Chicago Restaurants in Chicago with Offbeat

Arbella

The clubby little sister to Tanta, Arbella is two doors down from the celebrated Peruvian-inspired restaurant. Nightly, it features popular local deejays, who spin deep house and Latin beats as guests sip on exotic craft cocktails.

Coq d'Or, The Drake Hotel

The first bar in Chicago granted a liquor license after the repeal of Prohibition always makes a lasting impression with authentic decor that's been restored to its original glory.

AceBounce

Former David Burke's Steakhouse and Virgin Hotels Chicago Executive Chef Rick Gresh now heads the kitchen at 1901 Restaurant, a globally focused eatery inside AceBounce. With AceBounce being one of several trendy new ping pong bars around town, the food aspect is only a bonus.

Borinquen Lounge

A sibling to the Humboldt Park Puerto Rican restaurant where Juan C. "Peter" Figeroa created the newest in the pantheon of messy Chicago sandwiches, the jibarito (pronounced "HEE-bar-ee-toe), in 1996. Inspired by the Puerto Rican emparedado de platano, Figeroa created his "little hillbilly" steak sandwich using planks of hot, crisp, fried green plantain instead of bread and layering grilled steak, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato and garlicky mayonnaise inside.

Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream

Guess what three items are served at Bridgeport’s Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream? That’s right, it’s those three things – pizza, fried chicken and ice cream – and very good versions of each, but if you’re looking for health food, this is the wrong place to be looking; if you’re looking for delicious food, done right, you’ve found it at Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream.

Cocoa + Co.

Owner Kim Hack has created a high-level experience for the chocoholic with this sweet little artisan shop in the heart of Old Town.

Revolution Brewing Tap Room

Revolution Brewing creates much of its beer and hosts tours at this sprawling Avondale brewery. The Tap Room also contains a bar and space to linger and drink.

Del Seoul

Del Seoul's Korean street BBQ menu is divided into tacos, bahn mi sandwiches and specialties that include bibimbop, kimchi and pork belly fries, and pork dumplings. Prices are recession-friendly, with nothing over $9.

Blind Barber

Part barbershop, part speakeasy, part restaurant, Blind Barber is one of the most unique concepts taking shape in the West Loop. The bar comes from New York City, where the idea to mix a barbershop by day with a bar and eatery by night was born. The company set its sights on red-hot Fulton Market for expansion to Chicago, where they'll offer the same slick barbershop motif along with bracing cocktails and a menu hinged on neoteric takes on comfort food, like gourmet grilled cheese.

Pinstripes - Streeterville

One thing's for certain: Bowling never goes out of style in Chicago. From the old-school pin setup at Southport Lanes to Seven Ten Lanes near the University of Chicago, there's a great variety from which to choose.

Billy Sunday

Named after the Prohibition-era evangelist, Billy Sunday is Matthias Merges's second project following Yusho, which is now closed. The bar focuses on classic cocktails with surprising new twists, as well as a focus on large-format craft beers.

Dining Room at Kendall College

Open for lunch and dinner, The Dining Room at Kendall College offers both a la carte and prix-fixe menus prepared by culinary students.

Bakin' & Eggs

The Lakeview breakfast/brunch spot offers an upscale approach to early morning dining.

EL Ideas

Former MeatyBalls food truck owner Phillip Foss opened a ballsy, six-seater in the heart of Pilsen to explore the food he really wants to cook. To snag a hard-to-get reservation, email reservations@ELideas.com.

Sawada

Two titans joined forces for one of the most unique coffee shops in Chicago, as Hogsalt Hospitality (Au Cheval, Maude's Liquor Bar, High Five Ramen) partnered with world-renownd barista and latte expert Hiroshi Sawada on his first ever U.S. coffee shop.

Ikram/The Red Box

Upscale designer clothing boutique was a mainstay in the Gold Coast for more than 10 years. It was the spot to shop for Chicago's female elite, from the likes of Mellody Hopson and Desiree Rogers to First Lady Michelle Obama. New River North location should continue to attract the same. Here, there's also a tiny cafe called The Red Box, certain to be a fave among the "ladies who lunch" crowd.

Coquette

Pink and Parisian are two words that describe Coquette, the latest offering from Bonhomme Hospitality Group (Celeste, Disco, Porto and many others).

Field Bistro

Resident restaurant at The Field Museum.

Black Dog Gelato

Already popular at farmers markets and restaurants like Girl and the Goat around town, Black Dog Gelato opened a storefront in June 2010 in Ukrainian Village.

Sikia Restaurant

Washburne Culinary Institute's formal dining room offering student-made lunches Wednesday–Friday.

Plein Air Cafe & Eatery

Plein Air Cafe & Eatery bolsters Hyde Park's culinary scene with the help of Kevin Heisner, one half of the team responsible for such hot spots as Trenchermen, Lone Wolf, and Sportsman's Club. Opening this March, the cafe abuts the University of Chicago, filled with food curated by Pleasant House Bakery, a precise coffee selection, and locally sourced art.

The Han Burger

The Han Burger focuses on serving its namesake dish, a “reimagined” version of “Roujiamo,” a popular Chinese street food that’s basically deliciously seasoned and shredded meat mounted on a from-scratch bun, sauced with chili and cilantro.

Forbidden Root

Goose Island pioneered the brewpub trend in Chicago, and it continues with the likes of Forbidden Root establishing their interpretations for the next generation. What sets it apart from other local brewpubs is that it's Chicago's first-ever botanic brewery.

The Ladies' Room

Logan Square's brimming with notable bars set on taking Chicago's cocktail culture to the next level. There's Mezcaleria, which aims to educate guests on the joys of the smoky, agave Mexican spirit. Also, there's Lost Lake, a divey Polynesian-themed bar with unconventional tiki tipples.

Five Star Bar and Grill

This straight-up rock bar can't go wrong: Highlights include an extensive bourbon selection, vintage porn flicks, retro rock posters and a stripper's pole in the VIP room.

Don Bucio's Taqueria

Carne asada, tacos al pastor, birria, and other meat-centric dishes are a big part of what has made Mexican food a favorite; but you won't find any of that at Don Bucio's Taqueria.

