The 15 Best-Rated Restaurants In Chicago
Explore the culinary excellence of Chicago with these top-rated restaurants. From Michelin-starred venues to beloved local gems, each offers a unique dining experience that captures the city’s vibrant food scene.
1. Smyth – Fulton Market
In the heart of Fulton Market, Smyth dazzles with its ever-evolving menu that embodies Midwestern essence. Farms, fermentation, and creativity define this Michelin three-star experience. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect choice for special celebrations.
Dishes are crafted with precision, celebrating local ingredients in an innovative yet approachable way. The chefs’ commitment to seasonal produce ensures each visit is unique.
Known for pushing culinary boundaries, Smyth’s tasting journey leaves a lasting impression. Whether a seasoned foodie or a curious diner, this spot promises a meal that is both extraordinary and unforgettable.
2. Alinea – Lincoln Park
Alinea, a culinary icon in Lincoln Park, offers a dining experience like no other. Known for its theatrical presentations, it transforms dinner into an art form. From tableside smoke to edible masterpieces, every course surprises and delights.
Despite losing a Michelin star, Alinea remains a favorite for those seeking an avant-garde meal. The menu challenges conventional flavors, encouraging diners to rethink their palate.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s an immersive event. For those who crave innovation, Alinea stands as a beacon of culinary creativity that continues to captivate the adventurous eater.
3. Oriole – West Loop
Tucked away in the West Loop, Oriole is an oasis of calm and culinary excellence. The two-Michelin-star restaurant offers a contemporary American menu with subtle Japanese influences.
The serene setting and attentive service make Oriole a favorite among critics and diners alike. Each dish is a testament to the chefs’ dedication to flavor and technique.
Renowned for its consistency, Oriole continues to rank high on best restaurant lists. It’s a haven for those seeking an exquisite meal that marries sophistication with simplicity in every bite.
4. Kasama – East Ukrainian Village
Kasama offers a dual experience in East Ukrainian Village, blending casual café vibes by day with refined tasting menus by night. The two-Michelin-star venue is famed for its delectable Filipino pastries and dishes like longanisa and adobo.
The transformation from day to night showcases the restaurant’s versatility and culinary depth. Each dish tells a story, rooted in tradition yet presented with flair.
Kasama’s warm atmosphere and innovative menu make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. It’s a place where flavors linger, leaving diners dreaming of their next visit.
5. Monteverde – West Loop
Monteverde in the West Loop serves Italian cuisine that is both comforting and cutting-edge. Known for its housemade pastas, the restaurant consistently lands on top restaurant lists.
The bustling dining room adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a night out. Creative antipasti and a robust wine selection elevate the experience.
Monteverde stays true to Italian traditions while embracing modern culinary techniques. It’s a dining destination where comfort meets innovation, pleasing both pasta purists and adventurous eaters.
6. Galit – Lincoln Park
In Lincoln Park, Galit delights with its modern Middle Eastern cuisine. The Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its fire-cooked dishes and vibrant flavors.
From fluffy pita to grilled meats, each plate is artfully composed, celebrating fresh, local ingredients. The relaxed ambiance invites patrons to savor every bite.
Galit’s innovative take on traditional flavors has earned it high praise in the culinary world. It’s a place where the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality meets contemporary flair, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
7. Avec – West Loop / River North
Avec, a staple in West Loop and River North, continues to redefine Mediterranean dining with its small-plates concept. Known for dishes like chorizo-stuffed dates, it remains a favorite among locals.
The wine selection complements the menu, enhancing the robust flavors of each dish. Avec’s inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Year after year, Avec’s commitment to quality and innovation keeps it at the top of dining lists. It’s a testament to the power of simple, flavorful ingredients in crafting memorable meals.
8. Virtue – Hyde Park
Virtue in Hyde Park brings Southern hospitality to life with every dish. Known for its fried green tomatoes and gumbo, it has won numerous accolades.
The James Beard-winning chef crafts dishes with heart, offering both nostalgia and sophistication. Each bite transports diners to the warmth of Southern kitchens.
Virtue’s polished yet unpretentious setting makes it a beloved spot on the South Side. It’s a place where comfort and quality converge, leaving diners eager to return for more soulful flavors.
9. Ever – West Loop
Ever in the West Loop captivates with its high-concept tasting menus. The modern space exudes elegance, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Each dish is a masterpiece, showcasing intricate flavors and artistic presentation. Ever’s commitment to innovation has earned it a spot among Chicago’s best.
For those seeking a destination restaurant, Ever delivers on both design and cuisine. It’s a testament to the city’s vibrant dining scene, where creativity knows no bounds and every meal is an exploration.
10. Elske – West Loop
Elske in the West Loop offers a unique culinary experience with its Scandi-influenced dishes. The minimalist design and cozy courtyard create an inviting atmosphere.
Each plate is a study in precision and beauty, earning Elske a Michelin star for its inventive approach. The menu changes with the seasons, highlighting the best local produce.
Elske’s quiet inventiveness makes it a standout for those who appreciate subtle flavors and elegant presentations. It’s a place where culinary art meets simplicity, delighting the senses with every visit.
11. Boka – Lincoln Park
Boka in Lincoln Park is a modern American classic. With a long history of awards and a Michelin star, it balances comfort with creativity in every dish.
The elegant setting is ideal for celebrations, yet approachable enough for casual dining. Boka’s menu showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients with an inventive twist.
The restaurant’s commitment to excellence keeps it at the forefront of Chicago’s dining scene. It’s a place where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed experience.
12. Birrieria Zaragoza – Archer Heights / Uptown
Birrieria Zaragoza offers an unpretentious yet extraordinary dining experience. Known for its incredible goat birria, this Archer Heights / Uptown spot is a city favorite.
No white tablecloths here, just authentic flavors served with pride. Fresh tortillas and perfectly cooked birria create a meal that transcends expectations.
Praised by critics, Birrieria Zaragoza is not just for taco lovers. It’s a testament to the power of simple, traditional cooking done exceptionally well, drawing food enthusiasts from all over the city.
13. Daisies – Logan Square
In Logan Square, Daisies delights with its vegetable- and pasta-focused menu. Celebrating Midwestern ingredients, it offers dishes that feel both familiar and innovative.
The cozy ambiance and creative use of local produce make Daisies a favorite among locals and critics. Each plate is crafted with care and culinary expertise.
Daisies’ commitment to sustainability and flavor ensures a memorable dining experience. It’s a place where the bounty of the Midwest shines, inviting diners to savor the freshness and creativity of each dish.
14. Lula Cafe – Logan Square
Lula Cafe in Logan Square is a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement in Chicago. Known for its ever-changing menu, it remains a staple in the community.
The casual vibe and fresh ingredients attract both locals and chefs. It’s a place where creativity and seasonality meet in every dish.
Lula Cafe’s dedication to quality and innovation keeps it on best-restaurant lists year after year. It’s a beloved spot where diners can enjoy a meal that feels both homey and expertly crafted, capturing the essence of Chicago dining.
15. Kyōten – Logan Square
Kyōten in Logan Square offers a serious sushi experience with its high-end omakase. This intimate venue is a top choice for sushi enthusiasts.
The chef’s dedication to technique and flavor is evident in every meticulously prepared piece. Each course is a journey through traditional and innovative Japanese cuisine.
Ranked highly by critics, Kyōten is where sushi lovers go to be impressed. It’s a place where precision and passion come together, offering a dining experience that celebrates the artistry of sushi making.
