So I've lived in California for the majority of my life but did you know I was born in Chicago? And I've been dozens and dozens of times in the past few years and I can never get enough. The food in Chicago is beyond. So without further ado... my favorite places to eat and drink in the windy city post book tour!
Momotaro - all the sushi you could eat plus a really fun ambiance! Perfect for a big group too!
The Publican - we've been going here for years and it never disappoints! Another one that's great for a group - order a bunch of veggies, meats and fish dishes and you're all set!
Cone Gourmet Ice Cream - it's not always ice cream season in Chicago but when it is, the cookie monster ice cream from Cone Gourmet is not to be missed.
Parachute - it's kinda American meets Korean and it's GOOD. And it's non-negotiable to order the Baked Potato Bing Bread
Revival Food Hall - there's honestly nothing I love more than a food hall. Whether it's in LA, Copenhagen or Chicago, I'm game! And Revival is one that can't be missed. I'd go mid-day and eat your way through the various stalls so you can graze for lunch and then recover before dinner.
Dove’s Luncheonette - if you've never had Southern inspired Mexican food than you're doing it all wrong. And Dove's will fix that.
Big Star - you wouldn't think tacos and whiskey go hand in hand, but they sure do at Big Star. You're gonna need all the tacos, a big thing of guacamole and salsas. If you're a whiskey fan go for it - but I ate so much I didn't even have room for a drink so there's that!
Federalis - are you surprised there are so many Mexican inspired picks on my list? I'm not! I'll find the guacamole no matter what town I'm in. Federalis is super casual and the nachos are a must!
Duck Duck Goat - it's super fun Chinese food with a twist that won't leave you feeling super heavy! So in other words... I'm in!
Au Cheval - the best burger in all of chicago. Trust me.
Frontera - I mean, it's a classic and the guacamole and chips are out of this world! There's also an outpost at the O'Hare airport that I literally will go to before any flight for some chips and guac on the plane. It's mandatory.
Girl and the Goat - if you can snag a spot at one of the few coveted bar seats that open up to the kitchen then consider yourself lucky! (Thank you Khatira!!) You'll get to watch all your food come together right before your eyes. But be warned, you'll end up ordering more than you anticipated because you'll want one of everything!
Purple Pig - one of my favorite places to grab lunch after a day on Michigan avenue! Everything is small plates so just order a ton and go to town. But whatever you do, don't miss the octopus!
Maudes - oysters, French wine and a CROQUE MADAME!! What more could you ask for?
3 dots and a dash - it's a Tiki bar. Enough said.
Lou Malnati's - deep dish pizza. It's an institution and it's mandatory.
Money Gun - all the specialty cocktails you could ask for! It's the perfect night cap before heading back to the hotel and crashing from a food coma!
Did I miss anything? Shout it out in the comments below so I can go give it a try!! There are too many restaurants and not enough days in the week to try them all. But I’m willing to give it a try!
I think you would love Chilam Balam 3023 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60657. Seasonal (their menu changes like every few months or so) Mexican dishes for sharing in a cozy basement & BYOB. You need another trip just for this place. <3
Next time you're at the Purple Pig ....a must try is the roasted bone marrow smear.....ahhhhhh heaven
Such a great list! A few of my favorites are Pequods, Spacca Napoli, Lena Brava, Hopleaf, and Honey Butter Fried Chicken 🙂
The Corner Bakery
What a great guide, so many places I want to try!
My husband and I have enjoyed two great "parent" get-aways in Chicago and absolutely love it! You hit a few of our faves and some we need to try. Another favorite you have to try is Longman & Eagle! Best brunch ever, wonderful food menu, extensive bar menu and you can even stay in one of their few hotel rooms!
I LOVE The Purple Pig so much I ate there three times on my trip to Chicago! Their shaved brussels sprouts tasted like Lays potato chips! I was eating them by the handful! So good.
Nice picks!! The food and wine are great at maude's, but the bar is amazing too. You tell them what you like and they make something great every time. I love the corpse reviver. Also, El Nuevo Mexicano on halsted in Lakeview is a nontrendy but fun and yummy spot - the carnitas chipotle is life changing. We've been going for 10 years and that is literally all my hubby will order.
Beatrix! Amazing chicken Bebe and a good brunch!
Little Goat it's more of a diner but owned by the girl and the goat! Still yummy!
Seems like a trip to Chicago is in order!! But I will wait for warmer weather!!
Sweet Mandy Bs is one of the best bakeries I've ever been to!!!
I live in Chicago and I think you pretty much nailed it. You named a few I have yet to try!
I see you spent time in Wicker Park...thats where I live :).
such a great neighborhood!
Italian Village!
A different chef/menu at each level - currently being run by the 3rd generation, and Chicago's oldest Italian restaurant. Just went for the first time while dropping a kid off to university. It was wonderful. <3
adding to my list to try!! thank you
Bavette's Bar and Boeuf is the BEST!! The ambiance and oysters are what made it the perfect date night! http://bavetteschicago.com/
adding it to the list for next time I'm there! xx
Gabby, these are all wonderful suggestions but you missed two great places - Avec and 3 Arts Cafe. Both places have sublime food. 3 Arts Cafe/Restoration Hardware is magical. It's like Disneyland for women.
Sorry, Gaby, not Gabby! 🙂
well CLEARLY I need another trip!! Thanks for the recs 🙂