Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

As with all of the other Hogsalt restaurants, Au Cheval is notoriously hard to get into—but so worth the wait. Since 2012, it's become one of the toughest tables to reserve for its diner-style vibes, large selection of local brews and its iconic burger. And we can confirm, the hype is very much deserved.  The vibe: Every inch of this teeny-tiny West Loop restaurant is utilized. Whether you're seated at the counter or in a booth, you'll feel lucky just to have a seat in this always-in-demand spot.  The food: The menu is packed with diner classics like matzah ball soup, fried chicken, salads and a selection of egg-topped items like fries, potato hash and foie gras. But most people come here for one thing: the burger. Deemed by many as one of the best in Chicago, it's topped with pickles, grilled onions, dijonnaise and American cheese. And trust us, it's well worth the long wait time.  The drinks: The menu's "Strong Drinks" section includes sips like the Last Word (gin, green chartreuse, Luxardo maraschino and lime) and the Paper Plane (Evan Williams, Aperol, amaro nonino and lemon). You'll also find a long list of local beers, plus domestic and international options. But our favorite is the root beer on draft, which you can make into a float for $11. Time Out tip: It's not uncommon to wait more than two hours for a table. If you plan on exploring the West Loop during that time, be sure you can get back within 10 minutes of receiving the text that your table is ready,...

Situated at Fullerton Avenue on Lake Shore Drive, Theater on the Lake is a year-round event venue with an on-site restaurant. A range of events are hosted here, from a roaring St. Patrick's Day celebration to the annual Air and Water Show viewing party, plus theater performances. Thanks to its location on the east side of Lake Shore Drive, it offers some of the best lake and skyline views in the city.

The standard for Filipino breakfast in Chicago, Uncle Mike’s Place has been in business since 1991. Though it originally served American fare like pancakes and omelets, the restaurant eventually expanded its menu to include Filipino specialties. Today, it draws diners from across the city for longanisa, bangus and other Southeast Asian favorites. The vibe: Lively and laid-back, with a steady stream of diners waiting for tables or grabbing orders to go. The food: Every diner gets a complimentary bowl of lugaw, a comforting Filipino rice porridge that’s a great start to the meal. The marinated skirt steak is the star of the menu, available in 6- or 12-ounce portions. Other highlights include tocino, sweet and savory pork shoulder, and longanisa, a sweet Filipino-style sausage. Can’t decide? Opt for a combo, which lets you choose two proteins. All plates also come with two eggs and garlic rice. The drinks: A standard selection of coffee, tea, juices and soft drinks. Time Out tip: Weekends can get quite busy, so arrive early to beat the line. If you do have to wait, join the virtual queue and explore the neighborhood until your table is ready.

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.

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...

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...

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.

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.

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.

As with all of the other Hogsalt restaurants, Au Cheval is notoriously hard to get into—but so worth the wait. Since 2012, it's become one of the toughest tables to reserve for its diner-style vibes, large selection of local brews and its iconic burger. And we can confirm, the hype is very much deserved.  The vibe: Every inch of this teeny-tiny West Loop restaurant is utilized. Whether you're seated at the counter or in a booth, you'll feel lucky just to have a seat in this always-in-demand spot.  The food: The menu is packed with diner classics like matzah ball soup, fried chicken, salads and a selection of egg-topped items like fries, potato hash and foie gras. But most people come here for one thing: the burger. Deemed by many as one of the best in Chicago, it's topped with pickles, grilled onions, dijonnaise and American cheese. And trust us, it's well worth the long wait time.  The drinks: The menu's "Strong Drinks" section includes sips like the Last Word (gin, green chartreuse, Luxardo maraschino and lime) and the Paper Plane (Evan Williams, Aperol, amaro nonino and lemon). You'll also find a long list of local beers, plus domestic and international options. But our favorite is the root beer on draft, which you can make into a float for $11. Time Out tip: It's not uncommon to wait more than two hours for a table. If you plan on exploring the West Loop during that time, be sure you can get back within 10 minutes of receiving the text that your table is ready,...

The standard for Filipino breakfast in Chicago, Uncle Mike’s Place has been in business since 1991. Though it originally served American fare like pancakes and omelets, the restaurant eventually expanded its menu to include Filipino specialties. Today, it draws diners from across the city for longanisa, bangus and other Southeast Asian favorites. The vibe: Lively and laid-back, with a steady stream of diners waiting for tables or grabbing orders to go. The food: Every diner gets a complimentary bowl of lugaw, a comforting Filipino rice porridge that’s a great start to the meal. The marinated skirt steak is the star of the menu, available in 6- or 12-ounce portions. Other highlights include tocino, sweet and savory pork shoulder, and longanisa, a sweet Filipino-style sausage. Can’t decide? Opt for a combo, which lets you choose two proteins. All plates also come with two eggs and garlic rice. The drinks: A standard selection of coffee, tea, juices and soft drinks. Time Out tip: Weekends can get quite busy, so arrive early to beat the line. If you do have to wait, join the virtual queue and explore the neighborhood until your table is ready.

Folks flock to Parson’s Chicken & Fish, especially during the summer, for crispy fried chicken, frozen drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. It boasts one of Chicago’s best patios, but even when the weather isn’t cooperating, it remains a go-to spot for good vibes and reliable comfort food. The vibe: Relaxed and unfussy. The inside is bright and buzzing with energy, while the sprawling outdoor patio is a party in itself. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or hanging out for a few hours with friends, Parson’s makes it easy to kick back and enjoy yourself. The food: The menu is concise, letting the kitchen focus on what it does best. The fried chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, encased in a crunchy crust. Add a side of hush puppies to your order, or opt for the Ponderosa salad if you're looking to balance out all the fried goodness. The grilled chicken is also a pleasant surprise. The drinks: The signature Negroni slushy transforms the classic cocktail into a refreshing frozen drink, swapping out Campari for Zissou bitters. It’s a can’t-miss. The rest of the beverage menu features offerings like spritzes and a mango Oaxacan Old Fashioned alongside beer, beer cocktails and spirit-free options. Time Out tip: The patio fills up quickly on warm days, so arrive early if you want to snag a table outside.

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.

Situated at Fullerton Avenue on Lake Shore Drive, Theater on the Lake is a year-round event venue with an on-site restaurant. A range of events are hosted here, from a roaring St. Patrick's Day celebration to the annual Air and Water Show viewing party, plus theater performances. Thanks to its location on the east side of Lake Shore Drive, it offers some of the best lake and skyline views in the city.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.