July2022:On our latest roundup of the city's best eateries, we're welcoming a rash of exciting new restaurants (including a hub for Peruvian street food and one of Chicagos best bakeries) and bidding farewell to recently-closed favorites Vajra and Jeff & Judes, which will be missed. New Orleans chef Zachary Engel's (Shaya) raved-aboutand freshly Michelin-starredentry to Chicago's dining scene: a Middle Eastern eatery in the heart of Lincoln Park. Why we love it: None of the sandwiches will set you back more than $15, but the Italian is our favorite: a bunch of meatshot capicola, Volpi Genoa salami, hard salami and mortadellaplus provolone, tomato, lettuce, red wine vinegar and oregano on a long roll from D'amato's Bakery. You can customize your noodle bowl to your liking, picking the broth, the noodles and all of the delicious toppings from a long list of options. It's simple but undeniably decadent. This restaurant in the the West Loop is offering diners the chance to choose a four-course meal from Chef Noah Zamler. The youngsters won't feel left out: The kids' menu offers fan-favorites like belly-warming noodle soup and PB&J soft serve. 
You'll want to save room for hearty entrees like ramen with braised pork belly, creamy coconut curry pho, fried rice bowls and Thai fried chicken. But make no mistakeits all just a precursor to that beautiful meringue tart and a long list of French-inspired pastries and baked goods. Time Out tip: Looking for a more casual meal? Choices for each of the four courses include: Beef Tartare au Poivre, Little Gem Herbed-buttermilk Smoked Egg Yolk, Lightly Roasted Scallop and Foie Gras Tart to start; a second course of a Crispy Soft Cooked Egg, Smoked Sablefish, Grilled Octopus and Truffled Fried Chicken. What is it? What is it? What is it? verything you'll eat here tastes like it's been thoroughly iterated and perfected. Beyene's daughter, Maritu Tqkala, has recently taken the reins to ensure her mother's culinary legacy (and sambusas) endures. What is it? Restaurant Week also sees the return oftheBaja Beach Tacos. Reeds Lincoln Square restaurant honors Luella with a menu inspired by her expert home cooking, pairing succulent, double-brined fried chicken alongside buttermilk waffles and a decadent drizzle of syrup. Peruvian-born chef Karlo Caceres delicious tribute to the street food of Lima. Order in bulk and never skip the signature tahini chocolate chip cookies: Voluminous, crispy-edged and still gooey in the center, theyre one of the bakerys few permanent menu items. Part fish market, part sushi shop, the unassuming storefront has a long list of classic and inventive rolls, sashimi and nigiri, but you're here for the party trayseven if you're only ordering for two. Logan Square's Ancient Roman-inspired Testacciois serving up a 3-course dinner, each of which features a completely vegetarian-friendly option. For dessert, the restaurant has prepared two offerings, including a Coconut Buttermilk Pie or sweet Banana Pudding. Come by in the morning for brunch fare like a longanisa-topped breakfast sandwich or a full Filipino breakfast (longanisa/tocino, fried egg, garlic fried rice and pickled papaya) and some of Chicago's best pastries. What is it? It's because Williams cooks with his heart, whether he's plating fried green tomatoes with tender shrimp and creamy rmoulade or he's fixing his famous collards, which arrive studded with hunks of smoked turkey meat. Why we love it: Serving pies since 1949 (although this location opened in 65), Vito and Nicks is a Chicago tradition. What is it? A rite of passage for local and visiting chowhounds alike, Lem's is an institution-status barbecue house that deals in meaty things and fried chicken. For the entree, diners may choose their preference between Faroe Islands Salmon served with Trumpet Royale Mushrooms, Sunchokes, Smoked Trout Roe and a fresh Citrus Vinaigrette or a Center-Cut Prime 6 oz. You can opt for a customized flavor or try a milk bar (essentially a milkshake in popsicle form), but we also suggest one of the shops signature Biggie Shakes if youre feeling adventurous: Topped with a cornucopia of cookies, candy and marshmallows, theyre a delightful sugar rush and a blast from the past