The Lakeview area of Chicago is filled with LGBTQ-friendly restaurants for your next meal. From candlelit trattorias to inventive Asian kitchens and lively brunch favorites, the best restaurants in Lakeview, Chicago capture the spirit of one of the city’s most eclectic dining destinations. Whether you’re planning a laid-back Sunday outing, a cozy date night, or a fun group dinner, Lakeview delivers with a mix of sleek restaurants, family-run spots, and longtime favorites that locals return to again and again.
Reserve your spot on OpenTable today.
Read on to discover the 10 best restaurants in Lakeview, Chicago.
For globally inspired comfort food at a cozy neighborhood diner — try Little Goat
Led by celebrated chef Stephanie Izard, Little Goat brings globally inspired comfort food to the area. The all-day breakfast menu is packed with everything from sweet pancakes to savory breakfast sandwiches. The separate vegan and kids’ menus ensure there’s something for everyone. The full bar pours inventive cocktails and local brews to match. Inside, it’s cozy and casual with wooden accents, retro touches, and a buzzing neighborhood vibe, ideal for brunch or a laid-back date.
For Mexican small plates and inventive cocktails — head to Barcocina
Barcocina is a destination for modern Mexican cuisine in a lively indoor-outdoor space. Choose from crowd-pleasing tacos like Jamaican jerk chicken and al pastor tofu plus made-for-sharing plates ideal for eating with a large group. Colorful murals, string lights, and a comfortable outdoor dining area create an upbeat setting for happy hours with colleagues or low-key nights with friends. Don’t miss the stellar seasonal margaritas and smoky mezcal drinks.
For sushi and robata in a sleek, refined atmosphere — book a table at Itoko
From the team behind Momotaro, Itoko is a polished spot serving robata, sushi, and family-style Japanese-inspired dishes. Chef Gene Kato’s menu showcases quality ingredients and refined techniques. Dishes like whole branzino and specialty maki rolls show thoughtful precision, while creative cocktails spotlight Asian ingredients like yuzu and lychee along with Japanese spirits. With sleek wood design, soft lighting, and intimate booths, the restaurant is ideal for a date night or a fancy evening out.
For farm-to-table food at one of the best restaurants in Lakeview, Chicago — try Farm Bar
Farm Bar serves up a contemporary American menu using ingredients from its own Wisconsin farm. Expect a menu of pasture-raised burgers, seasonal vegetable plates, and fresh salads. Inside, wood accents and warm lighting set a cozy vibe, ideal for a relaxed dinner for two. Don’t miss the weekday happy hour with half-priced wine by the glass and snacks like Wisconsin cheese curds and beer-battered mushrooms.
For sushi and Asian-inspired small plates in a lively atmosphere — head to BITES Asian Kitchen & Bar
Head to BITES Asian Kitchen & Bar for shareable Asian small plates inspired by the flavors of China, Thailand, and more. Enjoy Thai-style wings plus skewers, bao buns, sushi, and ramen, including several vegan and gluten-free options. Pair your meal with a lychee martini or seasonal cocktail. With its upbeat energy and communal vibe, the restaurant is a great option for large groups and families.
For wood-fired pizzas and craft beers in front of a cozy fireplace — book a table at Lark
LGBTQ-owned and operated Lark draws crowds for wood-fired pizzas, shareable American comfort dishes, and weekend drag brunch. Handcrafted cocktails and a wide selection of craft beers complement the menu. Inside, exposed brick, eclectic furniture, and a fireplace create an inviting, comfortable atmosphere. On sunny days, enjoy the back patio, complete with hanging greenery. It’s well-matched to a relaxed date or dinner with friends looking for a casual spot to linger.
For rustic pasta and classic trattoria charm at one of the best restaurants in Lakeview, Chicago — try Mia Francesca
A neighborhood classic since 1992, Mia Francesca serves rustic Italian food in a trattoria-style setting. Chef Scott Harris’s menu celebrates simplicity and fresh ingredients in dishes like pollo arrosto and hearty rigatoni. With a lively dining room, welcoming hospitality, and generous plates made for sharing, every meal here feels like a celebration. In warmer months, dine al fresco on a charming cobblestone terrace.
For award-winning Vietnamese cuisine in a bright, inviting dining room — head to Sochi Saigonese Kitchen
Sochi Saigonese Kitchen is a stylish restaurant and wine bar and MICHELIN Bib Gourmand recipient that serves up modern Vietnamese dishes rooted in tradition. Pair signature dishes like lemongrass pork spare ribs and Saigon pho with classic and specialty cocktails—don’t miss the spicy margarita with Thai chili. Colorful artwork and lush plants make this an ideal setting for a cozy date night or celebratory meal.
For rich Oaxacan moles and mezcal cocktails — try ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine
ISTMO Oaxacan Cuisine is where you go for regional Mexican dishes that honor chef Carlos Lopez Muñoz’s Oaxacan roots. The menu is filled with dishes like rich moles, tlayudas, and more served with handmade tortillas. Pair your meal with a mezcal cocktail or regional wine. Earth-toned textures and candlelight keep things warm and welcoming. It’s a thoughtful pick for cozy date nights and laid-back dinners.
For Filipino shared plates and at a cozy family-owned spot — head to Cebu
One of the best restaurants in Lakeview, Chicago, Cebu is a destination for its modern take on traditional Filipino dishes. Family-owned and inspired by the island of Cebu, the menu blends time-honored recipes with contemporary techniques in dishes like adobo-glazed salmon and lobster pancit. Expect playful dishes like ube French toast and longganisa plates at the popular weekend brunch. With a bright, welcoming space and cocktails built for sharing, Cebu is great for relaxed gatherings with family or kids.
From cozy neighborhood Italian spots to modern Asian kitchens, the best restaurants in Lakeview, Chicago reflect the city’s international influences. Whether you’re in the mood for shareable plates with friends, a romantic date night, or a laid-back weekend brunch, Lakeview has a table ready for you.
