Jeffy Mai

While fireworks are the most popular spectacle on the Fourth of July (and there are plenty of places to watch them), you've got many other things to do over the holiday weekend as well. After spending an afternoon in a Chicago park or on a sandy beach, you can sit back and listen to patriotic tunes performed by the Grant Park Orchestra at Millennium Park or watch the Cubs take on the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field. There's also the annual 4th on 53rd Parade in Hyde Park and a free community event at the brand-new Obama Presidential Center. So make the most of your time off and find the best things to do in Chicago on the Fourth of July with our guide. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Fourth of July in Chicago

One of the best parts of summer in Chicago is watching fireworks light up the sky on the Fourth of July. You've got plenty of options for catching a show this year, whether you'd rather head out to the suburbs for weekend-long festivals and parades or stick to the city to see Navy Pier's iconic display along the lakefront from beaches or boat cruises. So after you've had your fill of outdoor barbecues and other patriotic festivities, grab a blanket and settle down for an incredible show of sparkling fireworks—you can plan your holiday with the help of our guide to the best fireworks shows on the Fourth of July in the Chicago area. Where is the Fourth of July fireworks show in Chicago? This year, you can see the main fireworks show over Lake Michigan at Navy Pier on Saturday, July 4 at 10pm.  Where are the best places to watch the Fourth of July fireworks in Chicago?  The Navy Pier fireworks are relatively high-altitude, which means you can see them from a variety of vantage points throughout the city. Stake out a spot along Navy Pier's outdoor areas (Polk Bros Park or the rooftop patio at Offshore are always good bets) or head to downtown rooftops and Chicago beaches like Oak Street, North Avenue and Ohio Street. Navy Pier also offers a number of lake and river cruises that can be booked online.  RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Fourth of July in Chicago

Welcome to summer, Chicago! We've only got a few precious months of warm weather and long days to enjoy, so let us help you make the most of it with our guide to the city's best season. A few ideas: Maximize your time outside at rooftop bars and restaurants, catch outdoor movies in city parks, sample bites at a street festival and spend your weekends dancing to live tunes at the best summer music festivals in Chicago. And if you're looking for free things to do in Chicago, it's tough to beat a long day at the beach! Summer won't stick around forever—scroll through and get ready to explore the best of the city's warm weather offerings. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in ChicagoHere are the best boat tours in Chicago

The best restaurants in Chicago come in all shapes and sizes, from pizza joints and Michelin-starred heavyweights to some of the best cheap eats Chicago has to offer. The cuisines are just as varied, with every corner of the globe represented through Korean, Mexican, Italian, sushi and much more. Whether you're a lifelong resident or simply visiting for the weekend, stuffing your face at one of these restaurants is easily among the best things to do in Chicago. This belt-busting food scene shows no signs of slowing down, so we've cut to the chase and ranked our essentials—the absolute best restaurants in town. Our editors scour the city for great dishes, excellent value and insider info. We hope to provide an authentic snapshot of Chicago's ever-evolving dining experiences by updating this list constantly with the best new restaurants in the city as well as decades-old stalwarts that keep us coming back for more. It could be a mega-hyped destination restaurant or a remarkable hole in the wall: If it’s on the list, we think it’s terrific, and we bet you will, too. Best Chicago restaurants at a glance: 🥩 For a steakhouse: Trino – A Latin-influenced restaurant where beef isn't the only standout (West Loop) 🌮 For authentic tacos: La Chaparrita – Mexico City-style tacos at a taqueria attached to a corner store (Little Village) 🍽️ For a fine-dining splurge: Smyth – Chicago's lone three-Michelin-starred tasting experience led by chefs John Shields and Karen Urie Shields (We

In a city where faded Old Style signs swing outside of beloved dive bars and lines snake around the block at trendy cocktail lounges, the best bars in Chicago act as meeting places, date locales and venues for celebrations. With so many great places to grab a beverage, the list of our all-time favorite bars around town is expansive—and inclusive of taprooms at Chicago breweries, sultry wine bars uncorking bottles of reds and whites, and the finest cocktail bars Chicago has to offer. In a metropolis packed with places to sip and swirl, these watering holes shine even brighter and boozier. Take a look at the best bars in Chicago and find the perfect destination for your next night out. Best Chicago bars at a glance: 🎶 For live music: Green Mill – Historic jazz lounge with nightly performances (Uptown) 🍹 For extravagant cocktails: The Aviary – Theatrical cocktail experience (West Loop) 😘 For date night: Bisous – Parisian-inspired bar with a focus on martinis and intimate vibes (West Loop) 🍺 For beer drinkers: Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar – A beer emporium tucked away behind a liquor store (Bridgeport) 🥃 For whiskey lovers: Delilah's – A no-frills dive offering more than 1,000 brown spirits (Lincoln Park) Updated June 2026: Sometimes you want to let loose in a loud bar after a long week, and sometimes you just want to cozy up at a dive bar with only a beer and your thoughts. No matter the occasion, the best bars in Chicago promise the best of whatever exp

