Jeffy Mai

Time Out Market Chicago, the culinary and cultural destination in the heart of Fulton Market, is your one-stop destination for the city's best bites, drinks and programming. 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. You can enjoy delicious dumplings from Qing Xiang Yuan, creative burgers at Gutenburg, fried chicken from Art Smith's Sporty Bird, irresistible desserts from Molly's Cupcakes and much more under one roof. But the fun doesn't stop there: The Market hosts a variety of events each week, from concerts to art showcases to comedy nights. We're always keeping the calendar packed with exciting things to do, and here's what you can expect in the coming weeks.

Welcome to another weekend! Winter is here, so embrace the cold weather and find fun things to do outdoors, like ice skating at Maggie Daley Park. If you prefer to stay warm, there are plenty of indoor activities as well, plus museum exhibits and winter rooftops equipped with heated patios. Also happening this wekeend is Cupid's Undies Run, Andersonville Restaurant Week and a margarita competition at Time Out Market Chicago. So ready to make the most of your time off? Check out the rest of the best things to do in Chicago this weekend. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago right now

Dating can be tough, but picking out what to do on a date doesn’t have to be. Thankfully, Chicago offers plenty for a fun date night. From the incredible lineup of romantic restaurants to the abundance of romantic things to do, there are tons of exciting and intimate options (including cheap date ideas). The following ideas combine dinner and drink recommendations with interesting activities all around the city. To make it convenient, we’ve kept each pairing close together, so you won’t have to travel too far between destinations. Whether it’s your first date or your 50th anniversary, here are some of the best date night ideas in Chicago for an unforgettable evening. RECOMMENDED: Find more of the best unique date ideas in Chicago

February 2025: Winter in Chicago marches on—avoid the cold by checking out exhibits at Chicago's best museums, cozying up next to a fireplace or floating down the river in a hot tub boat. If you'd rather embrace the elements, lace up your skates for a spin around Maggie Daley Park or find a hill to go sledding. And don't forget about a little self-care at the city's best spas. There are plenty of other options, too, so stay satisfied and busy with these fun activities in February. No matter where your interests lie, you can always find something to get excited about in this no-nonsense Midwestern metropolis. The best things to do in Chicago run the gamut—from seriously fun to awesomely educational. Looking for culture? Spend a day exploring Chicago museums. Hungry? You've come to the right place, because Chicago is famous for its delicious cuisine. There are tons of amazing restaurants in Chicago that highlight the city's rich and diverse culinary landscape. (And plenty of uniquely Chicago bars that do the trick, too.) We've searched all across the city to assemble this list of the best things to do in Chicago. Follow it and never get bored here again. You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world, or take a look at our list of the best things to do in the world right now. RECOMMENDED: Check out Time Out's interactive map of the best things to do in Chicago

February 2025: On our latest roundup of the city's finest eateries, we've trimmed the list down to the top 25. These are the best of the best, from iconic institutions such as Johnnie's Beef and Calumet Fisheries to buzzy hotspots like Gavroche. Whether you're just visiting or a lifelong Chicagoan, there's something new and delicious to discover. 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 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.

Looking for fun activities to do this week? You've come to the right place! Winter has arrived and with it, frigid temps, so find fun things to indoors. If you'd rather embrace the elements, there are also plenty of things to do outdoors, including ice skating, snowboarding and skiining, and sledding. There’s even more on our list below, so scroll through the roundup of the best things to do in Chicago this week and start planning your calendar. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago this weekend

Deep dish pizza and Italian beef are two of Chicago’s signature foods, a testament to the city’s deep Italian roots and huge Italian-American population. Those who want a taste of tradition can visit mainstays like Coco Pazzo for wood-fired whole branzino—deboned tableside—or Mart Anthony’s, which has been serving up the same family recipes for generations. You can also check out trendy and romantic newcomers such as Tre Dita, where a pasta lab offers guests a glimpse of the action as they make their way into the posh dining room, or enjoy the weather with some Italian wine on Piccolo Sogno's beautiful outdoor patio. Whether you’re looking for comforting pasta with red sauce or the bright flavors of Mediterranean fish, check out our guide to the best Italian restaurants in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best restaurants in Chicago  

