Chicago is the third largest city in the United States so it is a melting pot of nationalities. People from all over the world have made Chicago their home and have brought with them a plethora of cuisines.
We have lived in Chicagoland for over 20 years and we have our favorite best Chicago restaurants, many of which you see listed below, but you will have to decide for yourself. There are so many to choose from you will NEVER run out of excellent Chicago restaurants to try. I promise you will never go hungry in this city!
The list below highlights some of the Best Chicago Restaurants so you can sample some of what this great city has to offer. From Chicago Steakhouses and Sushi to Tapas and Desserts, you are sure to find a winner among this list of Best Chicago Restaurants. Bon Appetit!
Best Chicago Pizza Look at this mouth-watering Chicago-style, deep dish pizza. Get one of these beauties at Giordano's, or try a famous Pizza Bomb at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. |
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Chicago Steakhouses If you ask any concierge in town where to go for steak, they will most likely mention Morton's and Sullivan's Steakhouses. Either one of these Chicago steakhouses will give you a dining experience you won't soon forget. Most would agree these are two of the best Chicago restaurants, hands down. |
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Breakfast in Chicago What could be better after partying in Chicago than waking up with a scrumptious breakfast Chicago-style? I recommend Ina's, for a diner feel big on flavors and easy on the budget. The fresh-squeezed OJ is outstanding. On weekends try The Grand Lux Cafe for unbeatable atmosphere and delectable food choices. Try to get a seat overlooking Michigan Ave if you can. |
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Vegetarian Bites Two of the best vegetarian restaurants in Chicago are The Green Zebra and Loving Hut. The locals rave about both of these Chicago vegetarian restaurants. The food choices are amazing. |
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Tapas Style Restaurants Tapas just means small plates of food and have become trendy in American cities. At Chicago tapas restaurants, like Emilio's Tapas and Cafe Ba Ba Reba, diners can order several different small plates and share. |
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Delicious Desserts One of my favorite desserts in Chicago is the Chocolate Raspberry Truffle cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. I also love the freshly baked cupcakes and gigantic chocolate chip cookies at Hershey's Chicago. Or try the Chocolate Ganache Cake at Pop's For Champagne. |
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Most Well Known Restaurants There are several well known restaurants in Chicago including the world famous Charlie Trotters, Harry Carey's, and Lawry's. These 3 rank as some of the best Chicago restaurants and offer great atmosphere, a varied menu, unique cocktails and good food. |
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Sushi in Chicago Two of the most popular sushi Chicago restaurants are Kamehachi and Meiji. Try some of the city's most creative makimono, like Philly Crunch which is smoked salmon, wasabi cream cheese, scallions and cilantro topped with spicy salmon. |
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Juicy Burgers I still remember the olive burger I had at Boston Blackie's. Oh so good! And you have to visit Billy Goat Tavern made famous by the SNL skit "Cheeseborger, Cheeseborger!" Last time I was there the decor wasn't that special, kind of dumpy actually, but who cares! |
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Best Brunch If you are in town on a Sunday, don't miss brunch at the top of the John Hancock building in The Signature Room. The food is amazing and you can not beat the view. Another Sunday favorite is the House of Blues Gospel Brunch. Food is outstanding and the entertainment could not be better. We took our kids there when they were younger and were seated in one of the boxes overlooking the stage. WOW! |
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Italian in Chicago At Buca Di Beppo, meals are served family style and the atmosphere is so fun. Try to get seated at the Pope table if you can. Quartino is one of the best Chicago Italian restaurants and wine bar with a quaint atmosphere and an excellent menu. |
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Greek in Chicago Don't miss Costa's for old world charm, live piano music and genuine Greek specialties. Another choice is Venus. One reviewer stated "atmosphere was great, the wait staff was fun and attentive, great overall experience." |
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Most Expensive Restaurants Chef Rick Tramonto's French creations are playful works of art at Tru. and at Alinea, experience chef Grant Achatz's daring culinary expertise. Prepare to be awe-inspired by the taste and beauty of their food. Clearly two of the best. |
Depending on which establishments you plan to visit, one of these Chicago Bar & Restaurant Discount Cards may save you some money.
Hotel Deals in Chicago
Some of the best hotels in the area are listed here as well as information on vacation home and condominium rentals. You can really put on a great party in Chicago at any one of these establishments. |
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Chicago Theaters
Chicago is known for its bustling downtown theater district. Find tickets and learn about venues including the Chicago Theatre, the Cadillac Palace Theatre and the Drury Lane Theatre. |
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Chicago Activities
We visited some of the most popular Chicago attractions including, Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum, Navy Pier and The Art Institute. Learn more about each one and find out how to get discount tickets. |
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Chicago Sightseeing Tours
Taking an organized tour around the city is a great way to relax and be educated at the same time. The tours are organized by season to make it easier to match them to your travel schedule. Coming in the Winter? How about a horse-drawn carriage ride? |
Thoughts? Questions? Opinions?
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