There’s a big opening in Chicago’s dining scene seemingly every week, so it’s little surprise that two restaurants have been named among the best newcomers in the U.S.
Robb Report recently released its 2024 list of the 10 Best New Restaurants in America and two of our local favorites were honored with inclusion. Maxwells Trading, the West Loop hotspot led by chef Erling Wu-Bower, landed at No. 3.
“[Wu-Bower and executive chef Chris Jung] combine Asian flavors and techniques from around the world, with little regard for authenticity,” writes Robb Report culinary editor Jeremy Repanich. “And yet, nothing feels gimmicky or strained because deliciousness takes precedence over being creative for creativity’s sake.”
Time Out Chicago critic Maggie Hennessy echoed the praise in her review, saying Maxwells Trading “captures our moment in big-city cooking with joy and witty nuance.”
Also making the list at No. 7 is Brasero, the West Town restaurant blending South American flavors with Midwest influence from chef John Manion.
“There are plenty of carnivorous delights here. But it pays to go surf and turf: Order the grilled Wagyu picanha with chimichurri and pair it with half a lobster that’s kissed by the fire and topped with miso-chili-garlic butter,” Repanich says.
Brasero’s success shouldn’t come as a shock to diners in the know—Manion is also behind one of Chicago’s best steakhouses, El Che Steakhouse & Bar.
If you needed any more reason to book a reservation at these two standouts, let this be your sign.
Check out the full list of winners below.
- Restaurant Yuu, New York
- 7 Adams, San Francisco
- Maxwells Trading, Chicago
- Katami, Houston
- Iggy’s, Nashville
- Le B., New York
- Brasero, Chicago
- Burdell, Oakland
- Array 36, Temple City
- Atoma, Seattle