There's a lot going on inside Time Out Market Chicago, the 50,000-square-foot food and cultural epicenter located at 916 W Fulton Market in the heart of the West Loop. The building is home to editorially-curated eateries from some of Chicago's top chefs, several world-class bars, a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen and an impressive all-season rooftop terrace. We'll give you a second to catch your breath. Whether you want to order in person or take advantage of mobile ordering, there are several options for getting your hands on some delicious food and drink. With mobile ordering, you can transform your dining experience by skipping the lines and ordering from several kitchens in one seamless transaction. Staff will even bring the food directly to your table! Speaking of food, there's plenty to explore, with menu options that run the gamut from stacked burgers and crispy fried chicken to fresh sushi and over-the-top milkshakes. Take a closer look at all of our chef and beverage options, and visit Time Out Market Chicago in the West Loop.

Trying to plan for the perfect date night can do some damage to both your wallet and your ego. The best restaurants in Chicago and the city's top attractions can get expensive pretty fast. However, if you're short on cash but still trying to woo that special someone with a romantic activity, there are plenty of cheap date night options in the city. So before you suggest a Netflix marathon, check out these free performances, awesome arcade bars and free things to do in Chicago—because you don't have to break the bank to have a good time. RECOMMENDED: Check out more unique date ideas in Chicago

There are plenty of ways to make that special someone feel, well, special. Whether you stock up on their favorite chocolates or take them to a romantic restaurant, floral arrangements are usually the cherry on top of a perfect night. Bouquets of roses, lilies, mums or any kind of plant give that extra splash of appreciation a loved one is sure to never forget. With an abundance of delivery services and flower shops in Chicago, there are lots of options to choose from for the right arrangement. So if you find yourself ever scrambling to find the most ornate expression of your affection, don't panic—nearly all of these spots offer same-day delivery in the Chicago area. Check out the best options for flowery delivery in the city. How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links—these have no influence on our editorial content, we pinky swear. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

If you're looking for the perfect arrangement to spruce up your home or to give to that special someone on Valentine's Day, look no further than the many expert florists right here in Chicago. From hip, new flower shops to decades-old family-run plant stores, all of these options have an abundance of colorful bouquets and impressive arrangements. Prepping for a special occasion? Most of these options offer same-day flower delivery, too. So whether it's just add some character to your dining-room table or express your appreciation for a loved one, these flower shops in Chicago are sure to get the job done. RECOMMENDED: Sweeten the deal with the best chocolate shops in Chicago

Valentine's Day is coming up and if you don't want to be in the dog house this year, you should really start planning. Fortunately, some of the best Chicago restaurants still have open tables for February 14. Treat your date to a fine dining experience, a ritzy steakhouse dinner or a sushi feast. Afterwards, keep the sparks going with the most romantic things to do in Chicago or a stay at one of the most romantic hotels in the city. So don't delay, check out our guide to the best Valentine's Day restaurants in Chicago and make a reservation before it's too late. RECOMMENDED: Discover the most romantic restaurants in Chicago  

Originally conceived as a virtual venture that accepted orders through Instagram, 3 Little Pigs pivoted to operating out of a shared kitchen before eventually expanding to several brick-and-mortar locations. Chef-owner Henry Cai whips up “untraditionally authentic” American Chinese cuisine, and for his signature char siu that put the concept on the map, he smokes fatty pork butt and finishes it off with a liberal dose of sweet and tangy sauce. The menu also features favorites such as fried rice studded with three types of pork and a unique salt; a pepper fried chicken sandwich dressed with fried garlic, sautéed jalapenos and mayo; and a hot pot beef sandwich that's a riff on Chicago's iconic Italian beef.

The team behind longtime barbecue standout Smoque branched out in 2023 with the opening of a steakhouse. Aptly named Smoque Steak, the concept skips the excess and opulence typically associated with chophouses in favor of a more relaxed experience that puts the focus squarely on the beef. The steaks are first smoked, then cooked sous vide before being seared, resulting in perfectly done cuts that are packed with smokey flavor. And the prices won’t break the bank—options range from a beefy ribeye to a chuck tender bistro steak that’s less than $20.

