Chicago, the vibrant metropolis along the shores of Lake Michigan and home to RudiGourmand, is renowned for its stunning skyline, rich cultural heritage, and diverse and delicious food scene. From iconic deep-dish pizza to sizzling steaks, and from global fusion cuisine to enticing treats, the Windy City offers a culinary adventure like no other.
As RudiGourmand is based in Chicago, locals and tourists alike frequently ask us for recommendations on what and where to eat in Chicago.
In this article, we will share with you the places we enjoy patronizing. While we admit to not having tried all of Chicago’s fine culinary establishments and are sure there are many more worthy establishments to add to this list, here are just a few we like and recommend as the best places to eat in Chicago.
Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey together through the streets of Chicago to discover- RudiGourmand Recommends: Chicago.
Deep-Dish Delights
No first visit to Chicago would be complete without indulging in the city's legendary deep-dish pizza. A true Chicago institution, this hearty pie boasts a thick, buttery crust, piled high with layers of gooey cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and an array of mouthwatering toppings. But with so many pizzerias claiming to be Chicago’s best, where do you go? For a first-time visit, RudiGourmand recommends:
Lou Malnati’s – Various locations; see website
Truth be told, when RudiGourmand entertains out-of-town guests wanting to try Chicago Deep Dish Pizza, we take them to Lou Malnati’s. “Lou’s,” as it is affectionately known by locals, has been around Chicago for decades with multiple locations to satisfy pizza lovers throughout the city. Lou’s even offers to ship pizzas within the U.S. Lou’s pizza has a melt-in-your-mouth buttery crust, ooey gooey fresh cheese, and giant slabs of sausage (if ordered). You'll be stuffed with one or two slices of this deep-dish pizza. But don’t let that stop you from ordering a larger one - that just means more leftovers to bring home!
Meats
For all the carnivores who come to Chicago, meats are usually a top priority. With Chicago’s history of animal stockyards, this city has the deserved reputation for meat-eaters to get their fill of steaks, ribs, and chops. For those looking for animal-based protein, RudiGourmand recommends:
Erie Cafe – 536 W. Erie St., Chicago 60654
Among the many chop houses in Chicago, Eric Cafe blends the feel of a neighborhood (not corporate) chop house with the quality of a more corporate establishment. Located in the River North neighborhood next to the North Branch of the Chicago River, Erie Cafe serves steaks, chops, pasta, and salads in a casually elegant environment. Don’t miss dining on the outdoor patio during the warmer months.
Mr. Beef – 666 N. Orleans St., Chicago 60654
When it comes to Italian Beef sandwiches, Chicago has many small local joints specializing in this juicy Chicago-made beef treat. But Mr. Beef has something special. And that was even before The Bear made it popular. You can’t miss it with the large white sign outside with big bold “Mr. Beef” emblazoned on it in black letters. This diner is old school and low maintenance. One thing to note, make sure to bring cash as no credit cards are accepted.
Ethnic Enclaves
One of the hallmarks of Chicago's landscape is its vibrant array of multicultural cuisine. One can explore the bustling streets of Chinatown, where you can feast on authentic dim sum, crispy Peking duck, and hand-pulled noodles. You can venture to the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Italy and Greektown, where family-owned trattorias and tavernas serve traditional dishes like homemade pasta, savory moussaka, and flaky baklava. And don't forget about Devon Avenue on the city's north side, where you can savor the flavors of India, Pakistan, and beyond with fragrant curries, spicy samosas, and sweet treats like jalebi and Gulab jamun.
No matter which neighborhood you visit, you are certain to find a plethora of delicious eats. For those in the central tourist hub of Chicago, RudiGourmand recommends:
Ming Hin – Various locations; see website
With six locations in Chicago, you have many opportunities to experience authentic Chinese food in the Midwest. If you’re in the tourist-focused center of the city, you can visit the Ming Hin location in Streeterville just off the Magnificient Mile. Make sure to sample their dim sum selection. Ming Hin’s dim sum is some of the best we’ve had outside of China.
