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The 16 Best Places to Have Lunch in Chicago

For those looking for a delicious place to have lunch in Chicago, there are numerous options to choose from. With a plethora of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine.

Whether you are craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, it is important to consider factors such as location, menu offerings, and ambiance. To help you make an informed decision, here is a list of key points to consider:

Explore the variety of the best places to have lunch in Chicago and find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.

The 16 Best Places to Have Lunch in Chicago:

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

Highlighted options

Pick any option to see it in the full list.

#1
Ever Restaurant
4.8269 reviews
#2
Girl & The Goat
4.75,514 reviews
#3
Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe
4.68,000 reviews

Our 16 local picks compared

Ever Restaurant, Chicago#1
What sets it apart

  • An absolutely magnificent and memorable event. The complexity and pairings of flavors is something truly remarkable.

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

  • Outstanding food creatively presented with exceptional service, making the experience truly unique.

  • A perfect dining experience with beautiful design, friendly staff, and intelligent pairings.

Ever Restaurant

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

Ever Restaurant is a renowned establishment located in Chicago that offers exceptional dining experiences. They provide a variety of services including dine-in options for customers who wish to immerse themselves in a sophisticated atmosphere. Known for their great cocktails and exquisite desserts, Ever Restaurant stands out as a popular choice for those seeking an unforgettable culinary journey.

Girl & The Goat, Chicago#2
What sets it apart

  • Phenomenal service with knowledgeable staff offering great menu recommendations.

  • Delicious and perfectly cooked dishes, such as the chickpea fritter, poke, and pig face.

  • Outstanding food quality with unique flavor profiles, complemented by excellent cocktail selections.

  • Memorable dining experience with a lively and fun atmosphere, perfect for special occasions.

Girl & The Goat

4.75,514 reviews
809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Girl & The Goat is a renowned New American restaurant located in Chicago. It offers a variety of services, including takeaway, dine-in, and a bar on site for those looking to enjoy great cocktails. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for any time of day.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Girl & The Goat. Some key points from their reviews include:

With a stellar rating of 4.7, Girl & The Goat continues to impress its customers with its exceptional food, service, and ambiance. If you're looking for a top-notch dining experience in Chicago, this restaurant is a must-visit!

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe, Chicago#3
What sets it apart

  • A customer mentioned the fantastic breakfast experience, delicious food, and the welcoming atmosphere of the place.

  • Another customer highlighted the cozy yet elegant atmosphere, quick service, and mouthwatering pancakes.

  • A satisfied customer praised the delicious food, friendly staff, and convenient location of the cafe.

  • One customer appreciated the quick service, filling portions, and the overall dining experience at Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe.

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe

4.68,000 reviews
130 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe is a renowned brunch restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. The cafe offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the great coffee and great dessert options available. It is a popular spot for breakfast and solo dining.

Here are some summarized customer reviews:

The Purple Pig Restaurant, Chicago#4
What sets it apart

  • The staff and food received excellent praise, with frequent check-ins and well-balanced flavors.

  • Customers enjoyed the experience of sitting at the bar facing the kitchen and watching the food being prepared.

  • Portions were generous, and dishes like the tuna tartare, dry-aged pork, and duck were highlighted for their delicious taste.

  • Some customers found certain dishes too sweet or fried, but overall, the food quality and service were commendable.

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. Known for its delicious dishes and exceptional service, this restaurant offers a range of service options including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy fast service and indulge in great desserts while dining at this establishment.

The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for solo dining as well. Customers love the casual and trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of diners, including families, groups, and tourists. The Purple Pig also offers various amenities such as a bar on site and toilets for added convenience.

With a high rating of 4.6, The Purple Pig Restaurant has garnered over 6103 reviews from satisfied customers. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

Eleven City Diner, Chicago#5
What sets it apart

  • Customers rave about the fantastic modern Jewish deli experience with delicious food and friendly staff.

  • Another reviewer highlighted the amazing service they received from their server Johnathan during lunch.

  • Despite some service issues, a patron noted that the food was really good, fresh, and came in big portions.

  • Multiple visitors also loved the fun, welcoming atmosphere and the hearty meals that left them satisfied.

Eleven City Diner

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

Eleven City Diner is a renowned establishment that offers a delightful dining experience in the heart of Chicago. With a rating of 4.6 and 4725 reviews, it's clear that customers love their experience at this diner.

From their service options like delivery and dine-in to being popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Eleven City Diner caters to a wide range of needs. Add to that their fast service, great coffee, and great dessert offerings, and you have a diner that ticks all the boxes for a delightful dining experience. So, whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Eleven City Diner is sure to impress.

