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The 35 Best Restaurants in Chicago (By a Local)
Deciding where to eat in Chicago can be overwhelming with SO many restaurants, neighborhoods, and online lists. As a local, I’m here to give you honest advice you can trust. I’ve personally been to almost every restaurant below.
These are the places I’d recommend to friends and family. They’re spots that I think are actually worth it for the flavors, experience and ambiance, and unique offerings. I cover many iconic places, but I also include a ton of personal favorites that might not be on your radar.
After all, the Windy City is one of the best food towns in America, and experiencing the local restaurant scene is one of those Chicago activities that can’t be missed.
Want to jump around?
- 35 Best Chicago Restaurants
- Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings
- Girl & The Goat
- Pequod’s Pizza
- Kasama
- Daisies
- Sunda New Asian
- Lula Cafe
- Monteverde
- Cindy’s Rooftop
- Little Bad Wolf
- Cafe Ba Ba Reeba
- Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits
- 3 Arts Club Cafe at Restoration Hardware
- Itoko
- Armitage Alehouse
- Tortello
- Cebu Chicago
- Virtue Restaurant
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery
- DeNucci’s
- Doma Cafe
- Mon Ami Gabi
- Bungalow by Middle Brow
- Tuk Tuk Thai
- Dear Margaret
- Demera Restaurant
- Andros Taverna
- avec
- Mi Tocaya Antojeria
- Yaya Mas
- Evette’s
- Manchamantales
- Big Star
- Irazu
- Mammoth Poke
35 Best Chicago Restaurants
Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings
🍽️ Chinese | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 799-1118 | Neighborhood: Chinatown

Starting off at the top of this list is one of my favorite restaurants in all of Chicago, hands down: Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings (QXY).
This no-frills Chinatown restaurant is a bit cramped in space and constantly busy, but the dumplings are always delicious. I think they’re the best dumplings in the city. This is no secret, though, so be prepared to wait in line or wander around Chinatown until it’s your turn.
When you finally get in, order a variety of fillings. My favorites are the pork & dill and chicken & coriander dumplings, always pan-fried. But there’s something for everyone, including vegetarians and vegans!
So, come hungry, bring your friends, and order a bunch. You won’t be disappointed.
Girl & The Goat
🍽️ New American | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 492-6262 | Neighborhood: West Loop

Girl & The Goat is a Chicago favorite and for good reason. The menu packs a punch when it comes to flavor. Plates arrive tapas style, which is perfect for trying out a variety of dishes. Depending on how hungry you are, 4-6 plates are enough to feed two people.
The pork shank and goat empanadas are especially popular, but the green beans and crudo are my favorites. Girl & The Goat is perfect for celebrations and special occasions, and the staff is always attentive and friendly. Just be sure you book ahead!
Pequod’s Pizza
🍽️ Pizza | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 327-1512 | Neighborhood: Sheffield Neighbors

Is deep dish pizza high on your agenda? If so, head to Pequod’s. There are plenty of restaurants and chains in the Loop that make deep-dish, too, but this old-school establishment is where most locals will tell you to go.
Pequod’s pizza is thinner than other versions of deep dish around Chicago, but it’s still a deep dish nonetheless. They’re known for how they caramelize their pizza crusts, which gives it a unique taste and texture.
Kasama
🍽️ Modern Filipino | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 697-3790 | Neighborhood: Ukrainian Village

If you haven’t heard of Kasama yet, you might be living under a rock. Just kidding. But actually, this Filipino restaurant has made huge waves in Chicago’s restaurant scene, but also across the culinary world. In 2022, Kasama became the first Michelin star Filipino restaurant in the world. In 2025, they gained their second Michelin star.
Now, onto the food. Kasama is best known for their pastries and brunch, and the French-Filipino pastries are my favorite thing to get here. The breakfast sandwich is especially popular and was even featured in an episode of the TV series, The Bear.
I’ll be honest and tell you that all of this fanfare has definitely made it hard to get into Kasama. Lines often go down the street and around the block as soon as the restaurant opens. I recommend ordering a variety of things online as soon as they open (wait times can still be long for to-go orders), and picking up your goodies to-go.
Daisies
🍽️ Italian, New American | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 697-9443 | Neighborhood: Logan Square


