Best Restaurants in Chicago

Avec: where Mediterannean meets the Midwest. Avec west loop has been a Chicago favourite for almost 20 years. Conceived initially as a wine bar, avec is the second concept from celebrated one-off hospitality. While wine remains at Avec’s core, chef de cuisine Dylan Patel’s rustic menu features ingredients from valued local purveyors for weekend brunch, lunch Monday through Friday and dinner service seven days a week. The wine list, while extensive, remains moderately priced and draws primarily from boutique vineyards in southwestern Europe.

Tortoise Supper Club in Chicago is a fine dining establishment that exudes the charm and elegance of a classic American supper club, offering a nod to the bygone era of luxurious nightlife and sophisticated dining. Located in the city's heart, steps away from the bustling River North neighbourhood, this family-owned venue has become a beloved institution for those seeking an unparalleled dining experience that combines exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Upon entering Tortoise Supper Club, guests are greeted by an interior that blends classic design elements with contemporary comfort. Dark wood panelling, plush leather booths, and soft ambient lighting create an intimate and grand setting ideal for a romantic dinner, a business meeting, or a special celebration. The walls are adorned with historical photos and artefacts, paying homage to Chicago's rich history and the club's commitment to preserving tradition and community. The menu at Tortoise Supper Club is a tribute to the finest American culinary traditions, featuring a range of familiar and refined dishes. Prime cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and a selection of house specialities are prepared with precision and care, showcasing the kitchen's dedication to quality and flavour. Each dish is made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.

The Dearborn, nestled in the heart of Chicago's bustling Loop district, is an urban American tavern that effortlessly combines the charm of old-world Chicago with a contemporary culinary ethos. This vibrant eatery, run by the Lawless family, has become a beacon of hospitality, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere that welcomes a diverse clientele, from theatre-goers to downtown professionals and tourists exploring the city. Upon entering The Dearborn, guests are struck by its striking interior that pays homage to Chicago's storied past, featuring rich wood finishes, vintage-inspired lighting, and elegant tiled floors. The space is designed to foster a sense of community and conviviality, making it an ideal setting for a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or simply a relaxing drink at the bar. The Dearborn's menu reflects a commitment to innovation within the framework of classic American tavern fare. Dishes are thoughtfully prepared using the finest locally sourced ingredients, resulting in a diverse offering that caters to a range of tastes and dietary preferences. Each dish is a testament to the kitchen's creativity and dedication to flavour, from hearty, comforting entrees and fresh, vibrant salads to inventive appetizers and decadent desserts.

Cherry Circle Room, nestled within the historic Chicago Athletic Association hotel in the heart of downtown Chicago, is a culinary treasure offering a modern dining experience steeped in the city's rich heritage. This award-winning restaurant is celebrated for its refined approach to classic American cuisine, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that transports guests to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. Upon entering Cherry Circle Room, diners are greeted by a space that blends historic charm with contemporary comfort. The restaurant's design pays homage to its storied past, with original woodwork, stained glass, and leather booths that evoke the exclusive clubrooms of the early 20th century. The intimate lighting and thoughtful decor create a warm and inviting ambience, perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out. The menu at Cherry Circle Room is a testament to the skill and creativity of its culinary team. Drawing inspiration from historic recipes, the dishes are meticulously crafted to balance traditional flavours with a modern flair. Seasonal ingredients are sourced from local farms and purveyors, ensuring each meal is of the highest freshness and quality. From succulent steaks and fresh seafood to inventive salads and sides, the menu offers something to delight every palate.

