The 16 Best Appetizers in Chicago

For those looking for the perfect start to their dining experience in Chicago, the city is filled with a plethora of delicious appetizer options to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, Chicago has something to satisfy every craving.
From traditional favorites to unique twists on classic dishes, Chicago's appetizer scene is sure to impress even the most discerning foodies. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That's where the list of the 16 best appetizers in Chicago comes in handy, helping you navigate the city's culinary landscape with ease.
- Curated list of top appetizers in the city
- Includes a variety of cuisines and flavors
- Helps users find the perfect appetizer spot nearby
- Allows for easy comparison of different options
Scroll through the list below to discover some of the best appetizers that Chicago has to offer and find your next favorite dish.
- 1. Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
- 2. Weber Grill Restaurant
- 3. The Berghoff Restaurant
- 4. The Gage
- 5. Siena Tavern
- 6. Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
- 7. Carnivale
- 8. Remington's
- 9. Sepia
- 10. Ever Restaurant
- 11. Theory
- 12. Elephant & Castle
- 13. Black Barrel Tavern
- 14. Old Town Pour House (Old Town - Chicago)
- 15. Esmeralda's Lounge
- 16. Eleven | Eleven

- Monday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
1. Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
Information and Reviews
- The food was delightful and the server was fantastic, offering a fine dining experience with historic charm.
- Top-quality ingredients and an experienced staff ensure a memorable dining experience.
- The housemade chips were a hit, but the turkey burger choice was regretted as it's an Italian steakhouse.
Whether you're in the mood for a juicy steak, seafood salad, or a flavorful dessert like key lime pie, Harry Caray's offers something for everyone. Come visit this upmarket restaurant to enjoy a memorable meal in the windy city.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
2. Weber Grill Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- A solid experience with super friendly staff and tasty food.
- Great variety on the menu with steaks cooked perfectly.
- Amazing recovery meal with heavenly steaks and friendly service.
- Decently priced steaks served with butter garlic mashed potatoes, perfect for families.
Customers highlight the friendly and efficient staff, the variety of menu options, and the amazing recovery meal post workout. If you are in Chicago and looking for a fantastic dining experience, Weber Grill Restaurant is the place to be!

- Monday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: Closed
3. The Berghoff Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- This is a historic German restaurant in Chicago, perfect for comfort food and atmosphere, especially during Christmas time.
- Great beer selection, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service, though food consistency may vary.
- Authentic German comfort food with knowledgeable and quick service in a spacious location.
- Delicious sausages and creamed spinach, though pork chop and bread offerings were not exceptional.

- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
4. The Gage
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews praise the great atmosphere, attentive service, and fresh, tasty food. Some key points from recent reviews include:
- A solid experience with fresh and tasty food, friendly service, and a great ambiance.
- Large portions of well-prepared food with attentive service and a Parisian cafe ambiance.
- Exceptional service during Chicago Restaurant Week, highlighting the incredible steak frites and a flawless management of a busy St. Patrick's Day celebration.
- Phenomenal food, great drinks, and a wonderful ambiance for a dinner date.

- Monday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
5. Siena Tavern
Information and Reviews
Customers have commented on their positive experiences at Siena Tavern, highlighting a few key points:
- Great food, sweet staff, and a lovely environment
- Delicious cocktails and appetizers, excellent food quality
- Impeccable service, great food, and a wonderful atmosphere
- Fast, friendly service, great selection for kids menu, and a fantastic atmosphere
These reviews showcase the quality of service and dining experience that Siena Tavern offers to its patrons, making it a must-visit destination in Chicago for Italian cuisine lovers.

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
6. Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
Information and Reviews
- Food is fresh, portions are great, and the service is genuine
- Steak was tough and chewy, but fries were decent
- Hamburger was rich, juicy, and flavorful, but slightly oily
- Service was attentive, food was tasty, but some dishes felt small
With a remarkable overall rating of 4.6, Doc B's Restaurant (River North) is a top choice for those looking for a memorable dining experience in Chicago.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Thursday: 4:30–10 PM
- Friday: 4:30–11 PM
- Saturday: 4–11 PM
- Sunday: 1–9 PM
7. Carnivale
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Amazing variety of food and drinks
- Fun and colorful atmosphere
- Excellent service and delicious food
- Transformative experience

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
8. Remington's
Information and Reviews
The highlights of this restaurant include Fast service, a Fireplace for a cozy atmosphere, and Great dessert options that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Known for being popular for both Lunch and Dinner, it is a perfect spot for any occasion.
Customers rave about their experience at Remington's. Some of the key points mentioned in their reviews include:
- The food is superb and the flavors are to die for.
- The atmosphere is pleasant and the food is exceptional, with a nice personal touch from the manager.
- The service is amazing, with accommodating staff and delicious dishes.
- The ambiance is inviting and cozy, perfect for a delightful dining experience.
With a rating of 4.5 based on 2047 reviews, Remington's is a top choice for those looking for a memorable dining experience in Chicago. Visit their website to explore their menu and make a reservation for your next meal.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5–9 PM
- Thursday: 5–9 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 5–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
9. Sepia
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews for Sepia, praising various aspects of their experience:
- Superb service with friendly and knowledgeable staff
- Exquisite and creative dishes beautifully presented
- Impressive wine list and cocktail selection