Taxim

Hunting for the best and freshest ingredients or growing your vegetables yourself is instinctive for Greeks.

Big Jones

Coastal Southern cuisine gets an update in Andersonville with potato-herb croquettes and sweet-tea infused pork chops, plus a focus on locally grown, sustainably-farmed food.

2d Restaurant

2d restaurant transports people into their own comic universe using monochrome illusions.

Murasaki Chicago

Streeterville karaoke lounge is one of those hidden treasures you have to find on your own. You'll also find a major list of sake and Shochu cocktails, so if you need liquid courage to get on stage, they've got you covered.

Revival Food Hall

This massive collective from the team behind 16" On Center (Longman & Eagle, The Promontory, Punch House, Moneygun) plays up some of Chicago's top original concepts. Miniature versions of 15 restaurants are situated in a 24,000-square-foot marketplace called Revival Food Hall, which is on the ground floor of The National, a restoration of a historic 1907 Daniel Burnham-designed 20-story building.

Dusek's Board & Beer/Punch House

The team behind The Empty Bottle and Longman & Eagle have restored an old Pilsen opera house to its original state, but with contemporary updates. Originally named Thalia Hall, Dusek's Board & Beer and lower-level Punch House

The Drifter

There are many "secret" cocktail lounges in Chicago that regularly attract curious night-crawlers. There's The Office, the invite-only bar underneath The Aviary in the Warehouse District. You'll also find Booze Box below West Loop hot spot Sushi Dokku. And in River North, there is the titillating The Drifter, a sort of bumbling dive of a basement bar mixing booze and burlesque.

Wake n' Bacon

One of the newest restaurants in Chicago’s growing CBD-forward dining community, Wake n’ Bacon serves a breakfast, lunch and dinner (provided you eat early) of novel sweet and savory dishes.

Velvet Taco

Texas-based Velvet Taco is a globally inspired taqueria featuring chicken, vegetables, pork, seafood, and steak in unusual flavor combinations like buffalo chicken and Mediterranean calamari. Margaritas and rotisserie chicken round out the bi-level space at this Gold Coast locale.

Baylor Watermelons

Now in the third generation, the Baylor family has been hauling truckloads of fresh watermelons north from Southern farmers every summer since 1953. Seedless and sweeter seeded melons, red- and and sometimes yellow-fleshed, and they'll usually cut you a sample if you like.

Cabra Chicago

Famed chef Stephanie Izard has teamed up again with Boka Restaurant Group for this Peruvian-inspired rooftop restaurant at the Hoxton Chicago hotel.

Gallery Cabaret

Live performance shows and obnoxiously cheap drinks make this place a novelty.

Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink

From the team behind Headquarters Beercade comes this highly ambitious project combining global fare, high-concept cocktails and an in-house floral program.

Replay Beer & Bourbon Andersonville

Replay Beer & Bourbon boasts 24 of the finest craft beers on tap in Andersonville coupled with one of Chicago's largest whiskey and bourbon selection. The arcade-themed lounge is where adults can go to be kids again, and note that children are not allowed.

Matilda

Bar & restaurant serving New American pub grub made from scratch along with beer, wine & cocktails.

Phodega

Phodega is the seemingly inevitable union of a shop selling the immensely popular Southeast Asian soup, pho, and the Latin American bodega, or small grocery store, found in metro areas across the United States.

Kuma's Corner

Hard-rocking burger bar made its mark on the scene for its signature Kuma Burger, which is made with bacon, cheddar and topped with a fried egg. There are so many burgers from which to choose and most have a heavy metal theme, and named in honor of bands like Pantera and Iron Maiden.

CH Distillery

Chicago's first distillery/cocktail bar hybrid can be found in the West Loop. As guests sip on cocktails made with CH Distillery's own gin, vodka and whiskey, they will be able to watch as workers make the products.

Neo-Futurarium

"Theater that doesn't suck." The Neo-Futurists produce originals shows at this 150-seat theater over a funeral home, including their signature "Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind," an ever-changing performance of 30 plays in 60 minutes, which has been running since 1988.

Proxi

Through a fresh and innovative American lens, Proxi, a sister restaurant to Partner and Executive Chef Andrew Zimmerman’s Sepia, scours the most culinary-rich corners of the globe to inspire a menu that celebrates the bold flavors of multicultural street foods through pristine ingredients.

Lito's Empanadas

South American-inspired empanadas galore.

The Chopping Block Lincoln Square

The Chopping Block's claim to fame is that with proper instruction it can transform anyone into a gourmet cook. Classes vary and are seasonal, ranging from summer barbecue themes to flavorful vegan cuisine. Classes tend to be on the small side so that each student may get personal attention. Guests may also book private parties, and they also have occasional classes for kids. A second location is on the first level of the Merchandise Mart.

Annoyance Theatre & Bar

Edgy theater and improv, including The Annoyance's signature, long-running musical, "Coed Prison Sluts."

WhirlyBall

Everything from elevated bar fare and an impressive craft beer selection to laser tag, bowling, and whirlyball are present and accounted for at WhirlyBall's massive new Bucktown facility.

The Violet Hour

An obsession with customized ice, no cell phones and low-key sounds is this stylish speakeasy's claim to fame. Also its dedication to a well-crafted cocktail, whether classic or contemporary.

Real Kitchen - Uptown

Chef-driven prepared meals and a la minute sandwiches form the crux of the operations at this small, sunny storefront.

Terry's Toffee

People from all over--including Hollywood celebrities--crave the delicious, handcrafted toffees in a variety of flavors at Terry's. The Grand Avenue location is the original venue.

Diversey River Bowl

They're most famous for their rockin' light shows, fog machines and strobe lights as you bowl.

Pressure Billiards & Café

Contemporary pool hall & entertainment venue with live comedy, TVs, drinks & bar food.

Frontier

The guys behind Lottie's and the Pony Inn have opened a third location, featuring the down-home cooking of chef/partner Brian Jupiter.

Lula Cafe

Logan Square's hip destination for brunch, lunch and dinner continues to thrive even with an explosion of new restaurants opening around it. Chef/owner Jason Hammel specializes in a farm-to-table approach to dishes.

