Chicago is a city that is known for its bustling food scene. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs, the Windy City has a variety of cuisines to offer.
Whether you're a tourist or a local, finding the best restaurant can be a daunting task. With so many options, it's hard to know where to start. That's why we've compiled a list of the best restaurants in Chicago.
Our list includes a mix of fine dining restaurants, cozy bistros, and casual eateries. Each restaurant has its unique style and is known for its signature dishes.
Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a fun night out with friends, we've got you covered. From classic American fare to international cuisine, there's something for everyone.
We've done the research so you don't have to. Our list is based on customer reviews, expert opinions, and our own personal experiences.
We've taken into consideration factors such as food quality, service, ambiance, and value for money. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a culinary journey through the best restaurants in Chicago.
1. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a high-end New American steakhouse that serves delicious food in an ornate and dimly lit wood and brick setting.
The restaurant's menu features classic ribeye, dry-aged ribeye, fried chicken, truffle mac and cheese, and more.
The portions are generous and the food is reasonably priced. The service is top-notch and the ambience is cozy and welcoming.
The complimentary bread is amazing and the chocolate pie dessert is heavenly. Reservations are hard to come by, but the experience is worth the wait.
2. Girl & The Goat
Girl & The Goat is a must-visit for foodies. The small plates are innovative and flavorful, with options for meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes.
The restaurant is always packed, so make sure to make a reservation in advance.
The service is attentive and the atmosphere is lively, with an open kitchen adding to the excitement.
Don't miss out on the popcorn ice cream dessert.
3. Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a stylish Italian restaurant that serves delicious contemporary dishes, including fresh pastas.
With a James Beard award-winning chef, the food is of the highest quality and the menu offers a range of options to suit all tastes.
The attentive staff provide excellent service, making sure that every customer is well taken care of. The ambiance is chic and modern, creating the perfect atmosphere for a fine dining experience.
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a must-visit for anyone looking for a top-notch Italian restaurant.
4. Aba
Aba is a posh Mediterranean restaurant with a lounge-style rooftop patio. The food is delicious and the service is top-notch. The restaurant has an elegant and relaxed ambiance, with olive trees and lamps adding to the decor.
The menu offers a variety of sharing plates, including braised short ribs, Greek village salad, crispy potatoes, salmon kebab, and cauliflower kebab.
The pork belly and green falafel are highly recommended. The Lamb flatbread is a must-try, and the date cake is the perfect way to end the meal.
The prices are reasonable compared to the quantity, and reservations are recommended as the restaurant is always busy. Aba is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for great Mediterranean food in a trendy setting.
5. Boka
Boka is a fine dining restaurant that serves creative American cuisine in a stylish and modern setting.
The food quality is superb, and the presentation is unique. The sommelier is knowledgeable and can recommend wines that won't break the bank.
The duck entree is a standout dish, and the hazelnut dessert is a must-try. The service is attentive, and the ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Boka is definitely worth a visit for those looking for a top-notch dining experience.
6. avec Restaurant
Avec Restaurant is a cozy, minimalist spot that serves inventive small and large plates with a Mediterranean flair.
The communal seating adds to the hip atmosphere, making it a great place for a brunch or a night out with friends.
The food is flavorful and well-prepared, with unique dishes like chorizo dates and shakshuka.
The service is attentive and courteous, making for an overall enjoyable dining experience.
7. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is an upscale steakhouse chain that offers classic American cuisine in a refined, clubby setting.
The restaurant serves some of the best steaks in town, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The menu also features a variety of seafood dishes and appetizers that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The service is top-notch, with attentive staff that make you feel welcome and cater to your every need.
The Capital Grille is the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two. If you're looking for a fine dining experience, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
8. The Purple Pig Restaurant
The Purple Pig Restaurant is a must-visit for foodies. This gastropub specializes in pork and wine, and their open kitchen adds to the chic ambiance.
The Mediterranean, Greek, and Italian dishes are cooked to perfection and served in small, sharable plates. The bone marrow is a standout dish, as well as the pork belly and roasted carrots.
The presentation of each dish is beautiful and adds to the overall experience. The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and wine selection.
The Purple Pig Restaurant is a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
9. Oriole
Oriole is a high-end fine dining restaurant that serves an extended New American tasting menu. The stylish space provides an intimate atmosphere for an outstanding culinary experience.
The expertly prepared dishes burst with flavor, and the kitchen staff's passion for their craft is evident in every bite.
The non-alcoholic beverage options are excellent, and the wine pairings are exemplary.
