Chicago is a city renowned for its vibrant culinary landscape, where a rich tapestry of flavors and cultures come together to create unforgettable dining experiences. With its deep-rooted food traditions and innovative culinary trends, the Windy City has something to satisfy every palate. From iconic deep-dish pizza to contemporary fine dining, Chicago’s restaurants shine a spotlight on both local ingredients and global influences.
This guide explores 15 must-try restaurants that represent the very best of Chicago’s diverse food scene. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, these establishments are essential stops for anyone looking to indulge in the city’s culinary offerings. Each restaurant has its own unique charm, atmosphere, and signature dishes that tell a story of Chicago’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Among the highlights is Alinea, a revolutionary dining experience that has earned three Michelin stars and is often regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world. With its avant-garde approach to cuisine, Alinea transforms the dining experience into an artistic journey. In contrast, Girl & The Goat offers a lively atmosphere where Chef Stephanie Izard’s creative small plates showcase bold flavors and seasonal ingredients.
For those seeking traditional American fare, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse delivers a classic steakhouse experience with its USDA Prime Angus beef and an impressive wine selection. Meanwhile, Pequod’s Pizza represents Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza, beloved for its caramelized crust and generous toppings.
As you explore this list, you’ll also discover hidden gems like Smyth + The Loyalist, where seasonal cooking meets a rustic yet refined ambiance, and The Publican, celebrated for its focus on pork and farm-fresh ingredients. Each restaurant has been carefully selected not just for its food but for the overall experience it provides, making them ideal destinations for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or an extravagant meal, these 15 restaurants reflect the essence of Chicago’s culinary identity. Join us as we delve into the details of each location, highlighting signature dishes, ambiance, and special features that make these restaurants stand out. Prepare your taste buds for a delicious journey through one of America’s greatest food cities!
1. Alinea
About:Â A three Michelin-starred restaurant revolutionizing modern American cuisine through molecular gastronomy and theatrical presentation. Owner/Chef:Â Grant Achatz
- Renowned for beating tongue cancer and maintaining his culinary excellence
- Named Outstanding Chef by James Beard Foundation
Hours:
- Wednesday-Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Closed Monday & Tuesday
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 867-0110
- Website:Â www.alinearestaurant.com
- Instagram: @thealineagroup
- Facebook: @AlineaChicago
Signature Experiences:
- The Gallery Menu ($295-$395): 16-18 courses
- The Salon Menu ($205-$285): 10-12 courses
- Kitchen Table Experience ($395+): Ultra-exclusive dining
Special Features:
- Edible helium balloons
- Tabletop desserts
- Interactive dining experiences
Current Offers:
- Wine pairing options ($185-$285)
- Special seasonal menus
- Private dining experiences
Reservations: Required 2-3 months in advance through Tock
- Deposit required
- Cancellation policy applies
Location: 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614 [Google Maps Link]
2. Girl & The Goat
About:Â Celebrity Chef Stephanie Izard’s flagship restaurant offering innovative small plates with global influences. Owner/Chef:Â Stephanie Izard
- First female winner of Top Chef
- James Beard Award winner
Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 492-6262
- Website:Â www.girlandthegoat.com
- Instagram: @girlandthegoat
- Twitter: @StephAndTheGoat
Signature Dishes:
- Wood Fired Pig Face ($19)
- Goat Empanadas ($16)
- Sautéed Green Beans ($14)
Special Features:
- Open kitchen concept
- Seasonal menu changes
- Extensive wine list
Current Offers:
- Sunday Supper Series ($65/person)
- Happy Hour: Tuesday-Friday 4:30-6:00 PM
- Industry Night specials
Reservations: Recommended 3-4 weeks in advance
- Available through OpenTable
- Limited walk-in seating at bar
Location: 809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 [Google Maps Link]
3. Smyth + The Loyalist
About: Two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined tasting menus upstairs (Smyth) and casual dining downstairs (The Loyalist).Owners: John Shields and Karen Urie Shields
- Husband-wife duo with extensive fine dining experience
- Former Charlie Trotter’s chefs
Hours:
- Smyth: Tuesday-Saturday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- The Loyalist: Tuesday-Sunday, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (773) 913-3773
- Website:Â www.smythandtheloyalist.com
- Instagram: @smythchicago
- Twitter: @smythchicago
Signature Dishes:
- Smyth Tasting Menu ($225)
- The Loyalist Burger ($18)
- Egg Yolk with Beef Tongue ($24)
Special Features:
- Farm partnership with The Farm
- Open kitchen concept
- Wine pairings available
Current Offers:
- The Loyalist Happy Hour: Tuesday-Friday 5-6:30 PM
