Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

Lettuce Entertain You's ultra-popular spot below RPM Seafood serves lunch and dinner, with a menu centered around hand-stretched pizzas, artisanal pastas and grilled seafood. There's always someone celebrating a birthday, out-of-towners looking for a bite along the water and workers from nearby office buildings meeting for a power lunch or after-work drinks. The vibe: A lively riverfront restaurant with one of the best outdoor dining patios in the city. The service is good, the food is average and the views are unbeatable. The food: You can't go wrong with the cult-favorite charred pepperoni pizza and rigatoni vodka pasta for the table. The Caesar salad and crispy Parmesan fries are also standouts. The drinks: The drink menu always features a selection of quirky cocktails, like River North With A View (vodka, raspberry and Pimm's liqueur) and multiple variations of a spritz. If you're here with a group, you might want to opt for the Portofino Purse, a cocktail of your choice served in a glass handbag (yes, really).  Time Out tip: The whole point of coming here (usually) is to sit on the patio, so be sure to make a reservation in advance to secure one of the most coveted waterfront tables in Chicago.

Stephen Sandoval, the maestro behind Diego and Sueños, pays homage to Latin American steakhouse traditions at his restaurant in the heart of West Loop. Though it might be tempting to dismiss it as another chophouse, there’s far more to the experience than just prime cuts. The vibe: Trino strikes a balance between sophistication and approachability, offering a polished dining experience that never feels stuffy. Over the bar, a mural by local artists Raspy Rivera and CoCo Schramel acts as a visual centerpiece. The atmosphere suits everything from date night to a solo meal, and a Latin soundtrack hums in the background, adding energy to the room. The food: Familiar steakhouse standards are thoughtfully elevated here. Sweet Sinaloa blue shrimp are paired with a rojo cocktail sauce, while the tartare is layered with tallow aioli, mustard, machaca and a cured egg yolk. Don’t miss the tostada with crab, avocado, Asian pear, and pistachio, or the focaccia fry bread. Steaks star cuts like picanha and dry-aged T-bone seared on a Vulcan plancha, complemented by sauces such as corn liquor au poivre and chimichurri made with pequin peppers. The drinks: Expect a strong martini program alongside cocktails with subtle Latin influence woven in through spirits, bitters or aromatics. The menu also includes several spirit-free options. Wines span bottles from Mexico and Argentina to Spain. Time Out tip: Head downstairs after dinner for a nightcap at Laberinto, a speakeasy from the Trino team...

Bold and ambitious chef Otto Phan left Austin, Texas to come to Chicago with the goal of creating the city’s best sushi. He fulfills those aspirations every night at his nondescript Logan Square restaurant, which is also one of the most expensive experiences in town. The vibe: An intimate eight-seat omakase counter in Logan Square. The food: Those who are able to secure a seat are treated to a front-row view of Phan slicing raw fish and serving it on extra-large rice grains that have been seasoned with aged red vinegar. You’ll pay a pretty penny, but Kyōten’s omakase provides some of the finest bites money can buy, made with luxurious products flown in from Japan. The drinks: Elevate your meal with a beverage pairing, which includes sakes, wines, beer, and zero-proof sips like a spritz and teas and coffees. Time Out tip: If you're not planning on shelling out nearly $500 for a meal, head a few steps down to sister spot Kyōten Next Door for a more affordable, but equally impressive, experience.

On the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago, Miru pairs breathtaking views with upscale Japanese cuisine. While the glamorous setting is a major draw, the pristine sushi and polished service ensure the restaurant is more than just a scenic stop. A meal here feels equal parts escape and indulgence, complete with some of the city's best sights. The vibe: Miru balances warmth and elegance through its sleek design, featuring rich wood accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the Chicago River and skyline. It’s a great spot for birthdays, anniversaries and other milestone celebrations. The food: The menu leans heavily on nigiri, sashimi and maki. Start with the kani kani crispy rice or an order of buttery otoro. The robata grill section presents options like smoked pork belly and charred octopus skewers, while larger plates include white miso black cod. Pastry chef Juan Gutierrez’s desserts are non-negotiable—especially the black sesame mochi. The drinks: Seasonal sips like the Cantaloupe Crush, made with Toki Black, cantaloupe shrub, yuzu, black lemon bitters and soda, are joined by a selection of classic cocktails. The wine list is extensive, showcasing bottles from around the world alongside a collection of sake. Time Out tip: During the summer, grab a table on the terrace (first come, first served) for a front-row view of Navy Pier’s fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday evenings.

