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The 16 Best Restaurants in Chicago Magazine

For those seeking the ultimate dining experience in the Windy City, look no further than Restaurants Chicago Magazine. This comprehensive guide showcases the top dining establishments in Chicago, providing readers with valuable insights and recommendations.

Whether you're in the mood for fine dining, casual eats, or exotic cuisine, Restaurants Chicago Magazine has you covered. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, this magazine is your go-to source for all things culinary in Chicago.

Discover where to dine next with the help of Restaurants Chicago Magazine. Below are the top 16 restaurants recommended by the magazine:

How this ranking works

Before ranking this guide we review each business's track record, what its customers say and how clearly it explains its work. The result is an editorial selection that we update as things change.

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

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • Incredible experience with amazing service

  • Ambiance that makes you feel special and celebrated

  • Outstanding service, delicious food, and friendly staff

  • Intimate steakhouse with amazing food and great service

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf

4.82,822 reviews
218 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a renowned steakhouse in Chicago, offering a range of dining options including lunch, dinner, and dessert. The restaurant is beloved for its great coffee and great dessert, perfect for a night out or just a casual dining experience. Customers rave about the incredible service and atmosphere that Bavette's provides.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Overall, Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a top choice for those looking to enjoy a memorable dining experience in a cozy and stylish setting.

Oriole, Chicago#2
What sets it apart
  • Exquisite dining experience with exceptional flavors and presentation.

  • Perfect balance of creativity and taste, with top-notch service and beautiful ambiance.

  • Amazing gastronomic journey filled with delightful dishes and impeccable service.

  • Highly recommended for special occasions due to its exceptional culinary artistry and unforgettable experience.

Oriole

4.8495 reviews
661 W Walnut St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

Oriole is a top-rated fine dining restaurant in Chicago that offers a remarkable culinary experience. The establishment is known for its great coffee, great dessert, and great tea selection, making it a favorite spot for those seeking a luxurious dining experience.

Customer reviews rave about Oriole's exceptional service, exquisite dishes, and impeccable attention to detail. Here are some key points from the reviews:

With a rating of 4.8 stars and glowing reviews from satisfied customers, Oriole stands as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in a world-class dining experience.

Dear Margaret, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • Customers rave about the delicious food and impeccable service.

  • The cozy and romantic atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a date night or special occasion.

  • Many highlight the great dessert options available at Dear Margaret.

  • The wheelchair-accessible features and amenities such as outdoor seating and a bar on site add to the overall appeal of this restaurant.

Dear Margaret

4.8294 reviews
2965 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Dear Margaret is a charming French restaurant located in Chicago, offering a delightful dining experience for its patrons. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 294 reviews, it is evident that customers have nothing but praise for this establishment.

Whether you are looking for a place to enjoy a gourmet dinner, indulge in a delectable dessert, or simply unwind with a glass of wine, Dear Margaret is sure to exceed your expectations. Be sure to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot at this popular dining destination.

Brando's Lincoln Park, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • Customers enjoy the strong shots and vibe of the music

  • Some customers highlighted the fun karaoke atmosphere but had concerns about the karaoke song selection

  • The friendly ambiance and aesthetically pleasing space were mentioned positively by customers

  • One customer praised the KJ and the fun crowd, expressing the desire to return

Brando's Lincoln Park

4.8275 reviews
2265 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Brando's Lincoln Park is a vibrant bar located in Chicago, IL. They offer a range of services and features to ensure an unforgettable experience for their customers. The bar provides dine-in options with great cocktails and a karaoke experience that sets the mood for a fun night out. Live performances add to the ambiance. The establishment is known for its fast service and a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere. Customers have praised Brando's Lincoln Park for its outstanding service and enjoyable atmosphere.

Ever Restaurant, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • An unforgettable experience with remarkable flavor pairings

  • Outstanding attention to detail and exceptional service

  • Beautifully crafted dishes with unique taste combinations

  • Highly knowledgeable and friendly staff who go above and beyond

Ever Restaurant

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

Ever Restaurant is a top-notch restaurant located in Chicago, IL that offers exceptional Dine-in service. Known for its Great cocktails, Great dessert, and Great wine list, Ever Restaurant is a popular spot for a special Dinner outing.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Ever Restaurant, praising the intricate flavors, impeccable service, and beautiful presentation of each dish. Here are some key points from their reviews:

With a stellar rating of 4.8, Ever Restaurant continues to impress diners with its exquisite menu and inviting atmosphere. If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, Ever Restaurant is the perfect choice.

