Jeffy Mai

Although Chicago has no shortage of Michelin-starred, fine dining restaurants serving inventive tasting menus, cheap eats are just as important to the fabric of the city’s dining scene. Hot dogs and Italian beef are among the most iconic affordable meals, but there are plenty of other options spread across the city’s neighborhoods, from BBQ pork buns in Chinatown to carnitas in Pilsen to biryani on Devon Avenue. Whether you’re looking to sit down for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank or just grab a bite before heading back to work, these restaurants offer some of the best cheap eats in Chicago. With inflation continuing to impact the restaurant industry, some prices may be higher than what we have listed. It’s getting harder to find a good meal for under $10, but we’ve done our best and nothing on this list should cost you more than $15. RECOMMENDED: The best free things to do in Chicago October 24, 2025: I'll say it—times are tough. While we all appreciate an occasional splurge at one of Chicago's best restaurants, a low-cost meal is usually the way to go. And even though they're cheap, this list of the best cheap eats in Chicago offers quality that's just as good as the pricey places. Our editors have curated this ultimate guide to affordable dining across the city. From top-notch sushi at Lawrence Fish Market and high-demand bites like Michelin-starred Kasama's breakfast sandwich, these are our favorite budget bites. Many of these spots offer plenty of other affo

The question of who dishes out the best pizza in Chicago is a contentious one, spurring arguments about what’s the best regional style and what restaurants do each version justice. Almost every Chicagoan has a strong preference when it comes to who serves the best deep-dish pizza, but the city’s pizza scene casts a wide net. Thin-crust, tavern-style pizza has its own claim to being the real Chicago-style pizza, and you can also find the city's best Italian restaurants serving traditional Neapolitan pies, Detroit-style squares loaded with quirky toppings, and even New York-style slices. Whether you’re ordering takeout or delivery or plan to dig in while the cheese is still bubbling, check out our guide to the best pizza spots in Chicago to find your new favorite. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now October 22, 2025: As cliché as it is, pizza is a very serious matter for us Chicagoans. Whether you prefer tavern style, Detroit-style squares or Neopolitan pizzas, we can all agree on one thing: we don't dabble with deep dish very often. Don't get me wrong, Chicago's home to the world's best deep dish pizzas, but a true Chicagoan knows exactly who to call when it's time to order pizza—and it's usually from one of the places on this list. So, next time you're craving a classic Chicago pizza, use this refined ranking of the best pizza spots in Chicago as your guide. Created and vetted by lifelong Chicagoans, this list is bible.  Time Out has also instituted a site

The hot dog is in the pantheon of iconic Chicago foods, right up there with deep dish pizza and Italian beef. And you probably don’t have to go very far to get a good one, as there are esteemed hot dog vendors in all corners of the city. Whether you’re a traditionalist who believes ketchup should be a banned condiment or a Michigander who prefers a Coney Island hot dog, the following places are sure to satisfy your craving for a hot dog in Chicago. Some have been around for a long time and are among the most iconic restaurants in the city, while others offer the best cheap eats. There’s even a local mini-chain of stands located inside Home Depot stores, as well as Korean-style corn dogs coated in unique toppings. So there’s no need to wait until your next cookout or ballgame to enjoy a wiener; our guide to the best hot dogs in Chicago will show you where to get one any time you desire. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now September 2025: Mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, celery salt and pickled sport peppers. No more, no less. A classic Chicago dog is hard to beat, especially from one of these top 24 spots. Whether you're grabbing a bite during a game at Wrigley or devouring one at The Wiener's Circle after a night out on the town, there's never a bad time to enjoy a Chicago red hot. Featuring everything from downtown spots like Devil Dawgs to suburban gems like Gene & Jude's, our latest ranking of the best hot dogs in Chicago is a thoroughly reported

Translating to "I’ll leave it up to you" or "chef's choice," the Japanese omakase—a high-end, multi-course tasting menu—descended upon Chicago’s dining scene a few years back with the debut of spots like Kyōten, Mako and Omakase Yume. Today, that interest only continues to grow with the arrival of venues like Midōsuji, plus some of the best sushi restaurants in Chicago offering their own special takes on the experience. And once seated and settled, what’s not to love? Guests are invited to sit back, relax and allow the kitchen to guide them through a one-of-a-kind evening comprising pristine bites from oceans around the globe that are paired with wine, sake and Japanese whisky. From a 10-seat stunner in River North to a West Loop hotel’s ode to hip-hop and hamachi, here are Chicago’s best options for omakase menus right now. RECOMMENDED: The best tasting menus in Chicago October 17, 2025: The omakase boom has taken over Chicago, and these days, you can even find experiences like Cariño's taco omakase. But the traditional Japanese omakase is what most diners are looking for, and this revised ranking of the best omakase in Chicago offers a guide to the best—and most extravagant—omakase spots. Whether you're looking to splurge (in that case, head to Kyōten or Midōsuji, our latest addition to this ranking), or you want to keep the cost down, use this list as your ultimate guide to omakase in Chicago. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and