Soak in riverfront and skyline views from three different levels at this West Loop steakhouse. The second and third floors of the restaurant feature tables spread across on spacious patios, while the fourth rooftop is available for private events. The vibe: A modern Italian steakhouse with exceptional views. The food: Gibsons Italia serves house-made pastas, high-quality cuts of meat and other Italian delicacies.  The drinks: A massive wine list offers something for everyone, plus a selection of beer, wine, spirits and low- and no-alcohol drinks. Time Out tip: Gibsons Italia offers one of the most unique views of the city, right where the river splits north and south.  

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.

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.

When it comes to pizza, Pizz'Amici means business. This West Town eatery inside a former barber shop is one of Chicago's most exciting debuts in recent years. It's a classic no-frills restaurant that instantly made a name for itself for its next-level tavern-style pies. It's also one of the hottest reservations in town right now, and because the space is tiny, it's almost impossible to get a table. But for the lucky ones who do get in, it's so worth the wait.  The vibe: The intimate, laid-back restaurant is reminiscent of an old-school pizza joint thanks to the black-and-white checkered flooring, bright red bar stools, white tablecloths and vintage Italian posters and artworks. The food: The menu is short and sweet, with pizza being the star of the show. We love the creamy Caesar salad, which is the perfect start to a family-style meal here. It's recommended to add at least three toppings (like hot honey, meat, garlic and peppers) to the 14-inch pies. They're crisp, fresh, razor-thin and perfectly sweet.  The drinks: The beverage program comprises a curated selection of Italian wines, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Highlights include the Pepperoni Negroni (pepperoni-infused Letherbee, Zissou aperitivo and sweet vermouth) and the seasonal smoky Big Miami Guy (400 conejos, primo aperitivo, matchbook strawberry and lemon). Time Out tip: It can be extremely difficult to book a table. We got lucky when a same-day reservation became available around noon, but if you aren't...

Repeatedly named one of the world's best pizzerias, Robert's is a beloved Streeterville restaurant located along the quaint Ogden Slip. From husband-and-wife team Robert and Dana Garvey, it's known for its artisan thin-crust pizzas, delectable dough and stunning views overlooking the skyline and lake. The vibe: The casual indoor/outdoor dining areas are perfect for summertime dining along the river.  The food: The Cali Italia pizza (asiago, fresh mozzarella, gorgonzola cheese, fig jam, prosciutto di Parma, balsamic glaze, shaved Parmigiano Reggiano and EVO) is a standout. The Funghi (truffle cream base, wild mushrooms, garlic, and fresh ricotta) is another popular option, along with the creamy Caesar salad and the hearty meatball sandwich, both of which are great to pair with a pie. The drinks: The red sangria pitcher is a popular option for groups, and summer-ready sips like the blood orange margarita, Fig & Fable (vodka, lime, fig puree, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, Chinese 5 spice bitters) and Hugo Spritz are a few of our go-tos. There's also a selection of flavorful mocktails like the zero-proof Herbal Fizz (cilantro, basil, lime, cider and bubbles) and the hibiscus mule, as well as interesting Italian wines and local beers. Time Out tip: When the weather permits, try to snag an outdoor table and request a seat on the dock. There are a few tables down there, and it's the best seat in the house.

Of all things, it was a fried corn silk garnish that made me well up during the fourth “Ravioli” course at Cariño, Uptown’s spectacular Latin American tasting menu restaurant from co-owner/executive chef Norman Fenton.  What’s maybe more noteworthy about this dish, in which al dente ravioli stuffed with puréed huitlacoche laze in truffle beurre blanc beneath a wave of corn foam, is that truffle isn’t rained on top like dollar bills. Rather it’s deployed subtly to enhance the corn smut’s woodsy, fermented qualities. Adorning the bowl’s edge with dehydrated corn and “popped” sorghum, the corn silk looked like little singed hairs. It tasted grassy and toasty, unlocking a childhood taste memory of eating ineptly shucked, grilled corn on the cob with butter. This stuck with me as I unearthed the grain’s diverse expressions one by one, then in a chorus—buttery, minerally, toasty, earthy like mushrooms, gently acidic, sweet as if sun dried. And I cried, just a little.  This was one of countless moments that solidified my sense that Cariño might be the best dining experience in Chicago right now, and a redemption of the tasting menu, which too often feels like it’s reaching for Michelin stars to the point of wanton tedium. Yes, you’ll find some fine-dining hallmarks: molecular gastronomy, occasional Wagyu and a truffle or two. Yes, there’s a hint of chef-bro one upmanship, namely a dessert in which a perfectly fried churro is doubly overpowered by foie gras mousse and a spiced...

