Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

The West Loop outpost of this pizza bar is just a few blocks away from the United Center. Bring your crew or ride solo, but either way, definitely order a hot honey soppressata pie. The late-night menu, available after United Center events, features plenty of pizzas, wings, calamari and more. Be sure to take advantage of Ranalli's free shuttle to and from the United Center.

Johnnie’s Beef is an institution for a reason. Since 1961, the Elmwood Park stand has been the benchmark for Italian beef. There’s no gimmick here, just a classic Chicago sandwich done exceptionally well. Located beyond city limits, this longtime icon is worth the trek. The vibe: Johnnie’s is as no-frills as it gets. The line often stretches outside, but it moves quickly. There are a few outdoor tables and a standing-height counter inside for eating. Most people grab their food and go. The food: You’re here for one thing: Italian beef. The thinly sliced beef is piled onto soft French bread and dunked in rich jus. Order it juicy with sweet peppers or giardiniera for the full experience. The beef-and-sausage combo lets you enjoy both Chicago classics in one messy, satisfying sandwich. The fries are crisp and make a fine complement to the main attraction. Finish with the homemade lemon Italian ice for a tart, refreshing contrast. The drinks: Grab a soda or chocolate shake to wash down the savory bites. Time Out tip: Stop at an ATM beforehand as it’s cash only.

Zubair Mohajir takes diners on a journey through the historic spice routes, drawing from South Asian, Middle Eastern, North African and Mediterranean influences. Wood-fire cooking serves as the through line, keeping the ambitious menu focused while letting the ingredients shine. The vibe: The intimate 44-seat dining room is warm and moody, featuring exposed brick, earthy tones and arched walls that nod to the Middle East and Andalusia. The open kitchen adds a lively backdrop to the meal. The food: Start with the thaali, a spread of fire-roasted dips accompanied by papadum and focaccia. From there, share items like Bicol-style mussels and beef cheek nihari with black garlic naan. The centerpiece is the duck Numidian, a whole roasted duck based on a nearly 1,000-year-old North African recipe, complemented by confit duck rice. It’s the standout you shouldn’t miss. The drinks: The cocktails incorporate distinctive flavors and ingredients like saffron, za'atar and cardamom, offering a spice-forward twist. The concise wine list spans regions across the globe. Time Out tip: Keep the night going with a post-dinner drink at Bobo, the cocktail bar tucked behind Muhājir.

Remember the bridge-jumping scene in Blues Brothers? It happened right next to Calumet Fisheries. The best way to get there is to drive—mostly because your car will double as your table when you leave with your bounty. One of the state's few remaining smokehouses, Calumet smokes all of its own seafood in-house using only natural wood.  The vibe: This smoke shack was born when the steel industry was thriving and the area was populated by hungry day laborers. The food: Set at the base of the famous Blues Brothers bridge, this little white box brings in customers from all around for smoked shrimp, trout and sable, which are always available.  The drinks: A tiny selection of pops, iced tea and bottled water is on offer. Time Out tip: You’ll see folks sitting in their cars eating their picks out of paper bags, a quintessential part of the experience. You'd be wise to do the same.

One of Chicago’s buzziest bakeries in recent years, Del Sur is well worth planning your morning around. Chef and owner Justin Lerias brings Filipino flavors to thoughtfully crafted pastries made with Midwestern ingredients, resulting in a lineup that’s far more interesting than your standard croissants and muffins. The vibe: The compact Lincoln Square shop has a sleek, modern look. It’s mainly a grab-and-go operation, so don’t expect to linger. The line can stretch during busy weekend mornings, but the friendly staff keeps things moving without making you feel rushed. The food: The longanisa croissant is a must-order, a flaky, toasted-rice laminated dough with house-made sausage, soy caramel, and cured egg yolk. The turon Danish, filled with caramelized banana jam and vanilla flan, channels the flavors of the classic Filipino snack, while the calamansi chamomile bun packs a bright citrus punch. The drinks: Coffee comes from local roasters, and Volition Tea supplies the teas. House-made syrups like salted pandan, ube and caramelized honey add a distinctive Southeast Asian touch to the drink menu. Time Out tip: Get there early—especially on weekends when waits can exceed 45 minutes and popular pastries tend to sell out quickly.

