The BEST Restaurants In Chicago YOU Have To Try!
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The American Midwest isn’t usually known for top-tier cuisines. However, there is one shining beacon among the sea of fatty, uninspiring meals… Chicago. Glistening skyscrapers centered around stunning views of the Chicago Riverwalk, are some of the many things that bring people to Chicago, but the unforgettable restaurants honeycombing the city are what keep them coming back. With such a wide variety of unforgettable meals, from the full French toast flights of Batter & Berries to the fine Michelin recognized Southern selections of Virtue, it’s easy to see why Chicago is quickly becoming one of the premier food capitals of the United States of America.
Many of the top restaurants can be found in the West Loop, which is one of the most underrated culinary boroughs in the country, but the West Loop isn’t the only place to go. Chicago is a large, sprawling city with incredible food no matter where you look. Every street is lined with grand chophouses and tiny hidden gems. All with cuisine stunning enough to match the sights of the city. These perfect plates and memorable meals all come together to make the best restaurants in Chicago among the best restaurants in the United States.
1.) Rooh
This fine Indian restaurant found in the West Loop, just a short walk from Willis Tower, has as interesting of an interior as it does a menu. A makeshift artistic decor of fine glass chandeliers, old 90s style teal booth seating, and abstract paintings make it feel like a hodgepodge of random ideas that all come together to create a nice, homely atmosphere. Meanwhile, when it comes to the menu, there’s no randomness here, by sporting a collection of classic Indian staples all finely prepared and tasting incredible. Chicago is a busy city packed with energy, while Rooh offers a calm retreat and wonderful world class meals.
Price- $$50 for a meal
Must Have- Butter Chicken
Without a doubt one of the best meals you can have in Chicago. Tender, juicy chicken swimming in a stunning smoky red pepper makhani sauce. Topped with a beautiful crunchy cashew webbing for an added touch of delectable innovation. One bite of this heavenly dish will stop you in your tracks in all the right ways. If you only have time for one dinner in Chicago, make sure it’s the Butter Chicken from Rooh.
2.) Virtue
On the south side of Chicago, not far from the U-505 Museum, nestled amongst the friendly streets lined with shops and various restaurants, you will find the best southern food in all of Chicago. With a powerfully sleek setting, everything in the restaurant feels as though it has a purpose and meaning, including the subtle nods to the rich black history of Chicago. As for the menu, classic southern soul food like hearty gumbo, blackened catfish, and sweet fluffy cornbread are some of the numerous memorable meals at Virtue. While authentic Southern American food isn’t generally thought of when it comes to Chicago, one bite into these delectable dishes, and you will think you’ve stepped into the deep South as opposed to the streets of Chicago.
Price- $$60 for a meal
Must Have- Half Chicken
Over 1 pound of immaculate chicken absolutely exploding with a blend of herbs and spices mixed to perfection. All slathered in light peppery piri piri sauce. A full expression of flavors you can feel in every bite. Accompanied by mini roasted potatoes, making for a wonderful seasoned addition. When you hear about genuine top of the line soul food, this is it!
3.) JoJo's Shake Bar
Have you ever had a craving for incredible milkshakes and the 1990s? No? Well you will after stopping at JoJo’s shake bar. The ultimate 90s throwback, this small bar stands out from the crowd with classic 90s TV shows playing on TVs and hit 90s music echoing throughout the bar. Add in dozens of colorful convoluted milkshake concoctions meant to impress both visually and gustatorily, and you get one of the most deliciously fun restaurants right off the Chicago Riverwalk! So, if you want a trip back to a time before the 2000s and some of the best desserts in Chicago, then JoJo’s shake bar is the place for you.
Price- $15 for a meal
Must Have- Nada Milkshake
This fantastically thick banana orea shake with sprinkles of crushed Oreo mixed in top to bottom, hints of peanut butter, and a massive cookie is a combination created in dessert heaven. There’s even a full sugar cone on top just for more sweet fun! And you don’t have to feel too guilty about eating this whole dessert platter in a cup, as it’s all totally vegan.
4.) Au Cheval
It may be easy for a restaurant to be overshadowed by the incredible Indian cuisine of Rooh just a couple of restaurants down the street, but Au Cheval is home to a masterful meal of its own. While the long list of great drinks and good times are what keep people hanging out and having a good time, it’s the unbelievable best burger in Chicago that keeps them coming back. You wouldn’t expect this small and energetic pub, synonymous with fun vibes, to be home to such an incredible meal, but many of the restaurants in Chicago are full of surprises. And Au Cheval is at the top of the list.