Cocoro – 668 N. Wells St., Chicago 60654
Looking for a real traditional izakaya in Chicago? Look no further than Cocoro located in the River North neighborhood just a 10-minute walk from Michigan Avenue. While the restaurant looks unassuming, it delivers authentic Japanese cuisine. The sushi and roll menu is robust, but don’t overlook the smaller side menu written in Japanese with English translation for unique dishes you won’t find anywhere but in Japan.
Shanghai Terrace – 108 E. Superior St., Chicago 60611; inside The Peninsula Hotel
Shanghai Terrace is a favorite with RudiGourmand having dined there many times. Located in The Peninsula Chicago hotel, Shanghai Terrace offers gracious service, a warm and lovely atmosphere, and elevated Shanghainese-Cantonese cuisine. Chef Elmo Han leads his culinary team to consistently deliver outstanding Chinese food, so much so that Shanghai Terrace has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in Chicago by the New York Times. Shanghai Terrace is the perfect restaurant to visit with guests to impress, enjoy dim sum and drinks on its oasis-like terrace during the warmer months, or just escape home cooking for something a little special.
Volare Ristorante – 201 E. Grand Ave., Chicago 60611
Tucked away off Michigan Avenue on Grand Street just steps away from Nordstrom and the Tribune Tower is Volare. This family-owned and operated old-world Italian restaurant serves solid and delicious favorites every time we’ve dined there. Service is friendly and efficient, price points are reasonable, and the ambiance is inviting for all: couples, families, business associates, and groups.
Farm-to-Table Freshness
In recent years, Chicago has embraced the farm-to-table movement, with chefs and restaurateurs sourcing locally grown, seasonal ingredients to create fresh, flavorful dishes that celebrate the bounty of the Midwest. From farmer's markets to rooftop gardens, the city offers many opportunities to sample the best of the region's produce, including sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and crisp apples. To indulge in farm-fresh fare, RudiGourmand recommends:
Boka – 1729 N. Halsted St., Chicago 60614
With celebrated chef Lee Wolen at the helm, Boka consistently delivers fresh and innovative dishes that incorporate the Midwest’s seasonal produce. While Boka has been celebrated with awards year after year, Boka’s cuisine is not only elegant but very approachable. Boka is located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, a 15-minute cab ride from Michigan Avenue. Well worth the trip!
Sweet Treats and Dessert Destinations
No culinary journey through Chicago would be complete without satisfying your sweet tooth with some indulgent treats and desserts. Chicago offers many sweet treats including Garrett Popcorn, chocolate brownies invented at the Palmer House Hotel, and Rainbow Cones. When it comes to sweet treats, RudiGourmand recommends:
La Fournette – 1547 N. Wells St., Chicago 60610
After many unsuccessful attempts at finding a truly French style baguette, we visited La Fournette following a suggestion from a chef friend, and were relieved to finally have found an authentic baguette. This small bakery/cafe located in the Old Town neighborhood of Chicago features French baked goods that taste truly French. The owners are from the Alsace region of France, so in addition to finding macarons, croissants, and seasonal Bouche de Noel, you can enjoy seasonal butter Stollen, tarte flambee, and spritz cookies.
Do-Rite Donuts – various locations; check website
Chicago has a ton of donut shops. You can find every type from the traditional and basic glazed to artisan-style donuts topped in bacon and stuffed with Nutella. While we have tried many, many donuts in Chicago, the shop that has us returning time and time again is Do-Rite. The reasons: their glazed donuts are airy puffs of sugary vanilla goodness, donut size is large, but not absurd, flavor options are abundant, and the staff is friendly and efficient. You can find Do-Rite in several Chicago locations including one in Streeterville a few blocks off the Mag Mile, one in Willis (Sears) Tower, and one in Wrigleyville across from Wrigley Field.
Coffee/Tea
Chicago is home to the largest Starbucks Roastery, which is certainly a sight to behold, especially with its curved escalator. But if you’re looking for a more local coffee house, here are just a few RudiGourmand recommendations:
VietFive Coffee – 1116 W. Madison St., Chicago 60607
If you are in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago, check out VietFive Coffee. This Asian-owned coffee house vends deliciously rich Vietnamese coffee from their family farm in Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam. In addition to amazing coffee, VietFive sells Vietnamese food, boba tea, and mochi donuts.
