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The 16 Best Inexpensive Restaurants in Chicago

Looking for delicious yet affordable dining options in the Windy City? Look no further! Whether you're a local or just visiting, finding a budget-friendly meal in Chicago is easier than you think. From cozy cafes to trendy eateries, there are plenty of inexpensive restaurants to choose from in this diverse city.

For those looking to enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank, consider the following factors when choosing a restaurant:

Ready to discover the best inexpensive restaurants in Chicago? Check out our list below for some fantastic dining options that won't empty your wallet.

How this ranking works

The order here is based on merit: a business that focuses on this work and has a solid reputation ranks above one that only offers it on the side.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3Full rankingMapTips for choosing

Our 16 local picks compared

Ever Restaurant, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • An unforgettable experience with complex flavors and remarkable pairings

  • A well-rounded restaurant that values every customer and detail

  • Outstanding presentation and exceptional staff creating a unique dining experience

  • One of the best dining experiences with friendly and knowledgeable staff and beautifully crafted dishes

Ever Restaurant

4.8269 reviews
1340 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Ever Restaurant is known for its exceptional service and exquisite dining experience. Offering dine-in options in an upmarket atmosphere, this restaurant is popular for dinner. Known for their great cocktails, great dessert, and great wine list, Ever Restaurant caters to guests looking for a cosy, romantic, and trendy dining experience.

Customers have raved about their time at Ever Restaurant, with reviews highlighting:

Au Cheval, Chicago#2
What sets it apart
  • Exceptional service with helpful and friendly staff

  • Delicious food, especially the hot honey chicken wings and burgers

  • Great cocktails and atmosphere

  • Long wait times, but worth it for the quality of food

Au Cheval

4.68,161 reviews
800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Au Cheval is a renowned American restaurant in Chicago known for its exceptional service and delicious food. Customers rave about the fast service and great cocktails they offer, making it a go-to spot for lunch or dinner. The restaurant is popular for solo dining, providing a cozy and trendy atmosphere that caters to all. With offerings like comfort food and late-night food, along with a variety of alcoholic beverages, guests are guaranteed a memorable dining experience.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Little Goat Diner, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • The service was very friendly, and the food was delicious. Accommodating to dietary restrictions. Highly recommended!

  • Generous portion sizes with flavorful dishes. Great service and a cozy atmosphere. Pricey but worth it.

  • Superbly delightful and scrumptious food with a pleasant atmosphere. Perfect for brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks.

  • Impressive Asian fusion twists with creative specials. Cozy atmosphere and attentive service make for a great dining experience.

Little Goat Diner

4.66,422 reviews
3325 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Little Goat Diner is a popular spot in Chicago known for its diverse dining options and highlights like fast service, great coffee, and a fantastic tea selection. Customers have left rave reviews praising the delicious food and friendly service at this diner.

With a rating of 4.6 based on 6421 reviews, Little Goat Diner continues to attract visitors looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

The Purple Pig Restaurant, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • The staff and food receive high praise, with attentive service and well-balanced, flavorful dishes.

  • The bar-facing kitchen provides an entertaining dining experience, with visually appealing dishes like the tuna tartar.

  • Generous portions, excellent cocktails, and overall outstanding service make it an easy recommendation for visitors.

The Purple Pig Restaurant

4.66,103 reviews
444 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

The Purple Pig Restaurant is a renowned Mediterranean restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and highlights to ensure a memorable dining experience. Customers can enjoy No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and great desserts, making it a popular choice for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

With a stellar rating of 4.6, The Purple Pig Restaurant continues to impress customers with its unique atmosphere and delectable offerings. Be sure to visit this establishment for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Eleven City Diner, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • Fantastic modern Jewish deli with tasty knishes and latkes.

  • Efficient, professional, and personable staff.

  • Food is really good with fresh and big portions, but service can sometimes be slow.

  • Amazing challah bread, fun atmosphere, and great vibes overall, with huge portions that offer value for money.

Eleven City Diner

4.64,725 reviews
1112 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

Eleven City Diner is a popular spot in Chicago, known for its fantastic modern Jewish deli offerings. With a rating of 4.6, it has amassed a total of 4725 reviews from satisfied customers. Some of the services and highlights it offers include kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, fast service, great coffee, and great desserts.

Customer reviews highlight a few key points:

Overall, Eleven City Diner promises an experience that will make customers want to come back again and again, thanks to its delicious food, welcoming staff, and vibrant atmosphere.

Lou Mitchell's, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • Customers love the wonderful atmosphere and friendly service.

