Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

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.

John Manion, who’s also behind Argentine-inspired El Che Steakhouse & Bar, brings the flavors of South America to West Town at Brasero, a wood-fired restaurant that draws on his childhood in São Paulo. A neighborhood go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions, the menu spans fresh seafood and grilled meats, all built around live-fire cooking. The vibe: An open kitchen anchors the dining room, where the glow of the fire adds to the energetic atmosphere. Plush booths and dim, moody lighting set the scene for date night, while the lively soundtrack and open layout make it just as suited for a group dinner. The food: While Manion has a reputation for steak, Brasero’s menu rewards diners who look beyond the cuts of beef. Start with warm pão de queijo, Brazil’s chewy cheese bread, served with a rotating seasonal jam, or grilled oysters dressed with citrus-garlic butter. The moqueca, a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, combines creamy coconut broth with nuts and Akahoshi Ramen noodles for a rich, comforting dish. Still, don’t skip the steak: the Westholme wagyu picanha arrives with chimichurri and vinaigrette, and is a treat for carnivores. The coal-roasted sweet potato with creamy Catupiry cheese, crunchy pepitas and peanuts, deserves a spot on your table, too. The drinks: The cocktail menu borrows from South American drinking culture, featuring a classic caipirinha alongside tropical sips like the coconut-and-passion-fruit Batida and a Rhum Old Fashioned made with...

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.

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.

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.

There are rules when eating at avec. One of them is “No talking about Israel.” A few weeks ago I was eating dinner and my friend—not I—was breaking that rule. Loudly. The man sitting next to me, whom I did not know but whom I spent the evening less than one inch from, leaned into our space and said, “What nation are you talking about?” This is why you don’t talk about Israel at avec. I shut down the conversation by slicing an X in the air with my hands and saying one word: “no.” But the man—his name was Brandon, I learned later—was undeterred from talking to us. He changed the subject. “Have you guys ever had these dates?” he asked. He pointed to the hot casserole in front of him with only one date left. “They’re so good.” The bacon-wrapped, chorizo-stuffed dates are, of course, another rule of avec. You must order them, every time, until you’ve had them so often that you no longer need to be at avec to taste them—you close your eyes, access your taste memory, slip into a bliss coma…. “Are you guys tourists?” I asked Brandon. He and his companions looked wounded. “We live up the street,” they said. The idea that a Chicagoan exists who has not yet eaten the avec dates was inconceivable to me. But here were three people who had lived in Chicago for years and were just now at avec for the first time. Rules dictate this situation, too. “You must eat the focaccia,” I said. “And probably the brandade.” They nodded and smiled. But I knew they weren’t listening. They’d already put...

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.

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.

Just like Hogsalt's other concepts, which include Au Cheval, Armitage Alehouse and Gilt Bar, Bavette's is ultra-popular. You may have to sacrifice your firstborn to secure a reservation, but it's totally worth the sweat. The vibe: A moody, dimly lit steakhouse next to Gilt Bar. The food: Whatever you're in the mood for, you're likely to find something enticing thanks to the menu's extensive selection of cuts ranging from a 6-ounce filet mignon and 20-ounce dry-aged bone-in ribeye to a 32-ounce Porterhouse.  The drinks: Bavette's offers four variations of an Old Fashioned, as well as pickle back shots, spirit-free sips, wines and eight different ice-cold martinis. Time Out tip: Reservations are available up to 21 days in advance at 9am. We recommend setting an alarm; otherwise, you may have better luck as a walk-in.

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.

John Manion, who’s also behind Argentine-inspired El Che Steakhouse & Bar, brings the flavors of South America to West Town at Brasero, a wood-fired restaurant that draws on his childhood in São Paulo. A neighborhood go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions, the menu spans fresh seafood and grilled meats, all built around live-fire cooking. The vibe: An open kitchen anchors the dining room, where the glow of the fire adds to the energetic atmosphere. Plush booths and dim, moody lighting set the scene for date night, while the lively soundtrack and open layout make it just as suited for a group dinner. The food: While Manion has a reputation for steak, Brasero’s menu rewards diners who look beyond the cuts of beef. Start with warm pão de queijo, Brazil’s chewy cheese bread, served with a rotating seasonal jam, or grilled oysters dressed with citrus-garlic butter. The moqueca, a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, combines creamy coconut broth with nuts and Akahoshi Ramen noodles for a rich, comforting dish. Still, don’t skip the steak: the Westholme wagyu picanha arrives with chimichurri and vinaigrette, and is a treat for carnivores. The coal-roasted sweet potato with creamy Catupiry cheese, crunchy pepitas and peanuts, deserves a spot on your table, too. The drinks: The cocktail menu borrows from South American drinking culture, featuring a classic caipirinha alongside tropical sips like the coconut-and-passion-fruit Batida and a Rhum Old Fashioned made with...

