Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

When you picture a classic ice cream parlor, Margie’s is exactly what comes to mind. The Chicago institution has been serving towering sundaes, homemade treats and old-school charm for generations. It’s the kind of nostalgic spot that makes a trip for ice cream feel like an occasion. The vibe: Vintage decor, classic booth seating and kitschy trinkets give Margie’s a frozen-in-time feel. There are few places quite like it in Chicago. The food: The menu features a variety of sundaes and banana splits, with the turtle sundae standing out as a favorite. If you’re with a group, the Royal George (25 scoops) and World’s Largest Terrapin (15 scoops) are made for sharing, with saucers of fudge, caramel sauce and whipped cream on the side. There are also sandwiches for those craving something savory. And don’t overlook the homemade chocolates—fill up a box to take home. The drinks: Shakes and malts come in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, peach, butterscotch and peanut butter. Sodas, juices, milk and hot beverages are available as well. Time Out tip: When the line is long, as it often is in summer, order your ice cream to go and skip the wait.

While its name suggests otherwise, this West Loop neo-bistro is a cozy, charming spot for reimagined French fare. David and Anna Posey, together with chef de cuisine Tayler Ploshehanski, draw from the classics while weaving in Midwestern influences. The result is one of Chicago’s most distinctive French menus in recent years. The vibe: The restaurant is divided between two dining rooms, with large windows that flood the space with natural light during the daytime. Tightly arranged tables give the room a lively, bistro-like atmosphere. Diners seated at the back counter face a mirrored wall, which can feel a bit awkward. The food: Start with the Brie gougères, warm, buttery puffs balanced by drizzles of honey. The roast chicken with chicken liver and wine sauce is an excellent shareable option, featuring crisp skin and juicy, tender meat. Save room for Anna Posey’s sherbet meringue cake—the flavors rotate regularly. The drinks: Pre-batched cocktails include timeless favorites such as the Vesper, Negroni, and dirty martini. The wine list leans heavily toward French wines, with a handful of California selections. Time Out tip: Creepies doesn’t have a bar, so if you’re looking to linger over a pre- or post-meal drink, you’ll want to head elsewhere.

The standard for Filipino breakfast in Chicago, Uncle Mike’s Place has been in business since 1991. Though it originally served American fare like pancakes and omelets, the restaurant eventually expanded its menu to include Filipino specialties. Today, it draws diners from across the city for longanisa, bangus and other Southeast Asian favorites. The vibe: Lively and laid-back, with a steady stream of diners waiting for tables or grabbing orders to go. The food: Every diner gets a complimentary bowl of lugaw, a comforting Filipino rice porridge that’s a great start to the meal. The marinated skirt steak is the star of the menu, available in 6- or 12-ounce portions. Other highlights include tocino, sweet and savory pork shoulder, and longanisa, a sweet Filipino-style sausage. Can’t decide? Opt for a combo, which lets you choose two proteins. All plates also come with two eggs and garlic rice. The drinks: A standard selection of coffee, tea, juices and soft drinks. Time Out tip: Weekends can get quite busy, so arrive early to beat the line. If you do have to wait, join the virtual queue and explore the neighborhood until your table is ready.

As with all of the other Hogsalt restaurants, Au Cheval is notoriously hard to get into—but so worth the wait. Since 2012, it's become one of the toughest tables to reserve for its diner-style vibes, large selection of local brews and its iconic burger. And we can confirm, the hype is very much deserved.  The vibe: Every inch of this teeny-tiny West Loop restaurant is utilized. Whether you're seated at the counter or in a booth, you'll feel lucky just to have a seat in this always-in-demand spot.  The food: The menu is packed with diner classics like matzah ball soup, fried chicken, salads and a selection of egg-topped items like fries, potato hash and foie gras. But most people come here for one thing: the burger. Deemed by many as one of the best in Chicago, it's topped with pickles, grilled onions, dijonnaise and American cheese. And trust us, it's well worth the long wait time.  The drinks: The menu's "Strong Drinks" section includes sips like the Last Word (gin, green chartreuse, Luxardo maraschino and lime) and the Paper Plane (Evan Williams, Aperol, amaro nonino and lemon). You'll also find a long list of local beers, plus domestic and international options. But our favorite is the root beer on draft, which you can make into a float for $11. Time Out tip: It's not uncommon to wait more than two hours for a table. If you plan on exploring the West Loop during that time, be sure you can get back within 10 minutes of receiving the text that your table is ready,...

