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Best Authentic Restaurants in Chicago

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150 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Mister Tiger restaurant
1. Mister Tiger
4.7
Exceptional(82)
Price: Expensive
• Korean • West Town
Booked 19 times today
Mister Tiger was born from a simple idea. To share the comfort and flavors of home-cooked meals our grandmother and mother lovingly prepared for us throughout our childhood.We created a contemporary space that’s welcoming and approachable for all, with subtle touches of Korean tradition. Our menu features unapologetically authentic Korean dishes, flavors and recipes passed down through generations, recreated and perfected from memory.Whether you're familiar with Korean cuisine or discovering it for the first time, our goal is to offer a warm, nostalgic dining experience that brings the comfort of an authentic Korean meal, just like the ones we enjoyed at home.
A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
2. Quartino - Chicago
4.5
Awesome(11258)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 124 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.
A photo of Momotaro restaurant
3. Momotaro
4.7
Exceptional(4019)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • West Loop
Booked 127 times today
Momotaro is a multi-level Japanese restaurant located in the West Loop. Led by Executive Chef Gene Kato, Momotaro has had the honor of being named Restaurant of the Year in both Chicago Magazine and Chicago Social. Under Kato’s leadership the restaurant has come to define the balance between traditional values and modern technique, blending the two in a science and art that has resulted in an authentic, innovative menu. The restaurant, designed by the world renowned AvroKO, also contains the subterranean Izakaya at Momotaro (a laid back, lively lower-level bar and restaurant reminiscent of the neon-lit haunts of trendy Tokyo neighborhoods) and an elegant second floor private space that overlooks the main dining room.
A photo of El Che Steakhouse & Bar restaurant
4. El Che Steakhouse & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2255)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • West Loop
Booked 61 times today
Located just beyond the West Loop’s famed “restaurant row,” El Che Steakhouse & Bar is Chicago's go-to destination for steak, seafood, and live-fire cooking. The restaurant is modeled after Executive Chef/Partner John Manion’s fascination with Argentinean asados: traditional backyard barbecues surrounding the flame. A 12-foot custom-built grill serves as the centerpiece for this downtown asado which embraces South American-tinged meats, seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and of course, steak. The hearth also serves as the heart of the restaurant’s experiences such as dining at the Hearth Table. Join us for happy hour at our cocktail bar, featuring signature cocktails and fiery bar bites or indulge in a glass of wine from the country’s only South American wine list. No matter what you choose, El Che Steakhouse & Bar delivers an authentic taste of Argentina in the heart of Chicago, seven nights a week.For large groups, private events, or celebrations, email us info@elchechicago.com.
A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
5. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(9309)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 134 times today
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in Chicago is a beloved institution since 1989. It's known for its classic American steakhouse cuisine, serving Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef. Customers laud it for its excellent service, delicious food, and lively atmosphere. As one reviewer put it, 'The quintessential steakhouse experience. The place feels like it could have been around for 100 years, (in the best sense).' The restaurant's old-fashioned touches without feeling dated and its famous guests make it an authentic and beloved Chicago staple.
A photo of Athena Restaurant restaurant
6. Athena Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2918)
Price: Moderate
• Greek • Greektown
Booked 39 times today
Athena Restaurant is widely recognized for its authentic Greek cuisine. Reviews consistently mention its 'authentic' and 'traditional Greek' food. Customers even compare it to the home-cooked meals of Greek heritage. The restaurant's ambience, with its fine Greek architecture, adds to the authenticity. The high ratings for food, ambience, and service further reinforce the authenticity of the restaurant.
A photo of Café Ba-Ba-Reeba restaurant
7. Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
4.8
Exceptional(9518)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Lincoln Park
Booked 160 times today
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba in Chicago is praised for its authentic Spanish cuisine, with reviewers stating 'The food was spectacular, as someone who’s had this cuisine in Spain, this place does it justice' and 'The food and energy at the restaurant, are always too notch!'. The restaurant's commitment to maintaining a healthy environment with disposable and digital menus, continuous sanitation procedures & hand washing also adds to its authenticity.
A photo of Mercadito - River North restaurant
8. Mercadito - River North
4.5
Awesome(6462)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 170 times today
Located in the heart of River North, Mercadito is a topdestination for modern Mexican cuisine andhandcrafted tequila and mezcal cocktails. Our menufeatures fresh takes on traditional dishes, includingsignature tacos, guacamole, ceviche, andmore—perfect for sharing and savoring.Downstairs, Mercadito’s Lounge offers a hidden,speakeasy-style escape with a chic, intimate vibe.Guests can enjoy the full menu in this cozy setting,complete with dim lighting, plush booths, and elevatedcocktails.Join us for bold flavors, warm hospitality, and a vibrantdining experience in the city’s premier Mexicanrestaurant.
A photo of Bistronomic restaurant
9. Bistronomic
4.8
Exceptional(6219)
Price: Moderate
• French • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 62 times today
Bistronomic brings guests together with the ambiance of an authentic Parisian bistro while exhibiting the "je ne sais quoi" and romance only found in Chicago's Sister City, the City of Lights. Three seating options are available: the Main Dining Room, the Grand Salon and the Petit Salon. Also, the bar is another offers a more casual experience. Dark wood, subdued lighting and French accents set the inviting mood. During the holidays, Bistronomic is festively adorned with garland, lights and red bows to make holiday get-togethers even more special. Whether guests seek an inviting holiday experience, social gathering or have business to conduct, Bistronomic's inviting seasonal and locally grown French food is the answer. Bistronomic is a Family Owned Business, Chef Martial & Lulu Noguier as well as the incredible Staff will welcome you with warmth a for a very French Experience!
A photo of Adalina restaurant
10. Adalina
4.6
Exceptional(2561)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 62 times today
Adalina is a refined hospitality destination serving a modern and engaging Italian menu in a timeless yet alluring setting in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. Led by Michelin-starred and Top Chef alumni Soo Ahn. Adalina’s menu creates a balance between Northern and Southern cuisine, providing expertly staged shared plates along with strong statement items that satisfy a table. Guests can expect house made extruded and stuffed pastas. Adalina’s offerings will be accompanied with tableside services, and a well curated beverage and wine program that aims to evoke a sense of excitement for guests. Adalina makes the perfect venue for a romantic evening, business dinner or special occasion.For parties larger than 10 guests, please email events@adalinachicago.com to inquire about our Private Dining options and availability.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Chicago

Discover the essence of Chicago's exclusive dining scene with our curated list of restaurants that epitomize authenticity. Each restaurant offers a distinctive blend of atmosphere and cuisine that captures the heart of Chicago's rich culinary traditions. From innovative dishes that fuse global flavors with local ingredients to establishments that boast years of accolades, you'll find a dining experience that resonates with both refined palettes and casual diners alike. These venues not only prioritize high-quality, original recipes but also provide a dining ambiance that enhances each meal. As a highlight of Chicago's diverse restaurant landscape, these spots serve as perfect destinations for both locals and visitors seeking a truly authentic dining experience in the city. Tailored to meet the needs and interests of our audience, this selection reflects the best in culinary expertise, atmosphere, and customer satisfaction in Chicago.

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