Daisies is an Italian restaurant with a “New American” spin in Logan Square.
This is the perfect spot for a date night, celebration, or dinner with friends. The dishes can be easily shared or enjoyed individually. Each time I’ve gone to Daisies, I’ve had wonderful (and funny) servers and the food has been consistently delicious.
I highly recommend splitting the “potted carrots” with your table. This appetizer is an experience as well as a yummy starter! The fried, puffed gnocco frittos are fun and the pickled carrots and creamy duck fat dip make the perfect combo. For main dishes, the Agnolotti and Pierogi pastas are fantastic and unique.
Lastly, ask for a glass of the chilled red wine from the Michigan winery. You may raise your eyebrows at “Michigan winery” but trust me on this one.
Sunda New Asian
🍽️ Filipino, Asian Fusion | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 900-0033 | Neighborhood: West Loop, River North

I’ve been to so many amazing restaurants in Chicago. But I’ll tell you: Sunda may be one of my top five. The first time I ate here felt like a religious experience.
The menu features a lot of Filipino dishes and flavors, as well as other Asian cuisines. Each time I’ve dined here with my family, we’ve ordered several dishes. All of them delicious.
The different crudo options have incredible sauces, and the wagyu with crispy rice was pillowy soft and flavorful. My favorite dish, though, has to be the crispy brussel sprouts. Between the texture and the mix of tangy and savory flavors, I couldn’t get enough.
Be sure to make reservations ahead of time, and go to the Fulton Market location specifically. Oh, and order an ube espresso martini… or a few.
Lula Cafe
🍽️ New American | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 489-9554 | Neighborhood: Logan Square

Lula Cafe in Logan Square is a local Chicago favorite. Brunch is especially popular, and the food here consists of top-notch classics like buttermilk pancakes, breakfast burritos, and breakfast sandwiches.
If you’re looking for something a little different, the pasta Yia Yia with bucatini, brown butter, and cinnamon is delicious and totally unique.
Lula has a really warm, relaxed, and welcoming vibe to it. It feels local and is the kind of place that regulars frequent. The customer service is also superb. Come here for a hearty meal and good conversation with friends.
Monteverde
🍽️ Italian | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 888-3041 | Neighborhood: West Loop


Monteverde consistently ranks as one of Chicago’s best restaurants, and for good reason. I visited for a special birthday dinner and my friends and I enjoyed every minute of it.
We went all out with the cocktails, wine, appetizers, entrees, and desserts, so I can confidently say that the menu holds up across the board. The wok-fired octopus “in umido” was cooked to absolute perfection and the seared tuna crudo was divine. I also loved my spaghetti al pomodoro. Although simple, the sauce was incredibly fresh and flavorful.
By the time dessert rolled around, I was beyond stuffed, but I recall the tiramisu being quite good. If you can manage it, I recommend getting a seat in front of the pasta counter to see the chefs making fresh dough while you eat.
Cindy’s Rooftop
🍽️ New American | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 792-3502 | Neighborhood: The Loop

Cindy’s Rooftop is the place to go for rooftop dining and views in The Loop. Delicious brunch, lunch, and dinner menus are available, but most people head to Cindy’s to enjoy creative cocktails, lighter fare, and rooftop ambiance.
Cindy’s overlooks Millennium Park on N Michigan Ave and offers beautiful views of the park and Lake Michigan. Definitely make reservations!
👉 Don’t Miss: Cindy’s Rooftop is located near attractions like Cloud Gate and the Art Institute. It’s also a short jaunt to places like Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile.
Little Bad Wolf
🍽️ New American | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 942-6399 | Neighborhood: Andersonville