Finnigan's Ice Cream Parlor

Old-fashioned Americana sets the pace for this vintage ice cream parlor inside the Museum of Science and Industry.

Bang Bang Pie Shop

The Logan Square bakery specializes in pies with all fresh and all natural ingredients. The pies are made daily and are available whole or by the slice. Bang Bang also cranks out fresh biscuits daily, and there's a biscuit topping bar to accompany: black pepper honey butter, blueberry lavender jam, strawberry butter and chive butter are some of the flavors.

Schneider Deli

Schneider Deli, like many delis, has one menu and it's basically all about breakfast and lunch -- let's call it "brunch."

Green Mill

People come from all over to hear some of the best jazz around from local and traveling acts.

The Heavy Feather

Located upstairs from Logan Square's Slippery Slope, The Heavy Feather is a decidedly more subdued bar where the focus is squarely on the craft cocktail. The dimly lit, relaxed, and quite lounge features a lengthy bar focused on classic retro cocktails from the folks behind Scofflaw and Sink|Swim.

Gulliver's Pizzeria & Restaurant

Since 1965, Gulliver's has been serving North Siders an eclectic menu of legendary pizza and burgers, Mexican, Italian and other fare amid a dining room chockfull of antique lamps — 430 chandeliers! — leaded glass and sculpture.

R J Grunt's

Rich Melman and Jerry Orzoff launched the Lettuce Entertain You empire with this restaurant, back in 1971. Designed to feed hippies with the munchies,

Delilah's

You'll find no average white bands booming from the speakers of this unassuming watering hole that's famous for the largest bourbon selection in the Midwest.

Three Dots and a Dash

Three Dots and a Dash is a tropical retreat in the heart of River North. Its tiki theme, complete with a thatched roof over the main bar and rotating list of classic and original Polynesian cocktails, makes it one of the most popular lounges in the city.

Headquarters Beercade - River North

Arcade games are all grown up at this downtown outpost of Lakeview-based Headquarters Beercade, a nostalgic wonderland filled with video games, craft beer, cocktails, and upscale bar food.

Vol. 39

Overlooking the bustling foot traffic in the Financial District, Vol. 39 positions itself as an upscale cocktail lounge to wind down in after a hectic day at the office. Its vibe is meant to resemble a traditional law library, with plenty of leather-bound books throughout the space and low-slung leather chairs and banquettes on which to settle down.

Publican Anker

The third outpost for Publican is located in Wicker Park, only a few steps away from sister restaurants Big Star, Dove's Luncheonette and The Violet Hour. Publican Anker, however, offers a completely different menu from its predecessors, which includes a gourmet-style pub burger.

Cobra Lounge

This late-night, hard-rockin' cafe attracts biker boys and bankers.

Metropolis Coffee Company

Edgewater coffeehouse is best known for its superb java, which is roasted in small batches. You'll also find fresh pastries and sandwiches plus occasional live acts, from music to spoken-word events.

Off Site Bar

Off Site Bar, located behind Longman & Eagle, serves as a diminutive, casual watering hole filled with beer, cocktails, and snack plates.

Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles - Bronzeville

Patterned after Los Angeles' famed Roscoe's, this Bronzeville spot has made a name for itself for its signature fried chicken served with waffles.

Yococho

In a city like Chicago, it might seem like another Japanese restaurant is simply redundant; but Yococho is a Japanese restaurant with a difference.

Paradise Park Chicago

The owners of Homeslice and Happy Camper have opened yet another pizza-obsessed eatery. Paradise Park is located in Bucktown, only a few doors down from long-time pizza and craft beer joint Piece.

Twisted Spoke

COCKTAILS MADE BY A REAL MASTER COCKTOLOGIST

Homestead on the Roof

This is the fourth restaurant from Greg Mohr and Scott Weiner (The Fifty/50, West Town Bakery, Roots Pizza). The concept merges a farm-to-table approach with global cooking. The menus are seasonal. Former Boka Restaurant Group head bartender Benjamin Schiller has joined the team to make hand-crafted, signature cocktails.

The Sixth

Lincoln Square is the epitome of a great Chicago neighborhood, offering plenty of personality, charm and a number of notable dining and drinking establishments. But what was missing was the sort of craft cocktail lounge one would typically find in Logan Square, River North or the West Loop.

Longman & Eagle

The team behind the Empty Bottle in Ukrainian Village opened this whiskey-focused eatery in Logan Square in 2010. Longman & Eagle features re-imagined pub grub with a bold menu featuring wild game and generous portions. The craft cocktail and beer menus are also exceptional.

Fulton Market Kitchen

Aloha Poke Co.

Think of it as deconstructed sushi. Pokē is a Hawaiian-style sushi bowl brimming with raw fish, usually the likes of salmon and tuna. At Aloha Poke Co., the premise is to showcase all those favorite sushi ingredients, but much bigger.

Roister

It's safe to say that Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas own the corner at Fulton Market and Morgan Street. That's because they're behind four wildly successful establishments there: The Aviary, Next, The Office and 2016 newcomer Roister.

Old Town Ale House

Barflies--young, old and famous--come here for the cheap drinks and new friends.

Aloha Eats

Authentic Hawaiian cuisine is the bill of fare at this sunny Lincoln Park eatery. Macaroni salad, Spam, chicken katsu, barbecue beef, loco moco, and other Hawaiian delicacies are all present and accounted for.

Bombola

Bombola is yet another exotic restaurant offering from the Bonhomme Hospitality Group, joining their many fine dining and drinking establishments like Porto, Bordel, and Beatnik.

Wishbone - West Loop

Long before Randolph Restaurant Row came to be the West Loop's heralded culinary destination, Oprah Winfrey had put Wishbone on the map. The Southern-influenced restaurant

Publican Quality Meats

Just Turkey - Kenwood

Casual counter-serve space, part of a small chain, serving turkey-based burgers, "ribs" & barbecue.

Big Joe's

Old-school watering hole for beer & bar games including pool, darts & table-top turtle derby.

Spirit of Chicago Cruises

Cruise for cocktails, brunch, lunch or dinner coupled with live entertainment, DJs and wonderful Lake Michigan views. The Spirit cruises year-round. The four-story, 192-foot ship features three climate-controlled dining decks with three indoor bars, two dance floors and stage areas and panoramic windows.

