I'm a sucker for fabulous food and try to always go to the 'must-visit' restaurant if there is one where I happen to visit.

I have heard many good things about food in Chicago so am looking forward to a 2 1/2 day stay in July.

Is there a particularly oustanding restaurant in Chicago that people here feel I should visit?

I also hear that there are lots of good, small eateries all over the place. Any particular area you would recommend?

Thanks for your tips! :)

Chicago has some of the best restaurants in the world. It depends what you have a taste for. Club Lucky on Wabanisa (sp?) has the best lamb chops in the city. They also make a great martini but the best martini is made at the Matchbox a very very small bar on Ogden and chicago. The best sushi is at Coast on Division (i think its division) its a byob. there is a liquor store at the end of the block. The coast roll is great. Some would argue that Bob San's sushi is the best. I think that is also on division further west. If you are up for French, just a block or so west of Coast is Le Bouchen (sp?). However, the best cheese plate at a french place is at Cyrano's on Well. 8 kinds of cheese, its fabulous. Geja's on Armitage (I can't spell) is the fondue place. Great place for a romantic dinner. If its breakfast you are looking for, Twisted Spoke on Ogden and Grand has the best fried egg sandwich in the city. They also have the best bloody mary served with a beer back. Last one - Flo on Chicago ave has a great breakfast with a mexican influence. I can't spell but I can eat.

Chicago has some of the best restaurants in the world. It depends what you have a taste for. Club Lucky on Wabanisa (sp?) has the best lamb chops in the city. They also make a great martini but the best martini is made at the Matchbox a very very small bar on Ogden and chicago. The best sushi is at Coast on Division (i think its division) its a byob. there is a liquor store at the end of the block. The coast roll is great. Some would argue that Bob San's sushi is the best. I think that is also on division further west. If you are up for French, just a block or so west of Coast is Le Bouchen (sp?). However, the best cheese plate at a french place is at Cyrano's on Well. 8 kinds of cheese, its fabulous. Geja's on Armitage (I can't spell) is the fondue place. Great place for a romantic dinner. If its breakfast you are looking for, Twisted Spoke on Ogden and Grand has the best fried egg sandwich in the city. They also have the best bloody mary served with a beer back. Last one - Flo on Chicago ave has a great breakfast with a mexican influence. I can't spell but I can eat.

Welcome to FT, cloudsbelowme! Most people ask questions in their first posts, you answer them ^

So many places to choose from, so little time! Chicago is really a great city for great dining.

Not knowing your budget, a few places that come to mind.

Tru: http://www.trurestaurant.com/welcome.html

Pasteur (Vietnamese): http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/dining/29324,0,687760.location?coll=mmx-dating_heds

Pasteur is up in Uptown/Edgewater. On the pricier/fancier side. Plenty of other Vietnamese restaurants in that area too where you can grab a great bowl of Pho or Bahn Mi.

Spring: http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/search/42128,0,7966851.venue Asian influenced and heavier on the seafood. Interesting space. Great bar. And in a good neighborhood (Bucktown/Wicker Park) to walk around and check out. Lots of other great places to choose from to eat. Also nearby is Le Bouchon which was mentioned in the prior post http://www.lebouchonofchicago.com/

Ann Sather: http://www.annsather.com/ Especially known for their Cinnamon Rolls. Several locations, though I like the one up on Belmont near Boystown

Also in Boystown is Yoshi's Cafe: http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/search/28895,0,2981529.venue Interesting mix of different cuisines. Higher end food but in a great relaxed and very casual environment.

You might want to check out the Chicago forum too. Sweet Willie posts restaurant reviews all the time.

Woaw, thanks! For a 'student' you sure do a lot of 'exploring' ;-)

Go to Todai! It's a great deal for lunch. $15.95 for lunch buffet includes all-you-can-eat sushi and other great chinese/japanese fare. I try to go there everytime I hit Chicago. :p It's 20-30 minutes from downtown at the Woodfield mall in Schaumburg.

Todai
5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL 60173
E109 Woodfield Shopping Center, Schaumburg, IL 60173
Tel: (847) 619-1088

You can also hit the Cheesecake factory at the bottom of the John Hancock tower or if you like the top, I heard the Signature Room is pretty good too.

mmmmm Pasteur is delicious! However, if you are staying closer to downtown, Le Colonial is of the same genre and on Rush st. Also, for bar-style food, try Gaslight grill on Racine by Wrightwood.

Great recommendations everyone, many thanks! Someone asked about budget. I'm planning to do a splash-out one night (no set budget) and a something more low-key the next.

Gino's East for great Chicago-style (deep dish) pizza. (Prepare to take in enough calories for a week).

http://www.ginoseast.com/

Two others from my old neighborhood.

Cafe 28: http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/search/29197,0,1998485.venue

Cuban/Mexican. Very busy on weekend nights.

Deleece: http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/search/30665,0,425613.venue

Interesting and varied menu. Brunch is also supposed to be a speciality, but I've never been.

Both of these, though, aren't so close if you are staying downtown or along North Michigan. But if you do want to wander further afield, worth considering.

Also walking south along Southport by Deleece can be nice if the weather is good. Cute shops along the way. Music Box Theater is up there as well - http://www.musicboxtheatre.com/ Fun place to catch a movie, especially when the organist is playing!

