Chicago is a culinary capital, celebrated for its diverse and vibrant food scene that caters to every palate. From Michelin-starred establishments to cosy local gems, the Windy City is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world. Whether you’re a fan of avant-garde gastronomy, crave comfort food with a twist, or want to savour globally inspired dishes, Chicago’s dining scene has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore ten of the best restaurants in Chicago, highlighting what makes them stand out, their signature dishes, and why they should be on your must-visit list.
Alinea
Source: Official Website
Alinea is the epitome of fine dining in Chicago. Known for its avant-garde approach to cuisine, it’s a Michelin three-star restaurant that continuously pushes the boundaries of modern gastronomy. Founded by Chef Grant Achatz, Alinea offers an extraordinary multi-sensory experience, where food is not just eaten, but experienced.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | Modern American |
| Location | 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
| Price Range | Fine Dining |
| Ambience | Elegant, minimalist, innovative |
Specialties:
Alinea’s signature dishes are as creative as they are delicious. Known for its molecular gastronomy techniques, the restaurant often uses nitrogen and foams to create interactive dishes that surprise and delight diners.
| Dish | Description |
| Hot Potato | A dish that transforms from solid to liquid upon touch. |
| Lobster with Herbs | Fresh lobster served with a delicate herb-infused foam. |
| Wagyu Beef | An exquisite cut of Wagyu beef with an array of sauces. |
Menu Highlights:
The tasting menu at Alinea is a journey of exploration, with multiple courses that change based on seasonality and creativity. It’s a true gastronomic adventure that features unexpected flavours and textures, including edible balloons, smoke-infused dishes, and more.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Amuse-Bouche | A whimsical, bite-sized starter that sets the tone. |
| Main Course | Expect dishes like truffle-scented lobster or charred meats. |
| Dessert | Decadent and innovative, such as a chocolate sphere filled with liquid. |
Why Visit:
Alinea is for food lovers who are ready to experience the future of dining. The restaurant’s ability to combine artistry and flavour in such an immersive way makes it a must-visit for anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in Chicago.
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Girl & the Goat
Source: Official Website
Girl & the Goat is one of Chicago’s most beloved and vibrant restaurants, helmed by Chef Stephanie Izard. The menu focuses on bold flavours and seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on shareable plates. Located in the trendy West Loop neighbourhood, it offers a lively, upbeat atmosphere perfect for group dining.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | New American, Global influences |
| Location | 809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
| Price Range | Moderate to High |
| Ambience | Casual, energetic, contemporary |
Specialties:
Girl & the Goat is known for its creative takes on classic dishes, with a focus on goat, as the name suggests, but also including other meats, vegetables, and seafood. Signature dishes come with bold, layered flavours that truly stand out in the city’s dining scene.
| Dish | Description |
| Goat Empanadas | Flavorful empanadas filled with spiced goat meat. |
| Roasted Pig Face | A savoury, crispy dish that’s a fan favourite. |
| Crispy Pork Shank | Tender pork shank with a crispy outer layer. |
Menu Highlights:
Girl & the Goat’s menu is a mix of globally inspired dishes, often served family-style for sharing. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a carnivore, vegetarian, or seafood lover. Their unique combination of flavours and textures offers a dining experience that is truly unmatched.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Appetizers | Try the Crispy Brussels Sprouts and the Chickpea Fritters. |
| Main Course | The Roasted Lamb with eggplant is a standout. |
| Dessert | Don’t miss the signature “Goat’s Milk Cheesecake.” |
Why Visit:
Girl & the Goat is perfect for a lively night out with friends or family, offering both a fun atmosphere and exceptional food. It’s an excellent choice if you want to taste some of Chicago’s best dishes in a vibrant, welcoming environment.
Smyth
Source: Official Website
Smyth is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Chicago’s West Loop, offering an intimate and refined farm-to-table dining experience. Run by husband-and-wife team John Shields and Karen Urie Shields, Smyth emphasises seasonality and sustainability, working closely with local farms to craft each dish. Check out your favourite stores in some of the best shopping malls in Chicago after your meal.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | Contemporary American |
| Location | 177 N Ada St #101, Chicago, IL 60607 |
| Price Range | Fine Dining |
| Ambience | Intimate, elegant, rustic |
Specialties:
The restaurant’s tasting menus are meticulously designed, offering dishes that highlight local produce and innovative techniques.
| DIsh | Description |
| Dry-aged Duck | Richly flavourful duck with seasonal accompaniments. |
| Spot Prawns | Perfectly cooked prawns with a delicate broth. |
| Corn Pudding | A luscious, savory-sweet pudding. |
Menu Highlights:
Smyth’s menu evolves with the seasons, offering a thoughtful progression of dishes on its multi-course tasting menus.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Amuse-Bouche | Freshly harvested vegetables with herb-infused oils. |
| Main Course | Wagyu beef served with roasted roots and fermented sauces. |
| Dessert | House-made sorbets and pastries using local fruits. |
Why Visit:
For a meal that connects you with the land and showcases culinary artistry, Smyth is a must. The service, attention to detail, and ingredient-driven approach make it a top dining destination.