Swift & Sons, nestled in the vibrant Fulton Market district of Chicago, is a modern interpretation of the classic American steakhouse, offering a dynamic dining experience that combines timeless elegance with contemporary flair. This distinguished restaurant, a collaboration between Boka Restaurant Group and the acclaimed design firm AvroKO, has quickly become a cornerstone of Chicago's culinary scene, known for its impeccable steaks, innovative cuisine, and exceptional service. The moment you step into Swift & Sons, you're transported into a space that pays homage to the rich history of Chicago's meatpacking district, blending industrial elements with luxurious touches. The expansive dining room, with its high ceilings, leather booths, and vintage-inspired decor, creates a grand and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant also features a vibrant bar area, perfect for enjoying a craft cocktail or a selection from their extensive wine list before your meal. At the heart of Swift & Sons' menu is a selection of premium steaks sourced from the finest purveyors and expertly prepared to showcase their natural flavours. From classic cuts like the bone-in ribeye to more unique offerings such as the Japanese Wagyu, each steak is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality. Complementing the steak offerings are creative seafood dishes, fresh salads, and various innovative sides that draw inspiration from the bounty of the Midwest.

Acanto, situated along the bustling Michigan Avenue in the heart of Chicago, is a distinguished dining destination renowned for its exquisite Italian cuisine, elegant ambience, and impeccable service. This gem, steps away from the iconic Millennium Park, offers a refined yet approachable dining experience, making it a favourite among locals and visitors. The interior of Acanto reflects a blend of classic charm and modern sophistication. With its warm lighting, rich wood accents, and comfortable seating, the space invites diners to relax and savour their meals in a cosy, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s design pays homage to Italian elegance, providing a perfect backdrop for an exceptional culinary journey. Acanto’s kitchen is helmed by a team of skilled chefs who are passionate about bringing the authentic flavours of Italy to Chicago. The menu features a thoughtful selection of dishes that celebrate the richness of Italian culinary traditions while incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From handcrafted pasta and succulent meats to fresh seafood and inventive vegetarian options, each dish is prepared with meticulous care and presented with artistic flair.

Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House, nestled in the vibrant heart of Chicago's historic Gold Coast neighbourhood, is a culinary institution that marries the charm of a classic seafood eatery with the sophistication of a high-end steakhouse. This beloved establishment, a sibling to the renowned Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, has delighted patrons with its exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and lively atmosphere since its opening. When you step into Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House, you're welcomed into a setting that exudes comfort and elegance. The decor, rich wood panelling, maritime accents, and plush seating create a timeless ambience reminiscent of a classic American seafood house. The bustling bar area, known for its friendly vibe and expertly crafted cocktails, is a favourite spot for locals and visitors to mingle and unwind. At the heart of Hugo's menu is a stunning array of seafood dishes, from fresh oysters and succulent crab legs to the restaurant's signature frog legs, prepared with meticulous care and presented with flair. The fish and seafood are sourced daily to ensure the highest quality and freshness, offering diners a taste of the ocean's bounty in every bite. For those with a penchant for turf over surf, Hugo's also boasts an impressive selection of Gibsons Prime Angus beef, making it a paradise for steak lovers.

RPM Steak in Chicago redefines the classic steakhouse experience, combining a sophisticated ambience with high-quality, meticulously sourced meats and a keen attention to detail in service and cuisine. Located in the vibrant River North neighbourhood, this modern steakhouse is part of the renowned RPM Restaurants group, co-founded by celebrity couple Giuliana and Bill Rancic, which guarantees an exceptional dining experience. Upon entering RPM Steak, guests are greeted by an elegant, contemporary setting that balances luxury with comfort. The design features rich leather booths, dark wood finishes, and soft lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere for intimate dinners, business meetings, or special celebrations. The heart of RPM Steak's menu is its unparalleled selection of steaks, ranging from prime cuts of beef aged to perfection to rare and exotic varieties, ensuring a memorable meal for every carnivore. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing the finest meats from around the globe, including Wagyu from Japan and prime, dry-aged American beef, all prepared with precision and care.