For its latest concept, DineAmic Hospitality celebrates 1950s Italian American cuisine with an opulent steakhouse in Fulton Market. The stunning 8,200-square-foot space is decked out in crystal chandeliers, fresh florals, booths dressed in lavender mohair, dark leather chairs and other elegant touches. This is a place to see and be seen, and chef Joe Rizza complements the experience with a menu that’s equally dazzling—Caesar salad is prepared tableside, squid ink pasta arrives topped with a whole lobster and the beefy steaks are grilled on a wood and charcoal hearth. The wine list boasts dozens of Italian bottles, while dessert is headlined by a slice of decadent chocolate cake.

This omakase newcomer from husband and wife Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee has arrived with much acclaim, including a Michelin star for Sushi by Scratch Restaurants’ outpost in Montecito, California. Tucked away below West Loop bar The Drop In, the 10-seat concept dishes out 17 courses across three seatings each night. You can expect plenty of luxe ingredients to be featured, as well as inventive nigiri—like a piece with unagi and roasted bone marrow drippings.

The team behind Logan Square spots Union and Lardon also operates this intimate and swanky cocktail bar. Housed in the same century-old building as the other two concepts, Meadowlark provides guests with a cozy den to hang out in—complete with low lighting, comfy leather couches and book-lined shelves. The drinks are all named after birds and there’s also an accompanying menu of small bites. Seating is limited, so get there early to snag a spot.

Looking for a laid-back spot where the vibes are good and you’re free to let loose? Then visit Way Out for fun times and reasonably-priced cocktails (every drink is priced at $12) like the Darkness Falls—a mix of gin, coffee liqueur, Campari and vermouth. Though the food menu mostly offers standard bar bites, you’ll definitely want to try the pizza potstickers. And for some friendly competition, check out the pool table in the back room. Every month, the bar also hosts a free burlesque show.

One Off Hospitality’s uber-popular Mexican restaurant expanded its scope in 2022 with the opening of a seafood concept. The menu features plenty of ceviches and fish tacos, but the star of the show is the pescado zarandeado, a whole grilled fish that’s been heavily marinated. It arrives alongside caramelized onions, smashed cucumbers, cilantro and tortillas for you and your friends to build tacos with. And don’t forget the pitcher of margs!

You’ll know this taqueria in Little Village takes tacos al pastor seriously the moment you walk through the door. The red-hued pork is on full display, beautifully stacked on a trompo in the kitchen and waiting to be sliced to order. Complement the marinated meat with chunks of pineapple and a generous splash of salsa for the perfect bite.

For those interested in traditional Chinese medicine, this bulk-goods store in Chinatown Square offers everything you’re looking for. Cure what ails you with a host of herbal teas and natural remedies. There are also dried goods ranging from scallops to mushrooms.

With hundreds of bottles to choose from, Rebel & Rye—named after the whiskey rebellion of 1794—can be an overwhelming experience. Fortunately, the able staff at this Southern-themed bar are more than happy to make recommendations for every palate and budget. American distilleries are the focus so expect plenty of bourbon and rye.

Japanese steakhouse and sushi restaurant Roka Akor took over the space next to its River North location and transformed it into a concept that pays tribute to the Macallan. The heart of the experience is the M Room’s tasting menu, which highlights the flavors and ingredients used in the Scotch-making process, plus complementary beverage pairings. But there’s also an a la carte selection of expensive and hard-to-find bottles, including pours from the M Collection and Fine & Rare Collection.

Part of a chain that originated in Canada, Planta Queen is perhaps Chicago’s swankiest plant-forward restaurant. The menu, crafted by executive chef David Lee, is home to Asian fusion delights, such as crispy gyoza filled with cabbage, carrots and mushrooms; jackfruit wings; and dehydrated watermelon nigiri. Not sure if a dish is suitable for your diet? There’s a handy allergen guide you can check so there are no unwelcome surprises. Fun cocktails, like the Sake to Me (sake, orange liqueur, watermelon, lime), complement the food. For vegans who want an upscale and trendy scene, there’s no better choice than Planta Queen.

