Photo credits: Nobu Chicago
Deep-dish pizzas, Michelin stars: Chicago's food will wow you.
Written by Michael Ford
Updated on January 1, 2025
Welcome to our 2025 guide to Chicago's best eats! Every dish is a story here, made by chefs who love to wow you. Think of that sizzle and spice mix in the air, promising you a meal you'll never forget. Whether you're into fancy Michelin-star places or cozy hidden spots, we've got you covered. More than just food, we invite you to join in on Chicago's lively food vibe. We have all sorts of flavors for every mood and moment. Join us on this tasty trip, where good food and the exciting city of Chicago come together to make memories that stick. Ready to try the best of Chicago? Let's check out the top spots to eat in 2025.
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Our team independently selects every restaurant on this list. A journalist familiar with Chicago and who has dined at the restaurant does the writing. Our criteria focus on high-end places delivering an authentic feel of the city. Stand-out dishes, prime location, and warm service are key. We also value notable reputations. The list gets an update monthly to reflect new openings and changes in existing ones.
(4.5)
What is it? Boka is a cool spot in the heart of Chicago. It mixes modern American food with a fun twist. This place stands out with its fresh vibe, making every meal a treat.
Why we love it: Boka is more than a restaurant; it's where food becomes art and feels like home. It's perfect for big parties or chill nights with friends because of its cozy feel and great service. Every dish is a delight to see and eat, made with bold flavors and a lot of care. Step into Boka for a top-notch eating journey where style and taste come together.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
1729 N Halsted St, 60614 Chicago
(4.5)
What it is: Oriole is a special dining spot in the heart of Chicago, located at 661 W Walnut St. This welcoming place offers a charming and elegant evening out. The music playing in the background is chosen with care, adding a special touch to your meal. You'll find yourself surrounded by a lively and diverse group of people, making each visit unique. The chefs at Oriole are experts in modern American cooking, turning every dish into a work of art.
Why we love it: Oriole is more than a place to eat; it's a whole experience. The cozy atmosphere and top-notch service are designed to delight and impress you. It's the perfect spot for a romantic date or to celebrate important moments with loved ones. Oriole stands out as a gem in Chicago's dining scene, promising a memorable night for everyone.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
661 W Walnut St, 60661 Chicago
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(4.5)
What is it? Right in the heart of Chicago at 854 W Randolph St, Nobu lights up the scene. It's a perfect mix of new styles and old Japanese charm. As soon as you walk in, calming music sets the stage for an amazing meal. This spot draws in the city's trendsetters and VIPs, all eager for Nobu's famous sushi and unique food.
Why we love it: Nobu Chicago is more than just eating out; it's a full-on adventure. Every plate is a work of art, full of imagination and made with the best ingredients. It's a place where luxury meets creativity, making each meal a feast for your senses.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
854 W Randolph St, 60607 Chicago
(4.4)
What is it? Moody Tongue Chicago sits at 2515 S Wabash Ave. It's a cozy and stylish gem in the city's food scene. Its music and vibe welcome everyone. It’s where eating is like art.
Why we love it: This place is special. Locals and visitors buzz about it. The food is fresh and exciting, making every meal an adventure. It's perfect for dates, parties, or just a fun night out. Moody Tongue makes your evening memorable, from start to finish.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
2515 S Wabash Ave, 60616 Chicago
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(4.4)
What is it? Mako is a cool spot in Chicago, located at 731 W Lake St. It mixes Japanese cooking with a fancy, yet cozy vibe. This place isn't just about food; it's about experiencing something special in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Why we love it: Mako has everything you want for a night out in Chicago. It's trendy, has a friendly atmosphere, and plays lively music. But the big draw is the menu. It’s full of Japanese dishes that mix the old with the new in exciting ways. It’s the kind of place that makes any dinner in the city stand out.
Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
731 W Lake St, 60661 Chicago
(4.3)
What is it? Alinea shines bright in Chicago's busy heart. It's more than eating; it's a journey for all senses, blending innovation with luxury. Alinea's sleek style sets the scene for a night to remember, with music that adds to your food adventure.
Why we love it: It's where food lovers and chefs come together, all drawn by Alinea's bold ideas. The service is top-notch, the food is super creative, and every bite is a new discovery. Here, eating turns into lasting memories, making Alinea not just a meal, but an experience to hold dear.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
1723 N Halsted St, 60614 Chicago
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(4.3)
What it is: Next is a top spot for food in Chicago’s busy Fulton Market area. It has a cool, modern feel with an open kitchen. People from all walks of life come to eat here, making it a lively place. The menu changes a lot, taking you on a world tour with its tastes. They have a good selection of wines and cocktails too, so it’s never the same experience twice.
Why we love it: Next is more than just eating; it’s a fun adventure. The way they present their dishes is exciting, and their always changing menu keeps things fresh. The great cooking and the fun atmosphere make every meal memorable.
Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
953 W Fulton Market, 60607 Chicago
(4.3)
What is it? Indienne sits in the heart of Chicago. It's a top spot for Indian food, with a cozy, fancy vibe. Here, you get to enjoy rich smells, traditional music, and top-notch service.
Why we love it: Indienne isn't just a restaurant; it's where food lovers meet. Perfect for date nights or catching up with friends, it's always lively and full of great tastes. Whether you know Indian food well or are trying it for the first time, Indienne makes every visit special and tasty.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
217 W Huron St, 60654 Chicago
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(4.1)
What is it? Elske is a cozy spot in Chicago's West Loop. It mixes American flavor with Scandinavian style. Here, each bite takes you on a journey. It's all made with love from local finds and a touch of magic in the kitchen.
Why we love it: Elske makes eating out special. It's warm and welcoming, with exciting tastes that are always a nice surprise. You'll find yourself laughing and toasting, feeling like part of the Elske family. It's great for big celebrations or just a chill night out. Want to taste the best of Chicago? Head to Elske.
Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
1350 W Randolph St, 60607 Chicago
Here's your go-to list for the best places to eat in Chicago in 2025. We took you all around the city, showing off great new spots and timeless favorites. We've got something for everyone, making sure you find a meal to remember. This list is the top of the top in Chicago, mixing old-school classics with new ideas for an amazing eating experience. But don't just take our word for it; go out and try these places yourself. As you think back on your food journey, keep in mind that Chicago's tastes keep changing, and there's always something new and exciting to try. For more food tips and travel ideas, keep an eye on our blog. Your next great meal is just a click away.
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