Taking over the former home of late-night Bucktown staple Lazo’s Tacos in 2023, Manchamanteles showcases the depth of regional Mexican cuisine. Geno Bahena, whose resume includes Frontera Grill, Topolobampo and Mis Moles, puts the focus on complex mole dishes alongside well-executed classics like tender cochinita pibil and juicy carne asada. The vibe: Homey and inviting. The colorfully-decorated, multi-room restaurant can accommodate up to 200, but the friendly hospitality makes every guest feel like family. In the warmer months, the parking lot transforms into a sprawling outdoor patio. The food: Bahena's moles are the stars of the menu, available in a variety of preparations. Our favorite is the pork ribs glazed in rich Oaxacan black mole, followed closely by the smoked duck breast. If you're craving tacos, the skirt steak version is an easy choice. Be sure to save room for the tres leches, a perfect sweet finale. The drinks: You can't go wrong with any of the margaritas, especially the mole-infused mezcal variation, which offers a playful and creative twist. Time Out tip: Beer lovers should try the Maiz Dorado, a toasted lager made in collaboration with Marz Community Brewing.

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.

Opened by the late pizza pioneer Burt Katz—who was also the original owner of Pequod’s—in 1989, this beloved Morton Grove institution is best known for its caramelized, cheese-crusted pan pizzas. Although ownership changed hands in 2017, the pies and overall experience remain largely the same. Stepping inside feels like a trip back in time, with made-to-order pies and a neighborhood atmosphere that has earned the restaurant a devoted following, including the late Anthony Bourdain. The vibe: A small, quirky dining room that resembles a cozy cabin, complete with tchotchkes lining the walls. The space has seen some updates over the years, but it still leans firmly old school. The food: You’re here for one thing and one thing only—pan pizza. Katz created and popularized caramelized crusts, which is achieved by letting cheese melt and crisp along the edges of the pan as the pie bakes. Customize yours with toppings such as sausage, garlic, sliced tomatoes and giardiniera. There’s not much else on the menu beyond a handful of appetizers and salads, along with cannoli for dessert. The drinks: A standard selection of beer and wine makes up the drink menu. It’s simple, but a cold pint always pairs well with pizza. Time Out tip: Calling ahead for a reservation is highly recommended. If you’re coming from the city, the restaurant is a short walk from the Morton Grove Metra station.

Lettuce Entertain You’s Beatrix is one of the group’s most popular concepts, so much so that it spawned a grab-and-go offshoot. At Beatrix Market, you’ll find a variety of options, from coffee and pastries to prepackaged sandwiches to a full salad bar. It has multiple locations and works well for both a quick bite and a casual spot to get some work done. The vibe: Casual and easygoing—the kind of place you don’t mind lingering in for a while if you’ve got time to spare. Lunch can get especially busy, with a steady flow of nearby workers and students. The food: Mornings feature a hot bar stocked with staples like eggs, sausage, bacon and oatmeal, plus breakfast burritos and sandwiches. Later in the day, the selection shifts to salad, soup and hummus stations, with the salad bar standing out for its wide range of ingredients.The DePaul location also serves both thin-crust and deep-dish pizzas. The latter comes as a personal-sized pie, boasting a crisp, golden crust layered with gooey cheese, rich tomato sauce and toppings like pepperoni or sausage. The drinks: In the basement, a bar offers cozy seating and a menu of craft beers, red and white wines and cocktails. Time Out tip: The coffee bar pours blends from Beatrix Coffee Roasters, which are also available for purchase online.

Few things in life are as certain as death, taxes and throngs of people at Big Star on a warm day. Sixteen years after opening, One Off Hospitality’s beloved Wicker Park joint still draws crowds for its lively patio, killer tacos and signature margaritas. Come summertime, it’s a quintessential Chicago dining experience.  The vibe: Casual and energetic. Big Star knows how to make every visit feel like a party, and you’ll want to bring a group for an afternoon on the patio. The food: The al pastor and fish tacos are reliable favorites, but don't overlook the vegetarian-friendly papas con rajas or the walking taco. The latter comes served in a bag of Fritos with pinto bean dip, crema, Cholula hot sauce and queso Chihuahua. The smash burger is also a sleeper hit worth ordering. The drinks: Go with the flow and order a pitcher of margarita. Beyond that, the menu features agave-based cocktails like an Oaxacan Old Fashioned and a mezcal Negroni, plus a selection of Mexican and craft beers. The whiskey list is extensive, with rare options for enthusiasts. Time Out tip: Don’t want to wait in line? Grab your order from the to-go window and enjoy your food across the street at Wicker Park

