Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

Johnnie’s Beef is an institution for a reason. Since 1961, the Elmwood Park stand has been the benchmark for Italian beef. There’s no gimmick here, just a classic Chicago sandwich done exceptionally well. Located beyond city limits, this longtime icon is worth the trek. The vibe: Johnnie’s is as no-frills as it gets. The line often stretches outside, but it moves quickly. There are a few outdoor tables and a standing-height counter inside for eating. Most people grab their food and go. The food: You’re here for one thing: Italian beef. The thinly sliced beef is piled onto soft French bread and dunked in rich jus. Order it juicy with sweet peppers or giardiniera for the full experience. The beef-and-sausage combo lets you enjoy both Chicago classics in one messy, satisfying sandwich. The fries are crisp and make a fine complement to the main attraction. Finish with the homemade lemon Italian ice for a tart, refreshing contrast. The drinks: Grab a soda or chocolate shake to wash down the savory bites. Time Out tip: Stop at an ATM beforehand as it’s cash only.

The West Loop outpost of this pizza bar is just a few blocks away from the United Center. Bring your crew or ride solo, but either way, definitely order a hot honey soppressata pie. The late-night menu, available after United Center events, features plenty of pizzas, wings, calamari and more. Be sure to take advantage of Ranalli's free shuttle to and from the United Center.

Zubair Mohajir takes diners on a journey through the historic spice routes, drawing from South Asian, Middle Eastern, North African and Mediterranean influences. Wood-fire cooking serves as the through line, keeping the ambitious menu focused while letting the ingredients shine. The vibe: The intimate 44-seat dining room is warm and moody, featuring exposed brick, earthy tones and arched walls that nod to the Middle East and Andalusia. The open kitchen adds a lively backdrop to the meal. The food: Start with the thaali, a spread of fire-roasted dips accompanied by papadum and focaccia. From there, share items like Bicol-style mussels and beef cheek nihari with black garlic naan. The centerpiece is the duck Numidian, a whole roasted duck based on a nearly 1,000-year-old North African recipe, complemented by confit duck rice. It’s the standout you shouldn’t miss. The drinks: The cocktails incorporate distinctive flavors and ingredients like saffron, za'atar and cardamom, offering a spice-forward twist. The concise wine list spans regions across the globe. Time Out tip: Keep the night going with a post-dinner drink at Bobo, the cocktail bar tucked behind Muhājir.

Remember the bridge-jumping scene in Blues Brothers? It happened right next to Calumet Fisheries. The best way to get there is to drive—mostly because your car will double as your table when you leave with your bounty. One of the state's few remaining smokehouses, Calumet smokes all of its own seafood in-house using only natural wood.  The vibe: This smoke shack was born when the steel industry was thriving and the area was populated by hungry day laborers. The food: Set at the base of the famous Blues Brothers bridge, this little white box brings in customers from all around for smoked shrimp, trout and sable, which are always available.  The drinks: A tiny selection of pops, iced tea and bottled water is on offer. Time Out tip: You’ll see folks sitting in their cars eating their picks out of paper bags, a quintessential part of the experience. You'd be wise to do the same.

One of Chicago’s buzziest bakeries in recent years, Del Sur is well worth planning your morning around. Chef and owner Justin Lerias brings Filipino flavors to thoughtfully crafted pastries made with Midwestern ingredients, resulting in a lineup that’s far more interesting than your standard croissants and muffins. The vibe: The compact Lincoln Square shop has a sleek, modern look. It’s mainly a grab-and-go operation, so don’t expect to linger. The line can stretch during busy weekend mornings, but the friendly staff keeps things moving without making you feel rushed. The food: The longanisa croissant is a must-order, a flaky, toasted-rice laminated dough with house-made sausage, soy caramel, and cured egg yolk. The turon Danish, filled with caramelized banana jam and vanilla flan, channels the flavors of the classic Filipino snack, while the calamansi chamomile bun packs a bright citrus punch. The drinks: Coffee comes from local roasters, and Volition Tea supplies the teas. House-made syrups like salted pandan, ube and caramelized honey add a distinctive Southeast Asian touch to the drink menu. Time Out tip: Get there early—especially on weekends when waits can exceed 45 minutes and popular pastries tend to sell out quickly.

Whether it's the extensive beverage program, the lively patio, or the beloved burger, there's a lot to love about Little Bad Wolf. The Andersonville spot is regularly packed and is home to one of the neighborhood's hottest patios.     The vibe: The space is elevated yet approachable, making it an ideal spot for date night or a solo evening at the bar. Head to the patio during the warmer months for the ideal dining experience.  The food: The Wolf Burger (three patties, bacon, American cheese, fried onion straws, housemade pickles, red-onion mayo, fried egg) is a standout. The only thing better than the Wolf Burger is a Wolf Burger paired with mac and cheese. It's rich, gooey and topped with honey-cured bacon, scallions and toasted breadcrumbs. There's also a selection of bao buns stuffed with fillings like pork, steak and duck. The drinks: The beverage program features an extensive selection of craft beers, cocktails and wine. Seasonal favorites include the warmed Wolf's Tail (tea-infused bourbon, Allspice Dram, housemade cinnamon syrup, lime and Angostura) and Diamonds and Rust (gin, Fernet Branca, housemade peppercorn syrup and lemon).  Time Out tip: Little Bad Wolf does not take reservations, so prepare to wait for a table if it's busy.