Boka, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • Exceptional service and delicious dishes, perfect for special occasions

  • Phenomenal 8-course tasting menu with flavorful and unique dishes

  • Approachable and delightful tasting menus with excellent wine pairings

  • Beautiful restaurant atmosphere with sophisticated and well-balanced dishes

Boka

4.71,593 reviews
1729 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Boka is an elegant American restaurant located in Chicago, IL. Known for its outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in options, Boka offers a variety of services to cater to its customers' needs. The restaurant is a popular choice for dinner and solo dining, where guests can enjoy a cozy and romantic atmosphere while indulging in great coffee, desserts, and a selection of teas.

With a rating of 4.7 based on 1593 reviews, Boka has received high praise from its customers. Some key points from recent reviews include:

Customers have highlighted the attentive staff, knowledgeable service, and the unforgettable experience that Boka provides. Whether it's for a romantic date night or a special celebration, Boka promises a memorable dining experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

mfk. Restaurant, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • Unique and decent food with a nice interior design.

  • Spectacular dishes that are cooked to perfection.

  • An awesome dining experience with delicious menu options.

  • Great seafood-oriented tapas style dining with excellent dishes.

mfk. Restaurant

4.7343 reviews
432 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

mfk. Restaurant is a renowned Spanish restaurant located in Chicago, IL, that offers a variety of services to cater to its customers. The restaurant provides outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in different settings. Customers can indulge in a selection of offerings such as alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, small plates, spirits, vegetarian options, and wine.

The atmosphere at mfk. Restaurant is described as casual, cosy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, providing a unique dining experience for all guests. The restaurant is also LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, ensuring inclusivity and diversity.

Customer reviews highlight the exceptional quality of food and service at mfk. Restaurant. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a rating of 4.7 stars, mfk. Restaurant continues to impress its patrons with its delectable Spanish cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Little Goat Diner, Chicago#8
What sets it apart
  • Accommodating service for customers with dietary restrictions

  • Generous portion sizes at a slightly higher price point

  • Creative and detailed presentation of dishes

  • A blend of American and Japanese cuisines offering unique flavor combinations

Little Goat Diner

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

Little Goat Diner is a popular diner located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to its customers. The diner provides options for outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. Customers have highlighted the fast service, great coffee, great dessert, and great tea selection as some of the highlights of their dining experience.

The atmosphere at Little Goat Diner is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, catering to a diverse crowd including families, groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, transgender individuals, and university students. The diner is also known for being family-friendly, offering high chairs and a kids' menu for children.

Customer reviews praise the delicious food and excellent service at Little Goat Diner. Some key points from the reviews include:

Overall, Little Goat Diner has earned a solid 4.6 rating from over 6,000 reviews, making it a must-visit spot for those looking for a delightful dining experience in Chicago.

Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse, Chicago#9
What sets it apart
  • Customers rave about the excellent food quality and generous portion sizes.

  • The staff is friendly and provides top-notch service to all guests.

  • The ambiance is cozy and inviting, creating a memorable dining experience.

Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse

4.63,049 reviews
33 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse offers an authentic dining experience in the heart of Chicago. They provide a variety of service options including kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is renowned for its great dessert and sports atmosphere, making it a popular choice for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Whether you're looking for a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two, Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse has something for everyone. Don't miss out on their delicious cocktails, spirits, and wine offerings to complement your meal. Make sure to book a reservation in advance to secure your spot at this popular restaurant.

Longman & Eagle, Chicago#10
What sets it apart
  • Formerly great establishment with recent chef changes affecting quality and service

  • Disappointing experience due to unavailable menu items and cold food

  • Excellent service with top-notch staff despite food quality concerns

  • Delicious food options, especially whiskey and bourbon selections

Longman & Eagle

4.62,708 reviews
2657 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Longman & Eagle is a renowned American restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to ensure a memorable dining experience. With options for outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, customers can choose their preferred dining style. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great cocktails, great coffee, and great desserts that cater to a wide range of tastes.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Whether you're looking for a hearty meal, a unique cocktail, or a cozy dining atmosphere, Longman & Eagle aims to deliver a memorable dining experience for all patrons. Visit their website for more information and make a reservation to enjoy a delightful meal in a welcoming environment.

Alinea, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • Dining at Alinea is a culinary journey that impresses with impeccable service, extraordinary flavors, and creative presentation.

  • The restaurant meets all expectations with fantastic service, accommodating dietary restrictions, and exceptional food quality.

  • While the overall experience may not be entirely memorable for some, the service receives high praise for being considerate and accommodating.

  • Customers appreciate the inventive dining experience, excellent food, and expertly paired wine, making it a must-visit for those looking for a unique culinary adventure.

Alinea

4.62,476 reviews
1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Alinea is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in Chicago. Known for its exceptional dining experience, Alinea offers takeaway, dine-in, and exquisite desserts that are a must-try. The restaurant is popular for dinner and offers a range of alcoholic beverages including cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits. Customers rave about the romantic, trendy, and upmarket atmosphere, making it perfect for groups and tourists.

