Latest Chicago restaurant reviews

Located in the former Hub 51 space at the corner of Hubbard and Dearborn Streets in River North, Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant Crying Tiger is the first collaboration between Lettuce Entertain You and James Beard Award finalist and Lettuce alum chef Thai Dang. The vibe: Designed by David Collins Studio, who also designed Tre Dita, the space is characterized by vibrant hues, a rich amalgamation of textures and playful tableware that draws on the restaurant's Southeast Asian influences.  The food: The menu is inspired by the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia and the foods Dang and managing partner Amarit Dulyapaibul ate growing up. Standouts include the bird's eye chili and hamachi crudo, which is served on a green fish-shaped plate, the chargrilled sugarcane beef bo la lot wrapped in betel leaves and the clay pot lobster pad Thai. The drinks: Inventive cocktails like the milk punch of Thai tea with cognac, lemon and sugar cane complement an extensive selection of zero-proof beverages, which include spiced Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed coconut milk and salted mango limeade with preserved citrus served on shaved ice. Time Out tip: If you sit in the main dining room, you'll get a peek into the kitchen. If you prefer a more intimate experience, try to snag a seat in the bar area where you can choose from a high-top or a booth.

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.

Located directly above Pizzeria Portofino, Lettuce Entertain You's ultra-popular RPM Seafood offers fresh fix, stiff cocktails and unrivaled views of the Chicago River. The vibe: Take in views of the Chicago River from the terrace or through one of the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows while you dine on bone-in swordfish ribeye or charcoal-grilled black bass at the seafood king of the RPM restaurant empire. The food: Start your meal in spectacular fashion by ordering a seafood tower featuring prawns, Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs and East and West Coast oysters.  The drinks: The drink menu emphasizes tequila and mezcal cocktails but also offers plenty of bubbly by the glass if it's a festive occasion. Time Out tip: If the weather permits, you'll want to reserve a seat on the outdoor patio. The views of the river from the prime location between the Clark and Dearborn bridges are unmatched.  

Just like Hogsalt's other concepts, which include Au Cheval, Armitage Alehouse and Gilt Bar, Bavette's is ultra-popular. You may have to sacrifice your firstborn to secure a reservation, but it's totally worth the sweat. The vibe: A moody, dimly lit steakhouse next to Gilt Bar. The food: Whatever you're in the mood for, you're likely to find something enticing thanks to the menu's extensive selection of cuts ranging from a 6-ounce filet mignon and 20-ounce dry-aged bone-in ribeye to a 32-ounce Porterhouse.  The drinks: Bavette's offers four variations of an Old Fashioned, as well as pickle back shots, spirit-free sips, wines and eight different ice-cold martinis. Time Out tip: Reservations are available up to 21 days in advance at 9am. We recommend setting an alarm; otherwise, you may have better luck as a walk-in.

Of all things, it was a fried corn silk garnish that made me well up during the fourth “Ravioli” course at Cariño, Uptown’s spectacular Latin American tasting menu restaurant from co-owner/executive chef Norman Fenton.  What’s maybe more noteworthy about this dish, in which al dente ravioli stuffed with puréed huitlacoche laze in truffle beurre blanc beneath a wave of corn foam, is that truffle isn’t rained on top like dollar bills. Rather it’s deployed subtly to enhance the corn smut’s woodsy, fermented qualities. Adorning the bowl’s edge with dehydrated corn and “popped” sorghum, the corn silk looked like little singed hairs. It tasted grassy and toasty, unlocking a childhood taste memory of eating ineptly shucked, grilled corn on the cob with butter. This stuck with me as I unearthed the grain’s diverse expressions one by one, then in a chorus—buttery, minerally, toasty, earthy like mushrooms, gently acidic, sweet as if sun dried. And I cried, just a little.  This was one of countless moments that solidified my sense that Cariño might be the best dining experience in Chicago right now, and a redemption of the tasting menu, which too often feels like it’s reaching for Michelin stars to the point of wanton tedium. Yes, you’ll find some fine-dining hallmarks: molecular gastronomy, occasional Wagyu and a truffle or two. Yes, there’s a hint of chef-bro one upmanship, namely a dessert in which a perfectly fried churro is doubly overpowered by foie gras mousse and a spiced...

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,...

