Most Memorable Eats in Chicago

Chicago Food & Drink: A Culinary Adventure

These are the dishes that left a lasting impression on my taste buds. Each one was a true first-time experience, and I’ll always recommend them to anyone visiting Chicago.

Margie’s Candies

A Chicago institution since 1921, Margie’s Candies is a family-owned ice cream parlor and candy shop in Bucktown. Founded by Greek immigrant Peter George Poulos, it feels like stepping into a time capsule—think vintage jukeboxes at every booth and stained-glass chandeliers. Their homemade hot fudge is legendary, and fun fact: kids with good report cards get free ice cream!

Bazaar Meat 

Located along the Chicago River in Streeterville, José Andrés’ Bazaar Meat is a masterclass in indulgence. Start with playful bites like caviar cones or Jamón Ibérico, then savor entrees such as Japanese A5 Wagyu, suckling pig, or coffee-rubbed Wagyu hanger steak. Pair it with their signature salt air margarita while taking in skyline views.

Pequod’s Pizza 

Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago rite of passage, and locals debate the best spot—but my vote goes to Pequod’s. Founded in 1971 by Burt Katz, Pequod’s is famous for its caramelized, crispy-edged crust that takes deep dish to the next level.

Au Cheval 

The it-girl of smash burgers. Au Cheval keeps it simple and absolutely perfect, earning a cult following across Chicago. Pro tip: the Lincoln Park location shares space with a dessert counter offering dipped cones, concrete mixers, and sundaes worth the extra calories.

Sushi-San 

Part of the Lettuce Entertain You group (download their app for rewards), Sushi-San elevates Japanese cuisine with top-notch ingredients. Don’t miss the crispy rice spicy tuna, the beef n’ bop, or any of their sushi rolls. Their sister spot, Ramen-San, also serves one of the city’s best ramen bowls.

Asador Bastian 

Hidden in a charming brick house on Erie Street, Asador Bastian delivers a high-end dining experience where presentation, service, and flavor all shine. Their steaks and seafood are nothing short of exceptional.

Portillo’s 

Iconic is the only word. Portillo’s 1950s–60s diner vibe sets the stage for Chicago classics like the hot dog, Italian beef, chopped salad, and cheese fries. If you find a location combined with Barnelli’s, order the vodka pasta too. But whatever you do, save room for the famously decadent chocolate cake.

Gibsons Italia 

This River Point gem pairs impeccable service and Italian-American fare with some of the best skyline views in the city. The grass-fed ribeye is unforgettable, and the cacio e pepe is a chef’s kiss.

Avli

Upscale yet relaxed, Avli transports you straight to the Mediterranean. Start with their dip trio (the tzatziki is my favorite) and the addictive zucchini and eggplant chips. From gyros to salads, everything here is consistently excellent.

Café Ba-Ba-Reeba

This lively Lincoln Park tapas spot offers endless sangria options and a menu that begs for sharing. Must-orders include bacon-wrapped dates, patatas bravas, empanadas, and the chicken-and-pork paella (order it early—it takes about 45 minutes).

Trivoli Tavern

Another Lettuce Entertain You star, Trivoli Tavern boasts a cozy courtyard and a menu that makes choosing impossible. Highlights include the vodka pasta, prime rib, and pigs in a blanket, but the sticky date cake is the dessert you’ll dream about.

KAI ZAN 

A West Town favorite run by Chicago sushi legends Melvin and Carlo Vizconde. The fish is impeccably fresh, and the flaming tuna maki is an absolute must.

Ciccio Mio

Moody, romantic, and reliably delicious, Ciccio Mio in River North delivers pasta perfection. While every dish impresses, the spicy vodka rigatoni is a standout.

Le Bouchon

This Bucktown bistro makes you feel like you’ve been transported to Paris. Order the French onion soup and steak frites—simple, classic, flawless.

Joy Yee

My ultimate comfort takeout. Joy Yee offers everything from Chow Fun noodles to sweet & sour chicken, but the Korean BBQ short ribs are my go-to. Bonus: their boba tea selection is massive.

Annette’s

A seasonal Lincoln Park favorite with lines to prove it. Annette’s serves an endless list of creative ice cream flavors (my pick is Puppy Chow) plus Italian ices. Pro tip: Annette's is cash only.

High Five Ramen 

This West Loop spot serves rich, bold tonkotsu ramen in a cozy underground space. No frills—just perfect ramen.

Momotaro

A Michelin-starred West Loop gem, Momotaro balances elegance with fun. Every dish shines, but the Wagyu fried rice is unforgettable. Don’t skip the downstairs bar for a cool late-night vibe.

Red Light Chicken

A tiny Lincoln Park shack near DePaul that proves less is more. The menu is basically chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and fries—each done exceptionally well.

Armitage Alehouse

The perfect finale. This swanky pub draws inspiration from Indian cuisine and pairs it with cozy Chicago charm. Order the naan with dips, the cheeseburger (from the same group as Au Cheval), weekly pot pies, and both the chocolate lava and sticky date cakes. Yes, both.

Final Bite

Chicago’s dining scene is unmatched, from historic ice cream parlors to Michelin-starred sushi bars. Whether you’re craving steak, ramen, deep dish, or a decadent dessert, these spots guarantee a meal you’ll never forget.