all at once. Handmade specialties adorn Nonninas menu for Chicago Restaurant Week like the Beef Short Rib Meatball, Hollow Spaghetti Carbonara and Grilled Swordfish Spada. An entirely plant-based (and gluten-free) concept from chefRodolfo Cuadros, not far from his delicious pan-Latin American restaurant Amaru in Wicker Park. Toss in a half-order of fried shrimp, which arrive golden in hue and accompanied by cocktail sauce for dipping. Come along for the ride! If you have some cash to spare, executive chefLarry Feldmeier's eight-course New American tasting menu is one of the best in town. Translating to "my namesake" in Spanish, Mi Tocaya is a term of endearment that chef Diana Dvila has bestowed upon her neighborhood Mexican restaurant in Logan Square. Located just steps away from Michigan Avenue in the Loop and Theatre District, Petterinos features reimagined Italian fare. It's why we flock to QXY for the seemingly endless menu that details dozens of fillings that are sorted by proteinfrom pork and pickled cabbage to scallop and lotus root. What is it? Unlike other birrierias, this goat doesnt touch a consomm until its plated, when some of the tomato-based broth is spooned over it. Why we love it: You might walk right past this takeout-only spot in Albany Park if you don't catch the small neon sign in the window that reads "sushi" with a fish jumping out of the water. Each bite tastes a bit more special when you hear about Frillman Farms, which is owned and operated by Frillman's younger brother, Tim, and provides produce to the kitchen (as well as many other top eateries across the country). What is it? If you prefer a guided dining experience, order one of the tasting menus served family-style. In other news, weveadded fried chicken stalwart Luellas Southern Kitchen to our Time Out Market space in Fulton Marketyou can scroll through other recent additions to the Market at the bottom of this list. 
Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, the kitchen orchestrates a parade of hummus, fire-roasted veggies and proteins, balloon-shaped pita and addictive sides. Diners can choose dishes such as Ceviche Tostada, Chile Lime Salmon, Barbacoa Enchiladas, and more. Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Time Out tip: No matter what time of year you visit, plan to kick off your meal with an order of fried smelts. A neighborhood bakery serving a wildly creative assortment of treats, from an Italian beef galette to brioche topped with pineapple, passionfruit and decadent Tajn caramel. Chicago's lone three-Michelin-starred restaurant, helmed by the great chef Grant Achatz. The revival of a long-running Chinatown favorite, overseen by Kenny Yang of Strings Ramen Shops. The meaty variants made with pt, headcheese and roasted pork are just as good as plant-based options like lemongrass or ginger tofu. Time Out tip:The Portage Park location is open year-round and serves a smoked alligator hot dog. CrispyBrusselsSprouts(available vegetarian) - brussels sprouts, red cabbage, red onions, carrots, chilies, fried shallots, minced shrimp, nuoc cham vinaigrette, Oxtail Pot Stickers -braised oxtail, caramelized onion jus, white wasabi cream, Hamachi Jalapeo -cilantro, garlic, yuzu ponzu, Spicy "Tail of Two Tunas"Maki -spicy tuna, escolar, pickled jalapeo, fried shallots, spicy mayo, Sweet Potato Poke Maki (vegetarian) -sweet potatoes, cucumber, avocado, sesame soy sauce, topped with seaweed salad, Tofu Pad Thai (vegetarian) -rice noodles, carrots, bean sprouts, eggs, peanuts, scallions, Chicken Inasal -lemongrass, tomatoes, red onion, achiote glaze, chili lime vinaigrette, grilled lemon, Hainanese Salmon -ginger scallion oil, toasted garlic soy, bok choy, Coconut Cheesecake (vegetarian) -coconut mousse, graham cracker crust, coconut caramel, berries. The permanent Pilsen home of longtime Maxwell Street Market taco vendors Rubi's. For creative modern takes on Italian meatballs, pastas, Chicken Parmesan, and more mediterranean classics - check out the seasonally-inspired menu at Formentos by Chef David Schwartz. Named after chef-owner Brian Jupiter's great-grandmother, Ina Mae Tavern brings the Big Easy to Bucktown. Finally, choice of one Postres item for dessert. Diners