Sculptures 9. Its a bit of a revelation, then, that the best banh mi is being made in Lincoln Square. A unique choice among the best restaurants in Chicago. Fortuantely, two former line cooks Juan Carlos and Octavio Garcia decided to carry on Doug Sohns legacy with their own restaurant. One of my favorite restaurants in Southport Corridor is Bodega Sur. Its breezy interior matches Psistaria's joyful celebration of Mediterranean fare: The stuffed grape leaves swim in a lemon cream sauce that tastes like an entire citrus . Explore Chicago's best bites, esteemed eateries and hidden gems with a top-rated local guide. A hidden gem, hidden behind gems, in the back of Wabash Jewelers, possibly the best option for a cheap lunch downtown . From Yelp: Brunch is on point! WARNING: Proceed with caution if you are hungry, as this story may cause salivation, cravings and hangriness. From professed foodies to those who just simply love the thrill of finding a new delicious gem, these restaurants should make their way to your must-eat list immediately. They boast an extensive wine list and offer takeout cocktail pouches, plus some wonderful gourmet take-home items. If you really want to feel like part of a secret club, buy a bottle to stash in the Whiskey Keep to enjoy whenever you visit. Pisolino | 2755 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60618 | $$. Heaven on Seven will fill you up with delicious cajun foods and spices. These are just a few restaurants in Illinois to whet your appetite. Yes, this restaurant might be in an unappealing strip mall but the beautiful Swedish dcor and delectable homemade foods are enough to entice anyone in. It also has a sister location that sells scholarly titles. Aran Morris: Gumbo, jambalaya, corn bread, collard greens. "Cultura Subs is a hidden gem in the suburbs, with a really diverse and creative menu! A hidden gem outside of the city. , hidden bars established during Prohibition so that those in the know could still get a drink. First, Marley heads to Jeweler's Row. } They even stay open on holidays so that everyone nearby can feel like family. It's located in the basement of a high-rise building so it can be easy to miss, make sure you look up directions to ensure you get a chance to visit! From Yelp: "Listen- this place is many things. My sister and I come in at least once a month as itd be an incomplete month without dinner there. Who doesn't love some old-fashioned, southern-style, chicken and waffles? box-shadow: none !important; The menu is chockfull of unique staples, such as Belizean stew chicken, hudut, and conch fritters. Piccolo Sogno | 464 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60642 | $. 7. Chicago has a long history ofspeakeasies, hidden bars established during Prohibition so that those in the know could still get a drink. From the kitschy mascots perched atop the roof to the neon glowing at every corner, youll have one of the best hot dogs in Chicago at this family-friendly, open-air diner. On the house special, a freshly baked baguette comes loaded with pate, headcheese, ham, fried pork sausage, and the usual accoutrements. From Yelp: A great restaurant the food is excellent. Brown Bag Seafood Co. | 150 N. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606 | $$$. Cemeteries 7. They also sell different flavors of homemade ice cream and the staff is super friendly and willing to give you all the help you need to find the perfect sweet. Japanese. Tucked inside La Chaparrita Grocery in Little Village, La Chaparrita Taqueria offers an authentic taste of Mexico with carne asada, beef tongue, housemade longaniza and al pastor tacosall accompanied by onions, cilantro, sliced radish, lime wedges and a trio of sauces. Dos Urban Cantina | 2829 W. Armitage, Chicago, IL 60647 | $$$. 1 hot dog in the US. Entertaining spot for kids and adults with a bit of sleuthing involved." more. Do not let that line intimidate you, moves rather quick. West Loop. On the contrary, Birrieria Zaragoza will give you some of the best Mexican food in all of Chicago. 9. Tucked in the back of the jewelry store, the restaurant offers cheap, healthy eats with an emphasis on vegetarian fare such as spinach pie and tabbouleh salad. Chef Jonathan Harootunian hits the sweet spot with acclaimed takes on the familiar (burgers, Scotch egg) and fresh (steak with patatas bravas). There's even a small beer, wine, and spirit selection too. Sign up to receive exclusive deals, recipes, tips and our newsletter straight to your inbox. 2023 Chicago Fire FC Season Preview: Can Xherdan Shaqiri Lead Fire to an Improved Finish in His Second Season? Try the Original Freddy (sausage patty, sweet peppers, mozzarella, red sauce) or the Mickey (eggplant and breaded steak combo, mozzarella, red sauce) sandwiches. The eatery is located on N Clark Street. There is no better pastime then enjoying a baseball game and a hot dog. "A hidden gem. There are wraps, burgers, salads and bowls at this awesome spot. Wish I had a picture but it didnt last long enough to take one! Mother and daughter Marcelina and Yvonney Hernandez fit that bill as their shop presents a fine selection of masa delights. Read the dish descriptions and youll understand why; each selection is a poetic combination of traditional Mexican recipes, modern technique and elevated presentation. Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Theyre cooked Nayarit-style in a variety of different sauces. Delicious small plates and amazing pastas, this restaurant is a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine then you can't miss out on the Oasis Cafe. Here, you'll find rustic, seasonal dishes and simple food done well. Don't let what can be a more touristy crowd deter you from giving this small club a chance. Herb | 5424 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640 | $$$. The two featured from Minneapolis were very good, Sooki and Mimi is easily the best dining experience i've ever had. Instead of a set menu, the kitchen creates a Midwestern omakase tailored to each individuals tastes. Open in Google Maps. When exploring the best restaurants in Chicago for out-of-this-world dining options, youll be hard-pressed to name a single favorite amongst the enticing selection. unique, hidden gems restaurants in Zurich. 