Whether it's the extensive beverage program, the lively patio, or the beloved burger, there's a lot to love about Little Bad Wolf. The Andersonville spot is regularly packed and is home to one of the neighborhood's hottest patios.     The vibe: The space is elevated yet approachable, making it an ideal spot for date night or a solo evening at the bar. Head to the patio during the warmer months for the ideal dining experience.  The food: The Wolf Burger (three patties, bacon, American cheese, fried onion straws, housemade pickles, red-onion mayo, fried egg) is a standout. The only thing better than the Wolf Burger is a Wolf Burger paired with mac and cheese. It's rich, gooey and topped with honey-cured bacon, scallions and toasted breadcrumbs. There's also a selection of bao buns stuffed with fillings like pork, steak and duck. The drinks: The beverage program features an extensive selection of craft beers, cocktails and wine. Seasonal favorites include the warmed Wolf's Tail (tea-infused bourbon, Allspice Dram, housemade cinnamon syrup, lime and Angostura) and Diamonds and Rust (gin, Fernet Branca, housemade peppercorn syrup and lemon).  Time Out tip: Little Bad Wolf does not take reservations, so prepare to wait for a table if it's busy.

Nadu takes diners on a tour of India with a menu spanning cuisines from Kerala and Goa to Kolkata and Karnataka. Chefs Sujan Sarkar and Sanchit Sahu keep the focus on traditional flavors and techniques, presenting familiar dishes alongside less commonly seen regional specialties. The vibe: The dining room is colorful and lively, sporting bold artwork and glass chandeliers. It’s polished without feeling overly formal, making it equally suited to a casual dinner or a special occasion. The food: Start with the dahi bhalla, soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, or the fluffy benne masala dosa served with coconut and tomato chutneys. The king prawn cashew ghee roast is another winner, featuring plump prawns coated in a rich masala that's packed with spices. For a larger option, the showstopping whole Dungeness crab is a hands-on feast. The menu changes often, but its emphasis on regional cooking remains a constant. The drinks: The cocktail list is rooted in Indian influences, highlighting ingredients and spices like roasted cumin, turmeric and clarified masala chai. Time Out tip: Vegetarians have plenty to choose from, with a dedicated selection of meat-free small and large plates.

Chicago is home to a number of fine dining experiences, but few are able to match two Michelin-starred Oriole’s deft execution. The door in the back alley is relatively unmarked, as if the restaurant knows it’s worth seeking out. And it’s not wrong. The vibe: Upon arrival, guests are escorted into a freight elevator and given a drink before the door opens to reveal the dining room. Though there’s no telling what chef Noah Sandoval has in store each evening, you can look forward to a minimalist style of cooking that puts the spotlight squarely on the premium ingredients. The food: We can’t fault a single dish in the tasting menu, but past favorites have included the capellini, the caviar and the croissant. Bites like Hokkaido uni with tiger prawn, morita chili and maple, and Maine lobster with almond milk and geranium custard, black lime, fig leaf and tangerine lace are also fan favorites. The drinks: If you’re already in for a meal at Oriole, it would be a shame not to go the extra step and opt for the drink pairing. McManus is an expert in his field and makes sure that every dish is perfectly complemented, running the gamut from beer to wine to cocktails. Time Out tip: The first choice you’ll make when that napkin is safely in your lap is whether or not to take the drink pairing with the $325 tasting menu (you should—it’s perfect); the last choice you’ll make is if you want tea or coffee when it’s all done (you want that too—you’ll want to savor every moment you can at...

At LIA Tavern, the food is almost as captivating as the art on the walls. Chef and owner Justin Viacuinas reinvents the menu every few months when he brings in a new resident artist. During each residency, the artist's work is displayed throughout the space, and select dishes are inspired, and sometimes even replicate, the works themselves (previous highlights include the Warhol Martini, which is served in a Campbell's Soup Can, inspired by artist Joey Africa's vibrant work depicting the same can). The vibe: A modern, pop-art-inspired spot in River North accented by a rotating selection of vibrant artwork and Viacuinas' own massive painting, which is one of the city's largest, behind the bar. The food: Tavern-style pizzas, pastas and mains like roasted seabass and Cajun roasted chicken are equally approachable and elevated. The drinks: Many drawing inspiration from artworks, inventive cocktails include the Jackson Paint Can (mezcal, bourbon, orange liqueur, ginger, plum and citrus), which is served in an actual paint can, and a Malört Negroni. Time Out tip: The atmosphere here is fun, and during the warmer months, massive windows open for an indoor/outdoor vibe. This is a great spot for River North workers to come for happy hour or for a special occasion outing.

As its name suggests, fresh seafood gets the spotlight at this lively Pilsen spot. With a wood-fired oven anchoring the space, the team puts a chef-driven spin on Mexican coastal cuisine, turning out pristine tostadas, aguachiles and other seafood specialties. It’s an ideal spot for dinner before a show at Thalia Hall, but the food is reason enough to make the trip on its own. The vibe: The space strikes a balance between polished and relaxed, and is suited for a leisurely dinner or drinks and bites at the bar. The food: The tuna tostada, layered with black garlic aioli, salsa macha, avocado and citrus, is a must-try appetizer. So are the crab rangoon empanadas, which combine creamy crab filling with a crisp, golden shell. The octopus Sonoran dog is one of the most creative items on the menu, a bacon-wrapped tentacle on a buttery bun with black beans, pico de gallo and salsa macha. For a larger main, the whole dorade is grilled until the skin is crisp and the flesh stays tender. It’s served with salsas and tortillas for making your own tacos. The drink: A small selection of beer and wine complements cocktails centered on agave spirits, such as the La Fresona, a spicy-sweet mix of tequila, jalapeño, strawberry and Ancho Reyes. Time Out tip: After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at Tack Room, the piano lounge inside Thalia Hall.

