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The 16 Best Cheese Curds in Chicago

Looking for the best cheese curds in Chicago to satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Chicago is home to a variety of restaurants and eateries that serve up deliciously crispy, cheesy, and indulgent cheese curds that will leave you wanting more.

Whether you prefer your cheese curds classic or with a twist, there is something for everyone in the Windy City. From traditional Midwestern fare to gourmet creations, Chicago has it all when it comes to this beloved snack.

Get ready to embark on a cheesy adventure as we take you through The 16 Best Cheese Curds in Chicago, helping you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cheese curd cravings. Let's get started!

How this guide is ordered

This list comes from our Chicago editors, who looked citywide for businesses with a long record of satisfied customers, details we could verify and dependable work through every season. We revisit it regularly, so let us know if something has changed.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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The Berghoff Restaurant#1
What stands out
  • This is a historic German restaurant in Chicago, specializing in comfort food and atmosphere. Customers love the festive decorations during holidays and the accommodating staff.

  • Visitors praise the extensive selection of house brewed beers and the cozy atmosphere. While some dishes received mixed reviews, the overall experience was enjoyable.

  • Guests rave about the authentic German cuisine, with standout dishes like sauerbraten and crispy pretzels. The friendly staff and accommodating service add to the dining experience.

The Berghoff Restaurant

4.54,211 reviews
17 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

The Berghoff Restaurant is a renowned German restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Offering a variety of services such as kerbside pickup, takeaway, and dine-in, customers can enjoy their favorite German dishes in the comfort of their choice. With features like fast service, great dessert, and live music, patrons can expect an unforgettable dining experience.

The Bad Apple#2
What stands out
  • Great neighborhood bar/restaurant with a good selection of brews and awesome burgers

  • Fantastic experience for large groups, excellent food, and fast service

  • Relaxed atmosphere, unique appetizers, and divine burgers

  • Diverse menu items with distinct identities, generous beer flights, and ample seating options

The Bad Apple

4.62,368 reviews
4300 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States

The Bad Apple is a vibrant bar & grill located in Chicago offering a range of enticing services. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The establishment boasts fast service, great bar food, refreshing cocktails, and a sporty atmosphere.

Time Out Market Chicago#3
What stands out
  • This was our first time in this area. Great food selection, clean atmosphere, and kind employees. A must-stop if you're in the area.

  • Cool space with a variety of food and drinks. Great for groups. The main bar can get busy, but the multiple floors offer different food options.

  • The food choices were good, especially the feta encrusted with sesame and honey. Prices were reasonable for the quality.

  • Great variety of food and drinks, vibrant atmosphere, but service can be unprofessional and the noise level makes conversations difficult.

Time Out Market Chicago

4.53,175 reviews
916 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Time Out Market Chicago offers a wide range of options for food enthusiasts. With fast service, great beer selection, and live music, this establishment is perfect for a casual meal or a fun night out. Customers have praised the variety of food choices available, the clean atmosphere, and the friendly employees. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a leisurely dinner, or a fun night out with friends, Time Out Market Chicago has something for everyone.

Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview#4
What stands out
  • Looove everything about this place. The staff is always nice. The popper and tenderizer grilled cheese are large and always so perfectly cooked. Crispy tots and good drinks!

  • Absolutely love coming here when I’m in town! Everything is so good. Love the different activities throughout the week (karaoke, bingo, trivia, brunch, etc). The staff have always been kind to me as well!

  • One of the best grilled cheeses I’ve ever had in my life. I got the Frenchie and it’s basically a baked potato grilled cheese. Loved it so much and the sour cream dip that came with it made it a 10/10.

  • It's a no-brainer. Come here! They're open late too. Great sandwiches, soups, and appetizers. Everything was made to order and delicious. I'll have to come back for their trivia nights!

Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview

4.52,177 reviews
958 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview is a well-known American restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With a rating of 4.5, it is evident that patrons have had positive experiences at this establishment.

Customers appreciate the variety of food options available, the friendly staff, and the cozy atmosphere at Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview. The accessibility options, such as kerbside pickup and delivery, make it convenient for customers to enjoy their favorite meals. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience, this restaurant caters to a diverse range of preferences.

Beautiful Rind#5
What stands out
  • Warm and inviting atmosphere with delicious food

  • Accommodating staff, especially for families with young children

  • Amazing selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and wines

  • Great place for intimate dining or classes like "Intro to Cheese"

Beautiful Rind

4.9166 reviews
2211 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Beautiful Rind is a charming Restaurant located in Chicago, IL, known for its exceptional service and delicious offerings. This establishment offers a variety of services and features, including Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. They are popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining, providing a cozy and casual atmosphere that is perfect for any occasion.

Customer reviews rave about their experiences at Beautiful Rind:

These glowing reviews highlight the top-notch service and offerings that make Beautiful Rind a must-visit spot for cheese lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Bub City#6
What stands out
  • Great atmosphere with live music and good service

  • Delicious brisket and mac and cheese

  • Warm welcome and excellent brunch options

  • Solid meats with good sauces and cool atmosphere

Bub City

4.32,761 reviews
435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Bub City is a popular barbecue restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service, live music, and sporting events on TV screens. Customers praise the delicious brisket, mac and cheese, bacon waffles for brunch, and smoked chicken wings. With its wheelchair-accessible entrance and friendly atmosphere, Bub City is a favorite spot for families, groups, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Elephant & Castle#7
What stands out
  • This is hands down the best bar in Chicago. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable, the food is delicious, and the warmth makes you feel like home.