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5–10 PM
- Wednesday: 5–10 PM
- Thursday: 5–10 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 5–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
10. Ever Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about their experiences at Ever, summarizing their visits with key points:
- An absolutely magnificent and memorable event, with remarkable flavor pairings and top-notch service.
- A well-rounded restaurant that values every customer, providing exceptional service and a memorable dining experience.
- Outstanding food presentation, knowledgeable staff, and exceptional pairings that make every course unique.
- One of the best dining experiences ever, with beautiful design, friendly staff, and intelligently crafted dishes.
With a rating of 4.8 based on 269 reviews, Ever Restaurant continues to exceed expectations and provide unparalleled culinary experiences to its guests. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Ever is a must-visit destination for those looking to indulge in fine dining like never before.

- Monday: 5–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 7 AM–12 AM
11. Theory
Information and Reviews
Some of the key highlights of Theory include:
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Live performances
Customers have praised the establishment for its friendly atmosphere, delicious food, and attentive staff. With a solid rating of 4.5 stars based on 1135 reviews, it's no surprise that Theory is a popular choice for those looking to unwind and have a great time. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a lively event with friends, Theory has something for everyone.

- Monday: 7 AM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 7 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 7 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 7 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 7 AM–2 AM
12. Elephant & Castle
Information and Reviews
Some customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- This is the best bar in Chicago with a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food and drinks, and the staff makes everyone feel at home.
- Delicious pub food with excellent vegetarian options and mouth-watering desserts.
- While some dishes were disappointing, the variety of beers and tasty appetizers made the experience enjoyable.
- Great British style tavern with attentive staff, hot and tasty food, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

- Monday: 11 AM–1 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–1 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–12 AM
13. Black Barrel Tavern
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.5 stars and over 569 reviews, Black Barrel Tavern has garnered positive feedback from its patrons. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Great vibe with friendly service and delicious food.
- Generous portions, exceptional service, and a great spot for various occasions like date night, meetings, brunch, lunch, dinner, or a casual drink.
- Well-spent money on delicious brunch options like French toast, scrambled eggs, and sausage.
- Neighborhood hotspot with a buzzing atmosphere, ample parking, and outstanding service.
Customers have particularly highlighted the delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive staff at Black Barrel Tavern, making it a popular choice for dining experiences in the Chicago area.

- Monday: 4–11 PM
- Tuesday: 4–11 PM
- Wednesday: 4–11 PM
- Thursday: 4 PM–12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
14. Old Town Pour House (Old Town - Chicago)
Information and Reviews
- A pleasant experience with attentive staff and delicious food.
- Great selection of beers and a cozy tavern-like ambiance.
- Efficient service, a wide variety of dishes, and a huge beer selection.
- Combination of exceptional food, great service, and a fun atmosphere.
Customers praise the delectable dishes like cheese curds, burgers, and desserts like peanut butter pie. The variety of service options available, including outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in, make it a versatile spot for any occasion. Additionally, being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Old Town Pour House is an ideal destination for both locals and tourists. So, head over to Old Town Pour House for a memorable dining experience filled with delectable food and exceptional service.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 6 PM–12 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 8 PM–2 AM
15. Esmeralda's Lounge
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- This is the king of all happy hours with exceptional drink values.
- The bartenders are attentive and accommodating, even willing to make off-menu requests.
- The staff members go above and beyond to provide a warm and welcoming experience.
- The patio is spacious, the cocktails are delicious, and the music selection is diverse.
With a solid rating of 4.5 stars, Esmeralda's Lounge continues to impress patrons with its unique offerings and friendly atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a relaxing evening with friends or a lively night out, this cocktail bar has something for everyone.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 3–9 PM
- Thursday: 3–9 PM
- Friday: 3–11 PM
- Saturday: 3–11 PM
- Sunday: Closed
16. Eleven | Eleven
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Came here on a Friday and was impressed by the speedy service, excellent drinks, and aesthetically pleasing dishes.
- New Chef, new flavorful dishes, and great wine selection. Open for inside dining, takeaway, and delivery. The 1/2 Chicken main and Cauli BBQ dishes were very flavorful.
- Happy hour experience exceeded expectations with stellar food and friendly, attentive service. Highly recommended for a great time.
- Amazing food, great ambiance, and different areas with various vibes to enjoy. Scallops were cooked to perfection.
Map of Appetizers in Chicago
When in Chicago, be sure to explore the diverse and delicious array of appetizers available throughout the city. From classic Deep Dish Pizza to trendy small plates and unique fusion dishes, there is something for every palate. Check out the map below to discover the best spots to sample these delectable starters in the Windy City.

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