More than two decades after working together at Evanston’s iconic Trio, John Asbaty and Alain Uy reunited to open this live-fire restaurant in Lincoln Park. The pair remodeled a century-old building once home to a German restaurant, the Golden Ox, transforming it into a striking modern dining room. The centerpiece of the open kitchen is a custom wood-burning hearth, charcoal oven and whole-log smoker that anchor the menu. The vibe: Polished enough for date night, yet also relaxed enough for a burger at the bar. The space feels cozy and lived in, with dim lighting in the lounge creating a warm, intimate tone. The food: Most of the menu, which highlights locally-sourced ingredients, is kissed by the hearth in some way. A coil of lamb merguez sausage comes with green coriander yogurt, red onion and mint, while roasted carrots are finished with harissa and pickled rhubarb. Plates are meant for sharing, especially the half chicken in jus with onion marmalade. Order a side of beef fat wedge fries to sop up the sauce. The drinks: The cocktail program spans spirit-driven riffs, from the smoked Manhattan with rye and chanterelle-infused vermouth to the highball with apple sage shrub. Zero-proof options include a Not Toddy and a Spagli-nada. Time Out tip: Stop by the bar during happy hour for $12 smoked wings and $10 wines and martinis.

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 or Lavazza, or head to 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.

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.

There are rules when eating at avec. One of them is “No talking about Israel.” A few weeks ago I was eating dinner and my friend—not I—was breaking that rule. Loudly. The man sitting next to me, whom I did not know but whom I spent the evening less than one inch from, leaned into our space and said, “What nation are you talking about?” This is why you don’t talk about Israel at avec. I shut down the conversation by slicing an X in the air with my hands and saying one word: “no.” But the man—his name was Brandon, I learned later—was undeterred from talking to us. He changed the subject. “Have you guys ever had these dates?” he asked. He pointed to the hot casserole in front of him with only one date left. “They’re so good.” The bacon-wrapped, chorizo-stuffed dates are, of course, another rule of avec. You must order them, every time, until you’ve had them so often that you no longer need to be at avec to taste them—you close your eyes, access your taste memory, slip into a bliss coma…. “Are you guys tourists?” I asked Brandon. He and his companions looked wounded. “We live up the street,” they said. The idea that a Chicagoan exists who has not yet eaten the avec dates was inconceivable to me. But here were three people who had lived in Chicago for years and were just now at avec for the first time. Rules dictate this situation, too. “You must eat the focaccia,” I said. “And probably the brandade.” They nodded and smiled. But I knew they weren’t listening. They’d already put...

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.

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.

When you picture a classic ice cream parlor, Margie’s is exactly what comes to mind. The Chicago institution has been serving towering sundaes, homemade treats and old-school charm for generations. It’s the kind of nostalgic spot that makes a trip for ice cream feel like an occasion. The vibe: Vintage decor, classic booth seating and kitschy trinkets give Margie’s a frozen-in-time feel. There are few places quite like it in Chicago. The food: The menu features a variety of sundaes and banana splits, with the turtle sundae standing out as a favorite. If you’re with a group, the Royal George (25 scoops) and World’s Largest Terrapin (15 scoops) are made for sharing, with saucers of fudge, caramel sauce and whipped cream on the side. There are also sandwiches for those craving something savory. And don’t overlook the homemade chocolates—fill up a box to take home. The drinks: Shakes and malts come in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, peach, butterscotch and peanut butter. Sodas, juices, milk and hot beverages are available as well. Time Out tip: When the line is long, as it often is in summer, order your ice cream to go and skip the wait.