Dare I say… Little Bad Wolf has the best burger in Chicago.
Fellow burger spot, Au Cheval, gets a lot of hype for their burgers, but I love Little Bad Wolf. It’s more off the beaten path and the vibes are unpretentious and friendly. More importantly, the burgers are juicy, flavorful, artery-clogging, and mouthwateringly delicious.
When I went, my boyfriend and I both ordered a “Bad Burger.” We spent 20 minutes not speaking at all, only looking at each other and nodding at how good these were. Oh, and if you order a salad, only order a side salad. It’s absurdly enormous (and pictured above).
Cafe Ba Ba Reeba
🍽️ Spanish | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 935-5000 | Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

A fresh, rich paella, a pitcher of sangria, and tapas bursting with flavor. What could be better?
Head to Cafe Ba Ba Reeba for delicious Spanish cuisine in a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere in Lincoln Park. I like this spot for a fun date night or dinner out with friends.
I highly recommend the “Mixta” paella, which includes pork shoulder confit, txistorra, and chicken thighs. It comes out in a simmering paella pan and the server plates it on the spot. The dish is decadent, filling, and flavorful. And obviously, you have to pair it with a red wine sangria.
Some of my other menu favorites include the patatas bravas and goat cheese baked in tomato sauce.
Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits
🍽️ Pie Shop | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 276-8888 | Neighborhood: Logan Square

Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits is a small and cozy local pie shop in Logan Square. It’s the kind of place that feels like it should be in a small town. I visit on a monthly basis (at least) to get a slice of what’s arguably the best pie in Chicago.
Bang Bang offers a mix of sweet and savory pies, as well as a few sides. Everything is delicious and there are always seasonal specials to try. The chicken pot pie is the best I’ve had anywhere, but I especially love the tomato pie. It’s divine.
And of course, the sweet pies are unbeatable. The seasonal cheesecakes are not to be missed!
3 Arts Club Cafe at Restoration Hardware
🍽️ American | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 475-9116 | Neighborhood: Gold Coast


Looking to impress some guests or a date? Take them to 3 Arts Club at Restoration Hardware in Gold Coast. The restaurant is situated under a beautiful atrium with trees and chandeliers. Dining here feels luxurious and special.
The food is classic American fare. I had the roasted chicken which was cooked perfectly, accompanied by pureed potatoes and au jus. The truffle fries are also tasty.
The coolest part of the restaurant? Before or after you finish eating, you can walk around the upstairs showrooms with your drinks. Browse beautiful interiors and maybe even get a little inspiration for home. Overall, it’s a wonderful dining experience.
Itoko
🍽️ Japanese | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 819-7672 | Neighborhood: Lake View


If you love Japanese food, especially sushi, do yourself a favor and add Itoko to your list. This Lake View restaurant can’t be beat if you’re looking for a special place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or anything else. The service is fantastic and the food is delectable.
There are so many tasty things on the menu, but here are some recommendations:
Start off with a cocktail like the lychee martini and order some starters like hamachi crudo with poached pear, and some hand rolls (I thought the ebi tom yum one was really unique!). For your main, get a variety of smaller plates. The shitake robata may sound unimpressive, but it’s just awesome. Follow it up with classic or specialty maki of your choice.
Dining at Itoko is no cheap thing, but in my opinion, this restaurant is really worth it.
Armitage Alehouse
🍽️ Gastropub | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 270-6402 | Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

There’s nothing like a cozy, old-world bar with moody lighting to set the scene for a date night or intimate evening with friends. Armitage Alehouse in Lincoln Park is exactly that spot.
This gastropub oozes old-school elegance and character while being tasty to boot. Whether you sit at the bar or in the dining room, you’ll feel like you’re transported in time. The menu features hearty staples like pot pie, burgers, and steak frites, but you’ll also find Indian classics like tikka masala, daal makhani, and charred naan bread. For dessert, definitely get the sticky date cake.
I’ll warn you: it can be seriously hard to get into Armitage Alehouse. So, try and make a reservation in advance. If there’s no luck but you have an evening to spare, I recommend popping by around 5:30, putting your name down, and getting small bites somewhere else (Cafe Ba Ba Reeba is nearby!). Then, when you get a text from Armitage Alehouse, pop back in for a main course or drinks and dessert.
Tortello
🍽️ Italian | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 360-1293 | Neighborhood: Wicker Park