Some customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Cherry Circle Room, Chicago#12
What sets it apart
  • An exclusive breakfast experience that pleases the palate with every bite.

  • Stunning ambiance that sets the perfect mood for a memorable dining experience.

  • A diverse menu featuring unique and flavorful dishes, like the beet carpaccio and seafood tower.

  • Attentive and friendly service that adds to the overall enjoyment of the visit.

Cherry Circle Room

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

Cherry Circle Room is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Offering an array of delicious options, this hidden gem is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With a rating of 4.6 stars, it's no wonder that it has received high praise from its customers.

Next Restaurant, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • Beautiful and creative dishes

  • Warm and cozy feeling food with top-notch presentation

  • Professional and attentive staff

  • Romantic and elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions

Next Restaurant

4.6544 reviews
953 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Next Restaurant is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant offers a range of services including dine-in options and is popular for its dinner offerings. With a rating of 4.6 stars, Next Restaurant is highly praised by its customers.

Some of the key points highlighted by customers include:

With a variety of offerings such as alcohol, cocktails, spirits, and wine, along with amenities like toilets and an atmosphere described as cosy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, Next Restaurant ensures a memorable dining experience for all its guests. Make a reservation and indulge in a culinary journey at Next Restaurant!

Gene & Georgetti, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • Steaks are fantastic, pastas are homemade, and cocktails are well-made.

  • Outstanding service, with recommendations for T-bone steak and shrimp cocktail.

  • Great food, exceptional service, and a classic Chicago atmosphere.

  • Steaks are among the best tasted, with delicious sides, great service, and a cozy environment.

Gene & Georgetti

4.51,770 reviews
500 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Gene & Georgetti is a renowned steakhouse located in Chicago that offers a wide range of services and features to its customers. From outdoor seating to no-contact delivery and dine-in options, this restaurant caters to various preferences. The establishment is popular for its fast service, fireplace, great coffee, and great dessert offerings. With a strong rating of 4.5, it is evident that customers appreciate the quality of food and service provided.

Here are key points from some customer reviews:

The Dawson, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • The lamb shank is one of the best ever tasted, juicy, and flavorful

  • The Amish chicken and burger are highly recommended

  • The brunch offerings are vibrant with refreshing cocktails and standout appetizers

  • The event team and venue for weddings are exceptional, with top-notch service

The Dawson

4.51,408 reviews
730 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

The Dawson is a renowned American restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to provide an exceptional dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

This establishment is popular for its fast service, fireplace, and great cocktails. Customers have left rave reviews, highlighting key points like:

With a rating of 4.5 stars and over 1408 reviews, The Dawson continues to impress its customers with its delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or planning a special event, The Dawson is a go-to spot in Chicago for a memorable dining experience.

The Loyalist, Chicago#16

The Loyalist

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

The Loyalist is a renowned New American restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services to its customers. The business provides outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. With a fast service highlight, customers can enjoy a quick and efficient dining experience. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, catering to different preferences.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service provided at The Loyalist. One reviewer commended their server Alicia for making their anniversary dinner unforgettable. Another praised the delicious food, friendly staff, and amazing espresso martinis. A different customer highlighted the top-quality, juicy Loyalist burger and impressive cocktail menu. One more review mentioned the knowledgeable server, delicious cocktails, and delightful food that exceeded expectations. Overall, customers appreciate the cozy atmosphere, attentive staff, and delectable dishes offered at The Loyalist.

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Bavette's Bar & Boeuf 4.82,822
#2Oriole 4.8495
#3Dear Margaret 4.8294
#4Brando's Lincoln Park 4.8275
#5Ever Restaurant 4.8269
#6Boka 4.71,593
#7mfk. Restaurant 4.7343
#8Little Goat Diner 4.66,422
#9Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse 4.63,049
#10Longman & Eagle 4.62,708
#11Alinea 4.62,476
#12Cherry Circle Room 4.6909
#13Next Restaurant 4.6544
#14Gene & Georgetti 4.51,770
#15The Dawson 4.51,408
#16The Loyalist 4.5452

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Map of Restaurants in Chicago Magazine

Discover the culinary delights of Chicago with our comprehensive map of all the top restaurants in the city. From gourmet fine dining establishments to cozy neighborhood cafes, this map has it all. Explore the diverse flavors and vibrant food scene that make Chicago a world-renowned destination for food lovers.

Tips for choosing Restaurants in Chicago

  1. Reviews of the best restaurants in Chicago.
  2. Insider tips and recommendations.
  3. Exclusive chef interviews.

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