will explore tastes of Spain and Portugal beginning with a Roasted Beet Salad topped high with Braised Leeks, Roasted Garlic, Cabrales Blue Cheese and a Sherry Vinaigrette. With seasonal tasting menus and great la carte options, Bucktown stalwart The Bristol toes the line between fine dining and an upscale neighborhood restaurant. Stop by midday for chef Judy Continos acclaimed pastries and desserts, and chances are youll pull up a chair in the tiny, charming bakery caf for lunch. For the main event, foodies may select their choice of Grilled Marinated Chimichurri Skirt Steak, served with Roasted Zucchini and Poblano Mashed Potatoes or the restaurant's Seasonal Market Fish, prepared fresh daily. What is it? Photograph: Courtesy JT's Genuine Sandwich Shop. roscoe village place john chicago Steaming bowls of noodles have been a fixture of chef Bill Kims menus ever since he opened his first restaurant, and diners have always been eager to slurp his latest creations. The French onion soup, for instance, is imbued with meaty poblano peppers, and the steak tartare is remixed with pickled jalapeos, cilantro, and guacamole. Serving dishes that channel bold Lebanese flavors, Evettes specializes in spit-roasted shawarma, golden fries and fresh salads that use as many local ingredients as possible. In the West Loop guests can choose a four-course meal featuring South American favorites like Beef Picadillo Empanadas, Shrimp Mojo de Ajo, Braised Pork Shoulder, Salmon a la Chapa, Coconut Tres Leches and more. Why we love it: You can choose your own adventure at this double featureand neither option will lead you astray. Bring an appetite and order a generous bagel and lox, the signature reuben or simply ask the folks behind the counter what's good today. Our editors scour the city for great dishes, excellent value and insider info. What is it? Save room for house-made sides and dessertswe're particularly fond of the BBQ beans and melt-in-your-mouth peach cobbler. What is it? Dinner options includeChef's charcuterie selectionwith cured meats, cheeses, candied pecans, cornichons, house made jam & mustard;Sea Bass Saltimboccawith prosciutto-wrapped sea bass, sauteed spinach, prosciutto migas, sage white wine-butter sauce;andWagyu Ribeyewith scallion chimichurri. Inspired by childhood experiences visiting family in Oahu,Ty Fujimuras Lono Poke pays tribute to the authentic Hawaiian poke youfindat marketsin the beachside town of Haleiwa. The food here boasts an attention to detail that bursts to life in each dish, from spring rolls made with imported Vietnamese rice paper to the long-simmered, ridiculously aromatic Saigonese pho loaded with rosy slivers of brisket, flank steak, rice noodles and herbs. Dont hesitate to tack on an order of gooey Boom Boom tots if youre feeling extra hungry. The menu is built around a roster of rotating pasta dishes that change with the season to highlight super-fresh ingredients like lentils, stinging nettle and green garlic. Visiting Sugar Moon requires commitmentits only open Friday through Sunday, and lines trail down the block for hours at a timebut know that your patience will be rewarded with what just might be the best damn pastries youve had in years. Customers even get to select their meat, with choices ranging from ribs and shoulder to skin and belly. Required fields are marked *. What is it? Why we love it: A trip to Pequod's typically involves some waiting; first for a table and then for your pie to come out of the oven. What is it? Word spread fast, and pretty soon so many friends, family and coworkers were clamoring for a taste that Quartaro decided to open Gemma Foods, a West Town storefront offering fresh, hand-crafted pasta dishes for pickup and delivery. What is it? A meat- and cheese-centric cafe just off the California Blue Line stop that serves Metropolis coffee and sandwiches during the day as well as cheese boards and charcuterie in the evening. The long-awaited Fulton Market restaurant helmed by Top Chef winner Joe Flamm, combining his passions for Italian and Croatian cooking. For just over $5, one of the city's best cheeseburgers is yourswith thick-cut fries to boot! Dishes such as Lobster Caesar, Corned Beef Hash, Wagyu Beef Tataki, Alaskan Halibut, and more. Puzzle over an ever-changing menu of Midwest beer (recent entrants include brews from Perennial Artisan Ales in St. Louis and Eagle Park Brewing in Muskego, Wisconsin) and creative riffs on old-fashioned cocktails, and dont miss out on the restaurants hulking, gorgeous brisket burger topped with bone marrow aioli and onion strings. Details: $55, 3 courses. What is it? A seasonally inspired Michelin-starred meal from Chef Andrew Zimmerman. Time Out tip: Don't have a car? Why we love it: Remember the bridge-jumping scene in Blues Brothers?
