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Where we love to eat in Chicago

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by The OpenTable team
Updated October 05, 2021

Chicago's a city that loves its restaurants, and OpenTable loves food. So there was no shortage of suggestions when we asked employees to name their favorite spots to book around the Windy City. Check out the list below for Japanese in Lincoln Park, Mexican in the South Loop, barbecue in Berwyn, and more.

A photo of Willow Room restaurant
Willow Room
4.8
4.8 (1865)
$31 to $50
American
Lincoln Park
About the restaurant
Willow Room is located in Lincoln park, serving European/American bistro food set in a classic yet unique atmosphere.
Top review
Rebeccavip
Dined 5 days ago
Great food! The truffle gnocchi and ny strip were delicious
A photo of Juno restaurant
Juno
4.7
4.7 (1507)
$50 and over
Japanese
Lincoln Park
About the restaurant
Now offering a signature Omakase menu with a selection of seasonal ingredients crafted by Chef BK Park.

The Omakase experience will include approximately 20 bite size pieces including sashimi, appetizers, warm plates, nigiri, and dessert. Price is $125 per person, plus tax and a mandatory 20% gratuity will be added to the final bill. Cancellations within 24 hours will be subject to $25.00 fee per person. Please alert our team of any allergies or dietary restrictions when booking.

Juno is an intimate Japanese restaurant in the heart of Lincoln Park. Led by the expertise of Executive Chef/Owner BK Park, Juno strives to perfect a combination of quality and consistency in food and service. Juno offers a variety of traditional & non-traditional Japanese dishes as well as an extensive list of sashimi, nigiri and premium sake.
Top review
Justin
Dined today
Had a lovely date night. Rolls, sashimi, and their signature nigiri pieces made for delicious flavors in a bite. Sake selection was good and paired well with the sashimi. Will go again.
A photo of Brindille restaurant
Brindille
4.6
4.6 (1146)
$50 and over
French
River North (Chicago)
About the restaurant
Brindille, named "Best New Restaurant in 2013" by Chicago Tribune, offers a glimpse into refined Parisian cuisine and atmosphere from the James Beard-award winning team that brought you NAHA. Enjoy classic French fare in a refined, sexy dining room with fine china and French linens. Let the wine list walk you through all the regions of France and the Old World. Tasting menus available upon request.
Top review
eloisep
Dined on Aug 25, 2023
Excellent dinner in every way. The food was fabulous---including the watermelon tomato gazpacho, the tarte Tatin (savory) and the duck. And great cocktails too! And I can't say enough about our server, Evan. He was wonderful, gracious, helpful--just perfect in every way. He helped my 90+ year old mom into her uber to go home--what a gracious man. The ambience is lovely---not too loud, but not too quiet--just a fabulous experience in every way.
A photo of Coco Pazzo restaurant
Coco Pazzo
4.8
4.8 (3831)
$31 to $50
Italian
River North (Chicago)
About the restaurant
Since 1992, Coco Pazzo has been an award-winning, Tuscan-inspired Chicago favorite. Menu items include the Porterhouse Bistecca alla Fiorentina and whole Mediterranean Sea Bass filleted tableside. Additionally, find housemade pasta, hand-tossed pizza and daily risotto and seafood specials. Enjoy the wood-burning oven while you sit and eat at the bar. As close to Italy as you can get, you'll enjoy dining in this 1905 former warehouse loft space.

Soaring ceilings with theatrical lighting, blue velvet drapes surround the dining room. Sit near an open window and enjoy passersby in this vibrant River North neighborhood. Steps from the Merchandise Mart and a short walk over the river from the Loop. Feel the welcoming and warm hospitality of this Gambero Rosso Top Italian Restaurant & Best Italian Wine List recipient and Wine Spectator award winner. Outdoor patio open weather permitting. Whether you join us for a romantic date night or corporate event, we look forward to hosting you soon!
Top review
Bengalvip
Dined 5 days ago
Great atmosphere for table of two or table of ten. Food offering was varied and all excellent.
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A photo of Rigatoni alla Buttera of a restaurant
Popular dish
Rigatoni alla Buttera
A photo of Branzino al Forno of a restaurant
Popular dish
Branzino al Forno
A photo of Gnocchetti of a restaurant
Popular dish
Gnocchetti
A photo of Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago restaurant
Mercat a la Planxa - Located in The Blackstone Hotel, Chicago
4.2
4.2 (4891)
$31 to $50
Unspecified
South Loop
About the restaurant
Mercat offers an authentic dining experience that combines fresh meats and produces with the energetic spirit of a Barcelona market.
Top review
Markvip
Dined on Oct 1, 2024
Outstanding experience, enjoyed and Anthony was a fantastic waiter
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Popular dish
Paella Negra
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Popular dish
Paella Vegano
A photo of Eduardo's Enoteca - Lakeview restaurant
Eduardo's Enoteca - Lakeview
4.3
4.3 (57)
$30 and under
Italian
Lakeview / East Lakeview
About the restaurant
Please visit our website to make a reservation.
Top review
Doodle
Dined on Aug 26, 2022
Beautiful evening to sit outside with lots of families. Food was very good and not fussy, portions were good sized. We definitely will be going back.
A photo of Prosecco restaurant
Prosecco
4.5
4.5 (2747)
$31 to $50
Contemporary Italian
River North (Chicago)
About the restaurant
PROSECCO, in the heart of the River North Gallery District, is a chic, yet welcoming restaurant serving comfort foods from all 20 regions of Italy and Chicago's largest selection of sparkling wine.