River North houses some of the most popular nightlife destinations in Chicago. Chic nightclubs and swanky lounges, where you can order bottle services while watching DJs spin, line the streets alongside upscale cocktail bars that serve tasteful spins on classic drinks as well as inventive concoctions. There are even tropical bars and places that keep the Chicago dive spirit alive. No matter what you’re in the mood for, we’ll help you find a bar in River North. Fancy a tiki drink? Three Dots and a Dash and the Bamboo Room are underground hideaways that excel at Mai Tais, daiquiris and a variety of rum-based cocktails. Love whiskey? Untitled Supper Club is home to the largest collection of American whiskeys in the world. And for those who want a no-frills spot to enjoy a cold beer, Green Door Tavern and Rossi’s have you covered. So check out our guide to the best bars in River North for your next night out. RECOMMENDED: The best Chicago bars—your definitive guide to drinking October 16, 2025: River North is many things, and whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying that it's home to some of the city's most popular bars. From classic dives like Rossi's to buzzy newcomers like Lettuce Entertain You's Gus' Sip & Dip, which has made a major splash since its debut at the beginning of the year, this refined ranking of the best River North bars offers something for everyone. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included

In a city where faded Old Style signs swing outside of beloved dive bars and lines snake around the block at trendy cocktail lounges, the best bars in Chicago act as meeting places, date locales and venues for celebrations. With so many great places to grab a beverage, the list of our all-time favorite bars around town is expansive—and inclusive of taprooms at Chicago breweries, sultry wine bars uncorking bottles of reds and whites, and the finest cocktail bars Chicago has to offer. In a metropolis packed with places to sip and swirl, these watering holes shine extra bright and boozy. Take a look at the best bars in Chicago and find the perfect destination for your next night out. Best Chicago bars at a glance: 🎶 For live music: Green Mill – Historic jazz lounge with nightly performances (Uptown) 🍹 For extravagant cocktails: The Aviary – Theatrical cocktail experience (West Loop) 😘 For date night: Lazy Bird – Basement bar with intimate vibes and live sets (West Loop) 🎉 For group celebrations: Three Dots and a Dash – Tiki cocktails with extravagant garnishes (River North) 🍸 For rare spirits: Billy Sunday – Amaro-focused drinks with unusual ingredients (Logan Square) October 15, 2025: This month, we've refined the list to an exclusive ranking of the top 24 absolute best bars in Chicago. This expanded ranking features a trio of new entries: Old Town Ale House, which is by no means new but certainly deserves a spot on this list; Gus' Sip & Dip, Lettuce Entertain You's new-

The best restaurants in Chicago come in all shapes and sizes, from pizza joints and Michelin-starred heavyweights to some of the best cheap eats Chicago has to offer. The cuisines are just as varied, with every corner of the globe represented through Korean, Mexican, Italian, sushi and much more. Whether you're a lifelong resident or simply visiting for the weekend, stuffing your face at one of these restaurants is easily among the best things to do in Chicago. This belt-busting food scene shows no signs of slowing down, so we cut to the chase and ranked our essentials—the absolute best restaurants in town. Our editors scour the city for great dishes, excellent value and insider info. We hope to provide an authentic snapshot of Chicago's ever-evolving dining experiences by updating this list constantly with the best new restaurants in the city as well as decades-old stalwarts that keep us coming back for more. It could be a mega-hyped destination restaurant or a remarkable hole in the wall: If it’s on the list, we think it’s terrific, and we bet you will, too. Best Chicago restaurants at a glance: 🎉 For group dining: Mariscos San Pedro – Shareable Mexican plates in a lively setting (Pilsen) 🇵🇭 For authentic Filipino flavors: Kasama – Viral bakery by day, elevated tasting menu by night (East Ukrainian Village) 🍽️ For a fine-dining splurge: Oriole – Two Michelin-starred tasting menu from legendary chef Noah Sandoval (West Loop) 🇮🇳 For modern Indian cuisine: Indien

Chicago’s meatpacking roots have made it a hub for beef for more than 150 years, and our steakhouses are some of the best in the world. Those looking for perfectly cooked filets and enormous porterhouses served with indulgent sides can visit old school institutions like Gene & Georgetti and Gibsons, while diners looking for more than just steak can get pristine seafood at Joe’s Seafood or RPM Steak. The city’s reputation as a haven for carnivores has also led to a boom in newcomers offerings traditions from around the world, like Bonyeon's Korean beef omakase and British Sunday roast at Hawksmoor. So whether you’re looking for wagyu by the ounce or steak frites, check out our guide to the best Chicago steakhouses for a hearty meal. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best restaurants in Chicago October 14, 2025: Chicago is chock-full of steakhouses, and luckily for us, a lot of them are actually really great. Old-school classics like Gene & Georgetti—the city's oldest steakhouse—and flashier spots like Bazaar Meat (expect smoking cocktails, caviar cones and gold-flaked bites) offer something for everyone who's looking for a hearty steak meal.  We've revamped this list to reflect a few recent changes: The Alinea Group's Fulton Market spot St. Clair Supper Club closed earlier this year, as did popular River North restaurant GT Prime. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five st