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,...

Nadu takes diners on a tour of India with a menu spanning cuisines from Kerala and Goa to Kolkata and Karnataka. Chefs Sujan Sarkar and Sanchit Sahu keep the focus on traditional flavors and techniques, presenting familiar dishes alongside less commonly seen regional specialties. The vibe: The dining room is colorful and lively, sporting bold artwork and glass chandeliers. It’s polished without feeling overly formal, making it equally suited to a casual dinner or a special occasion. The food: Start with the dahi bhalla, soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, or the fluffy benne masala dosa served with coconut and tomato chutneys. The king prawn cashew ghee roast is another winner, featuring plump prawns coated in a rich masala that's packed with spices. For a larger option, the showstopping whole Dungeness crab is a hands-on feast. The menu changes often, but its emphasis on regional cooking remains a constant. The drinks: The cocktail list is rooted in Indian influences, highlighting ingredients and spices like roasted cumin, turmeric and clarified masala chai. Time Out tip: Vegetarians have plenty to choose from, with a dedicated selection of meat-free small and large plates.

Repeatedly named one of the world's best pizzerias, Robert's is a beloved Streeterville restaurant located along the quaint Ogden Slip. From husband-and-wife team Robert and Dana Garvey, it's known for its artisan thin-crust pizzas, delectable dough and stunning views overlooking the skyline and lake. The vibe: The casual indoor/outdoor dining areas are perfect for summertime dining along the river.  The food: The Cali Italia pizza (asiago, fresh mozzarella, gorgonzola cheese, fig jam, prosciutto di Parma, balsamic glaze, shaved Parmigiano Reggiano and EVO) is a standout. The Funghi (truffle cream base, wild mushrooms, garlic, and fresh ricotta) is another popular option, along with the creamy Caesar salad and the hearty meatball sandwich, both of which are great to pair with a pie. The drinks: The red sangria pitcher is a popular option for groups, and summer-ready sips like the blood orange margarita, Fig & Fable (vodka, lime, fig puree, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, Chinese 5 spice bitters) and Hugo Spritz are a few of our go-tos. There's also a selection of flavorful mocktails like the zero-proof Herbal Fizz (cilantro, basil, lime, cider and bubbles) and the hibiscus mule, as well as interesting Italian wines and local beers. Time Out tip: When the weather permits, try to snag an outdoor table and request a seat on the dock. There are a few tables down there, and it's the best seat in the house.

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.

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.

Johnnie’s Beef is an institution for a reason. Since 1961, the Elmwood Park stand has been the benchmark for Italian beef. There’s no gimmick here, just a classic Chicago sandwich done exceptionally well. Located beyond city limits, this longtime icon is worth the trek. The vibe: Johnnie’s is as no-frills as it gets. The line often stretches outside, but it moves quickly. There are a few outdoor tables and a standing-height counter inside for eating. Most people grab their food and go. The food: You’re here for one thing: Italian beef. The thinly sliced beef is piled onto soft French bread and dunked in rich jus. Order it juicy with sweet peppers or giardiniera for the full experience. The beef-and-sausage combo lets you enjoy both Chicago classics in one messy, satisfying sandwich. The fries are crisp and make a fine complement to the main attraction. Finish with the homemade lemon Italian ice for a tart, refreshing contrast. The drinks: Grab a soda or chocolate shake to wash down the savory bites. Time Out tip: Stop at an ATM beforehand as it’s cash only.

The West Loop outpost of this pizza bar is just a few blocks away from the United Center. Bring your crew or ride solo, but either way, definitely order a hot honey soppressata pie. The late-night menu, available after United Center events, features plenty of pizzas, wings, calamari and more. Be sure to take advantage of Ranalli's free shuttle to and from the United Center.

Opened in 1986, Chiu Quon is an old-school Chinese bakery that’s wonderfully unfussy. The Chinatown shop’s display cases are filled with a variety of baked goods, drawing a steady stream of customers from morning to night. It’s a dependable neighborhood spot where you can grab a satisfying meal without spending much. The vibe: The interior is clean and contemporary, but decidedly no-frills. The line moves quickly, so you’ll be in and out in no time. The food: The bakery specializes in Hong Kong-style pastries, with the barbecue pork buns being the main attraction. Portuguese egg tarts, featuring flaky pastry encasing a brûléed, creamy custard, are another standout, while sesame balls and pineapple buns are also worth adding to your order. The selection can vary throughout the day as everything is made fresh. For savory options, Chiu Quon offers traditional dim sum bites like shumai, rice noodle rolls and chicken feet. The drinks: The fridges are stocked with water, sodas, juices and more, and they serve coffee as well. Time Out tip: It’s cash-only, but there’s an ATM inside if you forget to bring bills.