Tortello is a must-try restaurant for any pasta lover. From-scratch pasta is Tortello’s specialty, and everything is made in-house. The menu is small and simple, but everything’s really fresh and delicious. I personally love the Signature Tortelli di Burrata (pictured above) but the Tagliatelle Tina is supposed to be amazing, too.
Tortello is located in Wicker Park along Division Street. The restaurant gets pretty busy every night and it doesn’t take reservations, so get there a little early. You can also purchase some fresh pasta and sauce to take home with you!
👉 Pro Tip: You can take private pasta-making classes at Tortello! This is a fun activity for groups of 4-6 people. You can book a class on their website.
Cebu Chicago
🍽️ Filipino | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 709-9153 | Neighborhood: Lake View

Being Filipino myself, I love seeing all the Filipino restaurants and cafes popping up around Chicago. However, I’m also pretty critical because not many things compare to my mom’s Filipino cooking (sorry!). That being said, I love coming to Cebu for brunch.
Savory dishes like the chicken inasal hit the spot, and I always get a side of lumpia. I love pairing something savory with something sweet, and the Filipino-inspired pancake and French toast options are the perfect touch. The pandan-infused pancakes are my favorite ones.
Wash it all down with a pandan latte or mango lychee soda and your taste buds will thank you.
Virtue Restaurant
🍽️ Southern | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 947-8831 | Neighborhood: Hyde Park

Virtue is a Hyde Park restaurant serving up elevated Southern classics with an occasional twist. The restaurant has a cozy, contemporary dining room and the atmosphere is welcoming. The Virtue team boasts unpretentious service and a sense of Southern hospitality, and they deliver.
Try the melt-in-your-mouth short ribs or blackened catfish. The mac & cheese is gooey and rich, and the cornbread is sinfully good. You may scoff at getting a side of carrots, but they’re shockingly divine.
Remember to make reservations ahead of time at this Michelin star restaurant.
👉 Don’t Miss: If you’re headed down to Hyde Park, be sure to check out nearby attractions like the Robie House and the Museum of Science and Industry.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
🍽️ Cafe | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 283-7100 | Neighborhood: Streeterville/Magnificent Mile

Chicago’s Starbucks Reserve Roastery is the largest Starbucks in the world. It has five floors that consist of a gift shop, bakery and cafe, coffee and cocktail bars, and a rooftop. It’s located on the Magnificent Mile, making it the perfect place to stop for a drink and light snack when you’re out shopping.
Lines are often out the door and around the block, so know that the atmosphere is busy and buzzing. Many items on the menu are specialty so you won’t be able to find them at other Starbucks.
One of my favorites is the Nutella cornetto. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a little touristy, but visiting is still a fun thing to do.
DeNucci’s
🍽️ Italian | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 697-8780 | Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

The best way to describe DeNucci’s is this: always tasty, and tried and true. This classic Italian restaurant is everything you hope it is.
I’ve dined at DeNucci’s more times than I can count. The food always hits the spot and the atmosphere is always cozy, welcoming, and friendly. It has an old-school feel, and I love the Sinatra music that always seems to play in the background.
First, you need to order the little gem caesar. I consider myself something of a caesar salad connoisseur, and this one is pretty much perfect. Get the truffle-mushroom arancini or fried calamari if you’re feeling indulgent.
For the main course, I love the orecchiette pugliese or chicken cutlet picatta with a side of pasta and extra sauce. Wash it all down with a glass of the house red and you’ll be rolling yourself home from the fullness (in the best way).
Doma Cafe
🍽️ Cafe/Croatian | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 643-0527 | Neighborhood: River North/Near North Side

