The 20 best restaurants in Avondale

What is it? Chefs Johnny Clark and Beverly Kim's love letter to Ukrainian cooking.

Why we love it: Anelya's offerings are modern-meets-traditional Ukrainian cuisine—fulfilling, heavy on root vegetables, oily fish and grains, and often sporting a sour edge from naturally fermented ingredients. 

Time Out tip: Anelya sees the most reservation cancellations on Saturdays, meaning walk-ins have a good chance at scoring a table. For reservations, we suggest booking two weeks out. 

Address: 3472 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Wed, Thu, Sun 5-9pm; Fri, Sat 5-10pm

What is it? A Korean-American bar/restaurant.

Why we love it: Wood paneled walls; purple banquettes; and low, warm lighting beckon with chic, rec room-meets Korean pub vibes. Honoring Tokyo listening bar culture, local DJs such as King Hippo, Fanita Banana and Catieo spin throughout the week (find the latest schedule on HiFi’s socials). Much of HiFi’s snackish food menu changes in breathless step with the record selections, with a tidy menu of oft-changing, cheffy snack food including seasonal crudites with rich, brackish walnut ssamjang, chicken karaage with sweet and sour sauce and honey mayo, and burgers soused in bordelaise and cheese fondue with thick-cut fries. 

Time Out tip: Don’t skip on the cocktails: You'll find a tight menu of classic cocktails and beer, plus a nice selection of Korean rice ferments. 

Address: 3500 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Wed, Thu, Sun 5-11pm; Fri, Sat 5pm-midnight

What is it? A farm-to-table specialist that relocated during the pandemic to a new space in Avondale. 

Why we love it: Eden features a greenhouse that provides fresh produce for the kitchen, private dining rooms and an outdoor patio. The revamped menu changes seasonally but is centered around dishes coming out of the wood-burning oven, such as grilled berbere-spiced carrots jazzed up with goat cheese purée.

Time Out tip: Eden's monthly sandwich program offers a rotating selection of sandwiches inspired by beloved chefs, recipes and chef collaborations. 

Address: 2734 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 11am-3pm, 5-9pm; Fri, Sat 11am-3pm, 5-10pm; Sun 10am-3pm

What is it? A casual and thoughtfully designed chicken shop with an expansive patio.

Why we love it: Honey Butter Fried Chicken has somewhat of a following in Chicago, which makes sense to anyone who's been there. Crisp skin engulfs juicy and tender meat that you can slather with sweet honey butter. We're suckers for the sandwiches, but whatever jumps out to you on the menu will be great, as long as you're grabbing a side of the creamy pimento mac and cheese—it's an absolute necessity.

Time Out tip: Pro-tip: Take this one to-go and head over to Revolution's taproom for an evening of beer and chicken.

Address: 3361 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 10am-9pm

What is it? A classic Irish bar, restaurant and beer garden.

Why we love it: Do as the Irish do and head to this traditional pub for Guinness pints and hearty plates. Chief O’Neill’s has been a neighborhood staple since 1999, comforting guests with Emerald Isle favorites like fish and chips, corned beef and shepherd’s pie. The lively space also has multiple fireplaces and a verdant back patio, and hosts live music and a popular Sunday brunch buffet.

Time Out tip: Chief O'Neill's celebrates the holidays all out—with wall-to-wall lights, over-the-top decor and plenty of holiday spirit—especially St. Patrick's Day.

Address: 3471 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 4-11pm; Fri 4pm-1am; Sat noon-1am; Sun 10am-11pm

What is it? A dressed-down remake of the bygone Orbit Room.

Why we love it: Whether it’s your first or last stop of the night, Ludlow Liquors is always the right move. This retro-chic spot is a refined version of the neighborhood dive, so you can expect craft cocktails, like a pomegranate margarita, alongside “low life” beers and shots of Malört. And the smash burger is the perfect way to help soak up all the booze.

Time Out tip: The spacious backyard patio, decked out with picnic tables and stadium seating, is a must-visit in the summertime.

Address: 2959 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 5pm-midnight; Thu 5pm-1am; Fri 5pm-2am; Sat 3pm-2am; Sun 3pm-midnight

What is it? A moody Italian-American eatery adorned with vintage art, stained-glass lamps, and red-and-white checkered tablecloths.

