Chicago is celebrated as a world-class city for food, offering a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From its iconic deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches to its Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, Chicago has something for everyone. The city is home to a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by its multicultural population and innovative chefs who push the boundaries of traditional cuisine.
David's Pick (#2)
Friend's Sushi on Rush
710 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611
Why do you like this restaurant?
"I LOVE Friends Sushi on Rush. The Firecracker starter on a shrimp cracker. Tuna sashimi is my favorite along with any of the signature rolls."
Jonathan's Pick
Port & Park Bistro & Bar
4000 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Why do you like this restaurant?
"I have been coming to this restaurant for 4 years and they have the best brunch and happy hour in the city!"
Eric's Pick
Calo Ristorante
5343 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Why do you like this restaurant?
"I like Calo because of the friendly LCBTQA+ atmosphere. It's really the gay Olive Garden. When you're there you are family."
David's Pick (#1)
Eppel's Restuarant
554 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL
Why do you like this restaurant?
"I really like Eppel's Restaurant on Roosevelt. It's great diner food and I love the potatoes and waffles."
Chris' Pick
Macello Cucina di Puglia
1235 West Lake Street, Chicago, IL, USA
Why do you like this restaurant?
"I like Macello for the whimsical interior, great al forno, and filleto with wine risotto.
Jason's Pick
Mago
100 W Higgins Rd M-05, South Barrington, IL 60010
Why do you like this restaurant?
"It has the best freshly made guacamole, margaritas, and mole sauce anywhere around. Worth the drive!"
Keith's Pick
Luella's Southern Kitchen
4609 North Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Why do you like this restaurant?
"The best Chef in Chicago and the Soul Food is UNMATCHED."
Max's Pick
PR Italian Bistro
3908 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL, USA
Why do you like this restaurant?
"It’s a cozy neighborhood bistro where they make their own pasta."
Brent's Pick
Legno Italian Gastropub
4250 N Central Ave, Chicago, IL 60634
Why do you like this restaurant?
"The cocktails are creative and the Italian food is fantastic. They are a very neighborhood place where you can always get a table. A hidden gem!"
Board of Directors' Picks
Ah, the classic debate over the best restaurant! It’s like trying to pick the best star in the sky—everyone has their own shining favorite. Some swear by the smoky allure of a top-notch BBQ joint, while others can’t resist the delicate artistry of a sushi bar.
So, while we may never agree on the ultimate eatery, the journey of discovering new favorites is all part of the fun.
A Michelin Star City
Chicago is renowned for its culinary excellence, boasting several Michelin 3-star restaurants. This prestigious recognition highlights the city’s vibrant food scene and its commitment to exceptional dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Chicago’s top-tier restaurants offer unforgettable gastronomic adventures.
What About
the Pizza?
Chicago is famous for its iconic pizza styles: the hearty, cheese-laden deep-dish and the crispy, thin tavern-style. Both offer unique and delicious experiences that reflect the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Flatbread Pizza
Chicago flatbread pizza features a thin, crispy crust topped with gourmet ingredients, offering a lighter alternative to the city’s famous deep-dish pizzas.
Check out some Chicago favorites:
1. Macello's
2. Coda di Volpe
3. Bonci
4. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
5. Coalfire Pizza
6. Forno Rosso Pizzeria Napoletana
7. Wood
Unique Pizza
Chicago is also home to some unique styles of pizza that you should not miss, including the double dough, pan, and pizza pot pie (pictured).
Check out some Chicago favorites:
1. Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.
2. Tortorice's
3. Bonci
4. Pequod's
5. The Art of Pizza
6. Dimo's Pizza
7. The Boiler Room
Tavern Style
Deep-dish pizza is known for its thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese and toppings, making it a hearty and indulgent choice.
Check out these Chicago favorites: 1. Uno Pizzeria & Grill 2. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria 3. Giordano’s 4. Gino’s East 5. The Art of Pizza 6. Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. 7. Pizano’s
Tavern Style
Originating in the 1940s, when it was served in Chicago’s taverns and bars, the square-cut slices made it easy to handle while enjoying a drink, as most taverns didn’t have cutlery or plates.
Check out some Chicago favorites:
1. Michael's Original Pizzeria & Tavern
2. D'Agostino's
3. Giordano's
4. Pat's Pizza & Ristorante
5. Milly's Pizza in the Pan
6. Zazas Pizzeria
7. Home Run Inn
Deep Dish
Deep-dish Chicago pizza is a culinary icon known for its thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese and toppings. Unlike traditional pizzas, deep-dish is baked in a tall, circular pan, giving it a pie-like appearance.
Check out some Chicago favorites:
1. Uno Pizzeria & Grill
2. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
3. Giordano’s
4. Gino’s East
5. The Art of Pizza
6. Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.
7. Pizano’s