  • The food portions are large and delicious, leaving guests full and satisfied.

  • Many appreciate the historic vibe and fast service offered at Lou Mitchell's.

  • Overall, visitors agree that Lou Mitchell's is a must-visit destination for a memorable breakfast experience.

Lou Mitchell's

4.63,691 reviews
565 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

Lou Mitchell's is a beloved breakfast restaurant located in Chicago, known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. Customers rave about the welcoming atmosphere, sizable food portions, and friendly staff.

Don's Grill, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • Welcoming experience with fresh and tasty food at great prices.

  • Hidden gem with kind service and authentic greasy diner meals.

  • Ol' skool dining car atmosphere offering a great spot to grab some food.

  • Friendly and welcoming atmosphere with simple, delicious, and clean offerings.

Don's Grill

4.61,126 reviews

Open 24 hours

1837 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

Don's Grill is a popular breakfast restaurant in Chicago known for its fast service and great coffee. Customers have praised the welcoming atmosphere and delicious food made fresh on-site. The restaurant offers takeaway and dine-in options, making it convenient for all. Some highlights of this cozy spot include various offerings such as coffee, comfort food, and small plates. Don's Grill is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with university students also frequenting this historic gem.

Jim's Original, Chicago#8
What sets it apart
  • The best hot dog place in Chicago! Affordable price with free fries. The sausage and peppers were really good. The service was attentive and the staff ensured a great experience for the customer.

  • Great historic spot with quick service and delicious Polish sausage. Ample parking available. A fantastic value for the price.

  • A tourist favorite with super fast service and budget-friendly options. The Polish sausage sandwich was a hit and the fries were hot and well-seasoned.

Jim's Original

4.58,259 reviews
1250 S Union Ave, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Jim's Original is a legendary hot dog stand located in Chicago, offering a variety of mouthwatering options. The stand is known for its fast service and delicious offerings, making it a popular spot for lunch and dinner. Customers rave about the affordable prices and the generous portions that come with each order.

Whether you're a local looking for a quick bite or a tourist exploring the area, Jim's Original is a must-visit for a taste of classic Chicago street food.

The Berghoff Restaurant, Chicago#9
What sets it apart
  • This is a historic German restaurant in Chicago, specializing in comfort food and a cozy atmosphere. The place was beautifully decorated during Christmas time, perfect for family gatherings and delicious meals.

  • One visitor praised the variety of house-brewed beers and authentic German dishes, highlighting the Helles beer as a must-try. While some food items were not consistent, the overall experience was enjoyable and worth returning for.

  • Another customer raved about the quality of the food, especially the sauerkraut and traditional German dishes. The friendly staff and quick service added to the overall positive 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 Chicago, offering a wide range of services and amenities to its customers. Some of the key highlights of this establishment include fast service, great dessert, and live music to enhance the dining experience.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at The Berghoff Restaurant. Here are some key points from their feedback:

With a rating of 4.5 stars and over 4000 reviews, The Berghoff Restaurant continues to impress patrons with its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a relaxing dinner, or a memorable dining experience, this establishment has something for everyone.

Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago#10
What sets it apart
  • Classic Chicago hot dog with an abundance of veggies and light bun

  • Specially loved hot dogs and Italian beef sub by a satisfied customer

  • Raved about Chicago-style hot dog and heavenly chocolate cake

  • Cheese fries stealing the show in a deluxe counter-service restaurant experience

Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago

4.420,691 reviews
100 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago is an iconic fast food restaurant in Chicago that serves up mouth-watering classics enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. From their famous Chicago-style hot dogs to their delectable chocolate cake, this eatery has something for everyone to enjoy. Customers rave about the delicious and well-balanced flavors of their dishes, as well as the efficient service provided. Here are some key highlights from customer reviews:

With options for outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, drive-through, and more, Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago caters to every customer's needs. So, stop by this popular spot and indulge in some of the best fast food Chicago has to offer!

Big Star, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • Fast kitchen and bar service with a friendly staff

  • Good variety in the menu without feeling overwhelming

  • Excellent drink specials

  • Delicious food options like Nachos and various tacos

Big Star

4.44,040 reviews
1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Big Star is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to enhance your dining experience. With options like Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, they cater to different preferences and needs. Customers have praised the Fast service and Great cocktails as standout highlights of their visit.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Devil Dawgs on State, Chicago#12
What sets it apart
  • Great for a quick cheap meal. The Chicago dog and bucket of chili cheese fries were heavy and delicious!

