Chicago’s dining scene is a powerful mix of deep-dish tradition and breathtaking innovation.
It’s a city built on hearty appetites and a no-nonsense approach to flavor, where a James Beard award-winning chef might be grilling up the best burger you’ve ever had right next door to a century-old steakhouse.
Forget everything you think you know. We’re diving fork-first into the absolute best restaurants in Chicago, from hidden-gem neighborhood spots to those dazzling downtown destinations you simply cannot miss. This is your curated guide to eating extraordinarily well in the Windy City.
1. Alinea
Let’s start with the big one. Alinea isn’t just a meal; it’s a full-blown sensory spectacle. Chef Grant Achatz’s three-Michelin-starred temple in Lincoln Park is the pinnacle of Chicago fine dining, famous for its avant-garde presentation and mind-bending flavors.
Dining here feels like getting a backstage pass to the future of food. Courses might arrive on a pillow of scented air or as an edible balloon. It’s playful, it’s profound, and it’s an experience that sticks with you for years.
Scoring a reservation is a competitive sport, but that’s part of its legendary status.
If you’re looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime culinary adventure, this is the undisputed champion. For a truly unique Chicago restaurant experience, Alinea is in a league of its own.
2. The Purple Pig
Jammed on Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile, The Purple Pig is a loud, lively, and always delicious tribute to all things cheese, swine, and wine. The shared plates menu is meant for grazing with a group of friends.
You absolutely cannot skip their famous Milk Braised Pork Shoulder. It’s fall-apart tender and ridiculously flavorful. The fried deviled eggs and the charred broccoli are also crowd-pleasers.
The vibe is bustling and convivial, perfect for when you want a world-class meal without any stuffiness. It’s a quintessential Chicago dining spot that proves fancy ingredients taste even better in a fun, relaxed setting.
This is a must-visit Chicago restaurant for anyone who loves bold, shared Mediterranean flavors.
3. Au Cheval
The debate ends here. Au Cheval in the West Loop crafts what many consider the best diner-style burger in America. It’s a simple premise executed to absolute perfection: two thin, crispy-edged beef patties, melted cheese, dijonnaise, and pickles on a toasted bun.
Yes, you should add the thick-cut bacon and a fried egg. Trust me. The vibe is dark, hip, and always buzzing with a wait that’s become part of the ritual.
They don’t take reservations, so grab a seat at the bar, order a shake, and soak in the atmosphere. That first bite makes every minute of the wait worth it. Finding a more iconic burger in Chicago is an impossible task.
This spot is a non-negotiable for any list of the best Chicago eateries.
4. Girl & the Goat
Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard’s flagship restaurant in the West Loop is a Chicago institution for a reason. Since opening in 2010, it has maintained a thrilling energy and a menu that’s both adventurous and deeply satisfying.
The dishes are bold, featuring creative veggie plates alongside perfectly cooked proteins. The wood-fired pig face is a signature for good reason—crispy, rich, and topped with a sunny-side egg.
The space is industrial-chic and the service is knowledgeable without being snobby. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to order one more thing to share.
For a top Chicago restaurant that perfectly captures the city’s innovative and welcoming spirit, Girl & the Goat is a forever favorite.
5. Lou Malnati’s
You can’t talk about Chicago food without deep-dish pizza, and Lou Malnati’s is a legacy. Founded in 1971, this family-run chain is famous for its “buttercrust” and chunky, slow-cooked tomato sauce that sits on top of a mountain of cheese and toppings.
Ordering one is a commitment. It takes about 45 minutes to bake, but that’s what creates the magical, caramelized cheese edge. The sausage patty, which covers the entire pie, is a Chicago classic.
It’s messy, it’s indulgent, and it’s a rite of passage. While locals debate their favorite spot, Lou’s consistent quality and history make it a premier destination for this iconic dish.
Any visit to Chicago requires a stop at this legendary Chicago eatery for a true taste of the city.
6. Smyth + The Loyalist
This two-in-one wonder in the West Loop offers an unmatched duo. Downstairs, The Loyalist is a sexy, dimly lit burger and bar paradise. Their cheeseburger is a secret contender for the city’s best—a beautifully juicy, decadent smash patty.
Upstairs, Smyth holds three Michelin stars for its breathtaking tasting menu focused on hyper-seasonal ingredients. Chefs John and Karen Urie Shields create poetic dishes inspired by their farm.
It’s the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure. Want an incredible, low-key bite? Hit The Loyalist. Ready for a transformative culinary journey? Book Smyth. This dual concept solidifies its place as a leading Chicago dining destination.