We've rounded up the best chefs in the city to join us at Time Out Market Chicago, a culinary and cultural destination in the heart of Fulton Market. The 50,000-square-foot space houses more than 15 kitchens, three bars and one drop-dead gorgeous rooftop terrace—all spread across three floors. Our mission is simple: Bring Time Out Chicago to life with the help of our favorite chefs, the ones who wow us again and again. You'll find delicious dumplings from Qing Xiang Yuan, mouthwatering burgers at Gutenburg, fried chicken from Art Smith's Sporty Bird and extravagant milkshakes from JoJo's shakeBAR. If you're thirsty, sit down at one of the Market's bars to enjoy a menu of local beer, a robust wine list or a creative seasonal cocktail. And keep an eye out for events, concerts and artwork within the Market throughout the year—we're keeping our calendar packed with things to do.

Johnnie’s Beef is an institution for a reason. Since 1961, the Elmwood Park stand has been the benchmark for Italian beef. There’s no gimmick here, just a classic Chicago sandwich done exceptionally well. Located beyond city limits, this longtime icon is worth the trek. The vibe: Johnnie’s is as no-frills as it gets. The line often stretches outside, but it moves quickly. There are a few outdoor tables and a standing-height counter inside for eating. Most people grab their food and go. The food: You’re here for one thing: Italian beef. The thinly sliced beef is piled onto soft French bread and dunked in rich jus. Order it juicy with sweet peppers or giardiniera for the full experience. The beef-and-sausage combo lets you enjoy both Chicago classics in one messy, satisfying sandwich. The fries are crisp and make a fine complement to the main attraction. Finish with the homemade lemon Italian ice for a tart, refreshing contrast. The drinks: Grab a soda or chocolate shake to wash down the savory bites. Time Out tip: Stop at an ATM beforehand as it’s cash only.

The West Loop outpost of this pizza bar is just a few blocks away from the United Center. Bring your crew or ride solo, but either way, definitely order a hot honey soppressata pie. The late-night menu, available after United Center events, features plenty of pizzas, wings, calamari and more. Be sure to take advantage of Ranalli's free shuttle to and from the United Center.

Zubair Mohajir takes diners on a journey through the historic spice routes, drawing from South Asian, Middle Eastern, North African and Mediterranean influences. Wood-fire cooking serves as the through line, keeping the ambitious menu focused while letting the ingredients shine. The vibe: The intimate 44-seat dining room is warm and moody, featuring exposed brick, earthy tones and arched walls that nod to the Middle East and Andalusia. The open kitchen adds a lively backdrop to the meal. The food: Start with the thaali, a spread of fire-roasted dips accompanied by papadum and focaccia. From there, share items like Bicol-style mussels and beef cheek nihari with black garlic naan. The centerpiece is the duck Numidian, a whole roasted duck based on a nearly 1,000-year-old North African recipe, complemented by confit duck rice. It’s the standout you shouldn’t miss. The drinks: The cocktails incorporate distinctive flavors and ingredients like saffron, za'atar and cardamom, offering a spice-forward twist. The concise wine list spans regions across the globe. Time Out tip: Keep the night going with a post-dinner drink at Bobo, the cocktail bar tucked behind Muhājir.

Opened in 1986, Chiu Quon is an old-school Chinese bakery that’s wonderfully unfussy. The Chinatown shop’s display cases are filled with a variety of baked goods, drawing a steady stream of customers from morning to night. It’s a dependable neighborhood spot where you can grab a satisfying meal without spending much. The vibe: The interior is clean and contemporary, but decidedly no-frills. The line moves quickly, so you’ll be in and out in no time. The food: The bakery specializes in Hong Kong-style pastries, with the barbecue pork buns being the main attraction. Portuguese egg tarts, featuring flaky pastry encasing a brûléed, creamy custard, are another standout, while sesame balls and pineapple buns are also worth adding to your order. The selection can vary throughout the day as everything is made fresh. For savory options, Chiu Quon offers traditional dim sum bites like shumai, rice noodle rolls and chicken feet. The drinks: The fridges are stocked with water, sodas, juices and more, and they serve coffee as well. Time Out tip: It’s cash-only, but there’s an ATM inside if you forget to bring bills.