The Burlington

Hipster lounge gets high marks for its cheap drinks and friendly crowd, but something this cool should have a 4 a.m. license.

Planta Queen

Planta is an upscale vegan restaurant on the near northside of Chicago, a neighborhood long home to many of the city's best steakhouses.

Big Kids

Chef Ryan Pfeiffer, formerly of the legendary and now shuttered Blackbird, is reaching back to the comfort foods of his childhood: sandwiches. Heads up: some of these sandwiches are rather unusual.

Lottie's Pub

Sketchy past no more, this Bucktown bar is a neighborhood favorite with the post-collegiate set.

Uncle Mike's Place

Open since the early 1990's, Uncle Mike's Place is a breakfast and lunch institution in West Town. The restaurant is renowned for its Filipino-accented American comfort food.

Todos Santos

Saint Lou's Assembly

We are a Midwestern take on a classic Meat N Three. Diners choose a main meat with three sides to accompany it.

Bub City

It's the 1990s all over again with the resurrection of Bub City, a country-themed BBQ joint owned by Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. This time around, LEYE chairman Rich Melman's children have updated the concept, which includes Three Dots and a Dash, an ambitious cocktail program and lower-level tiki lounge.

Up Down Cigar Shop

Building on 45 years dedicated to the passion for fine tobacco products, Up Down Cigar's high-end architecture, art and sculpture showcase an extensive selection of rare, premium cigars, pipes, humidors and accessories.

Pretty Cool Ice Cream

Pretty Cool Ice Cream is the handiwork of esteemed pastry chef Dana Cree, who developed a fan following for her ice creams while serving as pastry chef at The Publican restaurants.

Big Bite Sushi

Welcome to Big Bite Sushi, we hope you enjoy a Fresh & Flavorful Bite

Mario's Italian Lemonade

Saffron Street

Currently operating as a ghost kitchen, Saffron Street offers an exciting, contemporary twist on classic Indian dishes. It’s safe to say that at Saffron Street, you will sample traditional Indian foods in a way you never have before.

Park Tavern

This sports bar wants to elevate typical pub grub with offbeat offerings like Animal Tots (pulled pork, cheese curds, grain mustard, fried egg, and Bell’s Kalamazoo gravy over tater tots),

Sinha Elegant Cuisine

Epic Burger

Part of a local fast-service chain that uses natural & organic ingredients in its burgers & shakes.

Segnatore

The end of 2021 saw the opening of many Italian restaurants in Chicago; at the top of the new openings is Segnatore.

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Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining

Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining is one of the few places serving Cambodian food in the Midwest, and they do a wonderful job of it.

American Girl Cafe

Little girls dine with their dolls at this very special cafe catering to them. Meals include semi-formal, afternoon tea service and dinner, which can be made gluten-free.

Rhine Hall

Family-owned and operated fruit brandy distillery and cocktail bar in the Fulton Market district. Rhine Hall specializes in fruit brandies, also known as eau de vie or schnapps.

Nonnina

From the talented team behind Chicago’s acclaimed Piccolo Sogno comes Nonnina, featuring classic and modernized takes on beloved family recipes. Partners Tony Priolo and Ciro Longobardo brought in Executive Chef/Partner Chris Macchia and longtime Piccolo Sogno team member Ricardo Brizuela as General Manager/Partner.

Cerise

Bringing a dash of style and sex appeal to the once-sleepy after-hours scene in the Loop, Cerise is the energetic and vibrant rooftop bar perched atop the Virgin Hotels Chicago. The 26th floor haunt is bedecked in bright reds and mod design elements, with skyline views from three different vantage points. Order cocktails indoors or out, and snack on an abbreviated izakaya-inspired food menu by Rick Gresh.

Bambola

Bambola is a recent addition to the Bonhomme Hospitality Group's restaurant portfolio, joining others like Porto, Beatnik, Bordel, Disco and Celeste.

Old Irving Brewing Co.

What was originally envisioned as Crooked Fork Brewery by Homaro Cantu became Old Irving Brewing Co. in the wake of his death. Longtime Cantu friends and colleagues helped envision the far northwest side taproom, which features unique brews along with a bevy of equally original dishes.

Hopewell Brewing Company

Unpretentious, fresh, good beer is the bill of fare at Hopewell Brewing Company, a newcomer to Logan Square's booming brewery scene. Owned by three longtime friends (two of them now married), Hopewell is already making a name for itself with its polished and sunny space and it's impeccable roster of ever-changing seasonal brews.

Beatnik

Beatnik is a cocktail bar and restaurant that offers guests lush interiors, opulent décor and old-world elegance.

Ørkenoy

Ørkenoy in Humboldt Park is part of a new generation of Chicago restaurants: recently opened in the Kimball Arts Center, this artist-influenced casual operation opened in mid-September, 2020, with a carryout window and a dining area, the better to serve us all during the pandemic.

XOCO Bistro

Rick Bayless broadens his empire in Chicago with his second XOCO, bringing his torta-focused wares to Wicker Park with a larger location and expanded menu offerings.

Headquarters Beercade

Peoria Packing

Peoria Packing is a butcher shop, unlike other butcher shops. Completely no-frills and self-service, it's the place to go if you need a pig's head, a beef brisket or a pile of ribs. You put on plastic gloves and choose your own in the refrigerated warehouse. Not for the squeamish, but the prices can't be beat. A second room offers packaged groceries and deli items, also at good prices, and they'll make you a carryout sandwich, too.

Estelle's

Those on the prowl make their way to this late-night spot known for strong drinks and loud music.

Guinness Open Gate Brewery

Guinness Open Gate Brewery is where River North, West Loop and River West come together, and it's becoming the place where people from these uber-hip neighborhoods and all over Chicagoland come together to hoist a beverage and have a bite.

Jibek Jolu

Perhaps the only Kyrgyz restaurant in Chicago (Kyrgyzstan is a Russian-speaking country in Central Asia, thank you Wikipedia), Jibek Jolu serves traditional dishes like manty (meat dumplings) and lagman (noodles with meat and vegetables).

