Jeffy Mai

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. Best Chicago restaurants at a glance: 🎉 For group dining: Mariscos San Pedro – Shareable Mexican plates in a lively setting (Pilsen) 🇵🇭 For authentic Filipino flavors: Kasama – Viral bakery by day, elevated tasting menu by night (East Ukrainian Village) 🍽️ For a fine-dining splurge: Oriole – Two Michelin-starred tasting menu from legendary chef Noah Sandoval (West Loop) 🇮🇳 For modern Indian cuisine: Indien

The hot dog is in the pantheon of iconic Chicago foods, right up there with deep dish pizza and Italian beef. And you probably don’t have to go very far to get a good one, as there are esteemed hot dog vendors in all corners of the city. Whether you’re a traditionalist who believes ketchup should be a banned condiment or a Michigander who prefers a Coney Island hot dog, the following places are sure to satisfy your craving for a hot dog in Chicago. Some have been around for a long time and are among the most iconic restaurants in the city, while others offer the best cheap eats. There’s even a local mini-chain of stands located inside Home Depot stores, as well as Korean-style corn dogs coated in unique toppings. So there’s no need to wait until your next cookout or ballgame to enjoy a wiener; our guide to the best hot dogs in Chicago will show you where to get one any time you desire. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now September 2025: Mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, celery salt and pickled sport peppers. No more, no less. A classic Chicago dog is hard to beat, especially from one of these top 24 spots. Whether you're grabbing a bite during a game at Wrigley or devouring one at The Wiener's Circle after a night out on the town, there's never a bad time to enjoy a Chicago red hot. Featuring everything from downtown spots like Devil Dawgs to suburban gems like Gene & Jude's, our latest ranking of the best hot dogs in Chicago is a thoroughly reported

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 extra bright and boozy. 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: Lazy Bird – Basement bar with intimate vibes and live sets (West Loop) 🎉 For group celebrations: Three Dots and a Dash – Tiki cocktails with extravagant garnishes (River North) 🍸 For rare spirits: Billy Sunday – Amaro-focused drinks with unusual ingredients (Logan Square) November 3, 2025: This month, we've refined the list to an exclusive ranking of the top 24 absolute best bars in Chicago. You'll find everything from budget-friendly dives like Old Town Ale House to splurge-worthy icons like The Aviary, plus cozy haunts like The Meadowlark to warm up at as fall takes

As Chicagoans, we are very passionate about our teams. Whether it’s the Bears, Cubs, Sox, Bulls, Blackhawks or an alma mater, there are numerous games to watch every night. It’s a good thing, then, that Chicago has plenty of great sports bars. They offer everything from spacious patios and retractable roofs to dozens of beers on tap. Want award-winning wings to go with your football? Jake Melnick’s should be at the top of your list. Prefer to sit outside and catch some rays instead? Park & Field and the Moonlighter won’t disappoint. Big Ten alums can also root for their schools at the best Big Ten bars in town. So dust off your favorite jersey and read on to find the best sports bars in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The best bars in Chicago right now November 3, 2025: It's no secret that our home teams aren't in their golden era right now. But that never stopped us from cheering them on. Chicago's best sports bars are just as lively as the bygone days when the Blackhawks won three Stanley Cups in five years (sigh). So whether you're a Cubs or Sox fan, a Formula 1 fanatic or a soccer buff, there's a sports hub for every kind of fan in Chicago.  Two major updates to this ranking of the best sports bars in Chicago are the omissions of Old Town Pour House and Fifty/50, both of which have closed. Old Town Pour House still operates its Oak Brook and Naperville locations, but the OG Wells Street bar had its final day of service in January. Fifty/50, on the other hand, is gone for good after

Winter in Chicago can quickly devolve into a barrage of frigid temperatures, slushy streets and icy sidewalks—but that doesn't mean giving up on the best things to do in Chicago. Throw on some layers and scope out the many things to do outdoors this winter, like strolling through a snow-capped park, shredding across ice rinks and admiring icicle-adorned public art. Sure, there are plenty of fun things to do indoors, but you don't need to stay cooped up until spring arrives—here's where you can find the best things to do during winter in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Discover more with our ultimate guide to winter in Chicago

