Here’s the Dish: Where to Eat in Chicago

Don’t let its nickname, the “Windy City,” deter you — Chicago has more than 7,300 restaurants to welcome you in from the cold. Its culinary popularity is peaking at the moment thanks to the foodie-favorite show, The Bear, along with its status as the home of the lauded James Beard Awards.

And while there’s plenty of fine dining in this city, locals will tell you it has some of the best comfort food in the country. Chicagoans are proud of their signature dishes, from the famous Chicago hot dog (don’t even think about asking for ketchup) to its infamous pizza. And thanks to its Midwest location, they’ll boast that they’ve got some of the country’s best produce.

Of course, everyone has their favorite neighborhood bistro and hot dog stand, but here are a few of our favorite places to try on your next trip to Chicago.

Pequod’s Pizzeria

Arguing about the merits of deep-dish pizza is a city-wide pastime in Chicago. Is it a casserole? Is it just for tourists? The discussions go on and on. But no one argues with the fact that it’s delicious.

Pequod’s proclaims it’s the city’s best and many locals would agree. Thick, cheesy and served in a cast-iron pan, its caramelized crust is an addictive signature. Pequod’s reputation has earned itself a long line of hungry diners, so book in advance or line up during the week.

Neighborhood: Morton Grove and Lincoln Park

Au Cheval

Considered to house America’s best cheeseburger, Au Cheval is always a crowd pleaser. This upscale, swanky diner has an intriguing menu of upgraded classics, like scrambled eggs with foie gras, a fried bologna sandwich, and, of course, a single or double cheeseburger.

Pair any of these delicious gut-busters with handcrafted classic cocktails. Just keep in mind, they don’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait.

Neighborhood: The West Loop

Gene & Jude’s

This humble hot dog shack has been slinging classic Chicago-style hot dogs since 1946. What even is a Chicago-style hot dog? It’s an all-beef frankfurter served in a bun with raw onions, spicy peppers, green relish, a pickle spear, and mustard.

Ketchup is banned here; in fact, there’s a sign that reads, “No seats. No Ketchup. No pretense. No nonsense.” Located well outside the CBD, stop here on your way to or from O’Hare — or both.

Neighborhood: River Grove

Cariño

One of the most exciting things about Chicago’s culinary scene is its innovative restaurants like the brand new Cariño. Word on the street is that this new Latin American fine-dining restaurant is wow-ing guests with 12-16 courses of unique Latin American flavors and ingredients, like trout roe tostadas and sweet corn ravioli.

Chef Norman Fenton is so dedicated to keeping things traditional he’s started an in-house masa program for fresh tortillas and is building one of the Midwest’s largest collections of Latin American wines.

Neighborhood: Uptown Chicago

Daisies

Made-from-scratch pasta and Midwestern comfort food are the speciality at this new Chicago favorite. Start with the onion dip and house-made ruffle chips, and if you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with one of their caviars.

Then, move on to the pillowy gnocchi and perfect pappardelle mixed with whatever is seasonal and fresh. You will not leave hungry, we promise.

Neighborhood: Logan Square

MingHin Cuisine

Ask anyone where the best dim sum in Chicago is, and they’ll say “MingHin.” This Hong Kong-style food institution first opened in Chinatown in 2010.

Now, there are six locations in the Chicago area serving standout dim sum for lunch and the must-order roasted pork belly for dinner. While the menu length here can be overwhelming, just ask the staff about their favorite dishes and order accordingly.

Neighborhood: Chinatown, Lakeshore East, Naperville, Rolling Meadows, South Loop, and Streeterville

Boleo

Skyline views and South American bites await at what is arguably Chicago’s best rooftop bar. On the 15th floor of the Kimpton Gray Hotel, Boleo serves tangy ceviches, stuffed empanadas, and a Lomo Saltado to die for.

The bar menu also features innovative plays on cocktails like the Pisco Sour and a fantastic craft beer selection.

Neighborhood: Downtown Chicago

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse

Chicago loves a good steakhouse, and few are more celebrated than Gibsons. The team here has been grilling behemoth slabs of beef alongside shrimp cocktail and wedge salad for over 30 years.

With its hefty price tag comes fantastic service and a buzzing atmosphere filled with special occasion meals. It’s practically impossible to save room for dessert here, but trust us — take the carrot cake to go.

Neighborhood: Gold Coast

Alinea

Until last year, Alinea was Chicago’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant. And while you may need to sell your firstborn to get a 6pm reservation, devout diners argue it’d be worth it.

Once you’ve secured a seat, buckle up for sensory overload. Here, course after course, combined with scented smoke, tableside theatrics, and whimsical plating, make for one of the world’s best dining experiences.

Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

Given the thousands of restaurants in Chicago, we’re sure we missed a few favorites, but this list is a flavor-packed beginner’s guide to this city’s standout culinary scene. Now we’re craving a hot dog.

Where to stay: Kimpton Gray Hotel

Check out our full series on the food capitals of America here.