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

One of the biggest pop stars in the world is coming to Chicago this Valentine’s Day, and Time Out Market Chicago wants to help you get to the show. Justin Timberlake will perform at the United Center on Friday, February 14, and because we know how much of a hassle traffic and parking can be, we’re offering free transportation to the arena. That’s right—from 6-9pm, a shuttle will leave for the United Center from the Market every 30 minutes. So leave the car at home and ride with us. The Market will be the perfect spot for you and your crew to pregame for the concert. Enjoy a variety of delicious bites from some of the city’s best restaurants and chefs. There’s Gutenburg’s mouthwatering burgers and fries, QXY’s acclaimed soup dumplings, Sporty Bird’s irresistible fried chicken, Bill Kim’s comforting ramen and much more. To wash it all down, the bar will be slinging creative cocktails, local craft beers and wines. No matter your preference, it sure beats concessions at the arena. Not going to the concert? Then party with us! We’re also throwing a pop-themed Galentine’s bash at the Market from 7-9pm. Get ready to dance the night away as a live DJ plays all of your favorite hits. From JT to T. Swift, the evening will be a celebration of all things pop. Plus, there will be bracelets and charms available for purchase from Get Sparked. That’s not all, though—the Market bar is whipping up a host of special cocktails just for the occasion. Timberlake fans will definitely want to sip on

The wait is almost over! The biggest game of the year is this weekend, and Time Out Market Chicago will be the best place to catch all of the action. Gather your crew and watch the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday, February 9 at the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market. We’ll be showing the game on a giant 32 feet wide by 6 feet tall screen with sound, as well as upstairs on the second floor, so no matter where you are, you won’t miss a single play (or Kendrick Lamar’s much-anticipated halftime performance). Of course, the game is only half of the fun. All of the Market’s kitchens are ready to feed you and your friends a host of delicious bites. We know how difficult it can be to order with a big group, which is why the Market is the perfect spot to accommodate all palates. And with mobile ordering, you can order from multiple eateries in one seamless transaction. There’s even tableside delivery—yes, someone will bring the food directly to you! If you’re in the mood for traditional game day foods, there are plenty of options. The wings—available in soy garlic or gochujang—from Bill Kim Ramen Bar are a favorite, as are Urbanbelly’s hot chicken bao buns. Craving nachos? Lil Amaru’s version is piled high with chihuahua cheese, beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, salsa macha and choice of protein. These dishes are all shareable, but if you want something all to your own, consider one of Gutenburg’s mouthwatering burgers, Sporty Bird’s irresistible

Winter in Chicago means snowy days, frigid cold and lots of indoor activities. One of the best ways to stay warm is by digging into hearty, comforting fare. Luckily, Time Out Market Chicago offers a variety of excellent options to make the coldest months more bearable. From rich bowls of ramen to decadent soup dumplings to delightful salads, the following dishes will help you overcome the winter blues. Pork ramen at Bill Kim Ramen Bar   Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out   While ramen is always a great choice, there’s no denying its appeal during the coldest months. Celebrated chef Bill Kim offers several versions to satisfy every type of palate. Our personal favorite is the pork ramen–kimchi-braised pork, crispy shallots, egg, marinated bean sprouts, cabbage, scallions, cilantro—but you can get your bowl with spicy shrimp, chicken wontons, pork mandu or tofu as well. Lamb and coriander dumplings at QXY Dumplings   Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out   The city’s best dumplings are at the Market, courtesy of Chinatown stalwart QXY. You won’t go wrong with any of the offerings, but our go-to is the steamed lamb and coriander soup dumplings. If you want an even more decadent bite, opt for the wagyu beef and black truffle dumplings. All dumplings are available steamed or pan fried, and you can mix and match flavors. Wings and waffles at Southern Bites   Photograph: Time Out Market   Chef Jamie Gilmore delivers Southern-style brunch fare with Creole love at Southern Bi