Do you feel the warmth in the air? It can only mean one thing—festival season is here. The city's streets and parks will be full every coming weekend thanks to a stacked lineup of fests, fairs and more. You'll find everything from heavy-hitting summer music festivals like Lollapalooza and Sueños to beloved neighborhood block parties on the calendar from May through October. We'll continue to update this list throughout the season as more fests announce lineups and additional details—in the meantime, take a look through some of the best festivals in Chicago this year. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do this summer in Chicago

When the clock hits 2am in Chicago, your night on the town doesn't have to end. While most bars in the city have to close up shop two hours after midnight, a few local watering holes are able to stay open until 4am each night (and until 5am on Saturdays!). These late–night establishments are scattered throughout the city, but you'll find dive bars, a few karaoke bars and some nightclubs where you can keep the party going until just before the sun comes up.  Do your future self a favor and bookmark this tab for the next time the clock strikes 2am and you're looking for your next move.  RECOMMENDED: The best late-night restaurants in Chicago Updated May 2026: I'm not proud to admit it, but I'm somewhat of an expert when it comes to the best late-night bars in Chicago. I familiarized myself with the top spots (for research, of course!) plenty of times in my early twenties, and now, I bestow upon you our expertly reported guide to Chicago's best late-night bars. This list ranks the best spots to go when you don't want to head home just yet. Have enough liquid courage to sing karaoke? Head to Alice's Lounge. Want to relive your college years? Try The Hangge-Uppe. Just don't blame us when you wake up questioning your decisions from the night before. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five stars corresponding to “amazing,” four to “great” and three to “good,” and we’ve also st

While the quality of the food is always important, a restaurant’s design and ambiance also play a big role in the experience. That’s why at the city’s most romantic restaurants, you’ll find stunning dining rooms, dim lighting, beautiful backdrops and other intimate touches that help spark love. A perfect date night may involve a comforting meal at an Italian trattoria, a lavish steakhouse feast or an evening in an unexpected place (who knew furniture stores had so much allure?). Whatever you prefer, the most romantic restaurants in Chicago are sure to set the stage for a charming and unforgettable time. RECOMMENDED: The most romantic things to do in Chicago Updated May 2026: When it comes time to plan a special night out with your significant other, picking a restaurant is the most important step. Luckily, Chicago is full of romantic dining rooms, from an intimate eatery in Lincoln Park to an opulent steakhouse in the West Loop. No matter what the vibe is, the most romantic restaurants in Chicago are sure to make date night unforgettable. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five stars corresponding to “amazing,” four to “great” and three to “good,” and we’ve also standardized how most listings are structured. For more on our new policies, feel free to check out How we review at Time Out.

Nothing beats a Chicago rooftop. When you're looking for something a little more filling than cocktails at rooftop bars in Chicago, turn your attention to the city's top rooftop restaurants, where dinner comes with a side of amazing skyline views. We've rounded up rooftop dining options to suit every mood, including tucked-away rooftop terraces, sunny outdoor brunch spots and bites from some of the best restaurants in Chicago. Gloomy weather in the forecast? Several of these spots also offer indoor dining or covered patios to keep you safe from the elements while you feast. So get ready for a sky-high meal at the best rooftop restaurants in Chicago.  RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor restaurants in Chicago Updated April 2026: One of the great joys of summertime in Chicago is spending time outside, and what better way to do that than dining on a rooftop? This ranking of the best rooftop restaurants in Chicago is your guide to the al fresco spots that are actually worth your time—and worth the struggle to get a table. Popular destinations like Aba and Cindy's are packed on sunny days, but if you're willing to wait, you won't regret it. There are also quieter spots on the list, like Miru, that are equally impressive and less crowded. All of them, though, offer top-notch cuisine and city views that remind us why this city is so great. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five stars