Many people head to Chinatown for its wealth of excellent restaurants, but the neighborhood offers much more than incredible food. You can spend half a day exploring the various shops in Chinatown Square or learning about Chinese history and culture at one of the neighborhood's museums. The area is also home to one of the city’s most beautiful parks, which provides skyline views and is accessible by water taxi. And if you're lucky, you might even find a parade or celebration taking place during your visit. So don’t come solely for the dim sum (even though it's pretty amazing as well), here are some of the best things to do in Chinatown. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Chinatown

When the weekend rolls around, the best dim sum restaurants in Chicago buzz with energy. Families and friends come together to feast on dumplings and bite-sized Chinese morsels, often tucked inside steamer baskets and served alongside tea. It's an ideal choice for those who want to try a bit of everything—from shrimp dumplings and chicken feet to sesame balls and egg yolk buns. Are you drooling yet? Some of the top Chinatown restaurants specialize in traditional dim sum service, while other Chinese restaurants feature creative spins on the time-honored culinary practice. We've compiled a list of all of the best of Chi dim, and have a diverse set of locations sprinkled about the city. Find a way to get to all of them if you can. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago's Chinatown

Chicago’s Chinatown is a neighborhood filled with seemingly endless pleasures. Located just off the Cermak-Chinatown Red Line station, it boasts block after block of restaurants and businesses. Numerous trips are needed just to scratch the surface of everything the area offers, which is why we’re here to help guide you to the best spots to grab a bite. You’ll discover cavernous dining rooms where dim sum can be enjoyed all day long, as well as dumpling specialists that sling pillowy umami morsels. Most of these places are perfect for delivery or takeout, and there are even some amazing bakeries. The bustling neighborhood is fully walkable, too, meaning you can hit up multiple spots in a visit. So spend a day exploring the best things to do and then refuel at one of Chinatown’s best restaurants. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago

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 December 18, 2025: Whether it's for a first date or an anniversary celebration, we all need a go-to date spot. Chicago's dining scene offers plenty of options, from stunning waterfront restaurants and opulent dining rooms to dimly lit eateries and tucked-away gems. Every spot on this official ranking of the most romantic restaurants in Chicago is sure to wow your date. 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.

Chicago Restaurant Week is back for its 19th year, offering special prix fixe menus at participating eateries in Chicago and the suburbs. This year's edition features a wide range of options all across the city, from Edgewater to South Shore. The 17-day celebration of local cuisine features many of Chicago's best restaurants, as well as beloved neighborhood institutions. Whether you're looking for an extravagant dinner, brunch with a view or simply a good bargain, Chicago Restaurant Week has you covered. What are the best deals for Chicago Restaurant Week 2026? Check out our list of the best Chicago Restaurant Week deals here! They include options for brunch and dinner at hotspots like Cafe Yaya, Esmé, Adalina Prime and more. What is Chicago Restaurant Week? Chicago Restaurant Week is an annual citywide event that features special tasting menus at hundreds of Chicago restaurants. Each participating location offers prix-fixe lunch ($30), brunch ($30) or dinner ($45 or $60). When is Chicago Restaurant Week 2026? Chicago Restaurant Week runs from January 23 to February 8. What restaurants are participating in Chicago Restaurant Week 2026? Too many to list! More than 500 restaurants—the most in Restaurant Week history—across the city and the suburbs will be participating this year, including favorites like Asador Bastian, Virtue, Tre Dita, J. Parker, Sophia Steak, Daisies, LIA Tavern, Kindling, Maxwells Trading, Esmé, Kit Kat Club, Mariscos San Pedro, Adalina Prime, La Serre, Mi

Winter in Chicago brings snow and cold temps, but also the opportunity for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re planning a day trip to the suburbs to visit a beginner-friendly slope where you can learn the basics, or want to plan a winter getaway to a resort to test your skills on more complex runs, there are plenty of options for winter sports. These facilities all offer rentals, making it easy to get in on the fun, and many also boast restaurants, lodging and other activities like ice skating and snowshoeing. So bundle up and head to one of the best ski and snowboard slopes near Chicago to enjoy the season. Skiing and snowboarding at these slopes are contingent upon weather conditions. Always call ahead or check resort websites. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do during winter in Chicago