The service is friendly and helpful, and the playful and relaxed environment makes for a delightful dining experience. Oriole is easily one of the best restaurants in the country and is not to be missed.
10. Roka Akor – Chicago
Roka Akor – Chicago is an upscale Japanese restaurant and steakhouse that offers a contemporary dining experience. The restaurant's menu features a variety of delicious dishes, including sushi, seafood, and grilled meats.
The service is excellent, with attentive staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and attentive to customers' needs.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a lively and energetic atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or a special occasion.
Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with friends, Roka Akor – Chicago is the perfect choice for an unforgettable dining experience.
11. Alinea
Alinea is a New American fine dining restaurant that serves highly creative plates. Chef Grant Achatz is known for his unique tasting menus that are a treat for foodies.
The restaurant offers a salon dining experience with an Alinea wine pairing that complements the diverse and filling meal.
The staff is knowledgeable and approachable, adding a whimsical touch to the dining experience.
Alinea is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves quality ingredients and exceptional service.
12. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago
Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is a stylish Italian restaurant and bar serving upscale Italian-American cuisine.
The food is amazing, and the portions are generous. The service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The atmosphere is relaxed and stylish, perfect for socializing with the neighborhood folks.
The wine selection is perfection, and the cocktails are very solid. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is a gem that should not be missed.
13. The Dearborn
The Dearborn is a stylish American tavern that serves delicious market-driven eats and cocktails.
The restaurant is perfect for brunch or lunch, and offers a great selection of seafood dishes.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The Dearborn is a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date.
14. Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is an elegant and upscale restaurant chain that specializes in seafood and steak dishes.
With a cocktail lounge that features live jazz, this fine-dining restaurant offers a unique and sophisticated atmosphere.
The menu boasts a variety of delicious seafood options, including South African lobster tails and oysters, as well as mouth-watering steaks, including the 32oz Tomahawk Ribeye.
The staff is knowledgeable, personable and attentive, ensuring an exceptional dining experience. Eddie V's Prime Seafood is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a refined and memorable dining experience.
15. Provare Chicago
Provare Chicago is a black-owned Italian and fusion restaurant that offers unique and delicious cuisine.
The limited menu is executed very well, with standout dishes like the Hennessy shrimp scampi and crabby fries. The staff is attentive and welcoming, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The atmosphere is great, with a good music selection and a nice vibe. While the prices may be a bit high, the portions are ample and worth the cost.
If you're a foodie looking for something different, Provare Chicago is definitely worth checking out.
16. Ciccio Mio
Ciccio Mio is an elegant Italian restaurant and bar that presents classic Italian cooking and cocktails in a low-lit setting lined with art. The cozy and sophisticated vibe of the restaurant makes it perfect for a romantic night out or an intimate dinner with friends.
The menu offers a range of delicious dishes, from the perfectly done swordfish to the truffle bucatini, cooked to perfection and paired with wonderful sauces.
The staff is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, making recommendations on wine and food that are spot on.
Though a bit pricey, the quality of the ingredients and the service make it worth the cost. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
17. Jeong
Jeong is a restaurant that offers a thoughtful Korean-inspired tasting menu.
The salmon tartare with puffed rice, the seared duck breast with shatteringly crisp skin, and the boricha ice cream with chocolate cake and sesame crisps are some of the highlights. The wine menu is modestly priced for such an upscale experience.
The space is cozy with less than 10 tables total, perfect for a dinner date or a couples date with close friends.
The service is excellent, and the culinary skill, presentation, atmosphere are all top-notch. Jeong is a truly extraordinary dining experience and is highly recommended for any special occasion.
18. Cherry Circle Room
Cherry Circle Room is an elegant American restaurant located in a historic building. The food is top-notch and reasonably priced.
The waitstaff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The restaurant has a warm and comfortable atmosphere, with beautiful wooden features.
The wine selection is excellent and the cocktails are refined. Reservations are recommended for this intimate and upscale establishment.
19. Ever Restaurant
Ever Restaurant is a luxurious fine-dining establishment with a tasting menu that is sure to impress.
The decor and atmosphere create a secluded and intimate setting that is perfect for special occasions. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive, and dedicated to providing exceptional service.
The food is artistically crafted and uniquely flavorful, with surprising ingredient combinations that are a delight to the palate. The wine pairings are on point, and the desserts are simply incredible.
Ever Restaurant is definitely on the expensive side, but the pricing is transparent and worth it for the experience. If you're looking for a refined and memorable dining experience, Ever Restaurant is the place to go.
