and home to Chicago’s Mayor, Rahm Emanuel).
Known for traditional Neapolitan, wood-oven pizza, the crust and toppings, including fresh buffalo mozzarella, arugula, and prosciutto, will not disappoint.
3. Devon Avenue
For exceptional Indian/Pakistani food and a true off-the-beaten-path destination, head to the far Northside of West Rogers Park. This multicultural thoroughfare is packed with South Asian businesses.
It can be overwhelming, so here are some of my favorites:
- Tiffin
- Udupi Palace (all veg)
- Hema’s
Do pop into Patel Brothers grocery store for a vast selection of bulk Indian snacks.
4. Girl and the Goat
Top Chef award-winner Stephanie Izard has created one of Chicago’s best restaurants in the Randolph Street Restaurant Corridor. It’s essential to make a reservation far in advance because, even years later, it’s still challenging to secure a table at prime times. You can, however, walk in and try to snag a seat at the bar area.
The rustic yet urban décor is warm and comfy, and her innovative, global-inspired food is always a winner. Yes, you should order the “pig face.” Trust me. Check out the website Girl and the Goat.
5. Avec
Also in the lively Randolph Street district, always-packed Avec is perfect for enjoying a glass of wine, some cheese, and delicious charcuterie. The Mediterranean sharable food is consistently outstanding, and the warm, cozy vibe (it’s small with communal seating, so you will get to know your neighbors!) is welcoming, with cedar planks that almost give you the feeling of sitting in a sauna.
6. GT Fish & Oyster
You’ll notice there are no steakhouses on my list. And that’s not because there aren’t at least a dozen top-notch places in the city for a filet mignon; it’s just that I’m not much of a meat eater, and Chicago has answered that call with some amazing spots for succulent seafood.
GT Fish & Oyster is a newer eatery that pairs inventive shared plates with creative cocktails in a trendy, modern-nautical space. The hardest challenge here is narrowing down your order.
You can’t go wrong with the shrimp bruschetta topped with avocado, toasted pistachio, grapefruit, and cilantro; one of my favorites is the ceviche; the truly exceptional oyster po’ boy slider; grilled octopus; fish tacos; lobster mac n cheese… I could go on and on. It’s just fantastic. Go there!
7. Big Star
Casual, fun, and lively, all describe the uber-popular Big Star. Located in the heart of Wicker Park, one of the coolest neighborhoods in Chicago, this hipster honky-tonk bar serves up tasty and affordable tacos alongside a plethora of beer, bourbon, and whisky. It’s one of my favorite spots to enjoy on a summer day, sitting on the patio in the sun with a cold beer and warm friends.
Greektown – Restaurants in Chicago
Another charming neighborhood brimming with ethnic flavor is Greektown, located on a small stretch of Halsted Avenue just west of downtown. Explore the National Hellenic Museum, which focuses on the Greek-American immigrant experience.
Surrounded by Greek columns and packed with Greek restaurants side by side, you can’t go wrong at any of them. Greek Islands and Santorini are consistently delicious, and the décor makes you feel as though you are sailing around the Aegean Sea.
In summer, I love to sit outside on the expansive patio at Athena or head up to the rooftop deck of Pegasus, enjoying some Greek wine and spanakopita while taking in the stunning skyline views at arm’s length.
8. Gene’s Sausage Shop
Gene’s Sausage Shop feels like a hidden gem nestled in the quaint, former German neighborhood of Lincoln Square, although locals are catching on. Navigate through the charming European grocery store to the elevator and ascend to the roof for a casual, wood-clad deck, where you can savor delicious European beers on draft and enjoy delicious sausages and bratwursts.
9. Eataly Chicago
Is it a grocery store? Is it a restaurant/bar/brewery? The answer is yes! Chicago recently welcomed the flagship store of all things Italian, Eataly. This food paradise spreads over two floors and 63,000 square feet (making it the largest Eataly in the U.S.). Not only does it sell an impressive array of products such as imported pasta, truffle oil, and fresh seafood and meats, but it also boasts 23 restaurants throughout the venue.
Here, you can indulge in oven-fired pizza, creamy gelato, on-site brewed beer, all things Nutella, Lavazza espresso, fresh oysters, and more. It’s as popular with locals as it is with tourists, and I still have so much to try!