The question of who dishes out the best pizza in Chicago is a contentious one, spurring arguments about what’s the best regional style and what restaurants do each version justice. Almost every Chicagoan has a strong preference when it comes to who serves the best deep-dish pizza, but the city’s pizza scene casts a wide net. Thin-crust, tavern-style pizza has its own claim to being the real Chicago-style pizza, and you can also find the city's best Italian restaurants serving traditional Neapolitan pies, Detroit-style squares loaded with quirky toppings, and even New York-style slices. Whether you’re ordering takeout or delivery or plan to dig in while the cheese is still bubbling, check out our guide to the best pizza spots in Chicago to find your new favorite. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now Updated April 2026: Contrary to popular belief, Chicagoans don't eat much deep-dish pizza. We prefer tavern-style pizza so thin that the crust crumbles over your lap with every bite. But there are occasions when we want to dig into a deep-dish pie or enjoy a New York-style slice. This Chicagoan-approved list of the best pizza places in Chicago is your guide to the city's pizzerias, from restaurants that serve iconic deep-dish to beloved thin-crust and everything in between. In this latest update, we've added Pizz'Amici to the list. This intimate new West Town eatery is turning out some of the tastiest thin-crust in the city—and it's well worth the wait for a table

Mother's Day this year is coming up on Sunday, May 10—have you made plans yet? If not, the best Mother's Day brunch offerings are here to save the day. Stop by some of the top brunch spots in Chicago for special menus featuring towering plates of French toast, pancakes and bottomless mimosas that are sure to make your mom's day. And of course, it never hurts to tack on a bouquet from one of the best flower shops in Chicago or a box of sweets from a chocolate shop. Whether you're looking for a laid-back experience or an indulgent buffet spread, check out the most promising Mother's Day brunch options in Chicago this year. RECOMMENDED: The best flower delivery services in Chicago

Whether it's a rooftop in the West Loop or a Little Village speakeasy, there's a Chicago cocktail bar for every occasion and taste. Staffed by some of the world's top bartenders, the best local cocktail bars mix drinks that you can enjoy for an upscale happy hour or a memorable date night. From the classic Manhattan and Negroni to over-the-top, tropical-inspired sippers with colorful bendy straws, there's nothing you won't find at the following spots. So when you're looking for something a bit stronger than what's on offer at Chicago breweries and wine bars, make your way to the best cocktail bars in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best bars in Chicago Updated April 2026: From Logan Square to Chinatown, there are plenty of great cocktail bars in Chicago. But with so many to choose from, how do you pick? We've updated this list of the best cocktail bars in Chicago to spotlight the very best, from intimate speakeasies to hotel bars and everything in between. One major change to the list was the removal of Violet Hour, which closed its doors after 18 years last summer due to plumbing issues that damaged the building. Although it was a loss to the community, there are plenty of other incredible cocktail bars to enjoy a drink from the city's most esteemed mixologists. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five stars corresponding to “amazing,” four to “great” and three

Celebrating the traditions of Latin America, La Licor takes guests on a journey through Mexico, Peru, Argentina and beyond. The Logan Square bar offers a deep dive into both familiar and lesser-known Latin American spirits, showcased through creative cocktails. An evening here pairs refreshing cocktails with a food menu that's just as compelling. The vibe: Friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere give La Licor the feel of a true neighborhood spot. Owners Abraham Ramirez and Javier Arroyo have built a place designed for repeat visits. Grab a seat at the bar and admire the impressive collection of bottles lining the shelves. The staff is happy to guide you through the menu and point you in the right direction. The drinks: Alongside classics such as the pisco sour and mojito caballito, you'll find fun interpretations like an Old Fashioned featuring coconut fat-washed Mexican whiskey and barrel-aged hot chocolate pu-erh. There’s also a rotating selection of frozen drinks, from mezcal-based sips to fruit-driven seasonal specials. The spirit list includes more than 240 bottles sourced from around the world. The food: While La Licor is first and foremost a bar, the food is far from an afterthought. Pao de queijo, the addictive Brazilian cheese bread, makes for an ideal drinking snack. Larger plates like Guatemalan fried chicken and lomo al jugo are hearty, satisfying options. Time Out tip: By day, La Licor operates as a coffee shop serving espresso, lattes, pour-overs and tea.

The West Loop has no shortage of standout drinking destinations, but this just might be our favorite. The crew behind Sparrow in the Gold Coast evokes 1960s Paris through a thoughtfully designed space and menu that feels straight out of the City of Light. Whether you’re passing the time before dinner or ending the evening with a nightcap, Bisous fits the bill. The vibe: Comfy with a touch of sophistication, Bisous channels the spirit of a chic cocktail lounge. Lighting glows softly from orb fixtures, cozy booths invite you to stay a while and floral wallpaper in the back room adds a romantic, Parisian flourish. Seating is managed by a host, ensuring the bar never becomes overcrowded. The drinks: Martinis drive the cocktail program, with everything from a classic Vesper to the Tuxedo No. 21, which blends Citadelle Vive le Cornichon gin, dry vermouth and maraschino in an absinthe-rinsed glass, alongside chilled freezer martinis. For wine drinkers, there’s a curated selection of Champagne and sparkling wines, as well as pours of vermouth.  The food: Bar bites include caviar and chips, and tinned seafood like smoked oysters and French sardines. Great for snacking, but you’ll want to look elsewhere for a full meal. Time Out tip: Bisous is quite popular, especially on weekends, so arrive early to avoid a 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.