Acclaimed pastry chef Dana Salls Cree and Bang Bang Pie’s Michael Ciapciak teamed up to open this Logan Square shop in 2018, creating a whimsical, kid-friendly playground for frozen treats. Expect inventive ice cream bars and popsicles made with quality, locally-sourced ingredients. The vibe: Bright and colorful with cheerful decor, Pretty Cool is a fun stop for families and anyone looking to indulge their inner child. Stadium-style bench seating adds to the laid-back atmosphere. The food: The selection goes well beyond the standard ice cream bar, featuring playful flavors like caramel horchata crunch, Chicago mix, Key lime pie and mango lassi. The shop also does collaborations, including a series with the Chicago Transit Authority inspired by the city’s train lines. There are plant-based bars for those looking for a dairy-free option as well, plus smaller-sized pops for little ones. The drinks: Aside from water, it’s all about the ice cream here. Time Out tip: Can’t make it to the shop or just want to stock up? Pretty Cool delivers, so you can have the ice cream brought right to your door.

Situated at Fullerton Avenue on Lake Shore Drive, Theater on the Lake is a year-round event venue with an on-site restaurant. A range of events are hosted here, from a roaring St. Patrick's Day celebration to the annual Air and Water Show viewing party, plus theater performances. Thanks to its location on the east side of Lake Shore Drive, it offers some of the best lake and skyline views in the city.

Lettuce Entertain You's ultra-popular spot below RPM Seafood serves lunch and dinner, with a menu centered around hand-stretched pizzas, artisanal pastas and grilled seafood. There's always someone celebrating a birthday, out-of-towners looking for a bite along the water and workers from nearby office buildings meeting for a power lunch or after-work drinks. The vibe: A lively riverfront restaurant with one of the best outdoor dining patios in the city. The service is good, the food is average and the views are unbeatable. The food: You can't go wrong with the cult-favorite charred pepperoni pizza and rigatoni vodka pasta for the table. The Caesar salad and crispy Parmesan fries are also standouts. The drinks: The drink menu always features a selection of quirky cocktails, like River North With A View (vodka, raspberry and Pimm's liqueur) and multiple variations of a spritz. If you're here with a group, you might want to opt for the Portofino Purse, a cocktail of your choice served in a glass handbag (yes, really).  Time Out tip: The whole point of coming here (usually) is to sit on the patio, so be sure to make a reservation in advance to secure one of the most coveted waterfront tables in Chicago.

On the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago, Miru pairs breathtaking views with upscale Japanese cuisine. While the glamorous setting is a major draw, the pristine sushi and polished service ensure the restaurant is more than just a scenic stop. A meal here feels equal parts escape and indulgence, complete with some of the city's best sights. The vibe: Miru balances warmth and elegance through its sleek design, featuring rich wood accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the Chicago River and skyline. It’s a great spot for birthdays, anniversaries and other milestone celebrations. The food: The menu leans heavily on nigiri, sashimi and maki. Start with the kani kani crispy rice or an order of buttery otoro. The robata grill section presents options like smoked pork belly and charred octopus skewers, while larger plates include white miso black cod. Pastry chef Juan Gutierrez’s desserts are non-negotiable—especially the black sesame mochi. The drinks: Seasonal sips like the Cantaloupe Crush, made with Toki Black, cantaloupe shrub, yuzu, black lemon bitters and soda, are joined by a selection of classic cocktails. The wine list is extensive, showcasing bottles from around the world alongside a collection of sake. Time Out tip: During the summer, grab a table on the terrace (first come, first served) for a front-row view of Navy Pier’s fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday evenings.

