What Are the Best Restaurants in Chicago?

Home to a wide variety of excellent quality restaurants, Chicago offers some of the best dining experiences in the United States. From fine dining along the Magnificent Mile, to hole-in-the-wall cafes in Pilsen or Wrigleyville, each neighborhood provides its own unique flavor of cuisine. With so many amazing options to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down which restaurants you should pick for your next visit to the Windy City. To help you make the best decision, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top-rated restaurants in Chicago.

1. Alinea

The epitome of modern American fine dining, Alinea has been consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world and has become a favorite among Michelin-star restaurants in Chicago. Led by the highly talented and ambitious Chef Grant Achatz, Alinea is unique and forward-thinking, offering a 21 course tasting menu that changes seasonally. With dishes that combine artistry with technical skill, Alinea has received worldwide acclaim for its exceptional service and innovative cuisine. Make sure to reserve your spot well ahead of time, as spots can fill up quickly.

2. Girl and the Goat

Opened in 2010 by Chef Stephanie Izard, Girl and the Goat is an extremely popular restaurant located in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago. Drawing inspiration from her life experiences and travels around the world, Chef Stephanie izard often incorporates creative flavors into her dishes. The menu features an array of items, but is famously known for its wood-fired oven roasted goat. With outstanding quality, a lively atmosphere and unique dishes, Girl and the Goat is a must-try restaurant when coming to Chicago.

3. Avec

Located in the buzzing West Loop area, Avec is a modern restaurant that specializes in rustic Mediterranean small plates, charcuterie boards and craft cocktails. Avec not only offers an excellent selection of dishes, but also a great atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing with friends or family. The eatery boasts warm ambiance, kind staff and heartwarming dishes that you simply can’t find anywhere else. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner, but don’t forget to save room for dessert!

4. Sepia

Sepia sits in the heart of the West Loop and features contemporary American dishes including everything from steak tartar to lobster spaghetti. The ambiance at Sepia is relaxed yet stylish and offers guests a charming and sophisticated experience. Sepia features an impressive wine list as well which complements it’s creative dishes. Make sure you book your reservation ahead of time as it often sells out!

5. Schwa

Schwa is a beloved restaurant located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago and it’s praised for its innovative approach to Asian-fusion cuisine. The menu changes seasonally but guests can count on consistently excellent dishes such as miso dusted sweetbreads and lonza cotto hamachi. The restaurant also offers some unique drinks such as spicy sake juleps, which give guests a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. For those looking for something a bit different than your average dinner outing, Schwa is definitely worth checking out!Whether you’re visiting Chicago for business or pleasure, you’ll be delighted by all of the amazing culinary options that the city has to offer. We hope this guide has provided you with some helpful information about some of the best restaurants in Chicago. After you’ve decided where to go, make sure you book your reservation in advance – these spots tend to fill up quickly! For more information about the culinary scene in Chicago, make sure to check out visitchicago.com/dining.

Insider’s Guide to Chicago: The Best Restaurants, Local Attractions, and Offbeat Experiences

Chicago is known for being a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a foodie paradise. There is something to explore for every traveler – from scenic waterfront to impressive museums, world-class restaurants, and an endless range of entertainment options. Here’s our insider’s guide to Chicago, featuring the best restaurants, local attractions, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip unforgettable.

Best Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago’s food scene is extraordinary and dynamic, and it is challenging to narrow it down to a few choices. Here are some top options that are worth checking out:

1. Alinea – Be prepared to splurge at this three-Michelin-star-rated restaurant. It is the ultimate destination for the culinary adventure of a lifetime, offering an avant-garde menu that combines art, science, and flavors.

2. Girl & The Goat – Created by Top Chef winner Stephanie Shore, this West Loop restaurant features a mix of bold, flavorful dishes. Unique flavors and a funky atmosphere keep it both creative and innovative.

3. Parachute – This small, Korean-inspired restaurant may be less well-known than others, but it delivers big flavors. They offer some amazing and unique dishes, from Korean BBQ chicken to whole fried trout and seaweed noodles.

4. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and Lou Malnati’s is a must-visit place for pizza lovers. You’ll find a perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and crust, all baked to perfection.

Local Attractions in Chicago

The Windy City is packed with wonderful tourist attractions that explore the city’s unique history and distinctive culture. Here are some of the best spots worth visiting when in Chicago:

1. Willis Tower – Marvel at the view of the city from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower. It’s a thrilling experience, and you’ll get some of the best views of the city’s skyline.

2. Art Institute of Chicago – This museum hosts some of the most extensive art collections in America, from Post-Impressionist paintings to lesser-known works of art. It is a fantastic destination for art lovers.

3. Navy Pier – Navy Pier is one of the most famous tourist spots in Chicago. It has a wide range of attractions, including a Ferris wheel, a Shakespearean theatre, and a children’s museum.

4. Millennium Park – Millennium Park is renowned for its iconic Cloud Gate sculptures, also known as the Bean. It is the perfect place to take that essential Chicago picture, and also hosts a range of live events year-round.

Cultural Experiences in Chicago

Chicago is home to a diverse range of cultures, and it’s easy to experience various cultural influences throughout the city. Here are some of the best experiences for cultural immersion in the city:

1. DuSable Museum of African American History – This museum showcases and honors African-American history and culture. It is a must-visit site for anyone interested in learning about the Black experience in America.

2. Mexican Art Museum – The National Museum of Mexican Art is an excellent place for discovering Mexican art, culture, and history. This museum has an outstanding collection of fine art, folk art, and textiles, as well as ever-changing exhibitions.

3. The Second City – This is a renowned improvisational comedy theatre that has launched the careers of several comedic legends. You’ll find acclaimed performances and classes, as well as the opportunity to see amazing up-and-comers.

Local History in Chicago

Chicago has a fascinating history that is worth exploring, from its early days as a frontier town to its evolution into a world-class metropolis. Here are some of the most noteworthy historical sites to visit:

1. Pullman Historic District – The Pullman Historic District in Chicago’s South Side is a fascinating place, showcasing the industrial history of the city. Visitors can explore the factories, workers’ houses and learn about the Pullman Palace Car Company.

2. Chicago Riverwalk – Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk, and you’ll explore the city’s river architecture, culture, and history. This landmark area provides many great photo opportunities and picturesque views of the city.

Offbeat Experiences in Chicago

Chicago is not just about the tourist hotspots. It also has many hidden gems that are off the beaten path worth exploring. Here are some unique and fun experiences to add some spice to your trip:

1. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge – The Green Mill is a historic jazz lounge and bar that has been around since 1907. Famous for its vintage ambience, history, and live music performances, it is worth checking out if you’re interested in vintage glamour.

2. The 606 Trail – The 606 trail is a 3-mile walking and bike path that is elevated above the ground it surrounds. It offers great views of hidden neighborhoods, parks, and public art installations throughout the city.

In conclusion, Chicago is a fantastic city with many things to do, see, and taste. With its rich history, cultural offerings, and food scene, it should be on everyone’s must-visit list. Use this insider’s guide to have an unforgettable trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.