Tary Coffee House - 111 W. Illinois St., Chicago 60654
Have you ever tried Kazakh cuisine? If not, go to Tary Coffee House during your time in Chicago. Walking into Tary, you instantly feel transported out from Chicago’s maze of skyscrapers to a peaceful and warm Central Asian home. The staff are extremely warm and helpful, kindly explaining the food and beverages to someone like myself not familiar with Kazakh cuisine. Try the Latte Irimshik- a latte made with slightly sweet cottage cheese, the Tary Porridge, or the cinnamon roll filled with irimshik, a delicious not-so-sweet roll.
Bars with Views
Whenever visitors come to Chicago, we love taking them to one of the many rooftop bars. Chicago rooftop bars are very popular with locals and tourists alike. How could they not be with their combination of beverages, fresh air, and views? Here are RudiGourmand’s recommendations for bars with great views:
CloudBar – 875 N. Michigan Ave. 94th Floor, Chicago 60611; inside the John Hancock Tower
Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Tower is CloudBar. Open daily from 9 am to 11 pm, CloudBar is the highest bar in Chicago. You’ll need a general admission ticket to 360 Chicago to access CloudBar, giving you the absolute best 360-degree views of Chicago. Check out the admission plus drink package for a deal that gives you a souvenir glass. And if you want an extra thrill while there, buy a ticket to Tilt where you can literally tilt out over Chicago from 1,030 feet high in the sky.
London House Chicago Rooftop – 85 E. Wacker Dr. 22nd Floor, Chicago 60601; inside the London House Chicago hotel
London House Rooftop Bar, located in the London House Chicago hotel, provides some of the most amazing views of the Chicago River. If the rooftop bar isn’t open be prepared to order from the indoor bar and carry your drinks up a flight of stairs to the roof. While that can be pesky, the stellar views make up for it.
Cindy’s – 12 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago 60603; inside Chicago Athletic Association
Cindy’s is located on the top floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. Its location on Michigan Avenue across from Millennium Park affords it the most stunning views of the park and Lake Michigan. In addition to drinks, you can also enjoy dining.
Breakfast
Breakfast- the most important meal of the day. And one of the most delicious meals of the day with so many great breakfast options available in Chicago. To start your day, RudiGourmand recommends:
Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen – 1141 S. Jefferson St., Chicago 60607
Serving up some of the most low-key and warm food since 1942, Manny’s is a Chicago establishment. This family-owned and operated cafeteria-style deli offers hearty no-fuss breakfasts and deli favorites: corned beef, pastrami, stuffed cabbage, potato pancakes. Chicagoans love “Manny’s” for its friendly service and straightforward deli food. It has become a hub for politicians with it reportedly being one of former president Barak Obama’s favorite places.
Lou Mitchell’s – 565 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago 60661
Another Chicago institution is Lou Mitchell’s. Located a few blocks from Chicago Union Station on Route 66, Lou Mitchell’s has been serving breakfast and lunch since 1923. When entering the restaurant, ladies and children are offered Milk Duds as part of the Greek tradition of providing something sweet when entering someone’s home. Try their pancakes- so fluffy and huge!
Ann Sather- various locations; see website
With three locations in Chicago, Ann Sather delivers hands-down the best cinnamon rolls we have tasted. Opened in 1945, Ann Sather serves hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner with influence from its Swedish roots.
These are neighborly restaurants with a homey feel. Be prepared for crowds at these popular restaurants; I’ve never been to Ann Sather when it isn’t busy. Make sure to try their Swedish pancakes and those cinnamon rolls.
From iconic deep-dish pizza to global fusion fare, Chicago's diverse culinary landscape offers something for every palate and preference. Whether you're craving classic comfort food, exotic flavors from around the world, or innovative dishes that push the boundaries of taste, the Windy City invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you hungry for more.
Make sure to bring your sense of adventure and appetite and think of RudiGourmand when you come to Chicago!