7. Ann Sather
A visit to Ann Sather in Lakeview is like a warm hug from a Swedish grandmother. This iconic spot, famous for its cinnamon rolls, is a pillar of Chicago’s brunch scene. They come two to an order, gooey and perfect, and are a true can’t-miss.
The classic Swedish breakfast with pancakes or the savory chicken pot pie are both stellar choices. The dining rooms are cozy and filled with regulars who’ve been coming for decades.
It’s affordable, homey, and serves food that makes you feel good. In a city of cutting-edge spots, Ann Sather is a beloved, comforting constant. This is a best restaurant in Chicago for a hearty, welcoming start to your day.
8. HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
Chef Thai Dang’s Pilsen restaurant is a vibrant love letter to Vietnamese cuisine. HaiSous takes family recipes and elevates them with stunning precision and the highest-quality ingredients.
The shaking beef is a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Their pho, served only on Sundays, is a deeply aromatic broth that’s worth planning your weekend around. The space is bright and modern, reflecting the clean, explosive flavors on the plate.
It’s a journey for your taste buds without ever leaving the city. For anyone seeking an authentic yet refined Vietnamese meal, this is a top-tier Chicago restaurant.
9. Portillo’s
This is Chicago fast-casual heritage on a plate. Portillo’s is a beautifully chaotic experience where you can score a Chicago-style hot dog (with the full garden on top, no ketchup!), a Italian beef sandwich dipped in jus, and a chocolate cake shake all under one roof.
The energy is pure, unadulterated fun. It’s loud, it’s fast, and it’s delicious. The Italian beef, with its spicy giardiniera, is a messy, glorious must-try.
While it’s now a chain, its heart is pure Chicago. It represents the city’s working-class roots and its legendary street food. No tour of Chicago eateries is complete without this flavorful, frenetic stop.
10. Monteverde
In the West Loop, Chef Sarah Grueneberg’s Monteverde is a pasta paradise that won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes in 2022. The handmade pastas are the star, each shape crafted to hold its specific sauce in the most delicious way possible.
The “Mafaldine” pasta is legendary for good reason. The energy in the open kitchen is infectious, and the dining room buzzes with the sound of people genuinely enjoying their food.
It’s upscale but incredibly inviting. This spot has firmly planted its flag as one of the best Italian restaurants not just in Chicago, but in the country. For premier Chicago dining, Monteverde is a dream come true for carb lovers.
11. The Publican
Inspired by beer halls, The Publican in Fulton Market is a celebration of simple, phenomenal ingredients: oysters, pork, and farmers’ market vegetables. The large, communal tables make it ideal for groups.
Their focus on quality is insane. The pork rinds are a light, airy revelation. The whole roasted fish or the steak for two are always executed perfectly. It’s a place where you can dress up or come casual and always feel at home.
The atmosphere is uniquely Chicago—robust, welcoming, and focused on the joy of a great meal with friends. This is a must-visit Chicago restaurant for a uniquely communal and flavorful experience.
12. Kasama
In Ukrainian Village, Kasama is a groundbreaking Filipino concept. By day, it’s a Michelin-starred bakery and cafe serving unforgettable pastries and breakfast sandwiches. The chicken adobo with garlic rice is a perfect hangover cure and a culinary triumph.
By night, it transforms into an exquisite tasting menu experience that redefines Filipino fine dining. This duality is what makes it so special. You can enjoy world-class food in a completely casual, approachable way.
The long line in the morning is a testament to its sky-high quality. Discovering Kasama feels like finding a secret that everyone is in on. It’s easily one of the most exciting and best restaurants in Chicago right now.
13. Gibson’s Italia
This Riverwalk stunner combines three classic Chicago things: steak, Italian food, and a killer view. Gibson’s Italia takes the classic steakhouse model and gives it a sleek, modern Italian twist.
You can’t go wrong with their prime steaks or their rich pasta dishes. But the real showstopper is the setting. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the Chicago River and the city skyline.
It’s sophisticated, buzzing with energy, and perfect for a special occasion. Whether you’re on a date or celebrating with friends, it delivers that “only in Chicago” feeling. For a quintessential Chicago dining experience with a view, this is your spot.
Conclusion
From mind-bending tasting menus to the perfect plate of pasta, Chicago’s food scene delivers on every single promise.
These aren’t just places to eat; they’re landmarks of flavor that tell the story of a city built on good, honest food and big, bold ideas.
Your adventure is calling. That legendary burger, that gooey deep-dish slice, that dish you’ll be telling your friends about for months—it’s all here waiting for you.
Don’t just read about these amazing Chicago restaurants. Pick one, book that table, or get in line. Your next unforgettable meal in the Windy City is ready. What’s your first stop going to be?