Cherry Circle Room, Chicago#6
What sets it apart

  • This place feels even more hidden and exclusive in the morning. Staff is nice, efficient, and dishes are tasty with fresh salad every time.

  • Prime example of a hidden gem in Chicago, amazing service, unique food choices, and interesting menu items.

  • The cocktails are amazing, fast service, and delicious appetizers.

Cherry Circle Room

4.6909 reviews
12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Cherry Circle Room is an iconic American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Offering a variety of dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, this hidden gem is known for its great coffee and great dessert. The atmosphere is described as cosy, historic, romantic, and trendy, making it a perfect spot for solo dining or with groups of friends.

The Berghoff Restaurant, Chicago#7
What sets it apart

  • This is a historic German restaurant in Chicago, specializing in comfort food in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings.

  • Great beer selection with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, offering authentic German dishes like Jager Schnitzel and Spatzel.

  • Customers enjoy the authentic German food, especially praising the Bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potatoes dish in appetizer portions.

  • Some dishes like the schlachteplatte received mixed reviews, with some items being dry, but sausages and creamed spinach were delicious.

The Berghoff Restaurant

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

The Berghoff Restaurant is a renowned German restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services to its customers. The restaurant provides kerbside pickup, takeaway, and dine-in options for patrons to enjoy their delicious meals. Customers can also relish a great dining experience with fast service, live music, and delightful desserts.

Yolk - South Loop, Chicago#8
What sets it apart

  • One customer described Yolk as a warm, inviting spot where the crepes and pancakes are absolutely divine, perfect for a lazy Sunday.

  • Another visitor mentioned the cute atmosphere and delicious pancakes that were SUPER fluffy and light, making their dining experience memorable.

  • On the other hand, a reviewer expressed disappointment in the tasteless breakfast dishes, but did find solace in the beet orange juice and slightly seasoned potatoes.

Yolk - South Loop

4.54,210 reviews
1120 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

Yolk - South Loop is a bustling brunch restaurant located in Chicago, known for its enticing menu and welcoming atmosphere. Customers rave about the no-contact delivery, great coffee, and great tea selection provided by this establishment, making it a top choice for a relaxing morning meal.

Whether you're in the mood for comfort food or healthy options, Yolk - South Loop has a wide selection to cater to your cravings. So, if you're looking for a cozy spot with delicious offerings, Yolk is the place to be!

The Gage, Chicago#9
What sets it apart

  • A great atmosphere and fresh, tasty food

  • Large portions and attentive service with a Parisian cafe feel

  • Incredible service with a mix of great and decent food options

  • Phenomenal food and service, especially during busy periods like St. Patrick’s Day

The Gage

4.54,006 reviews
24 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

The Gage is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. They offer a variety of service options like outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. In addition, this establishment is known for its great coffee and great dessert. Popular for both lunch and dinner, it is an ideal spot for solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about The Gage. Here are some key points summarizing their experiences:

The Publican, Chicago#10
What sets it apart

  • Incredible food, great service, and great location. Highlight dishes like bacon and shrimp and grits.

  • Delightful dining experience offering an extensive selection of food and beverages.

  • Unique and delicious dishes sourced from local farms, with high prices but justifiable quality.

  • Family-style restaurant with large food portions and good quality, especially sprouts and whole fish fry.

The Publican

4.52,687 reviews
837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

The Publican is a renowned American restaurant located in Chicago, IL, offering a variety of dining options and services. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. The restaurant is known for its great cocktails, great coffee, and great dessert. It is popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

The Loyalist, Chicago#11
What sets it apart

  • Service by Alicia was exceptional, creating a memorable dining experience for a special occasion.

  • Excellent cocktails, delicious food, and a cozy ambience make it a must-visit spot in Chicago.

  • Impressive burgers, great drinks, and attentive service make for a delightful dining experience.

The Loyalist

4.5452 reviews
177 N Ada St #001, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

The Loyalist is a renowned New American restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, curbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant prides itself on providing fast service in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, making it ideal for a casual meal, solo dining, or special occasions.

Key customer reviews highlight the excellence of the service and food at The Loyalist:

Summer House Santa Monica, Chicago#12
What sets it apart

  • The vibes are solid, and the staff works well together to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

  • The food is creative and distinct, with options for everyone's palate.

  • The ambiance is beautiful, transporting diners to a beach house in California.

  • The service is excellent, paired with delicious food and nice cocktails.