Schwa

Michael Carlson's acclaimed, tiny BYOB offers creative three- and nine-course degustation menus.

Lowcountry (South Loop)

Lowcountry provides a comfortable and backyard-like environment to embrace the culture of social gatherings around a seafood boil. Our inspiration originates from childhood memories of family road trips to the gulf coast, and digging into lowcountry style seafood in bags set on picnic tables. An experience we’ve longed to share with our friends. That day has arrived, and we’re excited for the opportunity to share this experience…

Ras Dashen

Casual spot featuring a traditional Ethiopian menu with both meat & vegetarian options & a full bar.

Orange Garden

A great neighborhood Chinese restaurant.

Phyllis' Musical Inn

Chicago's historical alternative/punk rock underground birthplace

Bordel

This esoteric speakeasy space above Black Bull takes its cue from NYC's PDT and Canelaria in Paris. While Bordel's a cocktail lounge on the highest level, it also incorporates live entertainment in the mix.

The Allis

Coffee shop by day, cocktail bar by night, The Allis is located in the Soho House lobby. It's one of only a handful of spaces on the property accessible to non-members, affording a chic lounge setting in which to host a business meeting, work remotely, or grab a cup of coffee in the morning. In the afternoon, the cafe offers high tea. And in the evening, it morphs into a hip cocktail bar.

Candyality

Bright, old-timey candy shop with bulk bins selling sweets from jelly beans to dark chocolate.

Misericordia Greenhouse Inn

American diner with a classic menu at the Misericordia home for developmentally disabled adults.

Daisies

Vegetables and pastas take the spotlight at Logan Square's inimitable Daisies, a family-run endeavor from chef Joe Frillman and co. The quaint, bustling restaurant features an ever-changing menu of handmade pastas, ranging in color and style from vivid beet agnolotti with smoked trout roe to black truffle ravioli with rhubarb and cured lamb.

Batter & Berries

Pro tip if you're planning to check out this popular Lincoln Park brunch, lunch and breakfast nook: Don't go if you're on a diet.

Green Door Tavern

What used to be a quiet, working-class tavern is now one of the area's favorite wind-down dens for its well-to-do neighbors.

Pick Me Up Cafe

Around-the-clock coffeehouse caters to Lakeview's lounge lizards.

Good Measure

So much more than just a bar, Good Measure serves not only wonderful cocktails but a highly inventive – and delicious – selection of food.

XO Marshmallow

Whimsical cafe serving gourmet marshmallows & related treats with a full array of coffee drinks.

Caffe Oliva

Caffe Oliva is a vacation in Chicago's backyard. Located right on Ohio Street Beach, in the shadows of Navy Pier and the city skyline, the restaurant specializes in elevated beach fare and tasty beverages.

Chicago French Market

The heart of the MetraMarket, Chicago French Market features a unique collection of more than 30 local vendors hand selected for their individual passions and high-quality products.

Gogi

GOGI is Chicago’s Korean Barbecue. Here, barbecue aficionados and culinary thrill-seekers become acquainted with the very finest meats and flavors. Picture the glow of burning charcoal right at your table, the sounds and aromas of sizzling juices all adding to the anticipation of what is about to hit your taste buds. This is the magic of GOGI, a truly beautiful and unique cultural experience.

John's Food & Wine

John's Food & Wine presents a somewhat different model of restaurant service: you walk in, you order at the counter, a host seats you and, according to the website, "From here, service is much like that of a traditional sit-down restaurant experience."

Debonair Social Club

Express your wildchild desires on the first-floor dancefloor, or get ready to go retro downstairs in a super-dark den.

Little Goat

Stephanie Izard's contemporary diner concept opened late December 2012. It's part of the BOKA Restaurant Group and includes artisan coffee and bread service

Loaf Lounge

Loaf Lounge in Avondale is a counter-service, casual place, serving up outstanding sandwiches and baked goods.

Blue Sky Bakery & Cafe

Not very often does eating baked goods make you feel good about yourself. But at this North Center bakery, purchasing a muffin, sandwich, brownie or scone means you're helping the at-risk youth who work there develop job skills. Run by the nonprofit association Blue Sky Inn, the bakery also offers catering and sells its goods at local farmers markets.

Howl at the Moon

Howl At The Moon is home to the World’s Greatest Rock ‘N’ Roll Dueling Piano Show! Our highly talented entertainers will tickle the ivories as well as your funny bones all night while playing the best music from the 70’s to today. We are the perfect spot to party: from Bachelorette parties to divorce parties, we do it all! Audience participation is a must at this dueling piano bar, so be ready to clap, sing, dance, and howl!

Touche

Chicago's leather bar since 1977.

Chicago's Dog House

This gourmet dog stop near DePaul University opened in summer 2009 and serves specialty sausages such as BBQ smoked duck, ribeye steak, alligator, rabbit as well as classic Vienna Beef franks. "Frips," house-made spiral-cut potato chips, are another specialty.

Wixter Market

A unique seafood market built for Chicago. Frozen at the peak of freshness. Smoked upon harvest. Tinned at the source.

Kitsch'n on Roscoe

Since 1998, Kitsch'n on Roscoe has featured a casual neighborhood-style space offering a full bar with a hip 70's "funk-ploitation" theme and too many tongue-in-cheek cultural decor references to mention.

Ramova Grill & Taproom

The original Ramova Grill opened in 1929; in 2012,it closed; in 2024, it was reborn as Ramova Grill & Taproom.

The Publican

This homage to beer, pork and fish from chefs Paul Kahan and Brian Huston proffers hand-selected, sustainably harvested fish and seafood as well as

Mr. Brown's Lounge - Loop

Reggae tunes, a subtle island vibe and authentic yet affordable Jamaican cuisine is served up in two locations in West Town and the Loop. The downtown location, opened in 2015, is housed next to the Hard Rock Hotel.

Seoul Taco

What started as a food truck in St. Louis has grown to include multiple brick and mortar locations throughout the Midwest, including the inaugural Chicago outpost in River North. Korean and Mexican fusion is the bill of fare, featured in tacos, burritos, bowls and more.

Lilac Tiger

Lilac Tiger in Wicker Park looks like a dive bar, but it's actually a cool new South Asian restaurant.