At LIA Tavern, the food is almost as captivating as the art on the walls. Chef and owner Justin Viacuinas reinvents the menu every few months when he brings in a new resident artist. During each residency, the artist's work is displayed throughout the space, and select dishes are inspired, and sometimes even replicate, the works themselves (previous highlights include the Warhol Martini, which is served in a Campbell's Soup Can, inspired by artist Joey Africa's vibrant work depicting the same can). The vibe: A modern, pop-art-inspired spot in River North accented by a rotating selection of vibrant artwork and Viacuinas' own massive painting, which is one of the city's largest, behind the bar. The food: Tavern-style pizzas, pastas and mains like roasted seabass and Cajun roasted chicken are equally approachable and elevated. The drinks: Many drawing inspiration from artworks, inventive cocktails include the Jackson Paint Can (mezcal, bourbon, orange liqueur, ginger, plum and citrus), which is served in an actual paint can, and a Malört Negroni. Time Out tip: The atmosphere here is fun, and during the warmer months, massive windows open for an indoor/outdoor vibe. This is a great spot for River North workers to come for happy hour or for a special occasion outing.

Started in Columbus, Ohio, Jeni’s is a national ice cream chain known for its imaginative flavors. From riffs on classics to unexpected combinations, there’s always something new to enjoy. With several shops throughout the city, it’s one of the best spots around for a frozen treat. The vibe: Bright and welcoming, Jeni’s scoop shops have a cheerful neighborhood feel to them. The friendly staff is happy to help you choose a flavor and let you try as many samples as you’d like. The food: Jeni’s is all about creative flavors, featuring a menu of signature offerings alongside rotating seasonal options. Year-round favorites include Brambleberry Crisp and Wildberry Lavender, joined by limited-time scoops like Campfire S’mores and Strawberry Pretzel Pie. The ice cream is smooth and creamy, and even better in a house-made waffle cone. For an extra indulgent upgrade, add a drizzle of fudge sauce. The drinks: The focus is on ice cream here, so don’t expect much beyond water. Time Out tip: You can grab pints and ice cream sandwiches to take home. Jeni’s is also available at many local grocery stores.

When you picture a classic ice cream parlor, Margie’s is exactly what comes to mind. The Chicago institution has been serving towering sundaes, homemade treats and old-school charm for generations. It’s the kind of nostalgic spot that makes a trip for ice cream feel like an occasion. The vibe: Vintage decor, classic booth seating and kitschy trinkets give Margie’s a frozen-in-time feel. There are few places quite like it in Chicago. The food: The menu features a variety of sundaes and banana splits, with the turtle sundae standing out as a favorite. If you’re with a group, the Royal George (25 scoops) and World’s Largest Terrapin (15 scoops) are made for sharing, with saucers of fudge, caramel sauce and whipped cream on the side. There are also sandwiches for those craving something savory. And don’t overlook the homemade chocolates—fill up a box to take home. The drinks: Shakes and malts come in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, peach, butterscotch and peanut butter. Sodas, juices, milk and hot beverages are available as well. Time Out tip: When the line is long, as it often is in summer, order your ice cream to go and skip the wait.

While its name suggests otherwise, this West Loop neo-bistro is a cozy, charming spot for reimagined French fare. David and Anna Posey, together with chef de cuisine Tayler Ploshehanski, draw from the classics while weaving in Midwestern influences. The result is one of Chicago’s most distinctive French menus in recent years. The vibe: The restaurant is divided between two dining rooms, with large windows that flood the space with natural light during the daytime. Tightly arranged tables give the room a lively, bistro-like atmosphere. Diners seated at the back counter face a mirrored wall, which can feel a bit awkward. The food: Start with the Brie gougères, warm, buttery puffs balanced by drizzles of honey. The roast chicken with chicken liver and wine sauce is an excellent shareable option, featuring crisp skin and juicy, tender meat. Save room for Anna Posey’s sherbet meringue cake—the flavors rotate regularly. The drinks: Pre-batched cocktails include timeless favorites such as the Vesper, Negroni, and dirty martini. The wine list leans heavily toward French wines, with a handful of California selections. Time Out tip: Creepies doesn’t have a bar, so if you’re looking to linger over a pre- or post-meal drink, you’ll want to head elsewhere.