- Sunday Industry Night specials
- Seasonal tasting menu updates
Location: 177 N Ada St, Chicago, IL 60607 [Google Maps Link]
4. Oriole
About: Two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for innovative contemporary American cuisine.Owner/Chef: Noah Sandoval
- Michelin-starred chef
- Known for creative flavor combinations
Hours:
- Tuesday-Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Closed Sunday & Monday
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 877-5339
- Website:Â www.oriolechicago.com
- Instagram: @oriolechi
- Facebook: @OrioleChicago
Signature Experience:
- Extended Tasting Menu ($285)
- Optional beverage pairings ($185)
Special Features:
- Intimate 28-seat dining room
- Custom-built open kitchen
- Extensive wine collection
Current Offers:
- Private dining experiences
- Special occasion customization
- Seasonal menu changes
Location: 661 W Walnut St, Chicago, IL 60661 [Google Maps Link]
5. Ever Restaurant
About: Two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an immersive fine dining experience.Owner/Chef: Curtis Duffy
- Former Grace chef
- Multiple James Beard Award winner
Hours:
- Tuesday-Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Closed Sunday & Monday
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 766-0000
- Website:Â www.ever-restaurant.com
- Instagram: @everrestaurant
- Facebook: @EverRestaurantChicago
Signature Experience:
- 8-10 course tasting menu ($285)
- Wine pairing option ($185)
Special Features:
- Custom-designed space
- Theatrical presentation
- State-of-the-art kitchen
Current Offers:
- Kitchen table experience
- Special dietary accommodations
- Private events
6. RPM Italian
About: A trendy Italian restaurant offering modern interpretations of classic Italian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.Owners: Bill and Giuliana Rancic, with Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises.
- Celebrity couple known for their contributions to the culinary scene.
Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 900-9035
- Website:Â www.rpmrestaurants.com
- Instagram: @rpmitalian
- Facebook: @RPMItalian
Signature Dishes:
- Ricotta Gnudi ($21)
- Short Rib Bolognese ($26)
- Chocolate Cake ($10)
Special Features:
- Extensive wine list with Italian selections
- Stylish decor with a vibrant atmosphere
- Private dining rooms available
Current Offers:
- Lunch specials during the week
- Wine Wednesdays with 50% off select bottles
- Happy Hour deals on weekdays
Location: 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 [Google Maps Link]
7. Pequod’s Pizza
About: Iconic for its deep-dish pizza with a caramelized crust, Pequod’s is a must-visit for pizza lovers.Owner: Bill and Marc Malnati
- Family-owned restaurant known for its dedication to quality.
Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Contact:
- Phone: (773) 327-1512
- Website:Â www.pequodspizza.com
- Instagram: @pequodspizza
- Facebook: @PequodsPizza
Signature Dishes:
- Pequod’s Pan Pizza ($24)
- Garlic Bread ($6)
- Italian Beef Sandwich ($9)
Special Features:
- Unique caramelized crust
- Casual dining atmosphere
- Kid-friendly options
Current Offers:
- Lunch specials on weekdays
- Family meal deals available
- Discounts for large orders
Location: 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 [Google Maps Link]
8. The Girl & The Goat
About: A vibrant restaurant that celebrates global flavors with a focus on local ingredients, led by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard.Owner/Chef: Stephanie Izard
- Known for her creativity and unique flavor combinations.
Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 492-6262
- Website:Â www.girlandthegoat.com
- Instagram: @girlandthegoat
- Facebook: @GirlAndTheGoat
Signature Dishes:
- Wood-Fired Pig Face ($19)
- Goat Empanadas ($16)
- Sautéed Green Beans ($14)
Special Features:
- Open kitchen concept
- Seasonal menu changes
- Extensive wine list
Current Offers:
- Sunday Supper Series ($65 per person)
- Happy Hour: Tuesday-Friday 4:30-6:00 PM
- Industry Night specials
Location: 809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 [Google Maps Link]
9. The Publican
About: A lively beer-focused restaurant featuring a menu inspired by the flavors of the beer garden, emphasizing meats and seasonal vegetables.Owners: Restaurateurs from the One Off Hospitality Group.
- Known for creating a casual and communal dining experience.
Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 733-9555
- Website:Â www.thepublicanrestaurant.com
- Instagram: @thepublicanchicago
- Facebook: @ThePublicanChicago
Signature Dishes:
- Publican Bacon ($12)
- Mussels ($16)
- Pork Belly Sandwich ($18)
Special Features:
- Extensive beer selection with local and international options
- Communal seating for a social atmosphere
- Seasonal menu changes based on local produce
Current Offers:
- Beer and food pairing events
- Weekend brunch specials
- Happy hour deals
Location: 837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 [Google Maps Link]
10. The Dearborn
About: A modern American bar and restaurant with a focus on classic dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.Owners: Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises.