Chicago isn’t anywhere near the ocean, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find great seafood here. One of the most iconic restaurants in Chicago is Calumet Fisheries, a James Beard Award-winning spot where customers eat house-smoked sable and trout right in their cars. You can also explore seafood traditions from around the world with Baja-inspired, striped bass tacos at Leña Brava, sushi at Shaw's Crab House, Grecian sea bream from Andros Taverna and Peruvian ceviche at Kayao. So whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a celebratory dinner, satisfy your cravings for crustaceans at the best seafood restaurants in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now October 10, 2025: When a restaurant does seafood, the bar is high. Cold dishes must be cold enough, hot dishes need to be cooked to perfection and, above all, the fish has to be fresh. In order to direct you to Chicago's top fish spots, we've revisited our list of the best seafood restaurants in Chicago. They range from humble shacks in the burbs to fine-dining establishments downtown, and they're guaranteed to offer something for every kind of diner. So if you're all in on raw fish or you're more comfortable with something deep fried, these Chicago seafood restaurants have you covered. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five stars corresponding to “amazing,” four to “great” and three to “good,” and

Nothing beats a Chicago rooftop. When you're looking for something a little more filling than cocktails at rooftop bars in Chicago, turn your attention to the city's top rooftop restaurants, where dinner comes with a side of amazing skyline views. We've rounded up rooftop dining options to suit every mood, including tucked-away rooftop terraces, sunny outdoor brunch spots and bites from some of the best restaurants in Chicago. Gloomy weather in the forecast? Several of these spots also offer indoor dining or covered patios to keep you safe from the elements while you feast. So get ready for a sky-high meal at the best rooftop restaurants in Chicago.  RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor restaurants in Chicago August 2025: As soon as the forecast predicts anything above 70°, the city awakens, and, with a collective sigh of relief, we remember why we braved another Chicago winter. Everyone loves the glorious rooftop season because, really, what's better than wining and dining from a bird's eye view? During the high season, reservations go quickly, and you may need to set an alarm in order to snag one during a prime time. Especially if you're headed to one of these top spots, there's sure to be a crowd, but I promise it's worth the sweat. These rooftop restaurants showcase Chicago's world-class views from all angles and elevate the experience with top-notch food and drink. From the classics like Cindy's and LH Rooftop to niche spots like BiXi Beer and Chop Shop, there's no shortage of

Lincoln Park truly lives up to Chicago’s “city in a garden” motto, with its massive namesake park, long stretch of beaches, and a free zoo and conservatory that provide the perfect way to spend an entire day immersed in nature. But you shouldn’t head out as soon as the sun sets. The neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of nightlife destinations, ranging from a cocktail bar offering tarot readings to a legendary blues club. You can also take in the gorgeous views of Lake Michigan from a rooftop bar or sample a vast collection of brown spirits at one of the best whiskey bars in Chicago. So take a load off and enjoy a stiff drink by checking out one of these great bars. RECOMMENDED: The absolute best bars across Chicago October 2, 2025: Although some spots can be packed with crowds of DePaul students and yuppies, Lincoln Park's bar scene is stacked. From institutions like Delilah's to live music meccas like Kingston Mines, there's something for everyone who's looking for a night out on the town in Lincoln Park. This refined list of the best Lincoln Park bars offers a guide to the top spots that are actually worth your time.  Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five stars corresponding to “amazing,” four to “great” and three to “good,” and we’ve also standardized how most listings are structured. For more on our new policies, feel free to check out How we review at Time Out.

When the clock hits 2am in Chicago, your night on the town doesn't have to end. While most bars in the city have to close up shop two hours after midnight, a few local watering holes are able to stay open until 4am each night (and until 5am on Saturdays!). These late–night establishments are scattered throughout the city, but you'll find dive bars, a few karaoke bars and some nightclubs where you can keep the party going until just before the sun comes up.  Do your future self a favor and bookmark this tab for the next time the clock strikes 2am and you're looking for your next move.  RECOMMENDED: The best late-night restaurants in Chicago September 30, 2025: I'm not proud to admit it, but I'm somewhat of a subject matter expert when it comes to the best late-night bars in Chicago. I familiarized myself with the top spots (for research, of course!) plenty of times in my early twenties, and now, I bestow upon you our expertly reported guide to Chicago's best late-night bars. Our recent revision of this list features one major change: the omission of beloved 60-year-old Lincoln Square karaoke bar Hidden Cove, which unfortunately shuttered earlier this month. There are plenty of other places to sing your heart out, though, like Alice's Lounge and Uptown Lounge (which now also operates as a daytime cafe), as well as more chill spots like Elixir.  Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star rating