Rose Mary, located in the bustling Fulton Market district of Chicago, is a captivating restaurant that seamlessly blends the rich culinary traditions of Croatia with the robust flavours of Italian cuisine. Named after the herb rosemary, prevalent in Croatian and Italian cooking, the restaurant reflects the heritage of Chef Joe Flamm, winner of "Top Chef" and a culinary master known for his innovative approach to traditional dishes. The ambience at Rose Mary strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The interior is warm and inviting, featuring wood accents, earthy tones, and subtle touches of Mediterranean-inspired decor. The space is designed to evoke the feeling of dining in a cosy, family-run trattoria in the heart of Croatia or Italy, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Rose Mary's menu is a testament to the beauty of culinary fusion, offering familiar and surprising dishes. Guests can expect to find a range of offerings, from freshly made pasta and succulent grilled meats to seafood delicacies and vegetable-centric plates showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes, such as the squid ink risotto and the Croatian-style cevapi, exemplify the restaurant's commitment to authentic flavours and creative presentation.

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf in Chicago is a testament to the timeless allure of the classic American steakhouse, reimagined with a unique twist that combines old-world charm with modern sophistication. Nestled in the city's heart, this esteemed establishment has earned accolades for its exceptional cuisine, intimate ambience, and impeccable service, making it a must-visit destination for locals and travellers alike. Upon entering Bavette's, guests are transported to a bygone era, greeted by a decor that elegantly marries the rustic with the refined. Dark wood panelling, plush leather seating, and soft, ambient lighting set the stage for an unparalleled dining experience. The atmosphere is cosy and luxurious, inviting diners to linger over their meals in comfort and style. At the heart of Bavette's culinary offerings is a meticulously curated selection of prime steaks, each handpicked for its quality and flavour. Every cut is perfectly cooked, from the perfectly aged ribeye to the buttery filet mignon, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Complementing the steakhouse classics are inventive sides and appetizers, from rich, creamy truffle mashed potatoes to fresh, vibrant salads, each dish showcasing the kitchen's commitment to elevating familiar flavours.

Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio, located in Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighbourhood, is a culinary gem that seamlessly blends the rich traditions of Italian cuisine with innovative cooking techniques and the bounty of the Midwest. This acclaimed restaurant is celebrated for its soulful dishes, house-made pasta, and an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. The heart of Monteverde lies in its open kitchen and pastificio (pasta-making station), where guests can witness the art of pasta-making. The skilled pasta artisans craft a variety of fresh, handmade pasta daily, each serving as the foundation for dishes that tell a story of flavour, tradition, and craftsmanship. The menu, curated by Chef Sarah Grueneberg, reflects her deep respect for Italian culinary traditions, extensive travels throughout Italy, and desire to infuse local and seasonal ingredients into every dish. Monteverde's cuisine is a celebration of the diverse regions of Italy, offering a wide range of dishes that satisfy both traditionalists and adventurers. From rich, comforting ragùs to delicate seafood creations and inventive vegetable dishes, each plate is a testament to the kitchen's creativity and attention to detail. The restaurant's signature pasta, such as the cacio e pepe and ravioli, have garnered widespread acclaim for their authenticity and exquisite flavours

Boka Restaurant is a beacon of culinary excellence and innovation in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Lincoln Park neighbourhood. Celebrated for its commitment to providing an unforgettable dining experience, Boka has earned a prestigious reputation within Chicago's competitive restaurant scene. The venue combines sophisticated elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect setting for special occasions and casual, upscale dining. At the helm of Boka's Kitchen is a talented team of chefs who craft dynamic, seasonally inspired menus that showcase the depth and diversity of American cuisine. Their dishes are a testament to creativity and finesse, featuring unique combinations of flavours and textures that elevate the dining experience into an art form. Boka's commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients ensures that each plate not only tastes exceptional but also reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the Midwest. The interior of Boka is designed with a keen eye for detail, blending natural elements with contemporary style to create a space that is both elegant and comfortable. The dining room, adorned with lush greenery and soft ambient lighting, offers an intimate setting that complements the restaurant's exquisite culinary offerings.

Sitting proudly above Hotel Lincoln, The J. Parker offers the most spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Enjoy the unobstructed scenery from one of the atrium's 140 outside seats or 55 seats inside. The J. Parker is a perfect space for private events or a night on the town. The J. Parker is open for seated and standing rooms on a first-come-first-serve basis.