More than two decades after working together at Evanston’s iconic Trio, John Asbaty and Alain Uy reunited to open this live-fire restaurant in Lincoln Park. The pair remodeled a century-old building once home to a German restaurant, the Golden Ox, transforming it into a striking modern dining room. The centerpiece of the open kitchen is a custom wood-burning hearth, charcoal oven and whole-log smoker that anchor the menu. The vibe: Polished enough for date night, yet also relaxed enough for a burger at the bar. The space feels cozy and lived in, with dim lighting in the lounge creating a warm, intimate tone. The food: Most of the menu, which highlights locally-sourced ingredients, is kissed by the hearth in some way. A coil of lamb merguez sausage comes with green coriander yogurt, red onion and mint, while roasted carrots are finished with harissa and pickled rhubarb. Plates are meant for sharing, especially the half chicken in jus with onion marmalade. Order a side of beef fat wedge fries to sop up the sauce. The drinks: The cocktail program spans spirit-driven riffs, from the smoked Manhattan with rye and chanterelle-infused vermouth to the highball with apple sage shrub. Zero-proof options include a Not Toddy and a Spagli-nada. Time Out tip: Stop by the bar during happy hour for $12 smoked wings and $10 wines and martinis.

Stephen Sandoval, the maestro behind Diego and Sueños, pays homage to Latin American steakhouse traditions at his restaurant in the heart of West Loop. Though it might be tempting to dismiss it as another chophouse, there’s far more to the experience than just prime cuts. The vibe: Trino strikes a balance between sophistication and approachability, offering a polished dining experience that never feels stuffy. Over the bar, a mural by local artists Raspy Rivera and CoCo Schramel acts as a visual centerpiece. The atmosphere suits everything from date night to a solo meal, and a Latin soundtrack hums in the background, adding energy to the room. The food: Familiar steakhouse standards are thoughtfully elevated here. Sweet Sinaloa blue shrimp are paired with a rojo cocktail sauce, while the tartare is layered with tallow aioli, mustard, machaca and a cured egg yolk. Don’t miss the tostada with crab, avocado, Asian pear, and pistachio, or the focaccia fry bread. Steaks star cuts like picanha and dry-aged T-bone seared on a Vulcan plancha, complemented by sauces such as corn liquor au poivre and chimichurri made with pequin peppers. The drinks: Expect a strong martini program alongside cocktails with subtle Latin influence woven in through spirits, bitters or aromatics. The menu also includes several spirit-free options. Wines span bottles from Mexico and Argentina to Spain. Time Out tip: Head downstairs after dinner for a nightcap at Laberinto, a speakeasy from the Trino team roo

Housed in the space of a former Harold’s Chicken, this Chatham joint does Nashville hot chicken a bit differently by infusing garlic, onions, sumac, paprika and other Middle Eastern flavors into the batter. The vibe: Vibrant neon yellow and red branding offers a preview of the equally zesty fare.  The food: Each order comes with two jumbo tenders, which are more than enough for most appetites. If you’re a purist who prefers bone-in chicken, the wings dipped in hot honey butter sauce and topped with Alabama white sauce, cotija cheese and pickles won’t disappoint either.  The drinks: Sweet sips like Watermelon Sugar (fresh-squeezed watermelon and lemonade) and Peachy Sweet Tea (homemade ginger peach black tea topped with mint and a peach slice) are refreshing complements to the chicken. Time Out tip: Afterward, cool off with an indulgent strawberry shortcake shake. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

Omakase-centric restaurants are so en vogue right now. Few, though, match up to Lettuce Entertain You’s impressive 10-seat sushi counter hidden inside Sushi-san. The vibe: A popular omakase counter hidden behind Sushi-san in River North. The food: Chefs Kaze Chan and Shigeru Kitano showcase their talents by slicing pieces of pristine raw fish with precision in front of guests and creating memorable courses such as otoro tartare topped with caviar and uni ice cream. It’s an exquisite, albeit expensive, meal that’s well worth saving your pennies for. The drinks: For an extra $100, you can add on a guided Nikka Japanese Whisky pairing to complement the 18-course omakase. Time Out tip: If you're looking for a top-notch, yet unstuffy omakase, this is your place. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

