17 Best Restaurants in Chicago

Gourmet enthusiasts have access to some of the greatest eateries in the world. Dazzling windows and flashing signs adorn the streets here, enticing sophisticated and casual diners with promises of the finest dining in Chicago. With our carefully crafted selection of Chicago’s finest culinary treats, Luxe Travel Concierge will guide you on a gastronomic adventure.

Avec

Mediterranean│West Loop

Avec

 

Discover a culinary haven at Avec, where every bite is a delight. Located in the bustling West Loop, this restaurant has been a staple for those seeking delicious Mediterranean dishes in a cozy atmosphere. No need to stress about snagging reservations weeks in advance – just relax and savor the flavors that await you.

From the whole roasted fish to the unforgettable chorizo-stuffed Medjool dates, each dish showcases the kitchen’s expertise and dedication to serving up perfection on a plate. Come hungry, leave happy – that’s the Avec promise.

Oriole

American│Fulton Market

Oriole
Renowned for its award-winning cuisine, Oriole is a top-tier New American restaurant with an illustrious two Michelin stars. The unique dining experience allows guests to witness the culinary magic unfold in the open kitchen right before their eyes. From the innovative use of ingredients to the impeccable service, dining at Oriole promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Boka

Contemporary American│Fulton Market

Boka

For over 21 years, patrons have flocked to Boka for its delicious, expertly prepared delicacies, such as morel-topped Icelandic cod. Boka offers an exceptional dining experience with award-winning desserts crafted by Nicole Guini and a celebrated eight-course tasting menu, making it a premier destination for upscale cuisine in the neighborhood.

Savor the exquisite black truffle roast chicken crafted by Chef Wolen alongside the delightful creations of Pastry Chef Kim Mok.

The Capital Grille

Steakhouse │Gold Coast / Streeterville

For all of life’s most momentous celebrations, head to the Capital Grille. With an emphasis on premium steaks, it provides an elegant dining experience. The meticulous attention to detail in dry-aging and hand-cutting their steaks on-site distinctly distinguishes them from others. They offer an extensive range of wines and a striking wine kiosk.

Galit

Middle Eastern│Lincoln Park

Galit

With a stylish and welcoming ambiance, Galit provides a wonderful Middle Eastern dining experience. Every dish, from the hummus to the coal-cooked delicacies, is meticulously prepared, delivering a vibrant explosion of flavor with each bite. Galit, boasting a Michelin star, guarantees an unforgettable culinary experience for any occasion.

Daisies

American│Logan Park

Daisies

Enjoy a pleasant dining experience at Daisies in Logan Square, which is sure to capture your heart. This charming spot invites you to savor a delightful morning with a creamy oat milk latte paired perfectly with a flaky pastry.

For lunch, the Turkey Rachel sandwich is a creative twist that promises to satisfy your cravings. There’s truly something here for every palate. Daisies is a must-see site for foodies, receiving wonderful ratings from the Chicago Tribune and a prized MICHELIN Green Star for sustainability.

Kasama

Filipino│Ukrainian Village

Kasama

Kasama offers a modern Filipino-American dining experience with a Michelin-starred tasting menu and casual daytime dishes. The 13-course tasting menu features nilaga with A5 wagyu and a croissant with shaved black truffles, while daytime options include fried egg, garlic fried rice, and pickled papaya. With Tim Flores and Genie Kwon at the helm, expect a culinary journey that will entice you to try everything on the menu.

Monteverde

Italian│West Loop

Monteverde

Any culinary fan should taste Monteverde’s creative take on traditional Italian dishes. The burrata e ham starter and spaghetti al pomodoro are delightful offerings that highlight Chef Grueneberg’s exceptional talent for crafting genuine and rich flavors.

Every offering, from the indulgent smoked fish dip paired with crispy waffle fries to the exquisite scallop crudo complemented by airy puffed rice, guarantees a luxurious culinary journey worth relishing.

Obélix

French│River North

Obélix

With a backdrop as elegant as its menu, Obélix seamlessly blends traditional French culinary techniques with modern twists to create a truly unique dining experience. From foie gras-filled macarons to lemongrass-infused duck sausage, each dish showcases the chef’s creativity and expertise.

The comfortable yet refined ambiance makes it easy to see why this restaurant has earned its place among Chicago Magazine’s top 50 restaurants, offering a taste of France right in the heart of Chicago.