Summer House Santa Monica

4.42,958 reviews
1954 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Summer House Santa Monica is a charming New American restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features that cater to its customers' needs. With options like Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, patrons can enjoy their meals in the setting that suits them best. The restaurant is known for its Great cocktails and Great dessert, making it a popular choice for those looking to indulge in exquisite food and drinks.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Summer House Santa Monica, leaving positive reviews highlighting the fantastic atmosphere, delicious food, and attentive service. Some key points from their reviews include:

These glowing reviews showcase the dedication of Summer House Santa Monica to providing a memorable dining experience for all its guests. Whether enjoying a meal with family or friends, customers can expect top-notch service and delectable cuisine at this popular restaurant.

312 Chicago#13
What sets it apart

  • Impressive Italian food at its best.

  • Perfectly balanced dishes such as the pesto pasta with added salmon.

  • Attentive and delightful service.

  • Delicious 3-course lunch options during special events.

312 Chicago

4.4829 reviews
136 N La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

312 Chicago is a renowned Italian restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert, making it a great spot for any time of the day. With a rating of 4.4 and 829 reviews, customers have been raving about their experience.

Customers mention favorites like the pesto pasta, fresh fish, and impeccable service. The cozy and trendy atmosphere adds to the overall experience. Whether you are a local or a tourist, 312 Chicago is a must-visit for delicious Italian cuisine in the heart of the city.

Lou Mitchell's, Chicago#14
What sets it apart

  • Impressive atmosphere with friendly and efficient service

  • Large portions of delicious food served quickly

  • Reasonably priced with top-notch service

  • Historic ambiance offering an authentic and warm dining experience

Lou Mitchell's

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

Lou Mitchell's is a renowned breakfast restaurant in Chicago that offers a range of services and features to its customers. Some of the key highlights of this establishment include outdoor seating, delivery, dine-in options, and a great tea selection. The restaurant is popular for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert offerings, making it a favorite spot for many.

Customer reviews rave about the experience at Lou Mitchell's. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

With a stellar rating of 4.6 and numerous positive reviews, Lou Mitchell's is a must-visit destination for breakfast enthusiasts in Chicago.

Pittsfield Cafe, Chicago#15
What sets it apart

  • Delicious food, quick service, and friendly staff.

  • Generous portions, great pricing, and attentive servers.

  • Hearty and filling meals, fast and efficient service.

  • Fresh and delicious food with a quiet and historic atmosphere.

Pittsfield Cafe

4.21,357 reviews
55 East Washington Street Lobby, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Pittsfield Cafe is a beloved restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services such as no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The cafe is known for its fast service and great coffee, making it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious food and friendly service at Pittsfield Cafe:

Atwood, Chicago#16
What sets it apart

  • We had breakfast here twice and both times were lovely! The ambience is so nice, the food was great, and we had amazing service.

  • Stopped by to try the restaurant week fixed price menu and found the food rather good with friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere.

  • One customer was disappointed with the service and food, mentioning a lack of flavor in their meal and poor experiences with the staff.

  • Beautiful restaurant in a perfect location with delicious food, though some issues were noted like soggy texture in a sandwich.

Atwood

4.2725 reviews
1 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Atwood is a prominent New American restaurant located in Chicago, offering a range of dining options and amenities. The restaurant prides itself on its service options, including Takeaway and Dine-in. Customers can enjoy a variety of Offerings such as Alcohol, Beer, and Vegetarian options. The atmosphere at Atwood is described as Cosy and Historic, making it a popular spot for various occasions including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. The restaurant also offers Accessibility features like Wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating.

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Ever Restaurant 4.8269
#2Girl & The Goat 4.75,514
#3Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe 4.68,000
#4The Purple Pig Restaurant 4.66,103
#5Eleven City Diner 4.64,725
#6Cherry Circle Room 4.6909
#7The Berghoff Restaurant 4.54,211
#8Yolk - South Loop 4.54,210
#9The Gage 4.54,006
#10The Publican 4.52,687
#11The Loyalist 4.5452
#12Summer House Santa Monica 4.42,958
#13312 Chicago 4.4829
#14Lou Mitchell's 4.63,691
#15Pittsfield Cafe 4.21,357
#16Atwood 4.2725

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Map of Places to Have Lunch in Chicago

Visiting Chicago and looking for the best places to have lunch in the city? Look no further! Our interactive map showcases a variety of restaurants and cafes offering delicious cuisine to satisfy your cravings. From cozy neighborhood eateries to trendy downtown hotspots, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the vibrant culinary scene of Chicago.

Tips for choosing Places to Have Lunch in Chicago

  1. Location: proximity to your current location or desired neighborhood.
  2. Menu: variety of options, dietary restrictions, and specialties.
  3. Ambiance: casual, trendy, upscale, or family-friendly atmosphere.

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