Hungry downtown workers can swing by Canal Street Eatery & Market inside the BMO Tower for grab-and-go sandwiches, salads and gourmet retail products from the Market, or savor wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and other Italian specialties at the Eatery. The vibe: A luxe yet approachable space with soaring ceilings and views of the massive green space and outdoor seating outside the BMO Tower. The food: Lunch plates like a beet and ricotta salad and a chicken pesto sandwich complement heartier options, including pastas, pizzas, fish and steak. The drinks: Non-alcoholic sips like lavender lemonade spice up a power lunch, while wine, beer, spritzes and cocktails offer options for after-work drinks. Time Out tip: If you’re off the clock, head to the adjacent World’s Fair-themed cocktail lounge, dubbed Afterbar, for a stiff libation. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

The vibe: José Andrés and Gibsons Restaurant Group joined forces to open a two-pronged concept in the Bank of America Tower in 2021. On the building’s ground floor sits Bar Mar, an upscale, seafood-centric restaurant that catches your attention with an octopus sculpture hanging over the main bar.  The food: The luxe food lineup features a selection of small snacks, such as caviar and hamachi cones, and hearty items like a buttery lobster roll and sea scallops. The drinks: The extensive cocktail menu is reflective of the extravagant sculpture over the bar. Cocktails like the Floral Cloud (gin, lemon, Luxardo Maraschino, creme de violette and hibiscus-rose-orange blossom aromatic cloud) are offered alongside wines and local beers.  Time Out tip: If you're trying to impress a client or treat someone for a special occasion, this is the place to go. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

The vibe: Mother’s Ruin arrived in Avondale by way of New York City (with an additional satellite location in Nashville), bringing its signature spiked slushies and craft cocktails to a spacious storefront on Milwaukee Avenue open 365 days a year.  The food: The joint’s genuinely unmissable selection of bar snacks includes one of the best burgers in Chicago. The drinks: Drink names on the rotating cocktail menu offer an irreverent touch—recent entrants range from Viagra Triangle to Appalachian Ass Play—and pack a boozy punch. Time Out tip: Sidle up to a high-top table beginning at 11am daily, when the bar starts slinging hearty brunch mains, for daytime cocktails and a breakfast burrito. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

The vibe: Taking over an old Polish tavern in Avondale, Central Park Bar comes from the folks behind bars like The Owl and Estelle's. Outside, you'll see a sign that's modeled after the Chicago Park District's signage, and inside, you'll see that the 80-year-old wood bar is still intact. The food: Drinks are the stars here, but Central Park Bar hosts occasional food pop-ups. The drinks: Order a classic Polish Zubrowka & Tymbark apple juice, or opt for a cocktail like the Girls' Night (their take on a cosmo) or the So Fetch (a Negroni-style drink that they describe as "disarmingly pink and adorable drink.") Time Out tip: Just like other Four Entertainment Group bars, it boasts a half-price happy hour Monday through Friday from 4–7pm. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

Vibe: A classic farm-to-table restaurant with an on-site greenhouse and casual patio. Food: The restaurant is open from breakfast through dinner and features a greenhouse that provides fresh produce for the kitchen, private dining rooms and an outdoor patio. The revamped menu changes seasonally but is centered around dishes coming out of the wood-burning oven, such as grilled berbere-spiced carrots jazzed up with goat cheese purée. Drink: A robust selection of cocktails and mocktails complements the well-curated wine list, which features sustainable, biodynamic and classic vintners from California to Uruguay. Tip: If you find yourself here for a meal on a Wednesday, take advantage of the Wine Wednesday deal of 50% off bottles. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

Ah, Malört. Opinions vary greatly on the city's most infamous liqueur but even if you're not a fan, you have to admire the creativity the best cocktail bars in Chicago exhibit in coming up with Malört-based cocktails. From riffs on classics to frozen slushies, there are a host of inventive, bitter concoctions. And if you want something simple, Stiegl Radler Grapefruit spiked with wormwood is an easy and refreshing DIY option. So without further ado, here are nine Malört cocktails you need to try this summer. The Wieners Circle Photograph: Wendell RemingtonThe Wiener's Circle Chicago’s favorite late-night haunt for hot dogs and high jinks added a bar to its space in 2021, paving the way for a cocktail that lives up to the restaurant’s DGAF reputation. Hemingway’s Revenge, a riff on the Hemingway special, mixes rum and Malört with grapefruit juice, maraschino and a splash of lime juice. Complement an order of cheese fries with the cheeky concoction for the perfect Chicago nightcap. Jinsei Motto View this post on Instagram A post shared by CH Bar and Table (@ch.barandtable) CH Distillery acquired Jeppson’s Malört in 2018, so it’s no surprise you’ll find the wormwood liqueur in a cocktail at the sushi restaurant located within its West Loop distillery. Dubbed Lilac Wine, the drink is made with CH’s London Dry Gin, Malört, CH Key Gin, green tea, grapefruit, thyme and shiso. And if it’s just a shot of Malört you’re after—well, there’s no better