4714 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712. border: none !important; The Warbler | 619 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60661 | $$. Its 1946 and Dell Rhea is serving road warriors off Route 66. This famous fried chicken was served in a basket so customers could hop out of the car, run up to the counter and return to their cars with a heaping basket of hot, finger-licking fried chicken and perfectly paired sides. All Pierogi Kitchen & Euro Market. Amazing 5/5 will be returning again soon with my entire family. Ryan G. Family owned for over 37 years, you wont find any snobby dishes at Bacchanalia. Grab one of the colorful chairs in the plant-lined dining area and enjoy your meal with an agua fresca, smoothie or tepache, a sweet fermented drink made with pineapple rind. Why arent you calling them with an order now? Phoenix Restaurant | 2131 S. Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60616 | $$. Cities were chosen based on KAYAK's list of the top 50 . While it is located on 210 Center Street in the heart of downtown Little Rock, for whatever reason, the longtime lunch spot is still a relative unknown to some folks in the capital city. But take a step inside and youre back in an 80s diner. Cookware on Cozymeal. Gotta have this type of spot, and for my money, this is the spot in Wicker/Ukrainian! Peter S. Nothing says summer in the city like an Italian ice from Marios. Family-style combo platters are available for diverse sampling from one of the best restaurants in Chicago. 9 years ago. A perfect blend between a cafe, deli, and market. Upscale urban style meets traditional comfort at the Michelin-guide-mentioned Phoenix, one of the best restaurants in Chicago for Chinese cuisine. background-color: transparent !important; Delicious small plates and amazing pastas, this restaurant is a hidden gem in Chicago. Feed your comfort-food soul and be sure to visit the gift shop to take some Scandinavian treats home with you. By signing up, you agree to Cozymeal's current Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. If you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine then you can't miss out on the Oasis Cafe. From Yelp: Listen- this place is many things. For a bit of culinary excitement at Amarind's, you can give your selections a kick by ordering them with authentic Thai spiciness. The choices can be overwhelming; there are eateries representing nearly every culinary culture in the world, catering to all tastes and temptations. More Info. This restaurant with its sense of social responsibility stands among the best restaurants in Chicago. And everything is finger licking good. Chicago's most essential and hottest restaurants get all the buzz, but what about the places flying under the radar? Shanghai Terrace is one of the best restaurants in Chicago for atmosphere and fine dining. Not surprising that Topolobampo is one of the best restaurants in Chicago. (847) 677-9388. It can be a little difficult to find given its location but just make sure you follow the neon signs! Be sure to try the traditional Arabian coffee with cardamom as well; it delivers a real kick. 4000 Livernois Ave, Detroit, MI. For the uninitiated, get the budae jjigae. Instead of chasing the latest openings, discover some hidden gems. When it comes to the best restaurants in Chicago, few are more creative or enticing than Rooh. Familiar skirt steak and carnitas dishes mingle with more exotic octopus and portabella offerings, and the tequila list is adequately lengthy. Select from a diverse menu of delicious choices for vegetarian and non-vegetarian diners alike, listed by ingredients for easy ordering. Rooted In The Mediterranean Ethos Of Wellness, The Restaurant Brings Fresh, Holistic Fare To Chicago Diners In An Earthy, Indoor-Meets-Outdoor Space. This is where the luxurious 900 North building and Water Tower Place mall is located. Curfew Chicago. body { They play everything from classic rock, Top 40, country, hip-hop, Motown, R&B, disco, and more. Dont let this little red general store-esque building deceive you. Theres also a drink menu that explores the ayurvedic properties such as warm, sweet, astringent, salty, bitter and pungent, each with its own signature cocktail. The tropical setting and mellow vibes go hand in hand with the kitchens authentic Jamaican cooking. The bread is sourced from Amorosos and the menu offers variations like The Rocky, a fiery combination packing onions, smoked provolone, jalapeno, scotch bonnet, charred Serrano, and spicy mayo. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions. Only . Another must-try item is the fried jalapeno cornbread, their cornbread comes in a tall mound and it's mouth-watering. The salmon tartars saltiness balanced the sweet notes of the fish PERFECTLY. 3. Call 630 . Watch popular content from the following creators: Cori Hanna | Travel Tips(@coriinthecity), Austin Spademan(@officebodgod), chifoodiebecs(@chifoodiebecs), OneofaKindHospitality(@oneofakindhospitality), Michela (@big_mich_energy), Ellery Rogers(@elegantlyellery), Chlobelle(@chlobellexxwanders), Chlobelle . Amarinds | 6822 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60707 | $$$. The Perfect Getaway: A weekend exploring Chicago's food scene. Brown Bag Seafood Co. is bright and cheery, awash in natural light and a calypso blue color palette that speaks of cool oceans and fresh catches. Advertisement . Sun Wah BBQ | 5039 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640 | $. newsletter, 2535 N California Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647, 8211 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60619, The Essential Restaurants for Affordable Dining in Chicago, 20 Restaurants That Define Chicago's South Side. P: 630.864.5270,