Price- $30 for a meal
Must Have- Cheeseburger with egg and bacon
While the two melty patties topped with slices of cheddar cheese are spectacular on their own, it’s the additions of bacon and an egg where this burger really shines. Strips of thick, crispy bacon and a runny over easy egg topped with chives transform this burger from great to unfathomably delicious. This ooey gooey masterpiece is not only the best burger in Chicago but undoubtedly one of the best burgers in the United States!
5.) Lou Malnati's
In Chicago, pizza is more than just a pie. It’s almost a required food group. And when it comes to which is the best, this highly debated topic differs depending on who you ask, but underneath the crowded streets of Michigan Ave, alongside the infamous Chicago Riverwalk, you can find a spot many consider to be the best pizza in Chicago. Below street level of the gorgeous Wrigley Building, this old school bar and restaurant exudes the authentic Chicago experience you’ve been looking for. Specializing in Chicago style pizza of course, you can choose from different assorted options or make your own pizza creation. No matter which pie you choose, when you’re at Lou Malnati’s, you’re sure to get a true taste of Chicago, from the atmosphere down to the classic Chicago style pizza.
Price- $20 for a meal
Must Have- The Malnati Chicago Classic
A pure Chicago style pie built in the custom inside out style. Dense, fluffy dough layered with a melty cheese blend, plenty of vine-ripened tomato sauce, and topped with lean spiced sausage. All sitting inside a thick and crunchy buttercrust. Even if you aren’t a big fan of Chicago style pizza, this Midwest take of blended high quality local ingredients is sure to change your mind. After all, a Malnati Chicago Classic is the best pizza in Chicago.
6.) Batter & Berries
Found on the north side of Chicago just a few blocks from the iconic Wrigley Field, sits one of the best hidden gems in Chicago. At first glance, it looks like any other passable restaurant in Chicago, but after sampling their menu, you will be delightfully surprised to find one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Using a variety of fruits and sweets, they’re able to create waffle and pancake morning marvels. Plus a selection of refreshing sandwiches and wraps if you’re looking for something a little more hearty
Price- $25 for a meal
Must Have- French Toast Super Flight
Not 1, not 2, but 5 spectacular variations of French toast, each more delicious than the last. One piece featuring fresh blueberry and blueberry cream sauce. A slice of French toast with sweet strawberry batter fresh strawberries and strawberry drizzle on top (did we mention there are strawberries). A piece with rich caramel and crunchy candied walnuts. One that’s tastefully tangy with squeezed lemon straight into the batter and a sprinkle of lemon zest. As if that wasn’t good enough, the 5th and final French toast is a rotating surprise that changes every month to keep you guessing at what wonderful treat you’re in store for. Each piece is made with sweet maple syrup-infused batter to keep it nice and moist, which only solidifies the French toast super flight at Batter & Berries as the best breakfast in Chicago!
7.) Roux
Among the quiet Southside streets of Chicago, not far from the U-505 Museum, sits the best all day brunch spot in the city. Pure southern comfort breakfast foods served morning to night in a very relaxing setting, even some mellow soul music to ease you into the day, no matter what time it is. While Roux has a cool and soothing ambiance, their slew of southern brunch specialties might be even more comforting. Top quality soulful delights like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, even beignets prove that just because it’s comfort food doesn’t mean it has to be anything less than delicious.
Price- $25 for a meal
Must Have- Hot Chicken and Waffle
Chicken and waffles are a well known southern food staple, and here at Roux, they’ve got the dish down to perfection. Thick tenders of chicken crispy on the outside, yet soft and tender on the inside. Warm, fluffy waffles sweet enough to balance out the savory chicken. All coated in smooth maple syrup, plus a special tasty twist of a light peppery chipotle sauce with just enough spice to feel a subtle scrumptious kick.
8.) Avec
One of, if not the best Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago, this top notch spot is a can’t miss when in the city. Part of the incredible group of restaurants in the West Loop, Avec is a family style restaurant where everyone can come for a good time and some even better food. From their sharable plates to the long, friendly seating, this spot is perfect for enjoying some time with the ones you know or meeting the ones you don’t. Plus a slew of inventive Mediterranean dishes with a touch of Latin flair that will have you begging to see what the next meal will bring. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable Mediterranean meal, there’s only one place to go!