Why we love it: Owners and friends Tyler Hudec, Dani Kaplan and Pat Ray opened Void (named for the absence of preconceptions) in August 2024 in the bygone Moe’s Tavern. Red-sauce classics mingle seamlessly with cheffier, seasonal dishes like roasted cauliflower with roasted and fresh grapes, white pesto and pancetta vinaigrette; and half-a-chicken parm doused in six-hour tomato sauce beneath an oozy, blistered mozzarella lid. 

Time Out tip: For the full experience, order the Spaghetti-Uh-Os, served in a vintage Void can. Thank us later.

Address: 2937 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 5-10pm; Fri, Sat 5-11pm

What is it? An off-beat culinary experience from a trio of industry veterans.

Why we love it: Chef-partners Trevor Fleming, Emily Kraszyk and John Lupton—who’ve worked in acclaimed places like Kasama and Table Fifty-Two—debuted Warlord in April 2023 and quickly soared to critics’ darling status on the back of their bold, elemental cooking, which changes regularly. Don’t expect many constants on this fleeting, pricey menu of unfettered live-fire cooking, which is centered on dry-aged proteins like oily fish and beef. That said, there's an outstanding burger ($18, plus $8 for fries) that’s one of few regular menu items—seared and still reddish, dressed minimally in charred onions and mayo, to highlight its dry-aged funk and richness. 

Time Out tip: Arrive at 5:30 or 5:45pm for a better chance at nabbing a spot in the first round of seating at this no-reservations hotspot. Or wait till after 9pm, when you’re almost guaranteed to get a seat without waiting.

Address: 3198 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun 6pm-2am

What is it? A top-notch Polish/Eastern European eatery on Milwaukee Avenue.

Why we love it: The warm, homey Staropolska Restaurant serves up crackly-skinned house-made sausage, stuffed cabbage and pillowy potato pierogi, which complement items like mashed potatoes, potato pancakes and a selection of vegetarian options.

Time Out tip: The chic interior and superb food and drink offerings make this a great special-occasion destination.

Address: 3030 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4-10pm; Fri, Sat 1-10pm; Sun 1-9pm

What is it? A pub serving top-notch burgers and beers.

Why we love it: The servers at Kuma's Corner sport more ink than a Bic factory, and the metal is cranked up so loud you can’t hear yourself talking, but therein lies the charm. Squeeze through the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and up to the long bar, where you might be in for a lengthy wait. What’s the draw? Well, the Slayer burger, for one—a pile of fries topped with a 10-ounce burger, chili, cherry peppers, andouille, onions and Jack cheese on a pretzel bun. 

Time Out tip: Snag one of the extensive menu's craft beers, including plenty of limited-edition local brews to get before they’re gone.

Address: 2900 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11:30am-10pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am-11pm

What is it? An indoor/outdoor pizza place from Meadowlark Hospitality at the social club and coworking space Guild Row.

Why we love it: The team behind Meadowlark, Lardon and Union strikes again with Little Lark. Serving Neapolitan-style pizzas, shared apps and interesting drinks, Little Lark is equal parts restaurant and neighborhood hangout. The menu by chef Will Conner (Elina's) is small but mighty, and the vibes are superb. Tunes ranging from Jack Johnson's "Banana Pancakes" to "Superstition" by Stevie Wonder mingle with the scent of the fire pit burning at the front of the patio. Inside, the massive wood-fired oven, sourced from Italy, is on display as pizza dough is tossed behind the bar. As for the food, the Neapolitan pizzas are the star of the show. 

Time Out tip: We recommend ordering anything with meat, as the toppings are sourced from the restaurant group's other spot, Lardon. 

Address: 3132 N Rockwell St, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4-10pm; Fri, Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm

What is it? A New York transplant bar with substantial bar bites.

Why we love it: New York cocktail bar Mother’s Ruin made its way to Chicago in 2022. If the bustle of River North and the West Loop doesn’t seem appealing, come here instead for a low-key evening full of craft libations, spiked slushies and elevated bar fare like a falafel burger amped up with harissa sauce. 

Time Out tip: Prefer to day drink? You’re in luck—Mother’s Ruin is one of the few places serving brunch every day of the week.

Address: 2943 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Fri, Sun 11am-2am; Sat 11am-3am

What is it? A sandwich shop from Honey Butter Fried Chicken vet Becca Grothe.

Why we love it: Grothe flew the coop and opened TriBecca's Sandwich Shop just a couple of blocks away. The Cubano is impeccable and made with quality ingredients, including Twin Oaks ham, Slagel Farm pork and ciabatta bread from pHlour. But the menu also pays tribute to Midwestern classics like the horseshoe and Maid-Rite sandwich. 