When it comes to pizza, Pizz'Amici means business. This West Town eatery inside a former barber shop is one of Chicago's most exciting debuts in recent years. It's a classic no-frills restaurant that instantly made a name for itself for its next-level tavern-style pies. It's also one of the hottest reservations in town right now, and because the space is tiny, it's almost impossible to get a table. But for the lucky ones who do get in, it's so worth the wait.  The vibe: The intimate, laid-back restaurant is reminiscent of an old-school pizza joint thanks to the black-and-white checkered flooring, bright red bar stools, white tablecloths and vintage Italian posters and artworks. The food: The menu is short and sweet, with pizza being the star of the show. We love the creamy Caesar salad, which is the perfect start to a family-style meal here. It's recommended to add at least three toppings (like hot honey, meat, garlic and peppers) to the 14-inch pies. They're crisp, fresh, razor-thin and perfectly sweet.  The drinks: The beverage program comprises a curated selection of Italian wines, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Highlights include the Pepperoni Negroni (pepperoni-infused Letherbee, Zissou aperitivo and sweet vermouth) and the seasonal smoky Big Miami Guy (400 conejos, primo aperitivo, matchbook strawberry and lemon). Time Out tip: It can be extremely difficult to book a table. We got lucky when a same-day reservation became available around noon, but if you aren't...

The fourth restaurant from celeb chef Joe Flamm's Day Off Group, Bar Tutto is an instant classic. The Top Chef alum is behind hits like Rose Mary, BLVD Steakhouse and Il Carciofo, and ventured into the all-day concept in late 2025 with the debut of his new West Loop restaurant. Inspired by the wine bars and eateries of Italy, Bar Tutto serves brunch, lunch and dinner, in addition to a bustling grab-and-go counter in the cafe. The vibe: By day, lunchgoers, office workers and West Loop locals keep the grab-and-go counter busy. By night, group chatter, the hum of the kitchen and energetic beats keep the energy high. The food: Four different menus (cafe, brunch, lunch and dinner) cover all the bases, no matter what time of day you come in. Highlights include the pillowy, ultra-fresh fusilli (pesto, Parmesan and basil), the decadent rigatoni (guanciale, pecorino and black pepper), and the flavorful mozzarella crostino (butternut squash mostarda and candied pepitas).  The drinks: Cocktails with Italian flair, such as the Martini Saporito (gin, tomato water, Carpano Bianco, and basil), fill the drink menu, alongside artisanal sodas, iced tea, lemonade, Fernet and a robust curation of European wines. Time Out tip: If you're here for dinner, the best seat in the house is at the chef's counter in the back. You'll get an up-close view of the well-choreographed kitchen staff working their magic, and you might even get a chance to chat with Flamm during your meal.

Located inside the ultra-luxe St. Regis hotel, this authentic Tuscan restaurant from celebrated chef Evan Funke offers an exceptional experience inside one of the city's most beautiful dining rooms. The vibe: A high-end Italian restaurant and bar that makes you feel like you might run into Kendall Roy at any time. The food: Handmade pastas anchor the menu, with highlights including the rigatoncini all'arrabbiata and the trofie al pesto. The menu is designed to share, so go all in and order a few things. We recommend starting with the fluffy focaccia and pillowy gnocchi fritti. The drinks: Signature and classic cocktails complement an extensive selection of bottles, some of which are priced at over $1,500. Time Out tip: Request a table by the soaring window to take advantage of the sweeping city views, and, if you come on a Wednesday or Saturday night during the summer, the fireworks across the street at Navy Pier. 

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.

Boka Restaurant Group’s dimly lit new pizza joint, located inside the former GT Fish & Oyster space on the corner of Grand Avenue and Wells Street, attracts the cool kids of River North. The vibe: The lively spot is impeccably designed, with modern checkered tiled floors and walls, moody green hues and exposed brick. The crowd ranges from folks bellied up to the bar during a sporting event to couples out for date night, all of whom can appreciate the vibey playlist that includes flavors of everything from the `80s to current hits. The food: Chefs and partners Chris Pandel (Swift & Sons, Cira, Swift & Son’s Tavern) and Lee Wolen (Boka, Alla Vita, GG’s Chicken Shop) serve a simple—but packed—menu. Specialty pizzas, which can be made half-and-half and with one of three dips (Calabrian chili oil, hot honey and garlic ranch), are the main draw, but the salads and pastas are not to be overlooked. The ricotta gnocchi is rich, pillowy and practically melts in your mouth. The drinks: The drink menu is very bubbly, as is en vogue right now, with standouts like the crisp Cucumber Spritz (Vodka, Cocchi Americano, St. Germain, lemon and cucumber soda) and Soda Rossa (Matchbook Strawberry, lemon and cola), plus zero-proof sips like Green River soda and Sprecher root beer. Time Out tip: I would never let a loved one dine at Zarella without ordering the vanilla malt soft serve. Undoubtedly my favorite item on the entire menu, the soft serve ice cream is lightly sprinkled with cookie...