Omakase-centric restaurants are so en vogue right now. Few, though, match up to Lettuce Entertain You’s impressive 10-seat sushi counter hidden inside Sushi-san. The vibe: A popular omakase counter hidden behind Sushi-san in River North. The food: Chefs Kaze Chan and Shigeru Kitano showcase their talents by slicing pieces of pristine raw fish with precision in front of guests and creating memorable courses such as otoro tartare topped with caviar and uni ice cream. It’s an exquisite, albeit expensive, meal that’s well worth saving your pennies for. The drinks: For an extra $100, you can add on a guided Nikka Japanese Whisky pairing to complement the 18-course omakase. Time Out tip: If you're looking for a top-notch, yet unstuffy omakase, this is your place. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

Hungry downtown workers can swing by Canal Street Eatery & Market inside the BMO Tower for grab-and-go sandwiches, salads and gourmet retail products from the Market, or savor wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and other Italian specialties at the Eatery. The vibe: A luxe yet approachable space with soaring ceilings and views of the massive green space and outdoor seating outside the BMO Tower. The food: Lunch plates like a beet and ricotta salad and a chicken pesto sandwich complement heartier options, including pastas, pizzas, fish and steak. The drinks: Non-alcoholic sips like lavender lemonade spice up a power lunch, while wine, beer, spritzes and cocktails offer options for after-work drinks. Time Out tip: If you’re off the clock, head to the adjacent World’s Fair-themed cocktail lounge, dubbed Afterbar, for a stiff libation. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

The vibe: José Andrés and Gibsons Restaurant Group joined forces to open a two-pronged concept in the Bank of America Tower in 2021. On the building’s ground floor sits Bar Mar, an upscale, seafood-centric restaurant that catches your attention with an octopus sculpture hanging over the main bar.  The food: The luxe food lineup features a selection of small snacks, such as caviar and hamachi cones, and hearty items like a buttery lobster roll and sea scallops. The drinks: The extensive cocktail menu is reflective of the extravagant sculpture over the bar. Cocktails like the Floral Cloud (gin, lemon, Luxardo Maraschino, creme de violette and hibiscus-rose-orange blossom aromatic cloud) are offered alongside wines and local beers.  Time Out tip: If you're trying to impress a client or treat someone for a special occasion, this is the place to go. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

The vibe: Mother’s Ruin arrived in Avondale by way of New York City (with an additional satellite location in Nashville), bringing its signature spiked slushies and craft cocktails to a spacious storefront on Milwaukee Avenue open 365 days a year.  The food: The joint’s genuinely unmissable selection of bar snacks includes one of the best burgers in Chicago. The drinks: Drink names on the rotating cocktail menu offer an irreverent touch—recent entrants range from Viagra Triangle to Appalachian Ass Play—and pack a boozy punch. Time Out tip: Sidle up to a high-top table beginning at 11am daily, when the bar starts slinging hearty brunch mains, for daytime cocktails and a breakfast burrito. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

The vibe: Taking over an old Polish tavern in Avondale, Central Park Bar comes from the folks behind bars like The Owl and Estelle's. Outside, you'll see a sign that's modeled after the Chicago Park District's signage, and inside, you'll see that the 80-year-old wood bar is still intact. The food: Drinks are the stars here, but Central Park Bar hosts occasional food pop-ups. The drinks: Order a classic Polish Zubrowka & Tymbark apple juice, or opt for a cocktail like the Girls' Night (their take on a cosmo) or the So Fetch (a Negroni-style drink that they describe as "disarmingly pink and adorable drink.") Time Out tip: Just like other Four Entertainment Group bars, it boasts a half-price happy hour Monday through Friday from 4–7pm. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

Vibe: A classic farm-to-table restaurant with an on-site greenhouse and casual patio. Food: The restaurant is open from breakfast through dinner and 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. Drink: A robust selection of cocktails and mocktails complements the well-curated wine list, which features sustainable, biodynamic and classic vintners from California to Uruguay. Tip: If you find yourself here for a meal on a Wednesday, take advantage of the Wine Wednesday deal of 50% off bottles. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

If you’ve lived in Chicago long enough, chances are you already have a favorite pan pizza. Milly’s fantastic pies, though, may test your allegiances. The vibe: A warm neighborhood pizza joint. The food: Owner Robert Maleski started making pizzas during the pandemic and operated out of a ghost kitchen before moving into a brick-and-mortar space in Uptown. Today, the restaurant operates out of locations in West Town and Berwyn. Inspired by local legend Burt Katz, the dough is baked with a ring of mozzarella around it, resulting in a caramelized crust. Maleski tops the cheese and sauce with a host of ingredients and dollops of fresh mozzarella.  The drinks: It's all about the pizza here. As soon as the pie hits the table, you won't be thinking about drinks. Time Out tip: We’re big fans of the Craiglist.org, a winning combination of sausage, mushrooms, pappadew peppers, red onions, tomatoes, spinach and ricotta. Availability is limited, so it’s best to order ahead. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