Time Out tip: Grothe’s husband, Cam Waron, creates potato-based Tuber’s Donuts to enjoy for dessert—be sure to try one.

Address: 2949 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Daily 8am-8pm

What is it? A rustic-chic gem serving Argentinean- and Italian-inspired fare.

Why we love it: La Nonna is hidden away on an Avondale side street. Inspired by his family’s heritage, chef José Rivero delivers empanadas filled with ham and cheese, prosciutto-topped pizzas, choripán sandwiches, steak and chicken milanesa and much more. 

Time Out tip: It’s BYOB, so take advantage by bringing a bottle to pair with your food.

Address: 3400 N Lawndale Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat, Sun 9am-9pm

What is it? One of Chicago's best bakeries, helmed by a pastry consultant from The Bear.

Why we love it: Avondale bakery and cafe Loaf Lounge has been making waves for its exceptional breads and pastries. You’ll spot the loaves of the day behind the counter, and you’ll definitely want to order a tasty breakfast sandwich, served on either an English muffin or croissant. Loaf Lounge owner Sarah Mispagel also worked as a pastry consultant on FX hit The Bear, and her chocolate cake, which was featured on the show, is on the menu as well.

Time Out tip: Loaf Lounge also serves exceptional breakfast and lunch items like breakfast sandwiches and grilled cheese. 

Address: 2934 N Milwaukee Ave, Suite E, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon, Wed-Sun 8am-4pm

What is it? A lively Mexican spot serving tacos and, you guessed it, tequila.

Why we love it: The name Tacos Tequilas is pretty self-explanatory. The menu is filled with a variety of tacos, with fillings like spicy cochinita pibil and papa y epazote (crispy fried mashed potatoes). A bar serves up tequila by way of strong margaritas, including a version with house-made chamoy. 

Time Out tip: If you want to make an impression, order the queso fundido, which arrives at your table in a ball of flames.

Address: 2919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-9pm

What is it? A casual Irish pub with live Irish music sessions.

Why we love it: Although the Guinness flows freely, don’t expect to see corned beef on the menu at this Irish-influenced restaurant. But that’s quite alright because we relish a full Irish breakfast for dinner. The traditional dish consists of sausage, bacon, black and white pudding, fried eggs and a whole lot more. You can even order it in pizza form for a one-of-a-kind slice.

Time Out tip: Stop by on Tuesday nights at 7:30 to catch the weekly live Irish music sessions.

Address: 3188 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 4-11:30pm; Fri 4pm-midnight; Sat 10:30am-midnight; Sun 10:30am-9pm

What is it? One of the most popular Asian grocery stores in the city.

Why we love it: Joong Boo Market isn’t solely convenient for stocking shelves. It’s also a great place for a cheap and delicious bite. Tucked away in the back of the space is a tiny restaurant, dubbed Snack Corner, that offers Korean favorites like udon and ramen. 

Time Out tip: On Wednesdays and Fridays, the $30 sashimi platters are an unbeatable value.

Address: 3333 N Kimball Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Daily 8am-9pm

What is it? A Dungeons & Dragons-inspired bar, self-described as "a weird bar with great food."

Why we love it: You don’t have to be familiar with 20-sided dice to have a good time at this quirky restaurant and bar. Owners Shawn Podgurski and Phil Naumann opened Dmen Tap in 2017 as a brick-and-mortar home for their popular food truck, DönerMen. German street food is the focus of the menu, and you’ll get to devour warm Bavarian pretzels, currywurst served with fries and the signature döner—chicken cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Wash it down with a glass of mead or whiskey from the extensive collection.

Time Out tip: Take advantage of the pinball machines, classic Nintendo, Sega and xBox consoles on-site.

Address: 2849 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-2am; Fri, Sun noon-2am; Sat noon-3am

What is it? A welcoming Chinese restaurant specializing in noodles, poultry and dim sum.

Why we love it: After his father passed away, Alan Yuen renovated his family’s chop suey house (even installing beautiful hardwood floors himself) and set about turning out solid Canto-American classics here at Friendship Chinese Restaurant. Sesame beef and honey-walnut shrimp are joined by familiar favorites like orange chicken. Don’t want to go out? Take advantage of the brisk delivery service.

Time Out tip: The restaurant often hosts events, including Drag Dinner and jazz shows on the patio. Follow their Instagram to stay in the loop.

Address: 2830 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Daily noon-10pm