You'll want to save room for hearty entrees like ramen with braised pork belly, creamy coconut curry pho, fried rice bowls and Thai fried chicken. But make no mistakeits all just a precursor to that beautiful meringue tart and a long list of French-inspired pastries and baked goods. Time Out tip: Looking for a more casual meal? Choices for each of the four courses include: Beef Tartare au Poivre, Little Gem Herbed-buttermilk Smoked Egg Yolk, Lightly Roasted Scallop and Foie Gras Tart to start; a second course of a Crispy Soft Cooked Egg, Smoked Sablefish, Grilled Octopus and Truffled Fried Chicken. What is it? What is it? What is it? verything you'll eat here tastes like it's been thoroughly iterated and perfected. Beyene's daughter, Maritu Tqkala, has recently taken the reins to ensure her mother's culinary legacy (and sambusas) endures. What is it? Restaurant Week also sees the return oftheBaja Beach Tacos. Reeds Lincoln Square restaurant honors Luella with a menu inspired by her expert home cooking, pairing succulent, double-brined fried chicken alongside buttermilk waffles and a decadent drizzle of syrup. Peruvian-born chef Karlo Caceres delicious tribute to the street food of Lima. Order in bulk and never skip the signature tahini chocolate chip cookies: Voluminous, crispy-edged and still gooey in the center, theyre one of the bakerys few permanent menu items. Part fish market, part sushi shop, the unassuming storefront has a long list of classic and inventive rolls, sashimi and nigiri, but you're here for the party trayseven if you're only ordering for two. Logan Square's Ancient Roman-inspired Testacciois serving up a 3-course dinner, each of which features a completely vegetarian-friendly option. For dessert, the restaurant has prepared two offerings, including a Coconut Buttermilk Pie or sweet Banana Pudding. Come by in the morning for brunch fare like a longanisa-topped breakfast sandwich or a full Filipino breakfast (longanisa/tocino, fried egg, garlic fried rice and pickled papaya) and some of Chicago's best pastries. What is it? It's because Williams cooks with his heart, whether he's plating fried green tomatoes with tender shrimp and creamy rmoulade or he's fixing his famous collards, which arrive studded with hunks of smoked turkey meat. Why we love it: Serving pies since 1949 (although this location opened in 65), Vito and Nicks is a Chicago tradition. What is it? A rite of passage for local and visiting chowhounds alike, Lem's is an institution-status barbecue house that deals in meaty things and fried chicken. For the entree, diners may choose their preference between Faroe Islands Salmon served with Trumpet Royale Mushrooms, Sunchokes, Smoked Trout Roe and a fresh Citrus Vinaigrette or a Center-Cut Prime 6 oz. You can opt for a customized flavor or try a milk bar (essentially a milkshake in popsicle form), but we also suggest one of the shops signature Biggie Shakes if youre feeling adventurous: Topped with a cornucopia of cookies, candy and marshmallows, theyre a delightful sugar rush and a blast from the past all at once. Handmade specialties adorn Nonninas menu for Chicago Restaurant Week like the Beef Short Rib Meatball, Hollow Spaghetti Carbonara and Grilled Swordfish Spada. An entirely plant-based (and gluten-free) concept from chefRodolfo Cuadros, not far from his delicious pan-Latin American restaurant Amaru in Wicker Park. Toss in a half-order of fried shrimp, which arrive golden in hue and accompanied by cocktail sauce for dipping. Come along for the ride! If you have some cash to spare, executive chefLarry Feldmeier's eight-course New American tasting menu is one of