This small Edgewater spot serves up some of the best deep dish in town. The vibe: Casual, lively, bright. The food: Owner George Bumbaris uses a sourdough starter and recipe that’s based on lagana—a Greek flatbread similar to focaccia. The bottom of each pie is also dusted with cornmeal while the edges of the crust are caramelized. And instead of putting the toppings under the sweet red sauce, Bumbaris layers them over it.  The drinks: A tight offering of Coke, water and bottled iced tea. Time Out tip: The menu pays tribute to famous Georges throughout history, so check out the fun creations like Weasley’s Spicy Red Top (Italian sausage, fire-roasted red peppers, spicy cherry peppers, ricotta) and Michael’s S&M (spaghetti, meatballs, ricotta, roasted garlic). Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

Perched on the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago hotel, Miru pairs stunning views with a pristine selection of maki, sashimi and nigiri. We suggest starting with an order of crispy rice topped with king crab or spicy tuna, before induling in luxe bites of otoro, uni and hotate. Can't decide? Go with the oke mori for anywhere from nine to 36 pieces of fish.

The team behind Logan Square spots Union and Lardon also operates this intimate and swanky cocktail bar. Housed in the same century-old building as the other two concepts, Meadowlark provides guests with a cozy den to hang out in—complete with low lighting, comfy leather couches and book-lined shelves. The drinks are all named after birds, and there’s also an accompanying menu of small bites. Seating is limited, so get there early to snag a spot.

One of the most memorable meals of my life came at Gymkhana, a contemporary Indian restaurant in London. Arriving hungry and jet-lagged, my partner and I were floored by the elevated takes on familiar South Asian staples. For Brits, this type of experience is a common occurrence but here in Chicago, it’s nowhere near as prevalent. While a number of openings have broken new ground in recent years, Indienne is arguably the most ambitious to date. Its chef and co-owner, Sujan Sarkar, is no stranger to the local scene. He helped launch Rooh in the West Loop, which itself was a revelation at the time. At Indienne, Sarkar pushes the envelope even further. The restaurant debuted in September with two tasting menus—vegetarian and non-vegetarian—that reimagine classic Indian recipes through a progressive lens (an a la carte menu has since been added). In a surprise, both set options are priced at $90, a relative bargain considering the River North location. On a recent visit, my non-vegetarian experience began with canapes. A passion fruit pani puri packing a tart punch cleansed the palate for a mushroom éclair crowned with goat cheese and shaved truffle. The evening’s first course, a beautiful chaat starring a potato nest with dollops of chutneys atop yogurt and a raspberry spread, delivered a medley of textures and flavors. Each bite was creamy and crispy, as well as tangy and spicy. It was followed by an immaculate poached egg in a curry studded with peas, sweet corn and crispy oni

Originally conceived as a virtual venture that accepted orders through Instagram, 3 Little Pigs pivoted to operating out of a shared kitchen before eventually expanding to several brick-and-mortar locations. Chef-owner Henry Cai whips up “untraditionally authentic” American Chinese cuisine, and for his signature char siu that put the concept on the map, he smokes fatty pork butt and finishes it off with a liberal dose of sweet and tangy sauce. The menu also features favorites such as fried rice studded with three types of pork and a unique salt; a pepper fried chicken sandwich dressed with fried garlic, sautéed jalapenos and mayo; and a hot pot beef sandwich that's a riff on Chicago's iconic Italian beef.

Ah, Malört. Opinions vary greatly on the city's most infamous liqueur but even if you're not a fan, you have to admire the creativity the best cocktail bars in Chicago exhibit in coming up with Malört-based cocktails. From riffs on classics to frozen slushies, there are a host of inventive, bitter concoctions. And if you want something simple, Stiegl Radler Grapefruit spiked with wormwood is an easy and refreshing DIY option. So without further ado, here are nine Malört cocktails you need to try this summer. The Wieners Circle Photograph: Wendell RemingtonThe Wiener's Circle Chicago’s favorite late-night haunt for hot dogs and high jinks added a bar to its space in 2021, paving the way for a cocktail that lives up to the restaurant’s DGAF reputation. Hemingway’s Revenge, a riff on the Hemingway special, mixes rum and Malört with grapefruit juice, maraschino and a splash of lime juice. Complement an order of cheese fries with the cheeky concoction for the perfect Chicago nightcap. Jinsei Motto View this post on Instagram A post shared by CH Bar and Table (@ch.barandtable) CH Distillery acquired Jeppson’s Malört in 2018, so it’s no surprise you’ll find the wormwood liqueur in a cocktail at the sushi restaurant located within its West Loop distillery. Dubbed Lilac Wine, the drink is made with CH’s London Dry Gin, Malört, CH Key Gin, green tea, grapefruit, thyme and shiso. And if it’s just a shot of Malört you’re after—well, there’s no better