  • Delicious pub food with great vegetarian options like Cheesy Leek and Potato Pie and Bread Pudding.

  • Although some customers were not satisfied with certain dishes, they praised the beer selection, the dessert, and the cozy vibes.

  • First-timers enjoyed the fresh chicken pot pie, brussel sprouts, and tasty fried pickles and sausages wrapped in a pastry puff.

Elephant & Castle

4.32,165 reviews
111 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Elephant & Castle is a popular restaurant in the heart of Chicago. They offer a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great beer selection, cocktails, and sports atmosphere. Customers frequent Elephant & Castle for lunch, dinner, and solo dining experiences.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a solid Rating of 4.3 and over 2000 reviews, Elephant & Castle promises a memorable dining experience for those looking for a taste of English flair in the bustling city of Chicago.

All Together Now#8
What stands out
  • Delicious food, great service, and reasonable prices. The wine selection by the bottle is a must-try! - 5 stars

  • Wonderful experience hosting a bridal shower. Fantastic service, delicious food, and excellent wine choices. Highly recommended for events! - 5 stars

  • A gem of a place with friendly staff, must-try dishes like the cheese plate and agnolotti, and a great selection of wines. - 5 stars

All Together Now

4.7235 reviews
2119 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

All Together Now is a popular restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. The establishment prides itself on being women-owned, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

Some of the highlights of All Together Now include fast service, great cocktails, and a superb wine list. The establishment is known for its offerings such as alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, organic dishes, and more. Customers can enjoy a range of dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and even catering for events.

All Together Now has received glowing reviews from satisfied customers. Some key points from the reviews include the delicious food, friendly staff, excellent wine selection, and the welcoming ambiance of the restaurant. Here are summarized reviews from a few customers:

Old Town Pour House (Old Town - Chicago)#9
What stands out
  • A customer praised the attentive waiter and delicious cheese curds, perfectly cooked burgers, and exceptional fries.

  • Another diner highlighted the efficiency during a busy dinner service, enjoying appetizers and a birthday dessert within an hour and a half.

  • One review mentioned the vast selection of tap beers, good service, and a pleasant tavern-like ambiance.

  • Lastly, a patron recommended the restaurant for its great food, atmosphere, and service, perfect for hanging out with friends.

Old Town Pour House (Old Town - Chicago)

4.21,214 reviews
1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States

Old Town Pour House (Old Town - Chicago) offers a variety of services to cater to its customers' needs. From outdoor seating to delivery and dine-in options, this American restaurant ensures a pleasant dining experience for all. With fast service and a sporty atmosphere, customers can enjoy lunch, dinner, or even solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service and delicious food at Old Town Pour House. Some key points from the reviews include:

Visit Old Town Pour House for a memorable dining experience filled with great food, fantastic service, and an inviting atmosphere.

Gayle V's Best Ever Grilled Cheese#10
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the consistently good food and pleasant service.

  • The variety of grilled cheese options, including gluten-free choices, is a hit with patrons.

  • Many visitors enjoy the live music on Thursday and Friday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

Gayle V's Best Ever Grilled Cheese

4.3500 reviews
108 N State St Level B1, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Gayle V's Best Ever Grilled Cheese is an American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. This establishment offers a variety of service options such as Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers can enjoy their meals in a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere suitable for solo dining or dining with family and friends.

The menu at Gayle V's Best Ever Grilled Cheese features comfort food favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches and homemade soup. Customers rave about the juicy lobster grilled cheese, Little Italy sandwich, and Mac and cheese wedges stuffed into a grilled cheese. The tomato pesto soup is also a must-try according to reviews.

Overall, Gayle V's Best Ever Grilled Cheese is a beloved spot for locals and tourists seeking a delicious and comforting meal in Chicago.

Culver’s#11
What stands out
  • Customers enjoy the quick service, delicious food, and lively atmosphere.

  • Some customers have had negative experiences regarding accuracy in their food orders.

  • The restaurant is praised for its affordable prices, delicious burger meals, and crispy chicken sandwiches.

  • Positive feedback has been given regarding the cleanliness of the restaurant and the attentive staff.

Culver’s

4.01,910 reviews
3355 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

Culver's is an established American restaurant that offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, drive-through, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its great dessert selections and is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Customers appreciate the accessible features such as wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilet.

Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Wicker Park#12
What stands out
  • We had a blast at the Grilled Cheese Fest. Tasty variety of grilled cheese and wonderful service.

  • Sergio, the manager, was personable and professional. The rooftop is a must-visit!

  • Super yummy grilled cheese with all the delicious options!

  • Great service, top-notch food, and awesome late-night dining experience!

Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Wicker Park

4.2645 reviews
1365 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Wicker Park is an American restaurant located in Chicago, IL. This cozy spot offers a variety of dining options such as brunch, lunch, dinner, catering, and more. Customers can enjoy comfort food like grilled cheese sandwiches, accompanied by quick bite options and delicious cocktails and wine.

Customers have shared their experiences, praising the fast service, fantastic grilled cheese options, and the inviting atmosphere. Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.2 stars and over 600 reviews, Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Wicker Park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Visit their website for more information and come experience their delightful offerings.

Bluebird#13
What stands out
  • Customers rave about the delicious burgers and fries, with one describing the Gouda double cheeseburger with bacon as "amazing!"

  • Another customer praises the chicken sandwich as the best they've ever had, along with the phenomenal fries.

  • Visitors appreciate the fast service and welcoming ambiance, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.

Bluebird

4.3368 reviews
2863 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Bluebird is a top-rated restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services to its customers. With a 4.3 rating from 368 reviews, it's clear that customers love what this establishment has to offer.

Whether you're looking for a tasty burger, a satisfying chicken sandwich, or a refreshing cocktail, Bluebird has you covered. Check out their website for more details and stop by for a memorable dining experience.

The Fifty/50#14
What stands out
  • The wings are worth trying, especially the fried Mac and cheese bites.

  • The atmosphere is laid-back and updated, creating a neighborhood hangout vibe.

  • The food, especially the wings and waffle fries, is explosively good.

  • Although the service can be slow at times, the casual vibes make it a perfect spot to enjoy top-notch bar cuisine.

The Fifty/50

4.1989 reviews
2047 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

The Fifty/50 is a popular restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for its fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and focus on sports, it is a go-to spot for many. Customers have highlighted a few key points in their reviews:

Great American Cheese Collection#15
What stands out
  • I order cheese from Great American every couple of weeks. They always have the specialty cheeses I need, and the taste is scrumptious and delicious.

  • Hidden gem with passionate and knowledgeable staff, way beyond what you'd find at a supermarket. Think Murray's without the shipping costs.

  • Personalized attention to detail, with hand-picked selections wrapped and hand-delivered as gifts. Definitely worth more traffic.

  • Vast selection of local artisan cheeses and very responsive customer service. Highly recommended for all cheese needs.

Great American Cheese Collection

4.514 reviews
1400 W 46th St, Chicago, IL 60609, United States

Great American Cheese Collection is a top-notch distribution service located in Chicago, IL. They offer a wide variety of cheeses that cater to every taste bud, from traditional favorites to unique specialties. Customers rave about the exceptional quality and service provided by the knowledgeable staff. Here are some key points from their rave reviews:

With a stellar rating of 4.5 and glowing customer reviews, Great American Cheese Collection is the go-to destination for all your cheese cravings. Whether you're hosting an event, looking for the perfect gift, or just want to indulge in some delicious cheese, this place has got you covered.

Grilled Cheese Society#16
What stands out
  • The breakfast burrito, espresso, and liquid chocolate were all fantastic. A nice place to sit and pass the time.

  • Tried to go but found out when looking at the website that it's delivery only. The food on the website looked good but was looking for somewhere to sit down.

  • Can't even find the entrance.

  • No specific comment, but rated it 5 out of 5 stars.

Grilled Cheese Society

3.54 reviews
44 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Grilled Cheese Society is a popular sandwich shop located in Chicago, IL, known for its delicious offerings and casual atmosphere. Customers can enjoy comfort food and a quick bite for lunch either through delivery or takeaway options. The menu features a variety of grilled cheese sandwiches that are perfect for solo dining or grabbing a meal with friends and family.

Customers have shared their positive experiences at Grilled Cheese Society:

These reviews showcase a range of experiences, from delicious food and drinks to feedback on the delivery-only format and finding the restaurant's entrance. Whether craving a classic grilled cheese or exploring new flavors, Grilled Cheese Society has something to offer every customer.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1The Berghoff Restaurant 4.54,211
#2The Bad Apple 4.62,368
#3Time Out Market Chicago 4.53,175
#4Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview 4.52,177
#5Beautiful Rind 4.9166
#6Bub City 4.32,761
#7Elephant & Castle 4.32,165
#8All Together Now 4.7235
#9Old Town Pour House (Old Town - Chicago) 4.21,214
#10Gayle V's Best Ever Grilled Cheese 4.3500
#11Culver’s 4.01,910
#12Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Wicker Park 4.2645
#13Bluebird 4.3368
#14The Fifty/50 4.1989
#15Great American Cheese Collection 4.514
#16Grilled Cheese Society 3.54

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Map of Cheese Curds in Chicago

Chicago is known for its delicious and diverse food scene, with one iconic delicacy being cheese curds. From classic deep-fried options to trendy gourmet spins, there are numerous spots throughout the city where you can indulge in this cheesy treat. Check out the map below to discover some of the best places to enjoy cheese curds in Chicago.

How to choose Cheese Curds in Chicago

  1. Local food trucks offering unique cheese curd creations.
  2. Restaurants specializing in deep-fried cheese curds.
  3. Gourmet eateries with artisanal cheese curd options.
  4. Neighborhood pubs serving up the perfect pairing for your beer.

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