Music festival season is still months away but one of Chicago’s biggest summer events has announced its 2025 lineup. ARC Music Fest will take place in late August at Union Park in West Loop. The festival will bring nearly 100 internationally-renowned house and techno artists to town for a weekend of dance and beats. This will be the fifth edition of ARC, and the music this year will be spread across four stages. Also returning is the ARC After Dark series, which will be five nights of afterparties at venues all over the city.  If you’re a fan of electronic music, you won’t want to miss out. When is the Chicago ARC Music Festival? The festival will happen August 29-31 in Chicago’s Union Park. How do I get tickets? Three-day General Admission, VIP and VIP+ tickets go on sale to the general public at noon on Friday, March 14. Presale tickets are currently on sale for Mastercard cardholders. Tickets can be purchased here. Who’s playing at the 2025 ARC Music Festival? This year’s lineup features big-name acts like Jamie xx, John Summit, Amelie Lens, Richie Hawtin, FISHER and Eric Prydz, who will perform under the aliases Eric Prydz, Pryda and Cirez D. One of ARC’s most popular experiences is its back-to-back sets—pairings for the 2025 fest will include Cajmere B2B Carl Craig, Green Velvet B2B Skepta Más Tiempo, Felix da Housecat B2B Mike Dunn and Honey Dijon B2B Derrick Carter. You can check out the full lineup here or below. View this post on Instagram A post share

A Chicago institution has just been recognized by the prestigious James Beard Foundation. Lem’s Bar-B-Q, the longstanding barbecue joint in Greater Grand Crossing, is one of the recipients of the foundation’s 2025 America’s Classics Award. Introduced in 1998, the honor is given to “locally owned restaurants with timeless appeal that serve quality food and are beloved by their communities.” Opened in 1954 by brothers Myles and Bruce Lemons, Lem’s is known for its Chicago-style rib tips and links, and signature secret sauce. Unlike most barbecue spots, the restaurant uses an aquarium-style smoker, fueled by hickory wood and charcoal, to cook its meats. The process is labor-intensive but it—along with the scents of meat coming from the tall smokestack atop the building—has kept customers coming back for seven decades. Lem’s location on 75th Street, which is also one of Time Out’s most iconic restaurants in Chicago, was established in 1968 by James B. Lemons and is currently run by his daughter Carmen. This isn’t the first time a Chicago restaurant has been declared an American Classic. Past winners have included the Berghoff, Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap, Calumet Fisheries and Sun Wah. The other recipients of this year’s America’s Classics Award are the Pioneer Saloon in Ketchum, ID; Sullivan’s Castle Island in Boston, MA; Lucky Wishbone in Anchorage, AK; Dooky Chase in New Orleans, LA; and Gaido’s in Galveston, TX. All six winners will be celebrated during the James Beard Restauran

One of the city’s favorite traditions is the dyeing of the Chicago River in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. The dyeing always occurs the Saturday before the holiday (except when March 17 falls on a Saturday) and this year, it’ll take place on March 15. The event draws thousands of spectators, who gather to watch the water turn green. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who makes the annual pilgrimage downtown to join in on the fun, here’s everything you need to know about the Chicago River dyeing. What time does Chicago dye the river green in 2025? Crews are scheduled to start the river dyeing process at 10am on Saturday, March 15. How do they dye the river green? Using several boats, the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local Union 130 pours and spreads 40 pounds of vegetable-based dye into the river—from Columbus Drive to Orleans Street—until it’s a bright shade of green. How long does the dye last in the river? Depending on the wind, the river usually stays green for a day or two. Where are the best places to watch the dying of the Chicago River? You’ll be able to see the dyeing anywhere along the Chicago River from Columbus Drive to Orleans Street. The Chicago Riverwalk and Wacker Drive are popular stretches for watching the action, as are the bridges that cross over the river. Many hotels, restaurants and bars overlooking the water will also host viewing parties, including RPM Seafood, Pizzeria Portofino, The Royal Sonesta, Miru, LondonHouse, Travelle at The Langham and Raise