Avec
Source: Official Website
Avec is a stylish and cosy Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, known for its warm wood interiors and communal seating. Chef Paul Kahan’s innovative menu offers bold flavours with a focus on sharing plates. Don’t forget to check out the museums in Chicago after your meal.
| Course | Description |
| Cuisine | Mediterranean |
| Location | 615 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661 |
| Price Range | Casual Upscale |
| Ambience | Warm, casual, inviting |
Specialties:
Avec is famous for its inventive twists on Mediterranean classics.
| Dish | Description |
| Chorizo-stuffed Dates | Sweet and savoury dates stuffed with chorizo and bacon. |
| Wood-oven Paella | Smoky, flavorful paella with fresh seafood. |
| Lamb Meatballs | Tender, spiced meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. |
Menu Highlights:
Avec’s menu features seasonal produce and expertly cooked meats, with vegetarian and seafood options to complement.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Appetizers | Hummus with house-baked pita. |
| Entree | Rotisserie chicken with preserved lemon and olives. |
| Dessert | Olive oil cake with citrus glaze. |
Why Visit:
Avec is perfect for a casual yet elevated dining experience. Its communal style and bold menu make it great for social gatherings or intimate dinners.
Oriole
Source: Official Website
Oriole is a two-Michelin-starred hidden gem offering an intimate dining journey with just a few tables per night. Chef Noah Sandoval’s dishes blend precision, creativity, and artful presentation.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | Contemporary American |
| Location | 661 W Walnut St, Chicago, IL 60661 |
| Price Range | Fine Dining |
| Ambience | Exclusive, artistic, serene |
Specialties:
Known for its elegant tasting menus, Oriole delivers a world-class dining experience.
| Dish | Description |
| Uni with Caviar | Rich, creamy sea urchin topped with caviar. |
| Wagyu with Mushroom | A melt-in-your-mouth beef dish with umami-packed sides. |
| Yuzu Sorbet | Refreshing, citrus-based palate cleanser. |
Menu Highlights:
Oriole’s dishes are crafted with an emphasis on harmony and surprise, offering everything from luxurious seafood to delicate desserts.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Amuse-Bouche | A series of one-bite wonders. |
| Main Course | Artful seafood and meat dishes prepared with finesse. |
| Dessert | Decadent yet light, often featuring chocolate or tropical fruits. |
Why Visit:
Oriole is for food enthusiasts who value elegance, precision, and a truly immersive dining experience.
RPM Steak
Source: Official Website
RPM Steak is a modern steakhouse offering a polished setting for premium meats, seafood, and wines. It’s part of the popular RPM restaurant group, known for its luxury dining experiences.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | Steakhouse |
| Location | 66 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
| Price Range | Upscale Dining |
| Ambience | Chic, sophisticated, welcoming |
Specialties:
The restaurant is celebrated for its expertly aged steaks and curated wine pairings.
| Dish | Description |
| Tomahawk Ribeye | A massive, perfectly seared steak. |
| Maine Lobster | Fresh lobster served with drawn butter. |
| Wagyu Carpaccio | Thinly sliced, tender beef with truffle oil. |
Menu Highlights:
From classic cuts of steak to unique accompaniments, RPM Steak is a steak lover’s paradise.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Starters | Oysters Rockefeller and Caesar salad. |
| Main Course | Filet mignon with bone marrow butter. |
| Dessert | Baked Alaska or classic cheesecake. |
Why Visit:
For a luxurious dining experience with world-class steaks and attentive service, RPM Steak is unparalleled.
Au Cheval
Source: Official Website
Known for serving one of the best burgers in America, Au Cheval is a hip, diner-style restaurant with a menu that blends comfort food with upscale techniques.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | American |
| Location | 800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
| Price Range | Moderate |
| Ambience | Retro, lively, casual |
Specialties:
Au Cheval’s burger is its star, often cited as one of the best in the world.
| Dish | Description |
| Double Cheeseburger | Juicy, perfectly balanced, and highly craveable. |
| Crispy Pork Belly | A rich, flavorful appetizer. |
| Fried Bologna Sandwich | A gourmet twist on a childhood classic. |
Why Visit:
For comfort food done to perfection, Au Cheval is unbeatable.
The Publican
Source: Official Website
The Publican is a vibrant and rustic eatery in Chicago’s Fulton Market District, known for its celebration of farm-to-table meats, seafood, and vegetables. Helmed by Chef Paul Kahan and his team, the restaurant offers a unique communal dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | American, European farmhouse-inspired |
| Location | 837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 |
| Price Range | Moderate to Upscale |
| Ambience | Rustic, lively, communal |
Specialties:
The Publican is renowned for its expertly prepared meats and seafood, as well as its curated selection of beers.
| Dish | Description |
| Charcuterie Plate | A selection of house-cured meats and artisanal cheeses. |
| Suckling Pig | Perfectly roasted, tender pork with crispy skin. |
| Oysters | Freshly shucked, served with unique mignonettes. |
Menu Highlights:
The menu is designed to be shared, with a variety of dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Small Plates | Items like pork rinds with spicy seasoning or marinated mussels. |
| Entree | Braised beef short ribs with seasonal vegetables. |
| Dessert | Classic bread pudding with bourbon sauce. |
Why Visit:
The Publican offers an authentic dining experience that brings people together over thoughtfully crafted dishes. It’s an excellent choice for food enthusiasts seeking a communal atmosphere and outstanding food.