Music festival season is still months away but one of Chicago’s biggest summer events has announced its 2025 lineup. ARC Music Fest will take place in late August at Union Park in West Loop. The festival will bring nearly 100 internationally-renowned house and techno artists to town for a weekend of dance and beats. This will be the fifth edition of ARC, and the music this year will be spread across four stages. Also returning is the ARC After Dark series, which will be five nights of afterparties at venues all over the city.  If you’re a fan of electronic music, you won’t want to miss out. When is the Chicago ARC Music Festival? The festival will happen August 29-31 in Chicago’s Union Park. How do I get tickets? Three-day General Admission, VIP and VIP+ tickets go on sale to the general public at noon on Friday, March 14. Presale tickets are currently on sale for Mastercard cardholders. Tickets can be purchased here. Who’s playing at the 2025 ARC Music Festival? This year’s lineup features big-name acts like Jamie xx, John Summit, Amelie Lens, Richie Hawtin, FISHER and Eric Prydz, who will perform under the aliases Eric Prydz, Pryda and Cirez D. One of ARC’s most popular experiences is its back-to-back sets—pairings for the 2025 fest will include Cajmere B2B Carl Craig, Green Velvet B2B Skepta Más Tiempo, Felix da Housecat B2B Mike Dunn and Honey Dijon B2B Derrick Carter. You can check out the full lineup here or below. View this post on Instagram A post share

St. Patrick’s Day is still over a week away, but Time Out Market Chicago is getting the party started early. Visit us this weekend at the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market for a host of exciting events. On Saturday, March 8, local author Laura Bityou Beriau and musician Ray Hogan will lead an hour of musical storytime. Bring the little ones for a morning of song, dance and classic Irish tales. Afterwards, you can purchase books and have them signed by Beriau. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly interactive experience, 2d Restaurant is hosting a donut decorating class for young chefs. They’ll be able to unleash their creativity by decorating three mochi donuts with a variety of toppings and sprinkles. All of the ingredients will be provided, and everyone can take their delicious sweet treats home. Tickets are $25 and available via Eventbrite. Finally, the Market is here to help you find your perfect match. Whether you're looking for love or just want to test the waters, join us for an evening of speed dating on Saturday night, presented by MyCheekyDate. Participants will be able to see all of their potential matches through a mobile scorecard and choose who they’d like to be paired with. Casual and comfortable, it’s a fun and low-pressure way to mingle, laugh and maybe meet that special someone. Tickets are available via Eventbrite. The St. Patrick’s Day festivities continue on Saturday, March 15, when the Market will have an all-day celebration featuring Finvara coc

Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is just days away and Time Out Market Chicago is celebrating with an oh-so-delicious pop-up starting this weekend. Visit the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market on Saturday, March 1 to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort. Chefs Jamie Gilmore (Southern Bites) and Darnell Reed (Luella’s Southern Kitchen) are teaming up to whip up a variety of New Orleans-inspired dishes for the occasion at their Back to Bourbon Street kitchen. Those who are familiar with the Big Easy know the muffuletta is a staple, and for good reason. The sandwich features Genoa salami, mortadella, ham, provolone and olive salad packed in an Italian loaf. Of course, no Cajun feast would be complete without a po’ boy so Gilmore and Reed are offering a version loaded with fried Mississippi catfish. Craving a bowl of chicken and sausage gumbo? Mmhmm, the hearty stew will be on offer as well. And we can’t forget the crawfish empanadas—the flaky dough crescents are filled with the “holy trinity of veggies”—onions, bell peppers and celery—plus rice and crustacean. Make sure to save some room for dessert. The praline and bourbon pecan bread pudding is simply the perfect end to any meal, but we’ll understand if you opt for one of our other favorites: Beignets dusted in powdered sugar. Wash it all down with a drink from the Time Out Market Bar, which will be slinging Hurricanes, the classic New Orleans cocktail. The Back to Bourbon Street kitchen will be open from 11am-8pm on March 1-2