Doma Cafe or “Doma” is a local favorite that I feel like I shouldn’t be sharing (shh!). This unassuming cafe tucked away in River North is a gem that I never see listed on other guides. The atmosphere is calming and the interior is cool with a slight retro vibe.
The cafe menu has classics like soups, sandwiches, and baked goods with Croatian and Mediterranean influences. I always go for the chicken caesar salad with an orange fizz to drink. Both are SO good. The brown butter cookies, breakfast sandwiches, and homemade hashbrowns are menu highlights as well.
Come here for a tasty, laid-back brunch with a friend or even to work remotely.
Mon Ami Gabi
🍽️ French | ($$ to $$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 348-8886 | Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

Old-world elegance meets deliciousness at Mon Ami Gabi. This quiet luxury restaurant is nestled on the first floor of an apartment building that’s over 100 years old. It’s located just steps from Lincoln Park, and it’s the perfect place for an intimate dinner or upscale Sunday brunch.
For lunch or dinner, definitely get the onion soup au gratin. They offer oysters on the half-shell if that’s your style, and the steak frites are a must for your main course. Finish it off with the chocolate mousse.
Bungalow by Middle Brow
🍽️ Farm-to-Table | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 687-9076 | Neighborhood: Logan Square

Bungalow by Middle Brow (or just “Middle Brow”) isn’t likely on your itinerary if you’re just visiting Chicago. But if you venture out to Logan Square, be sure to stop by!
This farm-to-table restaurant is all about natural and homemade stuff, and the ingredients are incredibly local. In fact, the website notes that everything is sourced within 150 miles of the city [Source]. Pretty cool (and delicious) if you ask me.
I definitely recommend coming here for the pizza. I love the red sauce + yuzu oil pizza, and the mushroom pizza is perfect for mushroom lovers. For dessert, get the vanilla soft serve. It’s honestly the best vanilla ice cream I’ve ever had.
👉 Pro Tip: If you visit on a Tuesday, Middle Brow does tavern-style pizza!
Tuk Tuk Thai
🍽️ Thai | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 661-9739 | Neighborhood: Lake View, Wicker Park


I’m a sucker for good Thai food, and Tuk Tuk is one of the best places for it in Chicago. The food is vibrant and flavorful, and the atmosphere is just fun. To top it off, the interiors are colorful and happy and the servers are just awesome.
My personal barometer for good Thai food is testing out the soup, specifically tom yum or tom kha. If a restaurant does this right, I know I’m in for a good time. Here’s what you need to know: Tuk Tuk has the best tom yum I’ve had in ages. The classic pad Thai was perfect, and the fried snapper I got was delicious.
But before you run to Tuk Tuk, I’ve got to be honest. The spice levels are off the charts (probably a good indicator that it’s authentic, though). If you’re even remotely sensitive to spice (a wimp like me), request a ZERO spice level. I’m serious. My cousin and I thought we could handle a two or three spice level, and had to request extra coconut milk to stop the pain.
Otherwise, enjoy!
Dear Margaret
🍽️ French-Canadian | ($$ to $$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 360-8213 | Neighborhood: Lake View


⚠️ Closure Notice: Dear Margaret is temporarily closed and moving to a new location. Details TBD. Check the website for updates.
Dear Margaret is cozy, authentic, and homey in the best way. This quaint Lake View restaurant is a true hidden gem. It’s unpretentious and warm, and the food speaks for itself. It’s the perfect place for a nice dinner with loved ones.
The servers at Dear Margaret are knowledgeable, helpful, and kind, so be sure to ask for their recommendations. I tried a mix of things during my last visit, including a customizable charcuterie plate (pictured above) and pommes frites. The rest of what I had was seasonal but lovely.
Demera Restaurant
🍽️ Ethiopian | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 334-8787 | Neighborhood: Uptown