Herb

Herb is Thai food redefined for an audience that demands quality ingredients and a caveat of health in their adventures of haute cuisine.

Porto

Bonhomme Hospitality Group partner Daniel Alejandro Alonso goes back to his roots with a Spanish-inspired, seafood-focused eatery. Porto pays homage to fishing villages and rural hamlets along the Atlantic Coast of Portugal and Galicia. It aims to showcase the wine, fish and conservas (gourmet tinned seafood) from this region.

Parson's Chicken & Fish

The team behind such hits as Cherry Circle Room, Cindy's and Lost Lake take on fried chicken in this sprawling space in Logan Square.

Carol's Pub

Honky-tonk bar featuring live country-western music, line dancing & karaoke since 1973.

Gretel

Gretel, a name that conjures a fairytale from our collective childhoods, offers the kind of comfort food designed to make you feel good in even the worst of times.

Manny's Coffee Shop & Deli - South Loop

Even Barack Obama eats at Manny's! This venerable cafeteria has been serving big corned-beef sandwiches and hearty entrees since 1942.

Carnivale

A venue this big, vibrant and full of energy deserves a fitting menu. Carnivale spotlights the cuisine of many countries in South America and there's an exotic cocktail list to complement.

Emporium Arcade Bar - Logan Square

Emporium boasts two locations, plus two additional outposts arriving soon in the Fulton Market District and San Francisco.

Elizabeth

This "tickets only" restaurant is owned by Iliana Regan, a talented, self-taught chef who gained a solid following after hosting a number of underground dinners at her North Side home.

High Five Ramen

High Five Ramen is a cozy, low light, and friendly restaurant and bar, downstairs of Green Street Smoked meats, specializing in one thing: ramen.

Kung Fu Tea

Bubble tea culture takes the stage at this bubbly, energetic, and colorful Chinatown tea cafe.

RM Champagne Salon

The glamorous space serves as one of the highlights of the Randolph Restaurant Row, and spotlights many vintage and boutique Champagnes and sparkling wines. Owned by the team behind

Marshall's Landing

Located atop the Grand Stair on the 2nd floor of Chicago’s iconic Merchandise Mart, Marshall’s Landing is theMART's center of gravity for gathering, socializing, eating, drinking, noshing, caffeinating and working.

Weegee's Lounge

Get your fill of nostalgic nightlife at this unpretentious bar specializing in classic cocktails like sloe gin fizz, Manhattan or gin martinis.

Fox Bar

Hidden away on the mezzanine level of Soho House Chicago, Fox Bar is a cozy hideaway with an ever-changing roster of seasonal, intricate cocktails. Located alongside Chicken & Farm Shop, the intimate and nondescript nook boasts a rustic, woodsy motif with chic furnishings and stylish decor befitting the ethos of the London-based hotel and members' club.

Chris's Billiards

Martin Scorsese filmed "The Color of Money" at this rough-around-the-edges watering hole.

Masada

From the folks behind Sultan's Market comes this palatial Middle Eastern restaurant and bar. Masada spans multiple floors and dining rooms to give Logan Square a glamorous taste of Middle Eastern dining and drinking.

Dorian's

It was great to relive our younger years with Saved By The Max - Saved By The Bell Pop Up Shop Diner & Bar, the kitschy Wicker Park sensation that has since moved on to a permanent space in West Hollywood. But now it’s time to grow up again—especially those of us who watched the show in its prime—as the owners have created a more sophisticated establishment in its space.

The Native

This casual boozy addition to Logan Square's thriving bar scene fills the space vacated by the beloved Bonny's. Keeping things frills-free and fun, The Native is a comfortable watering hole with craft beer (and cheap beer), imaginative cocktails, music and shuffleboard.

Red Apple / Czerwone Jabluszko - Norwood Park

Low-key buffet-style eatery serving Polish specialties. Carryout available by the pound.

Chicago Magic Lounge

Upon entering Chicago Magic Lounge, guests are greeted by a small room filled with “active” laundry machines which concealed a hidden door.

Roots Handmade Pizza

The guys behind The Fifty/50 open their second restaurant in the same neighborhood. This time the specialty is Quad Cities-style hand-tossed pizza that utilizes simple, high-quality ingredients.

Animale

Restaurateur Aldo Zaninotto has found much success in Osteria Langhe, his Piemonte region-inspired eatery in Logan Square. So it makes sense to open a sequel, and he does so with Animale, which is situated in Bucktown.

Izakaya Mita

Izakaya Mita is a restaurant in Bucktown that exhibits a Japanese-American take on this traditional Japanese “Pub” concept. This family-run restaurant features Japanese plates and an ample selection of sake in a cozy dining room setting.

Girl and the Goat

"Top Chef" winner Stephanie Izard teamed up with restaurateurs Kevin Boehm and Rob Katz to open a casual yet trendy eatery in the West Loop in July 2010.

Hull-House Kitchen: Re-thinking Soup

Weekly on Tuesdays, the historic Hull House hosts a pay-what-you-can lunch of homemade soup and organic bread with discussion of sustainable agriculture and nutrition. The third tuesday of every month features the "Soup Soap Box," with an open-mike opportunity to share projects, opinions, and visions for the future of food. The program takes a hiatus now and then, so check before planning to attend.

Punch Bowl Social - West Loop

Punch Bowl Social cultivates an eclectic approach to the new concept of "eat-ertainment." In a design-forward environment described as “dirty modern,” Punch Bowl Social effectively combines a diner-inspired scratch-kitchen, craft beverages, and classic parlor-style entertainment that will turn your date night into a shuffleboard showdown and your bowling buds into chicken ‘n’ waffle connoisseurs.

Bongo Room - Wicker Park

The original breakfast concept opened July 4, 1993, and hasn't slowed down since. Crowds line up outside for up to an hour for offbeat breakfast and brunch items of pancakes, waffles and sandwiches. Some of the original items are still on the menu: the breakfast burrito, croissant sandwich and vegetarian croissant sandwich.

Chef's Special Cocktail Bar

Bucktown's Chef's Special Cocktail Bar is a Chinese American throwback, serving up excellent renditions of American-influenced Chinese food and some truly excpetional cocktails.