We serve a casual, simple, yet sophisticated brunch, with ingredients like fresh farm eggs and porridge made from cornmeal ground at a local mill. Besides the daily offering of meats and fish from sustainable sources, every day, we serve adventurous fare for vegetarians. While the food is more intricate and formal at dinner, we never cede the accessibility and youthfulness with which Lula was begun. Lula Cafe is located in Los Angeles. We invite you, for all occasions, to read a book at the bar with a glass of wine, to celebrate birthdays and first dates, to taste through the seasons, and to brunch with friends after a night out. Anything is possible, welcomed, and wished for here at Lula.

Located at 444 North Michigan Avenue, the restaurant offers cheese, swine and wine, among other standout dishes, showcasing the flavours of Italy, Greece and Spain.

Named after its iconic location on North Michigan Avenue, NoMI immerses guests in three distinct spaces, offering unique activations and unforgettable experiences with sweeping views of Chicago’s historic Water Tower and Lake Michigan. The three approaches on the 7th floor of the iconic Park Hyatt Chicago are tied together by Executive Chef Terence Zubieta’s cuisine, highlighting locally sourced ingredients with artful flavours, a standout beverage program with craft cocktails and an extensive global wine collection. A philosophy of impeccable service from sincere and approachable team members balances the NoMI dining experience. NoMI Kitchen offers Executive Chef Terence Zubieta’s menu featuring modern American cuisine rooted in French techniques, thoughtfully highlighting local ingredients uniquely enhanced by subtle touches that honour his cultural and professional heritage. The restaurant’s expertly curated beverage program offers craft cocktails, wines from an extensive global collection, and fine spirits that can stand on their own and complement the menu.

LH Rooftop, perched atop the historic LondonHouse Chicago in the heart of downtown, offers a breathtaking dining experience that combines stunning city views with exquisite cuisine. This chic and elegant rooftop bar and restaurant boasts a panoramic vista of the Chicago River, the Magnificent Mile, and the city's iconic skyline, providing a backdrop like no other. The interior of LH Rooftop reflects a modern sophistication with its sleek design, comfortable seating, and a glass-enclosed area that allows for year-round enjoyment of the mesmerizing views. The outdoor terrace, with its cosy fire pits and ambient lighting, creates an inviting atmosphere for intimate gatherings, casual drinks, or special occasions under the stars. The menu at LH Rooftop is curated to match the elegance of its surroundings, featuring contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is carefully crafted to delight the palate, blending classic flavours and innovative twists. The culinary offerings are designed to satisfy various tastes, from light, refreshing salads and artisanal cheeses to heartier entrees and decadent desserts.

Located atop the John Hancock Center, The Signature Room at the 95th® offers diners exquisite food, superb service, and a dazzling skyline view. The elegant wood designs and art deco interior create an inviting and intimate atmosphere, while the floor-to-ceiling windows exhibit the stunning Chicago skyline and 360-degree views of the entire city.

From its 4th-floor perch, I|O Godfrey is the epicenter of the River North Neighborhood basking in the sunlight throughout the day. As late afternoon yields to evening, uninterrupted views of downtown Chicago radiate to life setting a brilliant backdrop for after-work cocktails. Among the panoramic skyline views, fire pits, and shimmering water elements, nighttime revelers feel as if they’ve stumbled upon a glamorous, urban oasis. I|O's 4th floor is approximately 15,000 square feet of dedicated indoor and outdoor space, with 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

The jewel in the crown of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel, Cindy's is a rooftop restaurant and open-air terrace overlooking Millennium Park and beyond. Created out of thin air, the very gives contrast to the Association’s history as a men’s club, yet carries an unmistakable look of having always been here. With seasonal freshness reflected in both food and drink, the rooftop dons the relaxed ambiance of a Great Lakes beach house with a view. Executive Chef Christian Ragano, creator of Glencoe’s much loved Guildhall, and former Chef de Cuisine at NoMi, joins forces with our talented bar team to bring classic comfort and culinary invention via large format style dining over cocktails and apothecaries.