Chicago is one of the biggest travel hubs in the world and soon, travelers will have more nonstop flight options. American Airlines has announced the addition of nine new destinations from O’Hare International Airport, including Chicago’s only nonstop service to Naples, Italy, which starts May 6. Other international cities customers will soon be able to fly to are Madrid, Spain and Halifax, Canada. In addition, American will offer 10 daily flights to eight popular European destinations, such as London, UK. The airline will also be introducing service to Bismarck, North Dakota; Boise, Idaho; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Honolulu, Hawaii; Hyannis, Massachusetts; and Spokane, Washington. Many of the new routes will launch in June, making it easier for you to get away this summer. American will operate up to 480 daily flights from O’Hare, which is a 22% increase from last year. “O’Hare has always been a vital hub for American, connecting the Midwest to our global network and bringing travelers from across the world to Chicago for business and pleasure,” said Ben Humphrey, American’s Vice President of ORD Operations, in a release. “Strengthening our network is a promise to our customers that we’ll continue to provide exceptional service to the places they want to go.” Customers will also have 40% more premium seating options in June when American debuts larger, dual-class aircraft. And it should be easier to book a flight as the airline will offer 25% more seats in total compared t

Love is in the air—it's Valentine's Day! If you haven't made dinner plans yet at one of Chicago's most romantic restaurants, all is not lost. There are still plenty of great spots where you can woo your valentine with a swoon-worthy meal. Some are even going the extra mile and offering special heart-shaped foods for the occasion. From classic deep dish pizzas and donuts to a Beating Heart maki roll, here are the best heart-shaped dishes to help make your date night memorable. Lou Malnati's   Photograph: Courtesy Lou Malnati's   Chicago’s legendary deep dish specialist is bringing back its popular heart-shaped pizzas, and they’re available all month long. The nine-inch pies can be had with plain cheese, sausage or pepperoni, and $1 from every order will be donated to Feeding America local food banks. Sunda New Asian   Photograph: Courtesy Sunda New Asian   Sure, you’ve probably seen heart-shaped pizzas and desserts before, but what about a maki roll? Sunda’s two locations are offering a special Beating Heart Maki, filled with spicy tuna, pickled daikon, tobiko and sweet soy butter, through February 16. Gene & Georgetti   Photograph: Courtesy Gene & Georgetti   Chicago’s oldest steakhouse isn’t just about the beef. For Valentine’s Day, the restaurant will offer house-made, heart-shaped ravioli filled ricotta alongside blistered tomato, peas and lobster jus.  Pizzeria Portofino   Photograph: Lindsay Eberly   Treat your valentine to a romantic riverside dining experienc

Bravo’s award-winning series Top Chef returns this year with a new season set in Canada, and we now know which Chicago contestants will be competing. Season 22 will feature 15 chefs, including three local ones—Zubair Mohjir of Lilac Tiger, Coach House and Mirra; César Murillo of North Pond; and Bailey Sullivan of Monteverde. Chicago will be the most represented city this season. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bravo Top Chef (@bravotopchef) Mohjir is the founder and executive chef of two of the Windy City’s best Indian restaurants. He previously worked in Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Pump Room, Thomas Keller’s Bouchon in Napa and two Michelin-starred Gaggan in Bangkok. Mohjir launched Lilac Tiger and fine dining concept Coach House in 2023, followed by Mirra last year—one of Time Out’s best restaurants in Chicago. Murillo’s past stints are similarly impressive, having worked under Rick Bayless at Frontera Grill and Xoco, plus Grace and Sepia before joining North Pond—one of the most romantic restaurants in Chicago—in 2020.  Sullivan is the current chef de cuisine of Monteverde, one of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago, where she works under James Beard Award winner and Top Chef finalist Sarah Grueneberg. She’s also spent time at Yusho under Matthias Merges and Parachute under another Top Chef alum, Beverly Kim. RECOMMENDED: Experience the city's best restaurants and chefs at Time Out Market Chicago This season will take the contestan

Last week, Chicago was named one of the best cities in the world for 2025 in a list released by Time Out. To determine the rankings, we asked over 18,500 locals around the globe about life in their city, touching on everything from food and culture to happiness and affordability. As it turns out, Chicagoans think the Windy City is a looker, and who can blame them? A whopping 83% of respondents described Chicago as “beautiful”—more than any other city surveyed. It’s easy to see why. Chicago’s majestic skyline is filled with more than 120 towering skyscrapers, which offer stunning views. There are also 8,800 acres of green space and over 600 gorgeous parks. And don’t forget about the waterfronts—the sweeping sights across Lake Michigan and the Chicago River are, quite simply, unparalleled. Chicago just edged Cape Town, South Africa (82%) in the ranking. The top five is rounded out by Sydney, Australia (79%), Porto, Portugal (78%), Edinburgh, Scotland (74%) and Tbilisi, Georgia (74%). Beauty wasn’t the only category Chicago had high marks in. The city’s culture scored a 98% satisfaction rating, while the dining scene was right behind it at 97%. Clearly, our world-class attractions and amazing restaurants are things residents are proud of. Best of all, you can experience all of this under one roof at Time Out Market Chicago. We’ve gathered the city’s top chefs and restaurants together, and there are always a host of exciting events going on, including live music, parties and tren