Enjoy classic comfort foods -- from house-made pasta to nightly beef, fish and game menu additions.

Prices are moderate, but those wishing to indulge in an evening of culinary mischief will not be disappointed!
Top review
Tom
Dined 6 days ago
The menu was extensive and complete with classic Italian dishes as well as new entrees you don’t typically find other places. The fresh pasta and seafood was excellent and the service matched the food. It was our first time visiting and would definitely go again.
A photo of Tanoshii - West Loop restaurant
Tanoshii - West Loop
4.9
4.9 (775)
$31 to $50
Sushi
West Loop
About the restaurant
Est. 2014 - family owned & operated

Try our unique omakase where our chefs will work around your restrictions to course out a mix of traditional, and non-traditional, fare. With signature dishes like our fish & chips and bluefin truffle sashimi, dressed nigiri pieces, and our off menu "special rolls" (including vegetarian options). Otherwise, order from the menu with many small-bite options, nigiri/sashimi, maki, entrees, or order the special rolls à la carte. We pride ourselves on our fish quality.

We have a full bar, which features a full selection of Japanese whisky, sake, cocktails, and more.




(We have no affiliation with any other Tanoshii and Sushi Mike, and are completely separate)
Top review
Andy
Dined on Oct 5, 2024
The best sushi in the city! It was all so fresh, and make sure ask for of there are any specials!
A photo of Riccardo Trattoria restaurant
Riccardo Trattoria
4.7
4.7 (2786)
$30 and under
Italian
Lincoln Park
About the restaurant
Riccardo started his career at a very young age in Milan's prestigious "GIRARROSTO" family owned. Then, in 1982 he moved to the United States and he opened the famous Sonny Bono's in Los Angeles. In 1987 he started to work with his cousin Roberto Ruggeri, with him he opened Bice New York, Los Angeles and many others around the world.

Together with his wife (and sous chef), Veronica, and his cousin (and hostess), Barbara, he decided to continue his gastronomic artistry and creativity in his restaurant named after himself "Riccardo Trattoria."

