Must Eat in Chicago, IL
12 places
Discover the culinary gems of Chicago, where rich flavors and innovative dishes come together. From deep-dish pizza to unique tacos, each spot offers a memorable experience that reflects the city's vibrant food scene.

Pizano's Pizza & Pasta
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Indulgent deep-dish pizza with a new location at Dearborn, Pizano's offers rich flavors and a classic Chicago experience without the crowds.

Velvet Taco
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Diverse flavors define Velvet Taco, where I savor everything from buffalo chicken to falafel, all in inventive taco creations that surprise.

Mindy's Bakery
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Charming, it offers a secret speakeasy vibe, inviting you to savor award-winning hot chocolate and delightful homemade marshmallows.

Scofflaw
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Whimsical ambiance merges with a chef-driven menu featuring a burger like In-N-Out and late-night cookies, creating a cozy neighborhood retreat.

Small Cheval- Wicker Park
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Inspired by its fast-casual vibe, Small Cheval delivers the celebrated burgers of Au Cheval with shorter waits and enjoyably accessible prices.

HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
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Innovative dishes blend American breakfast with authentic Vietnamese flavors, highlighted by signature cocktails and a lovely husband-wife partnership.

Smyth
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Elevated by chef John Shields’ blend of Midwest and Japanese cuisine, Smyth offers a creative tasting menu in an engaging open kitchen setting.

Mi Tocaya Antojeria
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Authentic flavors define Mi Tocaya Antojeria, where local favorites and traditional recipes come together in a vibrant setting perfect for enjoying Mexican cuisine.

Galit Restaurant
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Remarkable Middle Eastern flavors set Galit apart, showcasing exquisite dishes that blend tradition with culinary creativity for a memorable dining experience.

Cellar Door Provisions
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Serene, its airy space and unpretentious counter service create a relaxed vibe, making for a delightful solo brunch or catch-up with friends.

Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
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Delicious, I love Portillo's for its famous chocolate cake made with a secret ingredient—mayonnaise. Plus, their Chicago-style Italian Beef is a must-try.

Alinea
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Extraordinary flavors combine with innovative techniques at Alinea, where each dish is a piece of art crafted from molecular gastronomy.