Susie's Drive-Thru

Tiny counter-serve stand serving burgers, hot dogs, subs & a vast milkshake menu.

Paulie Gee's Logan Square

The Logan Square location for Paulie Gee's is one of four outposts for the small chain; it's also in Baltimore, Md.; Columbus, Ohio; and Brooklyn.

Goose Island Salt Shed Pub

A brewpub with a riverfront patio sounds like a place that will make a lot of Chicagoans happy.

Fort Willow

Indigenous flavors and spices converge at Fort Willow; a journey for the senses set amid the nostalgia of a reimagined childhood tree fort.

Pleasant House Pub

Specializing in savory meat pies for dine-in or carry out, this cafe by day and pub by night also offers daily specials, desserts

Jook Sing

Jook Sing is a West Town bar and restaurant inspired by the night markets of Southeast Asian countries like China, Korea, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Smoque BBQ

Smoque BBQ proffers baby-back pork ribs, St. Louis-style spare ribs, pulled pork shoulder, chopped and sliced beef brisket and chicken, all slow smoked with apple and oak wood, and available in sandwiches, a la carte and in platters. The Smoque style harkens to Missouri, Texas and the South without quite matching any specific region.

Dollop Coffee & Tea

The friendly neighborhood atmosphere of this local coffeehouse encourages guests to stay as long as they'd like. They also specialize in showcasing local artisans coffee, tea and pastries.

Ba Le Sandwich Shop & Bakery

In Uptown since 1989, Ba Le moved to a new location next door in spring 2010. The counter-service Vietnamese restaurant still serves its popular bahn mi sandwiches

Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch/Chicago Sports Museum

This Harry Caray's location sets itself apart from the others--and it's not just because it's located on the seventh floor of Water Tower Place. Half of the venue is dedicated to the Chicago Sports Museum-

Hidden Cove

Karaoke, game nights and other activities make this neighborhood spot a great place to meet new friends.

Hoosier Mama Pie Company

Artisan pies are made daily at this tiny shop in Ukrainian Village. You can order them by the slice or whole, plus there is a nice selection of ever-changing sweet and savory pies.

Parrot Cage - Washburne Culinary Institute

Elegant eatery serving creative American cuisine by students from the Washburne Culinary Institute.

DMK Burger Bar

Michael Kornick and David Morton's eco-friendly eatery features a number of chef-driven burgers made with grass-fed beef, naturally raised turkey and veggie patties promising to actually taste good.

Strings Ramen

Strings Ramen Shop -- the first of its kind in Chicago, brings a piece of authentic Japanese culture and culinary tradition to the heart of Chicago.

SPiN

By combining an unusual mixture of sport, design and entertainment, SPiN CHiCAGO has created a unique day and nighttime venue with 20 ping-pong courts, multiple bars, restaurant, pro-shop and two private lounges. SPiN is open to anyone and everyone during the day and 21+ after 9pm.

Big Star

Bustling and bursting with energy, bourbon, beer and tacos, Big Star in Wicker Park is one of the all-star restaurants operated by Chicago Chef Paul Kahan (Blackbird, Publican, and others) and the One Off Hospitality Group.

Timber Lanes Bowling Center

With increased entertainment options and flashy electronic effects taking over, it’s often difficult to find a classic bowling alley where the main focus is actually the action on the lanes.

Big Star Mariscos

Big Star Mariscos joins other One Off Hospitality restaurants and bars -- including The Publican and Violet Hour -- specializing in South of the Border seafood.

McDonald's 50th Anniversary Restaurant

This supersized McDonald's was built in 2005 to honor the chain's 50th anniversary. The 24,000-square-foot, two-story fast-food emporium boasts 60-foot Golden Arches. The interior features a premium coffee bar, historic memorabilia, upscale contemporary furniture, plasma TVs and skyline views.

Dark Matter Coffee

The original flagship coffee bar was located above Star Lounge, but now Dark Matter Coffee has a new home a few blocks away on Western Avenue.

Millie's Supper Club

Thanks to a long-term love affair born during summer trips to the Northwoods, a real Wisconsin style supper club has opened in the city of Chicago. Owner Brian Reynolds is the man smitten by supper clubs and he is excited to have opened his own -- Millie's Supper Club. It is named for his grandmother, who introduced Reynolds to many of the iconic Supper Clubs throughout Wisconsin as he was growing up.

Chicken & Farm Shop

Rotisserie chicken is the name of the game at the first U.S. outpost of this London-based restaurant, which serves as one of the four public spaces inside Soho House Chicago.

Antique Taco

This charming, Mexican-focused restaurant in Wicker Park highlights a number of tacos, along with horchata milkshakes, vibrant salads, fried cheese curds, and more.

Flo Cafe & Bar

Perennial neighborhood favorite Flo anchored West Town's Chicago Avenue strip long before it became fashionable. Traditional Mexican dishes are amped up with contemporary American accents.

Odyssey Cruises

Cruise for cocktails, brunch, lunch or dinner coupled with live entertainment, DJs and wonderful Lake Michigan views. The 700-passenger ship, the largest cruise vessel on Lake Michigan, is 200 feet ong and 55 feet high,

Starfruit Cafe - West Town

This lively cafe offers delicious and healthful frozen kefir, a tangy, yogurtlike treat, with fruit or a variety of toppings, as well as kefir-based parfaits and smoothies.

Salero

Modern Spanish cuisine is re-interpreted at the sparkling Salero by the team behind popular Lakeview eatery Wood. Guests will find an extensive selection of pinxtos--the Basque region's equivalent of tapas--plus sherry, Spanish wines, gins, sangria and more behind the bar.

5411 Empanadas - Wicker Park

What started as an Argentine food truck focused on empanadas has evolved into a mini Chicago empire of South American flavors. Following the success of its Lincoln Park storefront, 5411 Empanadas has expanded with a larger, more late-night space in Wicker Park.

Café Ba-Ba-Reeba

Chicago's first tapas bar is still going strong. Drop in for sherry and a pre-theater nibble at happy hour or stay for a wide variety of tapas or larger meals, including paella. A variety of special events, such as flamenco dancing and art talks, feature regularly.

