Chicago, the windy city, is known for its unique food culture. With a thriving restaurant scene and a variety of culinary traditions, it’s no surprise that the city is a hotspot for foodies from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Chicago, here’s a list of the top restaurants to try now.
1. Alinea
Alinea is one of the best restaurants in the world, and for good reason. Offering a multi-course tasting menu that is designed to stimulate all five senses, the food is nothing short of breathtaking. The dishes are inventive, beautiful, and delicious. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
2. Girl & the Goat
Girl & the Goat is a trendy hotspot in the West Loop neighborhood serving creative small plates that are meant for sharing. The menu features a variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, and grains, with unique flavor combinations that make each dish stand out. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and craft cocktail menu.
3. Frontera Grill
Frontera Grill is one of Chicago’s most famous restaurants, thanks to the culinary genius of Chef Rick Bayless. The gourmet Mexican cuisine is flavorful and authentic, using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The restaurant is known for its creative margaritas, so be sure to try one.
4. Roister
Roister is a unique dining concept created by the team behind Alinea. The menu features rustic American cuisine, with a focus on live-fire cooking. The atmosphere is casual and energetic, with an open kitchen that lets diners watch as the chefs prepare the food. The beverage program is also impressive, with a variety of craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
5. Boka
Boka is a Michelin-starred restaurant that has been a staple of the Chicago dining scene for over a decade. The menu is contemporary American, with dishes like scallop crudo, pork belly, and duck breast. The restaurant’s elegant and sophisticated ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a romantic night out.
6. Monteverde
Monteverde is an Italian restaurant with a creative twist. The menu features hand-made pasta and other Italian staples with unexpected flavor combinations, like cacio e pepe with fried chicken skin. The chefs use high-quality, seasonal ingredients to create inspired dishes that will delight your taste buds.
7. Smyth
Smyth is a contemporary American restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and purveyors to create an ever-changing menu. The dining experience is intimate, with only a few tables and a chef’s counter, where guests can interact with the chefs as they prepare the food. The tasting menu is a culinary journey, featuring courses that are both inventive and delicious.
Chicago has a vibrant food scene, filled with innovative chefs, unique concepts, and mouth-watering dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet Mexican, Italian with a twist or something totally new, these restaurants are the perfect spots for foodies to explore. So plan a trip, make a reservation, and get ready to indulge in some of the best dining experiences Chicago has to offer.