Chicago is well known for its foodie scene, with hit programmes such as The Bear being filmed in and around the city, and with the new season four airing today there’s no better reason to explore the culinary delights within the city.
Home to 77 neighbourhoods that offer a vibrant tapestry of culinary experiences reflecting the city’s rich cultural diversity, Chicago’s eateries serve up everything from deep-dish pizza in the Loop to authentic Mexican street food in Pilsen, soul food in Bronzeville, and Korean BBQ in Albany Park, each neighbourhood brings its own flavour to explore on a visit. Below, we have rounded up a varied selection of must try spots for those looking to eat their way around the city.
Ever – Fulton Market
Located in Fulton Market, Ever is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant led by world-renowned chef Curtis Duffy. Known for its unmatched dining experience, guests can enjoy an 8 or 10 course tasting menu that lasts two and a half hours – taking them on a culinary journey for the senses. Known for its ‘culinary-theatre approach’, guests can enjoy the artistic and surprising meals created by the chefs in a sleek yet intimate atmosphere which was designed to heighten the sensory experience.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit ever-restaurant.com
Cebu – Wicker Park
A family-owned business, Cebu is known for its casual-dining atmosphere and Filipino food that offers the perfect blend of tradition with a modern twist. Offering guests flavourful dishes such as sizzling gambas, lobster pancit, and ube waffles with fried chicken, guests will learn about the rich and vibrant Filipino culinary traditions in a welcoming environment.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit cebuchicago.com
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro – Lincoln Square *recently opened*
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro offers guests a passionate fusion of authentic Thai flavours with a touch of modern creativity. Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro creates amazing dishes, such as Thai Zapp Wings and Fortune Crab Rangoon, with locally sourced ingredients to transport guests to the heart of Sichuan. Known for its signature Flakey Puffs, travellers can enjoy delicious Thai cuisine in a casual but elegant restaurant located in one of Chicago’s most foodie focused neighbourhoods.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit madamepuffsthaibistro.com
Andros Taverna – Logan Square
Andros Taverna is a contemporary Greek restaurant that serves sophisticated Mediterranean food cooked from the soul. Located in Logan Square, Andros Taverna is inspired by the cosmopolitan taverns of Greece and reflects the country’s culinary heritage, incredible flavours, and warm hospitality. Offering family recipes such as Eggplant Moussaka, Spicy Lamb Orzo, and Mediterranean Octopus, guests can enjoy a traditional menu that’s created using high quality products. With a chic but modern interior, guests will be transported to a Greek island and enjoy all the restaurant has to offer.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit androstaverna.com
Minyoli – Andersonville
Minyoli is a noodle based restaurant that pays homage to the Juàncūn culture and blends the flavours and memories of Taiwan with Chicago. Named after the owner’s childhood Juàncūn neighbourhood in Taipei, Minyoli was created with the aim to recreate the “mom n’ pop” noodle shops he enjoyed in his younger years. Offering guests a unique fusion of Taiwanese cuisine influenced by regional Chinese dishes, known as “Juàncun cuisine”, Minyloi is home to a selection of dishes that boasts hearty noodles, vibrant spices, and bold flavours.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit minyolichicago.com
Bar Goa – River North
Bar Goa is a lively Indian restaurant and cocktail bar that’s inspired by the breezy beaches of Goa on India’s west coast. Serving traditional regional dishes from Mumbai to New Delhi, guests can enjoy Palak Paneer, Goan Masala Dal and Ghee Roast Aloo Chat in an upbeat and vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for an exciting dinner, night of music with the Bollywood sounds, or vibrant cocktails, Bar Goa has something for everyone.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit bargoachicago.com
Farm Bar – Ravenswood
Farm Bar offers affordable, approachable Midwestern food that’s created using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Farm Bar is a warm and family-friendly farm-to-table restaurant that offers guests house-hold style dishes such as homemade Challah Bread, Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches and much more. Ideal for those looking to enjoy some welcomed comfort food or handcrafted cocktails on ARRIBA, the rooftop margarita bar, Farm Bar is the place to go for families and groups craving traditional American fare.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit farm-bar.com
La Catedral Café and Restaurant – Little Village
Located in the heart of Little Village, La Catedral Café and Restaurant is an award-winning Mexican style cafe that provides guests with a Guadalajara inspired menu. Known for its vibrant breakfast and brunch that offers its famous chilaquiles, this hidden gem fuses comfort food with a spiritual, and cathedral-inspired setting. Decorated with beautiful crucifixes, religious icons and fresco-style ceilings La Catedral will transport guests to a traditional Guadalajara cathedral.
HOW: To find out more or to make a reservation please visit lacatedralcafe.com