Chicago’s meatpacking roots have made it a hub for beef for more than 150 years, and our steakhouses are some of the best in the world. Those looking for perfectly cooked filets and enormous porterhouses served with indulgent sides can visit old school institutions like Gene & Georgetti and Gibsons, while diners looking for more than just steak can get pristine seafood at Joe’s Seafood or RPM Steak. The city’s reputation as a haven for carnivores has also led to a boom in newcomers offerings traditions from around the world, like Bonyeon's Korean beef omakase and British Sunday roast at Hawksmoor. So whether you’re looking for wagyu by the ounce or steak frites, check out our guide to the best Chicago steakhouses for a hearty meal. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best restaurants in Chicago October 14, 2025: Chicago is chock-full of steakhouses, and luckily for us, a lot of them are actually really great. Old-school classics like Gene & Georgetti—the city's oldest steakhouse—and flashier spots like Bazaar Meat (expect smoking cocktails, caviar cones and gold-flaked bites) offer something for everyone who's looking for a hearty steak meal.  We've revamped this list to reflect a few recent changes: The Alinea Group's Fulton Market spot St. Clair Supper Club closed earlier this year, as did popular River North restaurant GT Prime. 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 st

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

This small Edgewater spot serves up some of the best deep dish in town. The vibe: Casual, lively, bright. The food: Owner George Bumbaris uses a sourdough starter and recipe that’s based on lagana—a Greek flatbread similar to focaccia. The bottom of each pie is also dusted with cornmeal while the edges of the crust are caramelized. And instead of putting the toppings under the sweet red sauce, Bumbaris layers them over it.  The drinks: A tight offering of Coke, water and bottled iced tea. Time Out tip: The menu pays tribute to famous Georges throughout history, so check out the fun creations like Weasley’s Spicy Red Top (Italian sausage, fire-roasted red peppers, spicy cherry peppers, ricotta) and Michael’s S&M (spaghetti, meatballs, ricotta, roasted garlic). Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato  

If you’ve lived in Chicago long enough, chances are you already have a favorite pan pizza. Milly’s fantastic pies, though, may test your allegiances. The vibe: A warm neighborhood pizza joint. The food: Owner Robert Maleski started making pizzas during the pandemic and operated out of a ghost kitchen before moving into a brick-and-mortar space in Uptown. Today, the restaurant operates out of locations in West Town and Berwyn. Inspired by local legend Burt Katz, the dough is baked with a ring of mozzarella around it, resulting in a caramelized crust. Maleski tops the cheese and sauce with a host of ingredients and dollops of fresh mozzarella.  The drinks: It's all about the pizza here. As soon as the pie hits the table, you won't be thinking about drinks. Time Out tip: We’re big fans of the Craiglist.org, a winning combination of sausage, mushrooms, pappadew peppers, red onions, tomatoes, spinach and ricotta. Availability is limited, so it’s best to order ahead. Updated with reporting by Lauren Brocato

Perched on the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago hotel, Miru pairs stunning views with a pristine selection of maki, sashimi and nigiri. We suggest starting with an order of crispy rice topped with king crab or spicy tuna, before induling in luxe bites of otoro, uni and hotate. Can't decide? Go with the oke mori for anywhere from nine to 36 pieces of fish.

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.

One of the most memorable meals of my life came at Gymkhana, a contemporary Indian restaurant in London. Arriving hungry and jet-lagged, my partner and I were floored by the elevated takes on familiar South Asian staples. For Brits, this type of experience is a common occurrence but here in Chicago, it’s nowhere near as prevalent. While a number of openings have broken new ground in recent years, Indienne is arguably the most ambitious to date. Its chef and co-owner, Sujan Sarkar, is no stranger to the local scene. He helped launch Rooh in the West Loop, which itself was a revelation at the time. At Indienne, Sarkar pushes the envelope even further. The restaurant debuted in September with two tasting menus—vegetarian and non-vegetarian—that reimagine classic Indian recipes through a progressive lens (an a la carte menu has since been added). In a surprise, both set options are priced at $90, a relative bargain considering the River North location. On a recent visit, my non-vegetarian experience began with canapes. A passion fruit pani puri packing a tart punch cleansed the palate for a mushroom éclair crowned with goat cheese and shaved truffle. The evening’s first course, a beautiful chaat starring a potato nest with dollops of chutneys atop yogurt and a raspberry spread, delivered a medley of textures and flavors. Each bite was creamy and crispy, as well as tangy and spicy. It was followed by an immaculate poached egg in a curry studded with peas, sweet corn and crispy oni

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