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- Georgina D'Angelo
Chicago's Culinary Carnival: Top 20 Fun Restaurants in Chicago
Updated: Jan 10
Chicago is the best city for foodies to visit in the US. You can try Windy City staples like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hotdogs. Or let your tastebuds travel the world and dine on international cuisines.
If you desire a specific type of food, chances are you’ll be able to find it in Chicago. There are so many various cuisines here that you won’t ever run out of fun places to dine in.
Besides having an incredible array of tourist attractions, wonderful museums, incredible architecture, and a picturesque waterfront, Chicago's culinary scene is second to none in the US.
After living in Chicago for 3 years, I found amazing restaurants and I'm here to share them with you. Let’s dive in and explore these fun restaurants in Chicago!
Fun Restaurants in Chicago
While you're in Chicago, you can't skip the staples like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hotdogs. Try some of these beloved Midwest dishes before you dive into the unique international cuisines available here.
Best Deep-Dish Pizza in Chicago
Lou Malnati's
You can't visit Chicago without eating at Lou Malnati's. While there are a few other deep-dish pizza restaurant chains to choose from, Lou's is hands down the best. You can indulge in a family-size pizza for the whole table, or opt for your own with one of their personal-size pizzas.
Curious how Chicago-style pizza and New York-style pizza differ? Check out Chicago vs NYC and find out!
Best Chicago-Style Hotdogs
Devil Dawgs
With four locations in the city, you can't miss this iconic Chicago hotdog spot. Order the classic Chicago dog or opt for a fun burger. You'll also want an order of onion rings and one of their insanely delicious milkshakes.
Weiner's Circle
This tiny hotdog restaurant located on Clark Street is a must-visit if you're searching for a unique hotdog experience. The staff here are known for their unfriendly, witty remarks made to their customers. Let your ego drop a notch or two and grab a hotdog from Weiner's Circle.
Best International Restaurants in Chicago
Polombia Polish-Colombian
Hands down one of the BEST restaurants in Chicago! This Polish-Colombian fusion brings delicious, unique dishes to the table. Literally. It's all so amazing! Another great thing about Polombia is its location. If you've never been to a giant food hall, you need to go to Polombia ASAP.
Wakamono Japanese
Relax and enjoy a delicious Japanese meal here. Their menu has a lot of different options and being a vegetarian, I can strongly recommend this restaurant. There’s something (really yummy) for everyone.
Bien Me Sabe Venezuelan
Get ready for the best Venezuelan food you’ll find in this wonderful city (and probably the entire country). The Arepas are to die for, and their seasonal squash soup (only available in the fall!) is the best you’ll ever have.
Del Sol Korean Barbecue
The perfect place for Korean cuisine is Del Seoul, located in Lincoln Park. Great for takeout or dining in, this Korean “fast food” restaurant is a great pit stop for lunch and dinner alike. They have some options for vegetarians as well.
Allende Mexican
The best Mexican fast food you’ll ever find is from Allende. This little restaurant is small, but it packs a mighty punch. They are also open until late at night, so its the perfect place to stop after a theater show or late movie.
5411 Empanadas Argentinian
Killer empanadas and a killer selection of fillings. With three locations, 5411 Empanadas is a must-visit if you're wanting incredible Argentinian food in Chicago. You have to try their mac & cheese empanada!
Barcocina Mexican
Upscale, modern Mexican is the vibe at Barcocina. Enjoy delicious food with margaritas and sangria. They also have a great outdoor patio with seating and “igloos” in the winter. The design here is very aesthetic, and it completes the relaxed vibe.
Spacca Napoli Italian
A low-key Italian eatery with rustic, casual decor. Spacca Napoli is a great place for thin-crust pizza and other classic Italian dishes. It is located in the calm neighborhood of Ravenswood, so it has a very relaxed atmosphere, yet is popular with the locals.
The Berghoff German
Enjoy classic German cuisine in this downtown Chicago restaurant. The Berghoff boasts beautiful German decor with high ceilings. They also serve beer in classic steins, a must have with your meal.
American Classics & Unique Restaurants in Chicago
Kuma's Corner Burgers
The best place for mouthwatering burgers in Chicago is Kuma's Corner. With a fantastic selection of unique burgers and mac & cheese, this a great place for anyone who's hungry. They also have vegan options!
Time Out Market Chicago Food Market
Have you ever been to a 50,000 square foot space with bars, shops, and restaurants all in one? This place is like no other I’ve ever been to. If you can’t decide what you want to eat, hit this place up because there’s an option for everyone. I highly recommend Polombia, a Polish-Colombian fusion, which mixes better than you’d ever imagine.
Chicago Diner Veggie & Vegan
With two locations, one in Lakeview and one in Logan Square, Chicago Diner is the perfect spot for delicious veggie and vegan food. Everything is delicious, so even if you do eat meat, you’ll be in heaven. I’ve never been to a restaurant with more elaborate vegan options, including the best buffalo “chicken” wings you can find!
Cheesie’s Grilled Cheese
A Lakeview staple, Cheesie’s is a must visit for anyone who wants to experience an authentic weekend night out in Chicago. With a large selection of grilled cheese sandwiches, you’re bound to find your new favorite cheesie combo. They also offer soups and craft beer!
Hutch American Bistro American
American comfort food in a modern, chic atmosphere? That’s the way at Hutch American Bistro. Grab your favorite American dish and add a unique cocktail to your meal. They also offer beer and brunch!
Pasta Palazzo Pasta
Believe me when I say this is the best pasta in Chicago. Indulge in the incredibly authentic Italian pasta dishes at no other than Pasta Palazzo. Their entire menu is pasta with a few other yummy options. You can’t go wrong with any of their dishes here.
Ann Sather's Breakfast & Brunch
If you only go out for breakfast once in Chicago, let it be to Ann Sather's. This beloved Lakeview eatery offers homemade breakfast with a Swedish twist. You can't leave this establishment without trying their cinnamon rolls (you can choose one as a side!). It does get busy, so try and go early.
2d Restaurant Donuts & Chicken Sandwiches
A fun restaurant with a great menu, 2d Restaurant is made to look as though everything is in 2d. Their specialties are chicken sandwiches (and plant-based chicken!), mochi donuts that are to die for, and super fun and unique drinks.
Chicago is the foodie destination in the US. There are a plethora of restaurants to choose from, the list could go on forever. But the places above are can't-miss, fun restaurants in Chicago! From unique menus to funky decor to top-notch service, Chicago's culinary scene is hard to beat.
There isn’t a better place in the world to explore if you’re after an incredibly diverse food scene. There is a restaurant for every type of food in Chicago. If you’re planning a trip to the Windy City, and you enjoy coffee as well, make sure you take a look at our guide to the best coffee shops in Chicago!
Where will you be dining in the Windy City? Which of these fun restaurants in Chicago made it into your itinerary? Let us know below in the comments, we love hearing about all things Chicago!
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