Pay a visit to Demera’s Restaurant in Ravenswood for some delicious Ethiopian food. Here, the atmosphere is casual with an emphasis on “tradition served family-style.”
It’s the perfect place for group dinners with friends so you can share a messob (a combination platter with proteins and vegetables), which is the best way to try different dishes and experience a variety of flavors. Demera also has a good selection of dishes for vegetarians and vegans.
Andros Taverna
🍽️ Greek | ($$ to $$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 365-1900 | Neighborhood: Logan Square

I don’t see Andros Taverna on many of Chicago’s top restaurant lists, but it should be. This Greek restaurant in Logan Square is all about fresh, high quality ingredients with simple and classic, yet delicious, Greek flavors. It’s the perfect place to share dishes family-style in a more upscale atmosphere.
I highly recommend ordering fresh seafood from the restaurant’s daily selection. There are typically different size options, which is perfect for sharing. You should also order a handful of sides like the classic Andros salad, lemon potatoes, and a spread with pita.
avec
🍽️ Mediterranean | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 377-2002 (River North location) | Neighborhood: River North, West Loop

Head to one of avec’s two locations in the West Loop and River North for modern Mediterranean cuisine and a great selection of wine and cocktails.
The West Loop location is known for its extensive wine list accompanied by small plates and select meals. But if you’re looking for more of a meal, head to the River North location. Here, enjoy lunch or dinner at the restaurant before heading up to bar avec on the 8th floor, where you’ll be greeted with beautiful city views.
At either location, though, be sure to try the chorizo-stuffed Medjool dates!
Mi Tocaya Antojeria
🍽️ Mexican | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (872) 315-3947 | Neighborhood: Logan Square

Mi Tocaya Antojería is a colorful and casual Mexican restaurant located in Logan Square. The restaurant pays homage to the roots of Mexican food with a modern touch.
The atmosphere of Mi Tocaya is welcoming and the food is flavorful and fresh. The steak burrito and queso fundido con birria are especially popular.
If you come with a group, try ordering family-style so you can taste different dishes. In the warmer months, Mi Tocaya offers patio dining, perfect for sipping cocktails and eating outside.
Yaya Mas
🍽️ Greek | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 313-7006 | Neighborhood: Sheffield Neighbors

Yaya Mas is so good that after I went for the first time, I came back twice more that same week. My boyfriend claims that they serve the best gyros in Chicago. He might be onto something.
The pitas come out warm and pillowy soft. The gyro meat is tender and juicy. Slices of tomatoes and red onion are thrown on top, and it all sits on a creamy bed of tzatziki. It’s topped off with a drizzle of olive oil and oregano. Incredibly simple, but perfect. Wash it down with an orange EPSA soda (they’re in the glass bottles next to the register).
The cafe itself is pretty tiny, but it’s warm, bright, and very Greek. This little spot is off the beaten path, but it’s really worth it in my opinion. They’re also strangely open until 5 am Wednesday through Saturday, and until midnight Sunday through Tuesday. So really, you can get a gyro whenever you want.
Evette’s
🍽️ Middle Eastern Fusion | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 799-8478 | Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

This Middle Eastern fusion restaurant is located in Lincoln Park with a fast casual vibe, but the food itself will make you think otherwise. Everything’s made fresh and the flavors are punchy.
My favorite thing on the menu? Chicken shawarma fries. I should probably branch out and try something new, but these fresh, hot fries are slathered in cucumber yogurt, Evette’s special mayo, herbs, and smoky chicken. They’re hard to resist. But other things like the halloumi tacos are great, too.
I recommend ordering to-go (the restaurant is pretty tiny) and eating your food picnic-style in a nearby park like Lincoln Park or Oz Park.
Manchamantales
🍽️ Mexican | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 799-8148 | Neighborhood: Bucktown/Logan Square