the best in town. Translating to "my namesake" in Spanish, Mi Tocaya is a term of endearment that chef Diana Dvila has bestowed upon her neighborhood Mexican restaurant in Logan Square. Located just steps away from Michigan Avenue in the Loop and Theatre District, Petterinos features reimagined Italian fare. It's why we flock to QXY for the seemingly endless menu that details dozens of fillings that are sorted by proteinfrom pork and pickled cabbage to scallop and lotus root. What is it? Unlike other birrierias, this goat doesnt touch a consomm until its plated, when some of the tomato-based broth is spooned over it. Why we love it: You might walk right past this takeout-only spot in Albany Park if you don't catch the small neon sign in the window that reads "sushi" with a fish jumping out of the water. Each bite tastes a bit more special when you hear about Frillman Farms, which is owned and operated by Frillman's younger brother, Tim, and provides produce to the kitchen (as well as many other top eateries across the country). What is it? If you prefer a guided dining experience, order one of the tasting menus served family-style. In other news, weveadded fried chicken stalwart Luellas Southern Kitchen to our Time Out Market space in Fulton Marketyou can scroll through other recent additions to the Market at the bottom of this list. Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, the kitchen orchestrates a parade of hummus, fire-roasted veggies and proteins, balloon-shaped pita and addictive sides. Diners can choose dishes such as Ceviche Tostada, Chile Lime Salmon, Barbacoa Enchiladas, and more. Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Time Out tip: No matter what time of year you visit, plan to kick off your meal with an order of fried smelts. A neighborhood bakery serving a wildly creative assortment of treats, from an Italian beef galette to brioche topped with pineapple, passionfruit and decadent Tajn caramel. Chicago's lone three-Michelin-starred restaurant, helmed by the great chef Grant Achatz. The revival of a long-running Chinatown favorite, overseen by Kenny Yang of Strings Ramen Shops. The meaty variants made with pt, headcheese and roasted pork are just as good as plant-based options like lemongrass or ginger tofu. Time Out tip:The Portage Park location is open year-round and serves a smoked alligator hot dog. CrispyBrusselsSprouts(available vegetarian) - brussels sprouts, red cabbage, red onions, carrots, chilies, fried shallots, minced shrimp, nuoc cham vinaigrette, Oxtail Pot Stickers -braised oxtail, caramelized onion jus, white wasabi cream, Hamachi Jalapeo -cilantro, garlic, yuzu ponzu, Spicy "Tail of Two Tunas"Maki -spicy tuna, escolar, pickled jalapeo, fried shallots, spicy mayo, Sweet Potato Poke Maki (vegetarian) -sweet potatoes, cucumber, avocado, sesame soy sauce, topped with seaweed salad, Tofu Pad Thai (vegetarian) -rice noodles, carrots, bean sprouts, eggs, peanuts, scallions, Chicken Inasal -lemongrass, tomatoes, red onion, achiote glaze, chili lime vinaigrette, grilled lemon, Hainanese Salmon -ginger scallion oil, toasted garlic soy, bok choy, Coconut Cheesecake (vegetarian) -coconut mousse, graham cracker crust, coconut caramel, berries. The permanent Pilsen home of longtime Maxwell Street Market taco vendors Rubi's. For creative modern takes on Italian meatballs, pastas, Chicken Parmesan, and more mediterranean classics - check out the seasonally-inspired menu at Formentos by Chef David Schwartz. Named after chef-owner Brian Jupiter's great-grandmother, Ina Mae Tavern brings the Big Easy to Bucktown. Finally, choice of one Postres item for dessert. Diners will explore tastes of Spain and Portugal beginning with a Roasted Beet Salad topped high with Braised Leeks, Roasted Garlic, Cabrales Blue Cheese and a Sherry Vinaigrette. With seasonal tasting menus and great la carte options, Bucktown stalwart The Bristol toes the line between fine dining and an upscale neighborhood restaurant. Stop by midday for chef Judy Continos acclaimed pastries and desserts, and chances are youll pull up a chair in the tiny, charming bakery caf for lunch. For the main event, foodies may select their choice of Grilled Marinated Chimichurri Skirt