We've rounded up the best chefs in the city to join us at Time Out Market Chicago, a culinary and cultural destination in the heart of Fulton Market. The 50,000-square-foot space houses more than 15 kitchens, three bars and one drop-dead gorgeous rooftop terrace—all spread across three floors. Our mission is simple: Bring Time Out Chicago to life with the help of our favorite chefs, the ones who wow us again and again. You'll find delicious dumplings from Qing Xiang Yuan, mouthwatering burgers at Gutenburg, fried chicken from Art Smith's Sporty Bird and extravagant milkshakes from JoJo's shakeBAR. If you're thirsty, sit down at one of the Market's bars to enjoy a menu of local beer, a robust wine list or a creative seasonal cocktail. And keep an eye out for events, concerts and artwork within the Market throughout the year—we're keeping our calendar packed with things to do.

The standard for Filipino breakfast in Chicago, Uncle Mike’s Place has been in business since 1991. Though it originally served American fare like pancakes and omelets, the restaurant eventually expanded its menu to include Filipino specialties. Today, it draws diners from across the city for longanisa, bangus and other Southeast Asian favorites. The vibe: Lively and laid-back, with a steady stream of diners waiting for tables or grabbing orders to go. The food: Every diner gets a complimentary bowl of lugaw, a comforting Filipino rice porridge that’s a great start to the meal. The marinated skirt steak is the star of the menu, available in 6- or 12-ounce portions. Other highlights include tocino, sweet and savory pork shoulder, and longanisa, a sweet Filipino-style sausage. Can’t decide? Opt for a combo, which lets you choose two proteins. All plates also come with two eggs and garlic rice. The drinks: A standard selection of coffee, tea, juices and soft drinks. Time Out tip: Weekends can get quite busy, so arrive early to beat the line. If you do have to wait, join the virtual queue and explore the neighborhood until your table is ready.

Acclaimed pastry chef Dana Salls Cree and Bang Bang Pie’s Michael Ciapciak teamed up to open this Logan Square shop in 2018, creating a whimsical, kid-friendly playground for frozen treats. Expect inventive ice cream bars and popsicles made with quality, locally-sourced ingredients. The vibe: Bright and colorful with cheerful decor, Pretty Cool is a fun stop for families and anyone looking to indulge their inner child. Stadium-style bench seating adds to the laid-back atmosphere. The food: The selection goes well beyond the standard ice cream bar, featuring playful flavors like caramel horchata crunch, Chicago mix, Key lime pie and mango lassi. The shop also does collaborations, including a series with the Chicago Transit Authority inspired by the city’s train lines. There are plant-based bars for those looking for a dairy-free option as well, plus smaller-sized pops for little ones. The drinks: Aside from water, it’s all about the ice cream here. Time Out tip: Can’t make it to the shop or just want to stock up? Pretty Cool delivers, so you can have the ice cream brought right to your door.

As with all of the other Hogsalt restaurants, Au Cheval is notoriously hard to get into—but so worth the wait. Since 2012, it's become one of the toughest tables to reserve for its diner-style vibes, large selection of local brews and its iconic burger. And we can confirm, the hype is very much deserved.  The vibe: Every inch of this teeny-tiny West Loop restaurant is utilized. Whether you're seated at the counter or in a booth, you'll feel lucky just to have a seat in this always-in-demand spot.  The food: The menu is packed with diner classics like matzah ball soup, fried chicken, salads and a selection of egg-topped items like fries, potato hash and foie gras. But most people come here for one thing: the burger. Deemed by many as one of the best in Chicago, it's topped with pickles, grilled onions, dijonnaise and American cheese. And trust us, it's well worth the long wait time.  The drinks: The menu's "Strong Drinks" section includes sips like the Last Word (gin, green chartreuse, Luxardo maraschino and lime) and the Paper Plane (Evan Williams, Aperol, amaro nonino and lemon). You'll also find a long list of local beers, plus domestic and international options. But our favorite is the root beer on draft, which you can make into a float for $11. Time Out tip: It's not uncommon to wait more than two hours for a table. If you plan on exploring the West Loop during that time, be sure you can get back within 10 minutes of receiving the text that your table is ready,...