Here through the craftsmanship of an Italian food connoisseur, dishes are prepared with an almost zen-like essentiality that has shaped Riccardo's professional and existential life course. Some highlights of the menu are Veal Chop Milanese, Veal Shank Osso Bucco, Pappardelle with Short Rib Ragu, various classic Rissotto preparations, and for dessert options like Panna Cotta, Homemade Tiramisu and Tuscan Ricotta Cheesecake round out the menu.
Top review
Sheilavip
Dined 2 days ago
Delicious food and attentive, friendly service! Enjoyed celebrating a birthday there!
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Popular dish
BUCATINI ALLA CARBONARA
A photo of VEAL SCALOPPINE PARMIGIANA of a restaurant
Popular dish
VEAL SCALOPPINE PARMIGIANA
A photo of Sapori Trattoria restaurant
Sapori Trattoria
4.7
4.7 (4409)
$30 and under
Italian
Lincoln Park
About the restaurant
Cozy Italian Restaurant serving fresh pasta & other authentic Italian dishes in Chicago's Lincoln Park & Lakeview Neighborhoods
Top review
Andrea
Dined 3 days ago
- All the food and drinks were amazing, our waitress was the best. Will definitely be back to try more dishes.
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Popular dish
Vitello Meatballs
A photo of Rigatoni Bolognese of a restaurant
Popular dish
Rigatoni Bolognese
A photo of Lasagna di Carne of a restaurant
Popular dish
Lasagna di Carne
A photo of Uncommon Ground-Lakeview restaurant
Uncommon Ground-Lakeview
4.8
4.8 (1124)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
Lakeview / East Lakeview
About the restaurant
*** WE HAVE MOVED RESERVATION PLATFORMS *** Book your reservation at https://www.exploretock.com/uncommonground
Top review
Steve
Dined on Aug 3, 2024
Coming here after a Cub game is a highlight. We sat outside which was nice among the plants. Michael. our waiter, was so nice and attentive. We go for the meatloaf which is so amazing. Finishd with gelato. Many different beers to try. We will be back again and again.
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A photo of Helen's Grilled Chicken Sandwich of a restaurant
Popular dish
Helen's Grilled Chicken Sandwich
A photo of Holu - Chicago restaurant
Holu - Chicago
4.6
4.6 (531)
$50 and over
Steakhouse
China Town
About the restaurant
Derived from the Chinese Pinyin word “huo lu”, meaning fire pit, HOLU is a modern Asian steakhouse featuring the world’s finest meat — including USDA Prime beef, dry aged in-house with Himalayan pink salt, as well as snow aged Japanese A5 Wagyu, Australian Wagyu, North American Wagyu and more. Complemented with the most sustainable seafood and freshest organic vegetables available, omakase style menus are prepared on a smokeless, ceramic charcoal grill. The bar highlights thoughtfully curated, progressive cocktails as well as select wine, spirits, sake and beer. HOLU is located in Chicago’s West Chinatown neighborhood. Reservations are accepted for parties up to six. Complimentary lot parking is available.
Top review
Doreenvip
Dined on Oct 3, 2024
Superb service (Leo is exceptional) and the personalized cooking/high quality cuts of dry aged beef something to experience. We will be returning!
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A photo of Holu Duck of a restaurant
Popular dish
Holu Duck
A photo of Japanese A5 & Australian Wagyu Tartare of a restaurant
Popular dish
Japanese A5 & Australian Wagyu Tartare
A photo of Duck Inn restaurant
Duck Inn
4.7
4.7 (1667)
$31 to $50
American
Bridgeport
About the restaurant
Esquire's Best New Restaurants in America 2015

Duck Inn is a Neighborhood Gastro-Tavern & Dining Room situated at Loomis Street and the Chicago River in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood. Housed in a 100 year old pre-prohibition tavern, it showcases Michelin Rated Partner/Chef Kevin Hickey’s signature New American cuisine. An extensive beverage program filled with craft beers, contemporary cocktails and creative wine service matches the food offerings. Duck Inn serves brunch every Sunday, and dinner Wednesday-Sunday evenings. We also have the best Happy Hour in town; half off bar snacks, cocktails, draft beers and glasses of wine every Wednesday through Friday 5-6pm!

Sign up for our VIP Email List to receive advance notice of exclusive events, sales, first crack at reservations and other cool stuff: https://www.theduckinnchicago.com/signup/
Top review
AvaM
Dined on Jan 1, 2023
Delicious food and lovely atmosphere. Duck wings and duck dog are a must try.
A photo of FITZGERALDS restaurant
FITZGERALDS
4.9
4.9 (399)
$30 and under
Barbecue
Berwyn
About the restaurant
FitzGerald’s has been a place for gathering since it was built in the early 1900’s. Up to 1925, the frame building at 6615 W. Roosevelt was a roadhouse used as a hunting lodge and sporting team headquarters. As more buildings rose along Roosevelt Road, the property was home to several nightclubs, the best-known being The Hunt Club, which flourished through the 1950’s and early 60’s–acts included Turk Murphy, Bob Scobey and Lil Armstrong. After the Hunt Club closed, the space became the Deer Lodge, complete with pool tables and a fortune teller.