Time Out Market Chicago, home to the city’s best restaurants and chefs, is welcoming another stellar concept to the family starting on February 17. Stefani’s Bottega Italiana will bring its lineup of Roman-style pizzas, pastas and schiacciata sandwiches to Fulton Market. The Gladstone Park restaurant is known for its seasonally-driven, made-from-scratch Italian specialties and is a part of Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants, the group behind beloved spots like Tavern on Rush, Tuscany and Stefani Prime. Though Stefani’s Bottega Italiana debuted in 2024, its origins go back much further. When owner Phil Stefani opened his first restaurant in the ‘80s, he decided all of the pastas would be made in house using machines imported from Italy. As the Stefani empire expanded, the company found itself looking for a space that not only produced fresh pasta for all of its eateries, but also the public as well. Thus, Stefani’s Bottega Italiana was born. First, let’s talk about the incredible handmade pastas. The flour used is flown in from Italy and the sauces are classic recipes that the Stefani group has built its reputation on. There’s the Tagliatella Bolognese, a marriage of long, flat ribbon noodles and a meat-based sauce. Also on offer will be the Mezzaluna Cipriani, a signature dish that dates back to the original Stefani concept. It stars ravioli filled with ricotta, parmigiano and pecorino cheese in a tomato vodka sauce. Photograph: Kristen Mendiola Just as delicious are the Ro

The month of love is upon us and Time Out Market Chicago, the culinary and cultural destination in the heart of Fulton Market, is ready to celebrate! We’ve got a host of events and activities planned all throughout February, from Valentine’s-themed workshops to a free jazz concert to a margarita competition. In addition, the Market offers weekly activations, such as Industry Mondays, Tini Tuesdays, Winesdays, Trivia Wednesdays and live DJs on weekends.  We’re kicking off the month by celebrating the Lunar New Year with a mochi donut making class on February 1, led by 2d Restaurant. Little ones will learn how to create their own sweet treats and get to take them home.  On February 8, Gutenberg chef and chocolatier Jorge Kauam will teach guests how to make chocolates from scratch. Whether you’re in search of the perfect Valentine’s date idea or just want to pick up a new skill, this class has you covered. If you can’t make it, Kauam’s chocolates—including the viral Dubai chocolate bar—are also available Friday-Sunday at his pop-up shop in the Market. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Market Chicago (@timeoutmarketchicago) Looking for more ways to impress that special someone? Join us on February 11 or 25 for a calligraphy workshop. Sip & Script experts will explain the art of pretty lettering and help you write the perfect V-Day card. For those who are into stunning arrangements, sign up for a Valentine’s flower workshop on February 12. Y

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

It’s been a cold, cold week here in Chicago but this weekend, we’re heating things up with a pair of exciting events at Time Out Market Chicago. The food and cultural hub in Fulton Market is throwing an après-ski-themed party on Saturday, January 25 at Tony’s Rooftop. You don’t have to hit the slopes beforehand—just come dressed in your best skiwear and enjoy cozy vibes, hot beverages and cool tunes. There will also be shotskis, Italicus spritzes and build-your-own boozy drinks. Tickets, available via Eventbrite, are $15 and include one mimosa or draft beer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Market Chicago (@timeoutmarketchicago) But that’s not all we’ve got going on! On Sunday, January 26, the Market will celebrate the Lunar New Year with a day of festivities. Starting at noon, guests can get their faces painted. At 1pm, lion dancers will perform along with traditional live music. The Market’s kitchens will offer food and drink specials as well, and lucky red envelopes filled with fortunes will be handed out. There’s no better way to welcome the Year of the Snake. Of course, you’ll be able to savor a variety of delicious bites from some of the best restaurants and chefs in the city. Whether it’s QXY’s comforting soup dumplings, Gutenburg’s mouthwatering burgers, Sporty Bird’s crispy fried chicken or 2d Restaurant’s indulgent mochi donuts, the Market has you covered. Looking for more fun? The Market hosts weekly programming—from live DJs

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