- Known for their creative approach to American classics.
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 602-2180
- Website:Â www.thedearborn.com
- Instagram: @thedearborn
- Facebook: @TheDearborn
Signature Dishes:
- Parmesan Truffle Fries ($10)
- Crab Nachos ($15)
- Short Rib ($28)
Special Features:
- Inviting atmosphere with a bar and dining area
- Seasonal menu options
- Weekend brunch with special items
Current Offers:
- Happy Hour specials from 4-6 PM
- Weekend brunch discounts
- Private dining options available
Location: 145 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60602 [Google Maps Link]
11. Nomi
About: An upscale dining venue located in the Park Hyatt, offering an elegant atmosphere and an extensive menu of contemporary American cuisine.Owner: The Park Hyatt Chicago.
- Known for luxury and fine dining experiences.
Hours:
- Daily: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 239-4030
- Website:Â www.nomichicago.com
- Instagram: @nomichicago
- Facebook: @NoMiChicago
Signature Dishes:
- Sushi rolls ($25)
- Seasonal salads ($15)
- Grilled fish of the day ($35)
Special Features:
- Stunning views of the city
- Elegant decor and atmosphere
- Seasonal menu updates
Current Offers:
- Weekend brunch specials
- Happy hour cocktails
- Wine pairings available for dinner
Location: 800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 [Google Maps Link]
12. Al’s Italian Beef
About: A Chicago classic, known for its Italian beef sandwiches served with spicy giardiniera.Owner: Al Ferrari, who popularized the Italian beef sandwich in Chicago.
- Family-owned since 1938.
Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 226-4017
- Website:Â www.alsbeef.com
- Instagram: @alsbeef
- Facebook: @Al’sItalianBeef
Signature Dishes:
- Italian Beef Sandwich ($8)
- Combo Sandwich with sausage ($9)
- Fries ($3)
Special Features:
- Authentic Chicago-style sandwiches
- Casual dining atmosphere
- History as a Chicago staple
Current Offers:
- Family meal deals available
- Discounts for large orders
- Special holiday promotions
Location: 169 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654 [Google Maps Link]
13. The Gage
About: A modern gastropub with a focus on local ingredients and a diverse menu that highlights seasonal dishes.Owner: Billy Lawless, a well-known figure in Chicago’s dining scene.
- Known for his commitment to quality and local sourcing.
Hours:
- Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 372-4243
- Website:Â www.gagechicago.com
- Instagram: @thegagechicago
- Facebook: @TheGageChicago
Signature Dishes:
- Fried Lobster ($28)
- Scallops ($32)
- Poutine ($14)
Special Features:
- Extensive beer and cocktail selection
- Rustic yet modern atmosphere
- Seasonal menu updates
Current Offers:
- Daily happy hour from 4-6 PM
- Weekend brunch options
- Private dining available for special events
Location: 24 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 [Google Maps Link]
14. RPM Steak
Signature Dishes:
- 28-Day Dry-Aged Ribeye ($58)
- Coal-Roasted King Crab ($45)
- Millionaire’s Potato ($12)
Special Features:
- Elegant decor with a modern steakhouse vibe
- Extensive wine list featuring over 350 selections
- Private dining rooms for special occasions
Current Offers:
- Happy Hour:Â Monday-Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted appetizers and drinks.
- Sunday Prime Rib Special:Â Enjoy a prime rib dinner for $55.
- Wine Wednesday:Â 50% off bottles over $100.
Location:Address: 66 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
Google Maps Link
15. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
About: A Chicago institution known for its USDA Prime Angus beef and classic steakhouse experience.Owner: The Gibsons Restaurant Group, founded by Steve Lombardo and his family.
- Known for their commitment to quality and service.
Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact:
- Phone: (312) 266-8999
- Website:Â www.gibsonsbarandsteakhouse.com
- Instagram: @gibsonssteakhouse
- Facebook: @GibsonsBarAndSteakhouse
Signature Dishes:
- W.R.’s Chicago Cut ($58)
- Gibsons Lobster Tail ($45)
- Macadamia Turtle Pie ($12)
Special Features:
- First restaurant group in the U.S. to have its own USDA Prime Certification.
- Elegant decor with a classic steakhouse ambiance.
- Wall of Fame featuring Chicago celebrities.
Current Offers:
- Early Bird Special:Â 25% off the entire bill before 5:30 PM.
- Business Lunch Package:Â $45 per person for a three-course meal.
- Private Dining Packages for groups available.
Location:Address: 1028 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611
Google Maps Link