Located in the former Hub 51 space at the corner of Hubbard and Dearborn Streets in River North, Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant Crying Tiger is the first collaboration between Lettuce Entertain You and James Beard Award finalist and Lettuce alum chef Thai Dang. The vibe: Designed by David Collins Studio, who also designed Tre Dita, the space is characterized by vibrant hues, a rich amalgamation of textures and playful tableware that draws on the restaurant's Southeast Asian influences.  The food: The menu is inspired by the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia and the foods Dang and managing partner Amarit Dulyapaibul ate growing up. Standouts include the bird's eye chili and hamachi crudo, which is served on a green fish-shaped plate, the chargrilled sugarcane beef bo la lot wrapped in betel leaves and the clay pot lobster pad Thai. The drinks: Inventive cocktails like the milk punch of Thai tea with cognac, lemon and sugar cane complement an extensive selection of zero-proof beverages, which include spiced Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed coconut milk and salted mango limeade with preserved citrus served on shaved ice. Time Out tip: If you sit in the main dining room, you'll get a peek into the kitchen. If you prefer a more intimate experience, try to snag a seat in the bar area where you can choose from a high-top or a booth.

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.

Located directly above Pizzeria Portofino, Lettuce Entertain You's ultra-popular RPM Seafood offers fresh fix, stiff cocktails and unrivaled views of the Chicago River. The vibe: Take in views of the Chicago River from the terrace or through one of the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows while you dine on bone-in swordfish ribeye or charcoal-grilled black bass at the seafood king of the RPM restaurant empire. The food: Start your meal in spectacular fashion by ordering a seafood tower featuring prawns, Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs and East and West Coast oysters.  The drinks: The drink menu emphasizes tequila and mezcal cocktails but also offers plenty of bubbly by the glass if it's a festive occasion. Time Out tip: If the weather permits, you'll want to reserve a seat on the outdoor patio. The views of the river from the prime location between the Clark and Dearborn bridges are unmatched.  

Just like Hogsalt's other concepts, which include Au Cheval, Armitage Alehouse and Gilt Bar, Bavette's is ultra-popular. You may have to sacrifice your firstborn to secure a reservation, but it's totally worth the sweat. The vibe: A moody, dimly lit steakhouse next to Gilt Bar. The food: Whatever you're in the mood for, you're likely to find something enticing thanks to the menu's extensive selection of cuts ranging from a 6-ounce filet mignon and 20-ounce dry-aged bone-in ribeye to a 32-ounce Porterhouse.  The drinks: Bavette's offers four variations of an Old Fashioned, as well as pickle back shots, spirit-free sips, wines and eight different ice-cold martinis. Time Out tip: Reservations are available up to 21 days in advance at 9am. We recommend setting an alarm; otherwise, you may have better luck as a walk-in.

Of all things, it was a fried corn silk garnish that made me well up during the fourth “Ravioli” course at Cariño, Uptown’s spectacular Latin American tasting menu restaurant from co-owner/executive chef Norman Fenton.  What’s maybe more noteworthy about this dish, in which al dente ravioli stuffed with puréed huitlacoche laze in truffle beurre blanc beneath a wave of corn foam, is that truffle isn’t rained on top like dollar bills. Rather it’s deployed subtly to enhance the corn smut’s woodsy, fermented qualities. Adorning the bowl’s edge with dehydrated corn and “popped” sorghum, the corn silk looked like little singed hairs. It tasted grassy and toasty, unlocking a childhood taste memory of eating ineptly shucked, grilled corn on the cob with butter. This stuck with me as I unearthed the grain’s diverse expressions one by one, then in a chorus—buttery, minerally, toasty, earthy like mushrooms, gently acidic, sweet as if sun dried. And I cried, just a little.  This was one of countless moments that solidified my sense that Cariño might be the best dining experience in Chicago right now, and a redemption of the tasting menu, which too often feels like it’s reaching for Michelin stars to the point of wanton tedium. Yes, you’ll find some fine-dining hallmarks: molecular gastronomy, occasional Wagyu and a truffle or two. Yes, there’s a hint of chef-bro one upmanship, namely a dessert in which a perfectly fried churro is doubly overpowered by foie gras mousse and a spiced...

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.

The soundtrack is reggae, food is only available for takeout, and there’s a lone guy in a rasta hat making all the food and drinks. If you’ve got time and good vibes to spare, the raw-organic-vegan smoothies and juices are as fresh as they come (we like the Dark Maca, a blend of coconut milk, raw cacao, bananas, almond butter, dates and the purported herbal powers of maca). And once you see the State of Mind (deep-dish pizza made with creamy herb-cashew cheese on sunflower-flax seed crust), you’ll realize that the food isn’t just made with nutrients; it’s made with a surprising amount of care, too.

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,...