Virtue
Source: Official Website
Virtue, located in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighbourhood, is a modern Southern restaurant that combines soulful cooking with a fine dining edge. Led by Chef Erick Williams, the restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and comforting yet refined dishes.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | Southern-inspired |
| Location | 1462 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615 |
| Price | Moderate |
| Ambience | Cosy, welcoming, contemporary |
Specialties:
Virtue specialises in reimagining classic Southern dishes with an emphasis on flavour and presentation.
| Dish | Description |
| Fried Green Tomatoes | Crispy, tangy tomatoes served with a flavorful aioli. |
| Shrimp & Grits | Creamy grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp. |
| Collard Greens | A smoky, tender take on a Southern staple. |
Menu Highlights:
Virtue’s menu celebrates Southern heritage with hearty and satisfying dishes, often incorporating fresh and local ingredients.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Appetizers | Deviled eggs with pickled vegetables or gumbo with andouille. |
| Entree | Fried chicken with mac and cheese, or catfish with cornbread. |
| Dessert | Peach cobbler and banana pudding are fan favourites. |
Why Visit:
Virtue is ideal for those who appreciate Southern cuisine with a creative twist. The warm service and comforting food make it a standout destination in Chicago.
Kasama
Source: Pexels
Kasama has redefined Filipino dining in Chicago. Located in East Ukrainian Village, this unique restaurant functions as a casual bakery by day and transforms into an elegant fine-dining spot by night. It’s helmed by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Tim Flores and Genie Kwon.
| Category | Description |
| Cuisine | Filipino |
| Location | 1001 N Winchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 |
| Price Range | Casual to Fine Dining |
| Ambience | Cosy by day, elegant by night |
Specialties:
Kasama excels in blending traditional Filipino flavours with modern culinary techniques, offering everything from casual pastries to intricate tasting menus.
| Dish | Description |
| Adobo Croissant | A flaky croissant filled with savoury pork adobo. |
| Lumpia | Crispy, flavorful Filipino spring rolls. |
| Sisig | A sizzling pork dish served with egg and rice. |
Menu Highlights:
The tasting menu at night is a refined experience, featuring reimagined Filipino classics, while the daytime menu offers casual yet delicious options.
| Course | Dish Description |
| Breakfast | Pastries like ube danishes and savoury breakfast sandwiches. |
| Tasting Menu | Dishes include Wagyu kare-kare and black truffle pancit. |
| Dessert | Classic Filipino desserts like turon or ube ice cream. |
Why Visit:
Kasama offers a truly unique dining experience that transitions seamlessly from casual to upscale, all while celebrating Filipino culture.
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Chicago’s restaurant scene is as diverse as its neighbourhoods, offering an endless array of culinary experiences. From the innovative and immersive dining at Alinea to the comforting Southern flavours at Virtue, each restaurant on this list brings something unique to the table.
Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover the city’s culinary gems or a visitor eager to explore Chicago’s food culture, these ten restaurants promise unforgettable meals. So, grab your appetite and start planning your next dining adventure in the Windy City! For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
FAQs
Some of Chicago’s most renowned fine-dining spots include Alinea (three Michelin stars), Oriole, and Smyth, known for their innovative tasting menus and exceptional service.
Au Cheval is widely regarded as having one of the best burgers in the city (and the country). Their double cheeseburger is a must-try.
Yes, most high-end restaurants, like Alinea, Oriole, and Kasama (for the tasting menu), require reservations. Casual spots like Au Cheval may not take reservations but can have long wait times.
Alinea offers a multi-sensory, avant-garde dining experience that combines food, art, and science, making it an unforgettable choice.
The Publican and Girl & the Goat are ideal for group dining, offering communal seating and shareable plates.
Virtue is a standout choice for modern Southern cuisine, featuring classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and peach cobbler.
Kasama is the go-to spot for Filipino food, offering a mix of casual pastries during the day and a sophisticated tasting menu in the evening.
Yes, most restaurants cater to vegetarians. For example, Girl & the Goat offers creative vegetarian dishes like roasted cauliflower, while Avec has delicious small plates like hummus and roasted vegetables.
RPM Steak is a top-notch steakhouse, offering premium cuts like tomahawk ribeye and luxurious sides in an upscale setting.
The Publican excels in seafood, especially oysters and mussels. Additionally, RPM Steak offers high-quality seafood dishes like lobster and scallops.
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