Elske

The year 2017 was big for culinary couple David and Anna Posey, who opened Elske to a barrage of accolades. The restaurant is situated in the West Loop and pays homage to the couple's Danish heritage.

Ras Dashen

Casual spot featuring a traditional Ethiopian menu with both meat & vegetarian options & a full bar.

Summer House Santa Monica

A popular brunch destination for those who work and/or live in Lincoln Park, Summer House Santa Monica is adjacent to Stella Barra Pizzeria. Both are owned by Lettuce Entertain You, and the original Summer House Santa Monica opened in Southern California.

Milt's Barbecue for the Perplexed

The only kosher restaurant in Lakeview, Milt’s, opened in January 2013, nourishes the body and the mind with house-smoked beef and chicken and regular speakers on politics, history, spirituality, humor and more. There's a full bar, too. Kosher supervision by cRc.

Kimski

Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar used to run a Monday night special for its patrons during the Summer months. This Ko Po BBQ (Korean Polish Barbecue) centered around the perfect marriage of Polish sausages and krautchi (kimchi+sauerkraut).

The Whistler

Logan Square continues its goal of becoming one of Chicago's "coolest neighborhoods" with this nightlife option certain to please those barflies fed up with trendy Wicker Park bars. This Speakeasy-style spot is similar to Wicker Park's Violet Hour, without the hype, and all about hand-crafted cocktails.

Duck Duck Goat

Before celebrity chef Stephanie Izard opened her third restaurant, she extensively traveled throughout China so she could properly pay homage to one of her favorite cuisines. The executive chef/partner of Girl and the Goat and Little Goat had already found much success in her previous projects with the Boka Restaurant Group, so she already had a built-in audience.

Tack Room

Drawing inspiration from the 1890’s, when every local Czech tavern owner had a carriage house, John Dusek had one of his own at Thalia Hall.

Wazwan

Wazwan bills itself as serving "South Asian street food," but don't expect to be served food in a rolled-up newspaper or a paper cup.

Mi Tocaya Antojeria

Mi Tocaya Antojería is a neighborhood Mexican restaurant serving traditional Mexican style antojos.

Super Fat Rice Mart

The award-winning Fat Rice from Abraham Conlon and Adrienne Lo has transformed permanently into Super Fat Rice Mart, which offers Portuguese and Asian specialties.

Fish Bar

The guys behind DMK Burger Bar have opened a seafood-focused eatery adjacent to DMK. The market-price Maine lobster roll and oyster po' boy sandwich are the stars of the menu at Fish Bar.

Jennivee's Bakery

Late-night hours, cakes by the slice, Filipino flavors and a distinctly LGBTQ-friendly business focus are a few of the aspects that set this Lakeview/Wrigleyville sweets shop apart from the pack. Owned by (and named for) Filipino native Jennifer Vailoces, the unique bakery spotlights cakes and pastries inspired by ingredients from around the world.

Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club

Kit Kat offers a well-crafted menu of American cuisine and more than 70 cocktail choices, but the reason to head to this Boys Town spot is the entertainment.

Protein Bar

The second location of the fast and healthy food option opens in River North. It has a cult following and offers customizable high-protein blended drinks, bowls, fresh-made chili, wraps salads, and the signature PROTEIN BAR-RITOs.

Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter

Belgians, known best for beer, chocolate and fries served in a cone, apparently have another specialty: bread. This Gold Coast bakery specializes in freshly baked breads, croissants and muffins--some with chocolate in them. Wash down your pastries with a cup of strong Belgian coffee.

Nando's Peri-Peri

This South African based chain of rotisserie chicken restaurants has taken Chicago by storm, starting with an outpost in the West Loop, followed by others in the Loop, Streeterville, Lincoln Park, and beyond. Flame-grilled poultry is in abundance, along with other eclectic sides and drinks.

Empty Bottle

This no-frills, neighborhood rock bar also gets a healthy dose of local experimental jazz and hip-hop acts.

Wellfleet | The Fishguy Market

Bill "The Fishguy" Dugan offers fresh catch, smoked seafood, caviar and select seasonal produce and gourmet items at this retail store. The store also contains Wellfleet, a restaurant serving items like fish tacos, a Kobe beef burger, and the celebrated lobster roll, and offers regular cooking and sushi-making classes.

Dylan's Candy Bar

Chicago gets a major dose of sugar with the opening of this New York City-based candy wonderland. Since opening in 2001 with its first location, founder Dylan Lauren has been on a mission to bring colorful,

The Halal Guys

What originated in New York City as a street cart has caught fire and expanded across the country in brick and mortar form. The first Chicago outpost, this Gold Coast location serves up casual Middle Eastern food on the cheap, featuring The Halal Guys' famed formula of chicken, gyro, and falafel.

Savannah Luncheonette

Bucktown’s Savannah Luncheonette is a perfect place for relaxing cocktails and comfort food, so leave your fancy pants at home and enjoy this laid-back restaurant with some creative beverages – as well as old standbys like Miller High Life beer – and food that just might remind you of mom's home cooking..

Mystic Blue Cruises

Mystic Blue offers an open-air observation deck and three enclosed decks with the largest picture windows of any dinner boat on Lake Michigan, plus contemporary decor with sleek, silvery-blue interiors, interactive DJs, ample buffets and views from every table.

Frank's

Named after Sinatra, don't expect a cool swingin' crowd as the later it gets, the characters come out to play.

HotHouse

HotHouse is an award winning nfp org. founded in 1987- currently developing a new cultural center while presenting a range of multiarts programs

Lincoln Tap Room

The Lincoln Tap room is an original Chicago bar located in Lincoln Park. Awesome everyday drink specials and the BEST party package prices in Chicago. Also Chicago's #1 Pittsburgh Steelers bar.

GoodFunk

Goodfunk is the latest offering from Bonhomme Hospitality, which also brought to Chicago signature dining and drinking establishments like Porto, Bambola, Kashmir and Coquette.

Wiener's Circle

By day, The Weiner's Circle is a routine hot dog stand, known for chardogs, charburgers and cheese fries, but late at night on the weekend, after the bars close, it becomes a raucous madhouse where the staff and customers hurl abuse at each other.