My friends and I always joke that there’s something in the air at Manchamantales. Maybe the margaritas are just flowing… Anyway, this Mexican restaurant never seems to make other Chicago restaurant lists, so I’m here to do it justice.
Manchamantles is best known for their mole. I’m not a big mole fan (sorry!) but my friends say it’s outstanding. I usually opt for the vegetarian enchiladas which are so flavorful. The focus at Manchamantales is authentic Mexican cuisine from across the country’s regions, so it’s not your standard Mexican American restaurant. The food feels and tastes authentic, and I always have a good time here.
Another thing I should mention is the space at Manchamantales. For whatever reason, the restaurant is enormous. So, it’s a great place to bring large groups. You’ll always be able to nab a reservation.
Big Star
🍽️ Mexican | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 235-4039 (Wicker Park location) | Neighborhood: Wicker Park, Wrigleyville

Big Star is the perfect place to go for a fun, casual meal with friends. Although Big Star has Wicker Park and Wrigleyville locations, the Wicker Park location is trendy and a go-to for its patio dining at the center of the neighborhood.
They have a variety of tacos to choose from, but I especially love the pescado and camarones fritos. If you come with a group, order a margarita pitcher and split the Big Star nachos — awesome.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re in Wicker Park but pinched for time, head to the taco window right next to Big Star. Here, you can order your food to go.
Irazu
🍽️ Costa Rican | $ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (773) 252-5687 | Neighborhood: Wicker Park

Iraźu is the first and only Costa Rican restaurant in Chicago. Located in Bucktown, it’s a restaurant full of healthy, fresh, and hearty dishes like shrimp ceviche, casado (try the skirt steak one!), and sweet plantains.
They also have a good selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant itself is casual and colorfully decorated. The oatmeal shakes are also popular!
Mammoth Poke
🍽️ Hawaiian/Poke | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (312) 564-4242 (The Loop location) | Neighborhood: The Loop, West Loop, Bucktown

Last year, I developed a poke addiction. If you’re anything like me and want a good bowl of poke while you’re in Chicago, Mammoth Poke is the place to go for it.
The ingredients are always fresh and my bowl tastes perfect every time. Consistency is everything! And trust me, I’ve ordered Mammoth at least 20 times. No joke.
Anyway, they have three locations: The Loop, West Loop, and Bucktown. It’s best to order pick-up in my opinion, as it’s more of a fast-casual kinda place.
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Are you hungry yet? I am, just from writing this guide. Anywho, I hope you enjoyed this article and found something to match your taste buds while in the Windy City. If you try any of these spots, be sure to let me know in the comments!
Next up, see my 5-day Chicago itinerary (with a map)!

Anywhere else in south loop you would recommend? Looking for outdoor seating, traditional sit down experience, American/Italian/Mexican/Asian something nice but not super crazy fancy for dinner. Or, if you were staying in south loop for one night only and were going to Uber somewhere else, what restaurant would you choose? Tough one I know!
What are the cheapest places to eat?
Could you recommend a good lunch spot in the Gold Coast, near the water?
Hi Diana, for Gold Coast, I’d highly recommend 3 Arts Club Cafe! The indoor dining atrium is beautiful, and it’s fun to explore the upstairs showrooms after your meal. Just be sure to make reservations because they book up! The restaurant is only a short walk from the lake. You might also like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse or Maple & Ash. Unfortunately, there aren’t really any restaurants directly on the water, as the lakefront buildings are mostly residential. I hope this helps!
Any restaurants in South Loop you can recommend?
Hi Su, Sweet Bean is a great Taiwanese bakery that makes sweet and savory items. My friend also loves Tilly Bagel Shop in South Loop. As for more traditional sit-down restaurants, try Eleven City Diner or Nepal House. There’s also a Lou Malnati’s if you’re looking to try deep-dish pizza. Hope this helps!
You didn’t mention Italian beef. I remember a very small place on N Western near Rosehill Cemetery that may not be there anymore, but my brother in law took us to Ken’s Grill on McCormack and Dempster in Skokie and it was very good and real busy.