Best Authentic Restaurants in Chicago, IL

18 places

Explore the heart of Chicago's culinary scene, where each restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors, history, and atmosphere, celebrating authentic dining experiences.

Tortello photo

Tortello

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4.5

Craftsmanship defines Tortello, where I admire the handmade pasta made visible from the street, paired with delightful summer live music.

Longman & Eagle photo

Longman & Eagle

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4.0

Savoring a diverse menu that includes classic burgers and foie gras, Longman & Eagle stands out with its exceptional whiskey bar and innovative cocktails.

LOGO

Small Cheval- Wicker Park

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4.5

Charmingly laid-back, Small Cheval delivers acclaimed burgers with shorter wait times and a casual vibe, making it an easy choice for any meal.

Prawns

HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen

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4.0

Fusion enhances my dining experience at HaiSous, where creative brunch items blend American breakfast with Vietnamese flair in a stylish setting.

Dry Aged Bone In Ribeye

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf

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4.5

Indulgence defines Bavette's, where I relish their signature Filet Mignon, homemade sourdough, and elegant French-inspired atmosphere.

NEW YORK STRIP

Michael Jordan's Steak House

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4.0

Signature dishes like stone crab and Havana Dream pie highlight the culinary excellence here, making it a go-to for meat and seafood lovers.

French Fries Dinner All Night

Scofflaw

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4.5

Delightfully, Scofflaw offers a cozy ambiance with a fireside atmosphere, standout burgers comparable to In-N-Out, and freshly baked cookies at midnight.

phyllo dessert

Galit Restaurant

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4.0

Exquisite Middle Eastern flavors elevate Galit, celebrated for its MICHELIN distinction and creative twists, making it a standout dining experience.

Donut holes

Lou Mitchell's

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4.0

Heritage defines Lou Mitchell's as it combines history and hearty breakfast favorites on iconic Route 66, making each meal a truly nostalgic experience.

Oysters, East coast

Shaw's Crab House

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4.0

Tradition defines Shaw's Crab House, a lively seafood haven where fresh shellfish shine and the Oyster Bar buzzes with energy.

Alinea photo

Alinea

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4.5

Ever-changing, Alinea captivates with its avant-garde cuisine and innovative presentations, ensuring an unforgettable dining journey in Chicago.

Photo by endoedibles

Mi Tocaya Antojeria

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4.0

Innovation defines Mi Tocaya Antojeria, where hand-pressed tortillas and history-infused dishes enhance the vibrant local dining scene.

Girl & The Goat photo

Girl & The Goat

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4.5

Inventive dishes like crispy short ribs and creative small plates by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard make dining here a memorable experience.

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Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago

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3.5

Marvelous for its unique secret ingredient in chocolate cake, I love Portillo's for Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian Beef. A local staple.

Photo by U1389AJjoer

Cellar Door Provisions

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4.0

Serenity defines my experience at Cellar Door Provisions, where the airy ambiance complements their renowned quiche and rotating local menu.

Chocolate ganache pinecones

Smyth

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4.0

Energizing flavors from chef John Shields blend Midwest and Japanese influences. The open kitchen and creative tasting menus create an engaging experience.

Italian Beef Sandwich

Mr. Beef

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4.0

Beneath its nostalgic charm, Mr. Beef offers authentic Italian beef sandwiches, a culinary staple since 1963, celebrated by fans and food shows alike.

Crispy Pizza

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

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4.0

Historic vibes permeate Exchequer, a former mob and jazz hotspot, renowned for its tasty pizza, ribs, and unique speakeasy next door.