  • Fun hot dogs and fresh fries. The jumbo spicy dogs are immensely superior. Don't miss out on the cheesy fries!

  • Loved the fries and cheese bacon hot dog. Fast and friendly service in a cute location.

  • The Chicago hot dogs were freshly made and not soggy. The crispy yet buttery fries were a hit!

Devil Dawgs on State

4.43,333 reviews
767 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

Devil Dawgs on State is a popular hot dog restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of services such as no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for their fast service, Devil Dawgs on State is a go-to spot for many looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Customers have left rave reviews about their experience at Devil Dawgs on State:

Maxwell Street Depot, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • Convenient location after events at the Guaranteed Rate Field

  • Great prices for filling meals

  • Amazing grilled onions and friendly staff

  • Cash-only policy, open 24/7, and ample parking

Maxwell Street Depot

4.41,277 reviews

Open 24 hours

411 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60616, United States

Maxwell Street Depot is a beloved fast-food restaurant in Chicago, known for its late-night food offerings and quick bite options. Customers rave about the greasy and delicious food, including the famous Maxwell Street Polish. Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

With its casual atmosphere and group-friendly crowd, Maxwell Street Depot continues to satisfy locals and visitors alike with its iconic food offerings.

Griddle 24, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • Excellent variety of menu options

  • Quick and friendly service

  • Cozy and welcoming atmosphere

Griddle 24

4.31,999 reviews

Open 24 hours

334 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Griddle 24 is a popular Diner in Chicago that offers a variety of service options including No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers rave about the fast service and great dessert options.

If you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Griddle 24 is the place to be. They are also known for being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and popular among tourists and university students. With a 4.3 rating and almost 2000 reviews, it's clear that Griddle 24 is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

White Palace Grill, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • Old school 24hr diner with friendly staffs, regulars, and comfort food.

  • Big menu with sandwiches as specialties and fresh fruit salad options.

  • Decent food at reasonable prices, like the patty melt with soup.

  • Positive experience with quick service, delicious food, and an intimate atmosphere.

White Palace Grill

4.23,951 reviews

Open 24 hours

1159 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

White Palace Grill is a beloved diner located in Chicago, offering an array of delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With service options like no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, it caters to every preference. The diner is known for its fast service, great coffee, and great desserts, making it a go-to spot for many. It provides a cosy and historic atmosphere, attracting groups, tourists, and university students alike.

LÝRA, Chicago#16
What sets it apart
  • Exceptional service and hospitality with personalized attention.

  • Flavorful and delicious food options, such as lamb gyro and deconstructed pasta.

  • Ambiance that creates a vibrant and enjoyable dining experience.

  • Prompt service, great variety of cocktails, and modern setting at the bar.

LÝRA

4.1937 reviews
905 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

LÝRA is a renowned Greek restaurant located in Chicago, offering a wide range of culinary experiences for its patrons. The restaurant provides various services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, regular delivery, and takeaway, making it convenient for guests to enjoy their delectable dishes.

Patrons can indulge in the great dessert options and enjoy live music while savoring their meals. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, accommodating solo diners as well. Additionally, the establishment offers amenities like a bar on-site and gender-neutral toilets for the comfort of its guests.

According to 937 reviews with an impressive 4.1 rating, customers have shared their delightful experiences at LÝRA. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Experience the culinary magic at LÝRA and enjoy a memorable dining experience in the heart of Chicago!

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Ever Restaurant 4.8269
#2Au Cheval 4.68,161
#3Little Goat Diner 4.66,422
#4The Purple Pig Restaurant 4.66,103
#5Eleven City Diner 4.64,725
#6Lou Mitchell's 4.63,691
#7Don's Grill 4.61,126
#8Jim's Original 4.58,259
#9The Berghoff Restaurant 4.54,211
#10Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago 4.420,691
#11Big Star 4.44,040
#12Devil Dawgs on State 4.43,333
#13Maxwell Street Depot 4.41,277
#14Griddle 24 4.31,999
#15White Palace Grill 4.23,951
#16LÝRA 4.1937

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Map of Inexpensive Restaurants in Chicago

Are you looking for affordable dining options in the bustling city of Chicago? Look no further! Explore our comprehensive map that showcases all the inexpensive restaurants scattered throughout the city. From tasty pizza joints to cozy cafes, there is something for every palate and budget in the Windy City. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!

Tips for choosing Inexpensive Restaurants in Chicago

  1. Price range.
  2. Menu variety.
  3. Location.
  4. Atmosphere.
  5. Customer reviews.

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