A Chicago institution has just been recognized by the prestigious James Beard Foundation. Lem’s Bar-B-Q, the longstanding barbecue joint in Greater Grand Crossing, is one of the recipients of the foundation’s 2025 America’s Classics Award. Introduced in 1998, the honor is given to “locally owned restaurants with timeless appeal that serve quality food and are beloved by their communities.” Opened in 1954 by brothers Myles and Bruce Lemons, Lem’s is known for its Chicago-style rib tips and links, and signature secret sauce. Unlike most barbecue spots, the restaurant uses an aquarium-style smoker, fueled by hickory wood and charcoal, to cook its meats. The process is labor-intensive but it—along with the scents of meat coming from the tall smokestack atop the building—has kept customers coming back for seven decades. Lem’s location on 75th Street, which is also one of Time Out’s most iconic restaurants in Chicago, was established in 1968 by James B. Lemons and is currently run by his daughter Carmen. This isn’t the first time a Chicago restaurant has been declared an American Classic. Past winners have included the Berghoff, Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap, Calumet Fisheries and Sun Wah. The other recipients of this year’s America’s Classics Award are the Pioneer Saloon in Ketchum, ID; Sullivan’s Castle Island in Boston, MA; Lucky Wishbone in Anchorage, AK; Dooky Chase in New Orleans, LA; and Gaido’s in Galveston, TX. All six winners will be celebrated during the James Beard Restauran

National Margarita Day is February 22, and Time Out Market Chicago is celebrating in style. Join us at the food and cultural hub in Fulton Market for refreshing agave cocktails and good vibes all week long. We’re serving special margaritas at the bar and on National Margarita Day, a live DJ will be spinning the hits while guests can enjoy Tromba Tequila samplings and a photo booth from 1-4pm. And if you want some delicious bites to pair with your drinks, check out Lil Amaru for its selection of tacos, sandwiches and sides like sweet plantains and mojo fries. But that’s not all we have planned. On Sunday, February 23, the Market is hosting a Best Margarita Contest. Nine Chicago restaurants and bars are gathering to compete for the crown, and you can help decide the winner. Each participating spot will offer their own take on the classic margarita and attendees will choose their favorite. The one who receives the most votes will get a cash prize, trophy and bragging rights. The competition will be fierce as we’ve enlisted some of the best in town to battle it out. The lineup includes Big Star, La Josie, Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, Mercadito, La Luna, Cantina Rosa, Lonesome Rose, Tzuco and the Market bar. Tickets are on sale now via Eventbrite—entry gets you samples of every cocktail. We can wait to see you there!

One of the city’s favorite traditions is the dyeing of the Chicago River in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. The dyeing always occurs the Saturday before the holiday (except when March 17 falls on a Saturday) and this year, it’ll take place on March 15. The event draws thousands of spectators, who gather to watch the water turn green. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who makes the annual pilgrimage downtown to join in on the fun, here’s everything you need to know about the Chicago River dyeing. What time does Chicago dye the river green in 2025? Crews are scheduled to start the river dyeing process at 10am on Saturday, March 15. How do they dye the river green? Using several boats, the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130 pours and spreads 40 pounds of vegetable-based dye into the river—from Columbus Drive to Orleans Street—until it’s a bright shade of green. How long does the dye last in the river? Depending on the wind, the river usually stays green for a day or two. Where are the best places to watch the dying of the Chicago River? You’ll be able to see the dyeing anywhere along the Chicago River from Columbus Drive to Orleans Street. The Chicago Riverwalk and Wacker Drive are popular stretches for watching the action, as are the bridges that cross over the river. Many hotels, restaurants and bars overlooking the water will also host viewing parties, including RPM Seafood, Pizzeria Portofino, The Royal Sonesta, Miru, LondonHouse, Travelle at The Langham and Raise

Chicago is one of the biggest travel hubs in the world and soon, travelers will have more nonstop flight options. American Airlines has announced the addition of nine new destinations from O’Hare International Airport, including Chicago’s only nonstop service to Naples, Italy, which starts May 6. Other international cities customers will soon be able to fly to are Madrid, Spain and Halifax, Canada. In addition, American will offer 10 daily flights to eight popular European destinations, such as London, UK. The airline will also be introducing service to Bismarck, North Dakota; Boise, Idaho; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Honolulu, Hawaii; Hyannis, Massachusetts; and Spokane, Washington. Many of the new routes will launch in June, making it easier for you to get away this summer. American will operate up to 480 daily flights from O’Hare, which is a 22% increase from last year. “O’Hare has always been a vital hub for American, connecting the Midwest to our global network and bringing travelers from across the world to Chicago for business and pleasure,” said Ben Humphrey, American’s Vice President of ORD Operations, in a release. “Strengthening our network is a promise to our customers that we’ll continue to provide exceptional service to the places they want to go.” Customers will also have 40% more premium seating options in June when American debuts larger, dual-class aircraft. And it should be easier to book a flight as the airline will offer 25% more seats in total compared t