The FitzGerald family bought the building in 1980, and since that time FitzGerald’s has gained a national reputation for excellent live music in a casual, comfortable atmosphere. Along the way, the family purchased the buildings on either side of the club; the corner building now houses FITZGERALDS Sidebar, a neighborhood cocktail lounge as well as a private event space.
Top review
EvanM
Dined on Nov 1, 2021
This was an amazing Dia de Los Muertos show that included live Mexican music, a performance with some of the most beautiful and spectacular costumes I have ever seen, and delicious home-style Mexican food. It was an unforgettable evening.
A photo of Maple Tree Inn restaurant
Maple Tree Inn
4.8
4.8 (4506)
$30 and under
Creole / Cajun / Southern
Homewood
About the restaurant
Maple Tree Inn was awarded the very prestigious honor of being named in the Top 50 Southern Restaurants In America by OpenTable in 2018. We are proud to announce that the Maple Tree Inn has permanently relocated to Homewood, IL. We have maintained almost 100% of our staff and they have made the move with us.
We are still committed to the art of Cajun/Creole cooking & maintaining our status as the first and longest-running Cajun/Creole restaurant in Chicagoland. We are featuring a menu of our signature dishes including our Hickory Buttered BBQ Shrimp, Country Gumbo, Jambalaya, Crawfish Étouffée, and many more! We have boutique wines on draft, signature hand crafted cocktails, and an impressive craft beer list. Our hand crafted, premium cocktail menu highlights the very best of our repertoire. We look forward to hosting you & providing you with all the comforts of New Orleans, just a little closer to home.
Top review
Deborah
Dined 1 day ago
The service was outstanding. The food was delicious, and cooked to perfection. I have already planned my next visit. I don't want to wait a whole year again, and only visit on my birthday. This place is perfect for a quiet early or late dinner. My husband, and I really enjoyed ourselves.
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Popular dish
Beignets
A photo of Fried Green Tomatoes of a restaurant
Popular dish
Fried Green Tomatoes
A photo of Southern Fried Catfish of a restaurant
Popular dish
Southern Fried Catfish
A photo of Azul restaurant
Azul
4.0
4 (976)
$31 to $50
Seafood
Goose Island
About the restaurant
Located along the Chicago river in the burgeoning Goose Island neighborhood, Azul is an upscale mariscos (seafood) restaurant serving an expansive menu of Latin-inspired fare. The concept aims to combine the ethos of an authentic mariscos restaurant with modern hospitality practices and all the touches of a sophisticated, lively spot.

Celebrating the rich flavors and fresh ingredients of Latin culinary culture, Azul’s chef-driven menu is brimming with refined representations of classic mariscos cuisine. Created by Executive Chef Michael Hernandez, Azul offers a variety of grilled, baked, fried and raw proteins as well as ceviches, seafood, cocktails and artfully arranged family-style platters.
Top review
Kennethvip
Dined on Sep 1, 2024
Azul, a fun experience, Good Food, Great Latin Flair. Service was Very Good and Efficient. I came in by my boat and parked at their dock. The young men working the dock were polite and professional, handled my boat with care. Docking fee was $20 (Flat), I also tipped the guys upon departure. Azul is a Fun, Romantic and Lively establishment. Being able to come in by the water made it even more special. Also, for a party of 4, I was really surprised by the price at about $170, not including tip. Azul was moderately priced for a really nice place. I would gladly go back.
A photo of Gioia Ristorante e Pastificio restaurant
Gioia Ristorante e Pastificio
4.5
4.5 (473)
$31 to $50
Italian
West Loop
About the restaurant
GIOIA, [joy-ah] meaning joy in Italian, brings the joy of Italian cuisine to Chicago. Infusing the romance and traditions of Italy with the energy and sophistication of Chicago's West Loop.

We open for dinner, nightly beginning at 5pm, for delicious dishes created by our own, Chef Cristiano Bassani.
Have you seen our cacio e pepe in the making on social media?! You're in the right place! Our signature table side Cacio e Pepe and Gioia nei Paccheri are house favorites.

Check our social @gioiachicago for more!
Top review
Randy
Dined 1 day ago
Exceptional dining experience. The food was amazing! Probably one of the best Caesar salads I’ve ever had. The pasta was great, as was the lasagna special last night. Service was top notch!
A photo of Chrissoulas Modern Greek restaurant
Chrissoulas Modern Greek
4.7
4.7 (1016)
$30 and under
Greek
Libertyville
About the restaurant
Recently ranked 6th in the country by Guilty Eats, and voted best Mediterranean seafood restaurant in Illinois by LUXlife Magazine, Chrissoulas is a locally owned and operated restaurant in Libertyville IL, focusing on made-in-house modern dishes inspired by Greek & Mediterranean flavors. Brothers Nick and Theo are proud to run a business in the town they grew up in. We invite you to try something new and exciting, and dine with us tonight...Opa!
Top review
Jamievip
Dined 2 days ago
So great for an authentic Greek food experience! Owners and staff amazing!
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Popular dish
Grilled Octopus
A photo of Chrissoulas Greek Chicken of a restaurant
Popular dish
Chrissoulas Greek Chicken
A photo of Branzino of a restaurant
Popular dish
Branzino
A photo of EJ's Place restaurant
EJ's Place
4.8
4.8 (1708)
$31 to $50
American
Skokie
About the restaurant
Owner, EJ Lenzi, and managers bring over 100 years of combined restaurant experience to Chicago's North Shore. Teamed with a mature, experienced wait staff, and serving the finest food products available, EJ's Place has become the North Shore's premiere supper club. Established since 1997 and selected one of the Chicago Magazine's Best New Restaurants, EJ's menu consists of prime aged steaks and chops, pristine seafood, and traditional Italian specialties. EJ's Place serves only the best, from their family to yours.
Top review
Corey
Dined 4 days ago
Nick was our server and was great and attentive to our needs. This was our first experience at this restaurant. 10/10 will be coming back. Ask for Nick. He’s a gem!
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Popular dish
Crab Cake
A photo of Elske restaurant
Elske
4.7
4.7 (1178)
$50 and over
American
West Loop
About the restaurant
PLEASE NOTE: *the patio is uncovered and seating is weather dependent
**We can accommodate vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten free, dairy free, nut/peanut free & shellfish free diets. Before booking, please email us at info@elskerestaurant.com regarding any restrictions not listed above as we may be unable to accommodate certain restrictions, or diners with multiple restrictions.