On the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago, Miru pairs breathtaking views with upscale Japanese cuisine. While the glamorous setting is a major draw, the pristine sushi and polished service ensure the restaurant is more than just a scenic stop. A meal here feels equal parts escape and indulgence, complete with some of the city's best sights. The vibe: Miru balances warmth and elegance through its sleek design, featuring rich wood accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the Chicago River and skyline. It’s a great spot for birthdays, anniversaries and other milestone celebrations. The food: The menu leans heavily on nigiri, sashimi and maki. Start with the kani kani crispy rice or an order of buttery otoro. The robata grill section presents options like smoked pork belly and charred octopus skewers, while larger plates include white miso black cod. Pastry chef Juan Gutierrez’s desserts are non-negotiable—especially the black sesame mochi. The drinks: Seasonal sips like the Cantaloupe Crush, made with Toki Black, cantaloupe shrub, yuzu, black lemon bitters and soda, are joined by a selection of classic cocktails. The wine list is extensive, showcasing bottles from around the world alongside a collection of sake. Time Out tip: During the summer, grab a table on the terrace (first come, first served) for a front-row view of Navy Pier’s fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday evenings.

Two years after a fire forced its closure in 2024, Irene’s reopened its doors. The new-school diner is a cut above the traditional greasy spoon, serving elevated takes on classic breakfast favorites. The restaurant sources quality ingredients from purveyors like Slagel and Nueske’s, raising the bar for diner fare. The vibe: Bright and inviting, with a modern feel that’s polished but still approachable. It’s a welcoming spot for families as well as casual meetups with friends. The food: Familiar morning dishes fill the menu, from Benedicts and omelets to skillets and waffles. The popular biscuits and gravy are a solid choice, and the shakshouka is excellent, too. For something heartier, go for the meat lover skillet or short rib grilled cheese. Desserts feature indulgent Key lime pie and ice cream sandwiches. The drinks: Expect the usual lineup of coffee, teas from Rare Tea Cellar, soft drinks and juices. Time Out tip: Fan of the bagels? Head to sister shop Irene’s Bagels in Ravenswood for a variety of flavors alongside breakfast sandwiches and hot drinks. It’s just a short walk from Irene’s.

Renowned chef José Andrés teamed up with Gibsons Restaurant Group for a two-pronged project in the Loop. Upstairs, guests can dig into prized steaks and suckling pig at Bazaar Meat, while the ground-floor Bar Mar focuses on seafood-driven dishes. The latter makes for an ideal spot for a drink and a bite after work, or a pre-show meal before a performance at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. The vibe: The space is lively, with a casual but polished feel. The centerpiece of the room is an octopus sculpture that hangs over the bar, which nods to the ocean-inspired menu. The food: A mix of raw bar offerings and small plates meant for sharing makes up much of the lineup. José’s Asian Taco—jamón ibérico, hamachi and caviar atop nori—and Galician-style octopus stand out, along with a buttery lobster roll finished with mayo espuma and pickled celery. For heartier options, there’s seared king salmon as well as short rib and frites. The drinks: Sip creative riffs on classic cocktails, including a spicy shiso margarita and a negroni blended with sherry, plus beers from local craft breweries like Half Acre and Dovetail. Time Out tip: Oenophiles, select bottles are 40% off on Mondays.

If One Off Hospitality is behind a diner, you know it’s going to be something a little out of the ordinary. At Dove’s Luncheonette, waffles and bacon give way to hearty Tex-Mex plates packed with bold flavors. It’s not a typical greasy spoon, but it’s undeniably delicious. The vibe: A cozy, intimate space with 41 counter seats. Dove’s has a nostalgic charm that gives it the feel of a longtime neighborhood institution. The food: Start with the Back to Life Cocktail, especially after a long night. It’s loaded with shrimp, mussels, crab and avocado in a zesty tomato-habanero salsa. The brisket hash—with choice of burnt ends or mushrooms—is another standout, as is the chicken fried chicken smothered in chorizo verde gravy. Everything is comforting and deeply satisfying. The drinks: Coffee, Rare Tea Cellar teas, juices, sodas and agua frescas round out the nonalcoholic offerings, while wine, beer and cocktails like the breakfast margarita and Bloody Mary are available for those looking to imbibe. Time Out tip: Happy hour, which runs from 3 to 6pm Thursday through Saturday, offers deals including a $10 Oklahoma onion burger and a $7 dirty horchata latte.