Love is in the air—it's Valentine's Day! If you haven't made dinner plans yet at one of Chicago's most romantic restaurants, all is not lost. There are still plenty of great spots where you can woo your valentine with a swoon-worthy meal. Some are even going the extra mile and offering special heart-shaped foods for the occasion. From classic deep dish pizzas and donuts to a Beating Heart maki roll, here are the best heart-shaped dishes to help make your date night memorable. Lou Malnati's   Photograph: Courtesy Lou Malnati's   Chicago’s legendary deep dish specialist is bringing back its popular heart-shaped pizzas, and they’re available all month long. The nine-inch pies can be had with plain cheese, sausage or pepperoni, and $1 from every order will be donated to Feeding America local food banks. Sunda New Asian   Photograph: Courtesy Sunda New Asian   Sure, you’ve probably seen heart-shaped pizzas and desserts before, but what about a maki roll? Sunda’s two locations are offering a special Beating Heart Maki, filled with spicy tuna, pickled daikon, tobiko and sweet soy butter, through February 16. Gene & Georgetti   Photograph: Courtesy Gene & Georgetti   Chicago’s oldest steakhouse isn’t just about the beef. For Valentine’s Day, the restaurant will offer house-made, heart-shaped ravioli filled ricotta alongside blistered tomato, peas and lobster jus.  Pizzeria Portofino   Photograph: Lindsay Eberly   Treat your valentine to a romantic riverside dining experienc

One of the biggest pop stars in the world is coming to Chicago this Valentine’s Day, and Time Out Market Chicago wants to help you get to the show. Justin Timberlake will perform at the United Center on Friday, February 14, and because we know how much of a hassle traffic and parking can be, we’re offering free transportation to the arena. That’s right—from 6-9pm, a shuttle will leave for the United Center from the Market every 30 minutes. So leave the car at home and ride with us. The Market will be the perfect spot for you and your crew to pregame for the concert. Enjoy a variety of delicious bites from some of the city’s best restaurants and chefs. There’s Gutenburg’s mouthwatering burgers and fries, QXY’s acclaimed soup dumplings, Sporty Bird’s irresistible fried chicken, Bill Kim’s comforting ramen and much more. To wash it all down, the bar will be slinging creative cocktails, local craft beers and wines. No matter your preference, it sure beats concessions at the arena. Not going to the concert? Then party with us! We’re also throwing a pop-themed Galentine’s bash at the Market from 7-9pm. Get ready to dance the night away as a live DJ plays all of your favorite hits. From JT to T. Swift, the evening will be a celebration of all things pop. Plus, there will be bracelets and charms available for purchase from Get Sparked. That’s not all, though—the Market bar is whipping up a host of special cocktails just for the occasion. Timberlake fans will definitely want to sip on

The wait is almost over! The biggest game of the year is this weekend, and Time Out Market Chicago will be the best place to catch all of the action. Gather your crew and watch the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday, February 9 at the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market. We’ll be showing the game on a giant 32 feet wide by 6 feet tall screen with sound, as well as upstairs on the second floor, so no matter where you are, you won’t miss a single play (or Kendrick Lamar’s much-anticipated halftime performance). Of course, the game is only half of the fun. All of the Market’s kitchens are ready to feed you and your friends a host of delicious bites. We know how difficult it can be to order with a big group, which is why the Market is the perfect spot to accommodate all palates. And with mobile ordering, you can order from multiple eateries in one seamless transaction. There’s even tableside delivery—yes, someone will bring the food directly to you! If you’re in the mood for traditional game day foods, there are plenty of options. The wings—available in soy garlic or gochujang—from Bill Kim Ramen Bar are a favorite, as are Urbanbelly’s hot chicken bao buns. Craving nachos? Lil Amaru’s version is piled high with chihuahua cheese, beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, salsa macha and choice of protein. These dishes are all shareable, but if you want something all to your own, consider one of Gutenburg’s mouthwatering burgers, Sporty Bird’s irresistible

Winter in Chicago means snowy days, frigid cold and lots of indoor activities. One of the best ways to stay warm is by digging into hearty, comforting fare. Luckily, Time Out Market Chicago offers a variety of excellent options to make the coldest months more bearable. From rich bowls of ramen to decadent soup dumplings to delightful salads, the following dishes will help you overcome the winter blues. Pork ramen at Bill Kim Ramen Bar   Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out   While ramen is always a great choice, there’s no denying its appeal during the coldest months. Celebrated chef Bill Kim offers several versions to satisfy every type of palate. Our personal favorite is the pork ramen–kimchi-braised pork, crispy shallots, egg, marinated bean sprouts, cabbage, scallions, cilantro—but you can get your bowl with spicy shrimp, chicken wontons, pork mandu or tofu as well. Lamb and coriander dumplings at QXY Dumplings   Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out   The city’s best dumplings are at the Market, courtesy of Chinatown stalwart QXY. You won’t go wrong with any of the offerings, but our go-to is the steamed lamb and coriander soup dumplings. If you want an even more decadent bite, opt for the wagyu beef and black truffle dumplings. All dumplings are available steamed or pan fried, and you can mix and match flavors. Wings and waffles at Southern Bites   Photograph: Time Out Market   Chef Jamie Gilmore delivers Southern-style brunch fare with Creole love at Southern Bi