Elske means love in Danish, a nod to both David Posey’s Danish mother and the fact that the couple got engaged in Copenhagen. “Our travels in Denmark have really influenced us,” Chef Posey said. “We like that clean, simple aesthetic.” The dining room — all crisp lines, minimalist décor & soft lighting — is anchored by a wide open kitchen on one side & a small patio with a working fireplace on the other. Combined with the friendly service, it creates the impression that you’re eating in a supremely tasteful Scandinavian friend’s weekend home.

Top review
Carolyn
Dined 1 day ago
The doors were open, the patio fireplace going providing a wonderful space to enjoy food, drink, friends. Staff were attentive and thoughtful. Food was flavorful and interesting.
A photo of Sochi Saigonese Kitchen restaurant
Sochi Saigonese Kitchen
4.8
4.8 (517)
$30 and under
Vietnamese
Lakeview / East Lakeview
About the restaurant
Come enjoy Vietnamese cuisine from the Saigon region. Showcasing Pho, Banh Mi, eggrolls, fresh spring rolls, salad, and main dishes. Accompanied with homemade desserts that completes the meal. Complimented with a full bar with wonderful wine pairings and an array of hand crafted cocktails.
Our dining room is inviting and bright with and open kitchen so you may be able to see all the action that is happening.
Top review
Erikavip
Dined 1 day ago
So good! We always get the egg rolls, market salad and crab rice.
A photo of Greenwood restaurant
Greenwood
4.6
4.6 (948)
$30 and under
American
Highwood
About the restaurant
Greenwood is located at 200 Green Bay Road amidst the bustling restaurant scene of Highwood. We are a lively modern American neighborhood kitchen and bar that applies an inventive approach to classic American cuisine, set in a rustic chic dining room, with engaged hospitality.
Top review
Krys
Dined on Jan 3, 2021
Great little spot if you are looking for a nice ambiance and good food away from the city
A photo of Kama Bistro La Grange restaurant
Kama Bistro La Grange
4.7
4.7 (1517)
$31 to $50
Contemporary Indian
La Grange
About the restaurant

Kama offers fresh, bold modern Indian cuisine in downtown La Grange.

The father and son team of Manmohan and Vikram Singh have created a unique menu comprising of dishes from various regions of India and Indian inspired Americana. Following the tradition in Vikram's family kitchen, everything is made from scratch, to order and customized to your taste. The bar program, led by Agnes Kalusiewicz, infuses Indian spices and chutneys into scratch-made syrups, ensuring a unique and bold experience with every sip.

Kama symbolizes aesthetic pleasure of the senses – touch, smell, flavor, vision and sound. Food is our most intimate connection to nature and a source of everlasting memories.
Top review
Kamalvip
Dined 5 days ago
As always , the food is consistently good. The service was very good. Mansoor as our server was well versed and provided great service.
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Popular dish
Chili Crispy Potatoes
A photo of Vindaloo of a restaurant
Popular dish
Vindaloo
A photo of Chicken Tikka Harissa of a restaurant
Popular dish
Chicken Tikka Harissa
A photo of Arami restaurant
Arami
4.7
4.7 (947)
$31 to $50
Japanese
Bucktown / Wicker Park
About the restaurant
Located in West Town, Arami’s warm and charming ambience is matched by the contemporary Japanese cuisine it serves. Chef Nelson Vinansaca offers a tier of thoughtful and delectable omakase featuring a variety of specialty nigiri. Omakase menus range from a 5-piece nigiri to a 16-course chef tasting menu with various additions like beverage pairings, truffles and caviar.

Top review
Joeyvip
Dined on Aug 25, 2024
My better half and I had to come back to where we had our first "date"—almost ten years later—before this beautiful restaurant says goodbye. We'd only been a few times in the interim, and have always appreciated the constant changes for the better.
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