In honor of the recent James Beard Awards that took place earlier this year in Chicago, we wanted to highlight the best eating establishments right now in Chicago. When planning your visit, be sure to use our foodie’s guide to Chicago. From new eats to Chicago classics we’ve highlighted the best in the eclectic culinary scene that is Chicago.
Ethnic eats
Chicago is a melting pot of ethnic eats, here are a few of our favorites.
Nha Hang Vietnam
Not much of a looker from the outside, Nha Hang Vietnam packs a punch with their large menu of authentic Vietnamese dishes. Sip on some pho or try their classic spring rolls.
Mi Tocaya
Winning a shout out last year from Bon Appetit as the best new restaurant, Mi Tocaya is anauthentic colorfully casual Mexican restaurant, that everyone has come to love. From raw cactus to duck carnitas, this is unlike any Mexican food you have ever tasted before.
Modern food courts
With food marketplaces on the rise everywhere, there are a few in Chicago that are a must try.
The French Market
Add a little international flare to your cuisine and head to the market that started it all in Chicago, The French Market. Savor everything from the Hawaiian famed Pokė to stinky French cheeses, there is everything in between under one roof.
Revival Food Hall
Post up at the counter for some food and a crafty cocktail at the Revival Food Hall. Located inside a historic building, patrons can sample fast-casual foods like award-winning Chowdah from Brown Bag Seafood Co. or a gourmet sandwich from The Fat Shallot. There are 15 different vendors, all offering something unique for everyone’s pallet.
And the winner is…
Chicago is home to many highly acclaimed restaurants but there are a few we think deserve a little more recognition.
Fat Rice
Winning the 2018 James Beard best chef award in the Great Lakes, Abraham Conlon serves up some fantastic dishes at Fat Rice. With its boho-chic setting, comfort food is brought to life with Macanese fusion cuisine, which include ingredients and techniques from Portugal, India, South-east Asia, and other countries throughout the world.
Alinea
Where dinner becomes an event, the newly re-vamped Alinea lets its awards speak for itself. With three unique dining experiences, The Gallery, The Salons, and The Kitchen Table, guests can sample from a modern 14 course tasting menu or a higher dining experience with a private more intimate setting. Be sure toplan ahead and book your experience a head of time.
Street eats
If you want to know where all of Chicago’s brilliant chefs gather together in one place, stroll these streets in search of culinary delight.
Randolph St.
Running east – west through the Chicago Loop, Randolph St. is a culmination of some of the best food in Chicago all within walking distance of one another. A few honorable mentions include Belly Q, Avec, Au Cheval, and Little Goat. But really you can’t go wrong with anyestablishment along this popular street in Chicago.
Damen Ave.
About 15 minutes away from The Penthouse at Grand Plaza sits a collection of restaurants that attracts the cool kids at the lunch table. Feel fancy eating tacos with a little honky tonk at Big Star or Le Bouchon for Moroccan lamb shank.
Chicago classics
Chicago is known for some classics like deep-dish pizza and the Chicago dog. Here is where to snag the classics at their best.
Vienna Beef Factory
For Chicago-style hot dogs go to Vienna Beef Factory and taste a piece of hot dog history. Add your favorite fixin’s but don’t ask for any ketchup, you might get a few stares from the locals.
Lou Malnati’s
Claiming to have invented the famous Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Lou Malnati’s is a good place to start if sampling this pizza for the first time.
Al’s
Having allegedly invented the Italian beef sandwich, Al’s is a restaurant chain that is home to the great Chicago sandwich. Try the sandwich that started it all!
New kids on the block
There is always something new popping up in the city, here are a few we think deserve a shout out.
Taylor Gourmet
If sandwiches are your thing then check out Taylor Gourmet’s second location at the Fulton Market. With only the freshest ingredients used, enjoy a healthy salad or sandwich for lunch or dinner.
The Churro Waffle
Creating waffles from churros, The Churro Waffle offers a new twist on the breakfast classic. The family-run business is open for breakfast and lunch.
Sabbia – Eataly Chicago
Sabbia, meaning “sand” in Italian, is a summertime restaurant inspired by the Italian seaside has recently been added to Eataly Chicago, an Italian food marketplace. Main features are their Caprese Bar and oyster boats.
Book your luxury Chicago getaway at The Penthouse at Grand Plaza!
As you start to plan your vacation consider one of our nine sophisticated penthouses for the ultimate in luxurious accommodations and stunning views of Chicago. And with our convenient downtown location you will have easy access to all the restaurants listed on our foodie’s guide to Chicago. Check availability and start planning your Chicago getaway!