The James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony is still months away, but the James Beard Foundation has just announced this year’s semifinalists. A number of Chicago's best restaurants and chefs are up for the industry’s highest honors. Widely referred to as the “Oscars of the food world,” the James Beard Awards recognize the country’s most distinguished culinary and media talents. The winners will be revealed during an event on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. 2025 marks the Awards’ 35th anniversary, and will feature three new categories focused on beverages: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service. Chicago has 22 total semifinalists this year. Check out all of the local nominees below. RECOMMENDED: Experience more of the city's best restaurants and chefs at Time Out Market Chicago 2025 James Beard Awards Chicago semifinalists Outstanding Restaurateur Brian Jupiter and Aaron Torricelli, Pioneer Tavern Group (Frontier and Ina Mae Tavern) Outstanding Chef Lee Wolen, Boka Outstanding Restaurant Galit Emerging Chef Jacob Potashnick, Feld Best New Restaurant Cariño Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker Leigh Omilinsky, Daisies Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program Elske Outstanding Bar Kumiko Best New Bar Bisous Truce Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service Thomas Kakalios, Asador Bastian Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service Christopher Marty, Best Intentions Best Chef: Great Lakes

There’s never a shortage of incredible experiences in Chicago, whether you’re looking to dine at the finest restaurants in town or for exciting things to do on your day off. The team at Time Out is here to help you discover the best of the city and to do that, we’ve rolled out a new feature to make it simpler for readers to get the info they need. We know you're always on the hunt for the best things to do in Chicago this weekend, and this handy interactive map is here to make things as easy as possible. It's packed with restaurants, events and attractions, with listings all across the city. From the Art Institute of Chicago to ice skating at Maggie Daley Park to the city's best restaurants and chefs under one roof at Time Out Market Chicago, these picks have been hand-picked by Time Out editors so you know you're in good hands. The map will be updated weekly with seasonal happenings throughout the year, meaning you’ll soon be able to find where to celebrate Lunar New Year, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day and more—all in one place. And it works in cities around the world, just in case you’re traveling!

This won’t come as a surprise, but it’s now official: Chicago is one of the best cities in the world. Time Out has just revealed its rankings of the world’s 50 best cities in 2025, and Chicago lands at No. 11. As locals already know, our wonderful city is full of amazing things to do, no matter the season. Whether it’s festive Christmas markets in the wintertime, genre-spanning music festivals during summer or a plethora of world-class museums and attractions, there’s a wealth of cultural activities to explore. We haven’t even talked about the dining scene, either. Chicago’s best restaurants range from Michelin-starred fine dining temples to no-frills holes-in-the-wall. And while everyone knows about the city’s most iconic eats, like deep dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef, the depth of Chicago’s culinary offerings cannot be understated. Want to try some of those delicious stand-out bites in person? We've got it all, and more, at Time Out Market Chicago—where you can experience everything from trending pop-ups to the city's most comforting dishes. RECOMMENDED: Experience the best of the city at Time Out Market Chicago This year’s list was determined by quizzing more than 18,500 readers about their cities. Each destination was rated on a number of metrics, such as happiness, affordability, food scene and overall vibe. Livability was also a key factor in the rankings. Crunching the data, Chicagoans are very satisfied with the city’s culture and restaurants—the

It’s been a year, readers! As we near the end of 2024, it’s time to reflect on the meals we savored because the only thing we want to remember about the last 12 months is the best things we ate. (Isn’t it always about the food?) Time Out editors and contributors across the country spent countless hours eating their way through their respective cities, reviewing restaurants, and dissecting trends to bring you this year’s Best of the City Award for Best New Restaurant. It’s a coveted title bestowed to the special spots that won our hearts and swept up accolades, not only from us but also from Michelin and other eagle-eyed diners. If you find yourself in any of these cities, now or in the future, add these fantastic new restaurants to your list. Miami: Sunny’s It’s hard to do many things well, but Sunny’s somehow manages to excel at all its endeavors: a fun happy hour spot, a glamorous Art Deco steakhouse, a chill outdoor restaurant (and dare I say, kid-friendly?) and a lively cocktail bar where you can order a drink and bowl of pasta without any side glances from your neighbor. We also love the tableside martini service and the down-to-earth staff, and, of course, those perfectly seared cuts of meat. Photograph: Jeanne CantoSunny's Steakhouse Chicago: Cariño This Latin American restaurant opened at the tail end of 2023 but quickly became an essential player in Chicago’s dining scene. Recently, Cariño was awarded a Michelin star, a nod our restaurant critic, Maggie Hennessy, i