Price- $$50 for a meal
Must Have- Medjool Dates
Golfball-sized morsels of Mediterranean magic, this unexpected combination of sweet and savory is what elevates this meal from great to spectacular. Each date is individually stuffed with chorizo, wrapped in bacon, and coated in a pool of piquillo pepper-tomato sauce, making this sweet and spicy meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors a must have when in Chicago!
9.) Hiasous Vietnamese Kitchen
Vietnamese cuisine is often overlooked when it comes to the top meal choices on offer. However, when talking about Hiasous, it should be among the top of the list. A sleek modern setting with subtle bits of Far East flair like bamboo wall paneling and faux ferns “growing” up the walls really add to the feeling of genuine and authentic quality. With a wide range of unique and innovative dishes using fresh seafood, prime steaks, soft noodles, and spectacular vegetarian curries. From appetizers to desserts and everything in between, whether you’re looking for a full, hearty meal or a light and healthier option, the best Vietnamese cuisine in Chicago is sure to impress.
Price- $$50 for a meal
Must Have- Cà Ri Chay with Jasmine Rice
Most people see a vegetarian label on the menu and skip right over this dish, but surprisingly, the absence of meat is what elevates this meal into something fantastic. The lack of meat means there’s nothing to distract from the range of flavors found within the sweet and spicy curry, as well as an assortment of fresh vegetables. This marvelous mixture of rich, smooth flavors makes the Cà Ri Chay one of the most underrated plates you can order at one of the best Asian restaurants in Chicago.
10.) Somerset
Attached to the Viceroy Hotel on the north side of Chicago, this modern multi-leveled spot is a wonderful place to grab breakfast or a late night drink. Whether you’re looking to enjoy warm summer days in relaxed outdoor seating or the sleek, smart casual setting inside, both are equally great to take in a Somerset meal. There are also great options when it comes to the menu. From light and sweet dishes to scrumptious, savory meals. No matter what time of day and mood you’re in, Somerset is well worth a stop.
Price- $25 for a meal
Must Have- Short Rib Shakshuka
One of Somerset’s heartier brunch options. This smoky stew like dish is one of the best ways to start your Chicago day. Savory bits of short rib pulled apart and mixed into a smooth tomato and pepper paste, as well as a warm, soft egg added to the mix. With some crisp crostini bread to dip into the stew, could you ask for a better brunch?
11.) Rose Mary
Another of the amazing restaurants found in the Chicago West loop, this spot is the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring the best Chicago has to offer. Resembling Chicago’s greener side with many hanging baskets of ivy weaving their way down from the ceiling, Rose Mary is not only a spectacular place to eat but also a pleasant visual change of pace from the concrete jungles. With a rich Italian and Croatian menu using the freshest ingredients to create handcrafted delights, it’s easy to see how owner and former “Top Chef” winner Chef Joe Flamm was able to create what many consider to be one of the premier Italian restaurants in Chicago.
Price- $$60 for a meal
Must Have- Gnocchi
Velvety soft pillows of pasta rolled into fine savory cylinders, all hiding within a thick sauce of shredded beef cheek and minced basil, and topped with a layer of sharp Croatian cheese and a light coating of olive oil. A hearty delight you won’t soon forget.
Bonus- The PALAČINKE
Similar to a fine crepe using fresh strawberries and rich vanilla cream sandwiched between soft layers of streusel, this sweet summer treat tastes like the best strawberry shortcake you have ever had!
Tip- Make reservations beforehand as they tend to fill up quickly.
12.) Kasama
The most surefire way to tell if a restaurant is great or not is long lines, and Kasama has some of the longest! Keeping with the small town Chicago suburbs theme, this Michelin starred restaurant is a small space with an outdoor patio that fits right in with the surrounding townhouses and makes you feel at home no matter who you are. Serving Filipino inspired cuisine that brings a savory touch of spice to your morning. Followed by an array of sweet treats that open your taste buds to new culinary concoctions. It’s this combination of delightful creativity that, without a doubt, makes Kasama the crown jewel of brunch in Chicago! After all, long lines are there for a reason, right?
Price- $20 for a meal
Must Have- Chocolate Raspberry Whoopie Pie
Dropped down from dessert heaven, this piece of rich perfection is the definition of a fine Michelin starred dessert. A light dusting of raspberry crumble floating atop 2 pillow like chocolate sponge patties with a layer of vanilla cream resting in-between. BUT that’s not all, a layer of rich chocolate alongside sweet raspberry sauce hides at the center for a sublime surprise. Each layer bringing a new level of complementary flavors that can only be described as dessert nirvana.
Tip- They don’t take reservations, so wait until afternoon when there are far less people. 👍
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