Zubair Mohajir takes diners on a journey through the historic spice routes, drawing from South Asian, Middle Eastern, North African and Mediterranean influences. Wood-fire cooking serves as the through line, keeping the ambitious menu focused while letting the ingredients shine. The vibe: The intimate 44-seat dining room is warm and moody, featuring exposed brick, earthy tones and arched walls that nod to the Middle East and Andalusia. The open kitchen adds a lively backdrop to the meal. The food: Start with the thaali, a spread of fire-roasted dips accompanied by papadum and focaccia. From there, share items like Bicol-style mussels and beef cheek nihari with black garlic naan. The centerpiece is the duck Numidian, a whole roasted duck based on a nearly 1,000-year-old North African recipe, complemented by confit duck rice. It’s the standout you shouldn’t miss. The drinks: The cocktails incorporate distinctive flavors and ingredients like saffron, za'atar and cardamom, offering a spice-forward twist. The concise wine list spans regions across the globe. Time Out tip: Keep the night going with a post-dinner drink at Bobo, the cocktail bar tucked behind Muhājir.

Where to start at this sprawling ode to all 20 regions of Italy? With three restaurants, six counters, a market full of fresh and hard-to-find ingredients and a wine store with over 1,500 bottles of Italian wine, you’ll have to follow your heart (and your mouth). First, fuel up with coffee and a pastry while you browse the market’s daily selection. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a quick lunch at Pizza alla Pala or Lavazza, or head to Pasta & More for bowls of fresh pasta prepared in minutes.  For a sit-down meal that transports you to Italy, head to La Pizza & La Pasta for pies topped with San Marzano tomato sauce and fresh finds from the market, or choose from an astonishing assortment of carbonara, which have been helpfully paired with wines that cut right through the richness. At Vino &…, you can work your way through wine flights while snacking on meatballs, housemade burrata, fresh focaccia bianca and more.  To get the most out of Eataly, book a store tour, where experts will guide you through tastings while you sip a glass of Prosecco. You can also take classes to learn more about Italian wine and cheese, pizza- and pasta-making and how to make Eataly’s ingredients sing in your home kitchen.

Remember the bridge-jumping scene in Blues Brothers? It happened right next to Calumet Fisheries. The best way to get there is to drive—mostly because your car will double as your table when you leave with your bounty. One of the state's few remaining smokehouses, Calumet smokes all of its own seafood in-house using only natural wood.  The vibe: This smoke shack was born when the steel industry was thriving and the area was populated by hungry day laborers. The food: Set at the base of the famous Blues Brothers bridge, this little white box brings in customers from all around for smoked shrimp, trout and sable, which are always available.  The drinks: A tiny selection of pops, iced tea and bottled water is on offer. Time Out tip: You’ll see folks sitting in their cars eating their picks out of paper bags, a quintessential part of the experience. You'd be wise to do the same.

One of Chicago’s buzziest bakeries in recent years, Del Sur is well worth planning your morning around. Chef and owner Justin Lerias brings Filipino flavors to thoughtfully crafted pastries made with Midwestern ingredients, resulting in a lineup that’s far more interesting than your standard croissants and muffins. The vibe: The compact Lincoln Square shop has a sleek, modern look. It’s mainly a grab-and-go operation, so don’t expect to linger. The line can stretch during busy weekend mornings, but the friendly staff keeps things moving without making you feel rushed. The food: The longanisa croissant is a must-order, a flaky, toasted-rice laminated dough with house-made sausage, soy caramel, and cured egg yolk. The turon Danish, filled with caramelized banana jam and vanilla flan, channels the flavors of the classic Filipino snack, while the calamansi chamomile bun packs a bright citrus punch. The drinks: Coffee comes from local roasters, and Volition Tea supplies the teas. House-made syrups like salted pandan, ube and caramelized honey add a distinctive Southeast Asian touch to the drink menu. Time Out tip: Get there early—especially on weekends when waits can exceed 45 minutes and popular pastries tend to sell out quickly.

Nadu takes diners on a tour of India with a menu spanning cuisines from Kerala and Goa to Kolkata and Karnataka. Chefs Sujan Sarkar and Sanchit Sahu keep the focus on traditional flavors and techniques, presenting familiar dishes alongside less commonly seen regional specialties. The vibe: The dining room is colorful and lively, sporting bold artwork and glass chandeliers. It’s polished without feeling overly formal, making it equally suited to a casual dinner or a special occasion. The food: Start with the dahi bhalla, soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, or the fluffy benne masala dosa served with coconut and tomato chutneys. The king prawn cashew ghee roast is another winner, featuring plump prawns coated in a rich masala that's packed with spices. For a larger option, the showstopping whole Dungeness crab is a hands-on feast. The menu changes often, but its emphasis on regional cooking remains a constant. The drinks: The cocktail list is rooted in Indian influences, highlighting ingredients and spices like roasted cumin, turmeric and clarified masala chai. Time Out tip: Vegetarians have plenty to choose from, with a dedicated selection of meat-free small and large plates.

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.