Taqueria Chingón

Mexican│Logan Square

Taqueria Chingón

Taqueria Chingón, a hidden treasure in Logan Square, serves amazing tacos made with a delicious fusion of French and Mexican flavours. The raclette quesadilla is an essential experience for anyone exploring the realm of cheese. The expertly prepared pork and veggie pastors are sure to impress and surprise you, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf

Steakhouse│River North

Among Chicago’s restaurants, Bavette’s by Brendan Sodikoff stands out for its refined yet whimsical spin on the classic steakhouse. The menu is a delightful mix of classic steakhouse favorites and inventive alternatives, catering to all tastes.

The elegant and romantic ambiance makes it the perfect spot for a special night out. Don’t miss out on their incredible chocolate cream pie – the cherry on top of an unforgettable dining experience.

Thattu

Indian│Avondale

Thattu

Keralan cuisine is delightfully brought to life at Thattu in Avondale, Chicago. Chef Margaret Pak’s passion for Southwest Indian coastal cuisine shines through in every dish, from traditional classics to creative interpretations.

The rich blend of aromatic spices, coconut, and curry leaves creates a truly celebratory dining experience that transports you to the spice garden of Kerala. Pair your meal with a local craft beer or one of their Indian-inspired cocktail creations for the perfect touch of fusion flair.

Mi Tocaya Antojería

Mexican│Logan Square

Mi Tocaya Antojería

Chef Diana Dávila’s endearing term of affection inspired the name of Mi Tocaya, a heartwarming Mexican restaurant located in Logan Square. The dishes, like the carne asada burrito and fish in mole blanco, bring nostalgia and flavors of her childhood to life.

The guac sprinkled with chile ash remains a must-try, and their inventive cocktails, including a unique negroni twist, complete the dining experience at Mi Tocaya.

Virtue

Southern│Hyde Park

Virtue

A beacon of hope and empowerment for the Black community, Virtue is more than just a restaurant. Erick Williams, a talented James Beard Award-winning chef, leads Virtue. The famous collards are a standout dish, with tender smoked turkey meat adding a delightful depth of flavor.

The ambiance is effortlessly chic and sets the stage for a romantic date night. The short ribs are a must-try at Virtue and will leave you craving more of Williams’ exceptional soul food creations.

Elske

Scandinavian│West Loop

Elske

Experience the sophistication of Elske, a Michelin-starred restaurant owned by the talented husband and wife chef duo Anna and David Posey. Delight in the seasonal Scandinavian fare featuring dishes such as smoked duck liver tart and smoked Fjord trout with beets.

Indulge in fresh house cocktails that perfectly complement each course, ending your meal with the fragrant lemon verbena tapioca dessert. Elske offers a dining experience fit for the most discerning food enthusiasts, making it a must-visit establishment.

HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen

Vietnamese│Pilsen

HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen

Chef Dang’s culinary creations at this eatery are a true reflection of tradition and innovation. The octopus salad with kaffir-infused coconut cream and chili-scented eggplant dish is a harmonious blend of flavors. At the same time, the rabbit leg confit stew showcases the chef’s mastery of spices.

The attention to detail extends beyond the food, with decor elements sourced from Chef Dang’s family home in Dong Nai, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

Lula Cafe

American│Logan Square

Lula Cafe

Buttermilk pancakes, egg scrambles, mortadella, and Gruyère hand pies are a few delectable options on Lula’s diverse menu. Every dish, from pastries to turkey sandwiches to roast chicken, features fresh ingredients. Chef-owner Jason Hammel and his team have perfected their brunch offerings, making every visit a delightful dining experience.

Don’t miss out on on their Classic Lula Breakfast Burrito, available every day of the week for brunch.

Ready to explore the Windy City’s culinary treasures?

Chicago’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise is well-deserved. Its vast array of culinary options showcases the city’s rich cultural diversity and passion for innovative cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the vibrant dining scene in Chicago is an experience not to be missed.

Let Luxe Travel Concierge serve as your culinary compass as you venture through Chicago’s vibrant food scene. Our team will expertly curate an itinerary, ensuring your gastronomic journey is seamless and delightful. So, dust off your suitcase, awaken your palate, and prepare to savor the exquisite flavors of Chicago’s top dining destinations. Bon appétit!