Lettuce Entertain You's ultra-popular spot below RPM Seafood serves lunch and dinner, with a menu centered around hand-stretched pizzas, artisanal pastas and grilled seafood. There's always someone celebrating a birthday, out-of-towners looking for a bite along the water and workers from nearby office buildings meeting for a power lunch or after-work drinks. The vibe: A lively riverfront restaurant with one of the best outdoor dining patios in the city. The service is good, the food is average and the views are unbeatable. The food: You can't go wrong with the cult-favorite charred pepperoni pizza and rigatoni vodka pasta for the table. The Caesar salad and crispy Parmesan fries are also standouts. The drinks: The drink menu always features a selection of quirky cocktails, like River North With A View (vodka, raspberry and Pimm's liqueur) and multiple variations of a spritz. If you're here with a group, you might want to opt for the Portofino Purse, a cocktail of your choice served in a glass handbag (yes, really).  Time Out tip: The whole point of coming here (usually) is to sit on the patio, so be sure to make a reservation in advance to secure one of the most coveted waterfront tables in Chicago.

Situated along one of Chicago’s busiest beaches, North Avenue Beach, Shore Club is a breezy lakeside oasis, ideal for unwinding after a day in the sun and sand. There’s a spacious patio with plenty of umbrella-covered seating and comfortable lounge couches, plus bookable cabanas and sunbeds that elevate the experience. If you’re looking for a place to sip a drink, grab a bite or enjoy some prime people-watching, Shore Club fits the bill. The vibe: Casual and, predictably, beachy. During the summer, the patio stays packed with groups of friends lingering over drinks from day to night. The food: The menu is Mediterranean-ish, featuring dishes like a mezze platter, veggie souvlaki gyro and whipped feta. Many items are designed for sharing, including handhelds such as the lobster tacos. If you're after something more substantial, the steak frites is a reliable choice. Desserts are highlighted by a tangy key lime pie that provides a refreshing finish. The drinks: Cocktails lean toward easy-sipping choices, from a blackberry mojito to the tree of margaritas. Of course, there are also frozen favorites like strawberry daiquiris and piña coladas, which can also be ordered as a flight. A spritz cart rounds things out, mixing bubbly drinks right at your table. Time Out tip: For those driving, the nearest parking options are the North Avenue Beach lot and the Lincoln Park Zoo lot. Free parking may be available on Stockton Drive, though spaces are limited.

Where to start at this sprawling ode to all 20 regions of Italy? With three restaurants, six counters, a market full of fresh and hard-to-find ingredients and a wine store with over 1,500 bottles of Italian wine, you’ll have to follow your heart (and your mouth). First, fuel up with coffee and a pastry while you browse the market’s daily selection. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a quick lunch at Pizza alla Pala & Enoteca, where they serve up Roman-style pizza by the slice, or Pasta & More for bowls of fresh pasta prepared in minutes.  For a sit-down meal that transports you to Italy, head to La Pizza & La Pasta for pies topped with San Marzano tomato sauce and fresh finds from the market, or choose from an astonishing assortment of carbonara, which have been helpfully paired with wines that cut right through the richness. At Vino &…, you can work your way through wine flights while snacking on meatballs, housemade burrata, fresh focaccia bianca and more.  To get the most out of Eataly, book a store tour, where experts will guide you through tastings while you sip a glass of Prosecco. You can also take classes to learn more about Italian wine and cheese, pizza- and pasta-making and how to make Eataly’s ingredients sing in your home kitchen.

On the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago, Miru pairs breathtaking views with upscale Japanese cuisine. While the glamorous setting is a major draw, the pristine sushi and polished service ensure the restaurant is more than just a scenic stop. A meal here feels equal parts escape and indulgence, complete with some of the city's best sights. The vibe: Miru balances warmth and elegance through its sleek design, featuring rich wood accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the Chicago River and skyline. It’s a great spot for birthdays, anniversaries and other milestone celebrations. The food: The menu leans heavily on nigiri, sashimi and maki. Start with the kani kani crispy rice or an order of buttery otoro. The robata grill section presents options like smoked pork belly and charred octopus skewers, while larger plates include white miso black cod. Pastry chef Juan Gutierrez’s desserts are non-negotiable—especially the black sesame mochi. The drinks: Seasonal sips like the Cantaloupe Crush, made with Toki Black, cantaloupe shrub, yuzu, black lemon bitters and soda, are joined by a selection of classic cocktails. The wine list is extensive, showcasing bottles from around the world alongside a collection of sake. Time Out tip: During the summer, grab a table on the terrace (first come, first served) for a front-row view of Navy Pier’s fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday evenings.

For more than 80 years, the awning-covered picnic tables of this Far South Side ice-cream shop have been packed with locals indulging their sweet tooth. The signature five-flavor Rainbow Cone features scoops of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio and orange sherbet stacked one on top of the other for an unbeatable classic.