Steak, served with Roasted Zucchini and Poblano Mashed Potatoes or the restaurant's Seasonal Market Fish, prepared fresh daily. What is it? Photograph: Courtesy JT's Genuine Sandwich Shop. roscoe village place john chicago Steaming bowls of noodles have been a fixture of chef Bill Kims menus ever since he opened his first restaurant, and diners have always been eager to slurp his latest creations. The French onion soup, for instance, is imbued with meaty poblano peppers, and the steak tartare is remixed with pickled jalapeos, cilantro, and guacamole. Serving dishes that channel bold Lebanese flavors, Evettes specializes in spit-roasted shawarma, golden fries and fresh salads that use as many local ingredients as possible. In the West Loop guests can choose a four-course meal featuring South American favorites like Beef Picadillo Empanadas, Shrimp Mojo de Ajo, Braised Pork Shoulder, Salmon a la Chapa, Coconut Tres Leches and more. Why we love it: You can choose your own adventure at this double featureand neither option will lead you astray. Bring an appetite and order a generous bagel and lox, the signature reuben or simply ask the folks behind the counter what's good today. Our editors scour the city for great dishes, excellent value and insider info. What is it? Save room for house-made sides and dessertswe're particularly fond of the BBQ beans and melt-in-your-mouth peach cobbler. What is it? Dinner options includeChef's charcuterie selectionwith cured meats, cheeses, candied pecans, cornichons, house made jam & mustard;Sea Bass Saltimboccawith prosciutto-wrapped sea bass, sauteed spinach, prosciutto migas, sage white wine-butter sauce;andWagyu Ribeyewith scallion chimichurri. Inspired by childhood experiences visiting family in Oahu,Ty Fujimuras Lono Poke pays tribute to the authentic Hawaiian poke youfindat marketsin the beachside town of Haleiwa. The food here boasts an attention to detail that bursts to life in each dish, from spring rolls made with imported Vietnamese rice paper to the long-simmered, ridiculously aromatic Saigonese pho loaded with rosy slivers of brisket, flank steak, rice noodles and herbs. Dont hesitate to tack on an order of gooey Boom Boom tots if youre feeling extra hungry. The menu is built around a roster of rotating pasta dishes that change with the season to highlight super-fresh ingredients like lentils, stinging nettle and green garlic. Visiting Sugar Moon requires commitmentits only open Friday through Sunday, and lines trail down the block for hours at a timebut know that your patience will be rewarded with what just might be the best damn pastries youve had in years. Customers even get to select their meat, with choices ranging from ribs and shoulder to skin and belly. Required fields are marked *. What is it? Why we love it: A trip to Pequod's typically involves some waiting; first for a table and then for your pie to come out of the oven. What is it? Word spread fast, and pretty soon so many friends, family and coworkers were clamoring for a taste that Quartaro decided to open Gemma Foods, a West Town storefront offering fresh, hand-crafted pasta dishes for pickup and delivery. What is it? A meat- and cheese-centric cafe just off the California Blue Line stop that serves Metropolis coffee and sandwiches during the day as well as cheese boards and charcuterie in the evening. The long-awaited Fulton Market restaurant helmed by Top Chef winner Joe Flamm, combining his passions for Italian and Croatian cooking. For just over $5, one of the city's best cheeseburgers is yourswith thick-cut fries to boot! Dishes such as Lobster Caesar, Corned Beef Hash, Wagyu Beef Tataki, Alaskan Halibut, and more. Puzzle over an ever-changing menu of Midwest beer (recent entrants include brews from Perennial Artisan Ales in St. Louis and Eagle Park Brewing in Muskego, Wisconsin) and creative riffs on old-fashioned cocktails, and dont miss out on the restaurants hulking, gorgeous brisket burger topped with bone marrow aioli and onion strings. Details: $55, 3 courses. What is it? A seasonally inspired Michelin-starred meal from Chef Andrew Zimmerman. Time Out tip: Don't have a car? Why we love it: Remember the bridge-jumping scene in Blues Brothers?