Remember the bridge-jumping scene in Blues Brothers? It happened right next to Calumet Fisheries. The best way to get there is to drive—mostly because your car will double as your table when you leave with your bounty. One of the state's few remaining smokehouses, Calumet smokes all of its own seafood in-house using only natural wood.  The vibe: This smoke shack was born when the steel industry was thriving and the area was populated by hungry day laborers. The food: Set at the base of the famous Blues Brothers bridge, this little white box brings in customers from all around for smoked shrimp, trout and sable, which are always available.  The drinks: A tiny selection of pops, iced tea and bottled water is on offer. Time Out tip: You’ll see folks sitting in their cars eating their picks out of paper bags, a quintessential part of the experience. You'd be wise to do the same.

Nadu takes diners on a tour of India with a menu spanning cuisines from Kerala and Goa to Kolkata and Karnataka. Chefs Sujan Sarkar and Sanchit Sahu keep the focus on traditional flavors and techniques, presenting familiar dishes alongside less commonly seen regional specialties. The vibe: The dining room is colorful and lively, sporting bold artwork and glass chandeliers. It’s polished without feeling overly formal, making it equally suited to a casual dinner or a special occasion. The food: Start with the dahi bhalla, soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, or the fluffy benne masala dosa served with coconut and tomato chutneys. The king prawn cashew ghee roast is another winner, featuring plump prawns coated in a rich masala that's packed with spices. For a larger option, the showstopping whole Dungeness crab is a hands-on feast. The menu changes often, but its emphasis on regional cooking remains a constant. The drinks: The cocktail list is rooted in Indian influences, highlighting ingredients and spices like roasted cumin, turmeric and clarified masala chai. Time Out tip: Vegetarians have plenty to choose from, with a dedicated selection of meat-free small and large plates.

One of Chicago’s most sought-after bakeries, Sugar Moon has earned a devoted following for its sweet and savory goods. The tiny Logan Square bakeshop rotates its offerings regularly, showcasing seasonal ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. The vibe: Sugar Moon is small and no-frills, with a pastry case that speaks for itself. There’s no seating, and the line usually forms outside before the shop even opens. The food: The selection spans sweet and savory options, from stuffed brioche and focaccia to croissants, galettes, scones and cookies. The tahini chocolate chip cookie, with flecks of smoked salt, is among the best in the city, while the banana pudding croissant is an indulgent treat filled with vanilla custard, banana, salted caramel and mascarpone whip. Keep an eye out for specials, as owner Dina Cimarusti has been known to create items like Italian beef galettes and corned beef croissants. The drinks: It’s mostly about the pastries here, but Sugar Moon also offers coffee, sodas and water. Time Out tip: The bakery is only open Friday through Sunday and does sell out, so arrive early if you have your heart set on a particular item.

One of Chicago’s buzziest bakeries in recent years, Del Sur is well worth planning your morning around. Chef and owner Justin Lerias brings Filipino flavors to thoughtfully crafted pastries made with Midwestern ingredients, resulting in a lineup that’s far more interesting than your standard croissants and muffins. The vibe: The compact Lincoln Square shop has a sleek, modern look. It’s mainly a grab-and-go operation, so don’t expect to linger. The line can stretch during busy weekend mornings, but the friendly staff keeps things moving without making you feel rushed. The food: The longanisa croissant is a must-order, a flaky, toasted-rice laminated dough with house-made sausage, soy caramel, and cured egg yolk. The turon Danish, filled with caramelized banana jam and vanilla flan, channels the flavors of the classic Filipino snack, while the calamansi chamomile bun packs a bright citrus punch. The drinks: Coffee comes from local roasters, and Volition Tea supplies the teas. House-made syrups like salted pandan, ube and caramelized honey add a distinctive Southeast Asian touch to the drink menu. Time Out tip: Get there early—especially on weekends when waits can exceed 45 minutes and popular pastries tend to sell out quickly.

Boka Restaurant Group's omakase spot Midōsuji is helmed by three-Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park alum chef Brian Lockwood. Described as a "nouvelle" omakase experience, expertly crafted courses spotlight seasonal ingredients and Japanese heritage. The vibe: A tiny eight-seat space on the second floor of the Chicago Athletic Association. Located in the former Milk Room space between the Drawing Room and Game Room, Midōsuji's dimly lit interior is accented by the building's original Prohibition-era flooring and exposed brick walls. The food: The menu evolves nightly. Previous highlights include daikon and miso egg yolk, a selection of rotating hand rolls and sansho pepper duck. The drinks: Beverage pairings and à la carte wine, sake and cocktails are on offer. The Shiso cocktail, crafted with tequila, lime and yuzu, is a simple, balanced favorite for smooth sipping over the course of the experience. Time Out tip: Dietary restrictions can be accommodated, just be sure to contact the restaurant ahead of time to discuss your needs.