Another splurge might be Charlie Trotter's

http://www.charlietrotters.com/restaurant/cuisine/

I can't personally recommend it though as I've never been. I just know that in terms of "must go" Chicago restaurants, most would probably think of this place. Some think it's overrated. Maybe check around for reviews?

Oh, and don't forget Chicago's steakhouses. There are *definitely* threads on here listing the favorites.

You may also want to check out Chowhound's Chicago board: http://www.chowhound.com/midwest/boards/chicago/chicago.html That site (like this one) is addicting to read!

Oh! I almost forgot, Chicago has some pretty good Tapas. The two most popular are Cafe Iberico http://www.cafeiberico.com/ and Cafe Ba-Ba-Reba http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/search/28610,0,1212042.venue

I personally prefer the latter, but if you are downtown, Iberico will be closer.

Best cheap sushi--house of noodles and sushi.
http://www.houseofsushiandnoodles.com/
Although from what OP said money isn't the problem :>

The buffet is $12, and servings are huge. Paying $8 for the lunch special is enuff, and its not far from downtown.

Other than this I can't think of anything nice to eat in Chicago, hehe :D

I have heard very good reviews of:

Everest

Arun's

Topolobampo

Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton, a Four Seasons Hotel

and for a good cheap meal/snack, Wow Bao....

For Italian Beef: Portillos on Ontario (kind of touristy, make sure you get the big beef!)

For Pizza: Giordano's (many locations, probably spelled wrong)

Went to Sullivan's (a nice steakhouse) one time, stayed in the bar area, had drinks, appetizer, and they have a humidor with some overpriced yet fine cigars. They had live jazz (very smooth) and a nice, dark atmosphere. Don't remember where it is, but these are my favorites from a trip in early April.


Harry Carey's is supposed to be great also.

Re: Topolobampo . . . this is Rick Bayless' place. Right next door, he also has Frontera Grill which is more casual. Personally, I prefer Frontera.

Portillos on Ontario

Don't forget to wash it down with the great chocolate cake shake.

Hey people, this is awesome. I've decided to extend my stay to a week. Who needs to be at some boring conference in Madison anyway ;-)

By the way, I am trying to Priceline a hotel - someone recommended River North and North Michigan but I'm having trouble getting something. Would the Loop (current hotel rates there are much lower) be okay too?

Great thread all. Saved me a great deal of research.

Thanks,
I

Oh! I almost forgot, Chicago has some pretty good Tapas. The two most popular are Cafe Iberico http://www.cafeiberico.com/ and Cafe Ba-Ba-Reba http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/search/28610,0,1212042.venue

I personally prefer the latter, but if you are downtown, Iberico will be closer.
IMO, 1492 blows both of these places away...unless you're looking for the party atmosphere that Iberico's reputation carries with it. If you want tapas but to be able to have a conversation with the other person(s) at your table, try 1492. It's on Superior, 2 blocks west of the Pen.

Babareba was the best 25 years ago when it opened, but it has gone downhill.
Iberico was the best 15 years ago when it opened, but it has gone way downhill.
Some people like Emilio's, I don't, partially because they are very seafood-oriented.
1492 is very good, not as good as Iberico at it's peak, but still the best in the area.

IMO, 1492 blows both of these places away...unless you're looking for the party atmosphere that Iberico's reputation carries with it. If you want tapas but to be able to have a conversation with the other person(s) at your table, try 1492. It's on Superior, 2 blocks west of the Pen.

Never tried 1492. Will put it on my list for my next visit.

Todai
5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL 60173
E109 Woodfield Shopping Center, Schaumburg, IL 60173
Tel: (847) 619-1088

You can also hit the Cheesecake factory at the bottom of the John Hancock tower or if you like the top, I heard the Signature Room is pretty good too.
With all the varied and very good restaurants in Chicago, Cheesecake factory would not be a recommendation of most Chicagoans I know. Get out and try unique Chicago eats.

Todai is not top notch and has gone downhill so beware. Other FT’ers reviews here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308656&highlight=todai

If in the mood for seafood and in the Schaumburg area, see this thread: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=369736

Pasteur (Vietnamese): http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/dining/29324,0,687760.location?coll=mmx-dating_heds

Pasteur is up in Uptown/Edgewater. On the pricier/fancier side. Plenty of other Vietnamese restaurants in that area too where you can grab a great bowl of Pho or Bahn Mi.

I have not been to Pasteur but the other high end Vietnamese places like Le Colonial and Le Lan ( review here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=415996 ) have not lived up to expected execution. Better IMO to simply eat cheap AND so good on Argyle Street on the northside. My fave Chinese BBQ spot in the city is there Hon Kee, review here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308593 Silver Seafood is also up that way: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308625

StudentExplorer mentions Banh Mi (Viet sandwich), here is a place that I like (again near Argyle St): http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308534

Best Breakfasts thread: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308664

For some tapas places, many are mentioned here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308666&highlight=tapas

Best Sushi: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=402204

Also make sure to try items unique to Chicago, such as Italian Beef (best debated here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308703 ), Chicago Style Hot Dogs (discussed here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=334192 ). Hot Doug’s for unique sausage sandwiches: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308456

Also deep dish, being a person who chows pretty regularly on the stuff, Geno’s is not the best, Malnati’s used to be but currently Pizzeria Due’s at 619 North Wabash is executing an incredible deep dish. FYI, sausage is THE most common ingredient in the Chicagoland area, everywhere else it is pepperoni. Pizzeria Uno’s franchises stink, they are not even a shadow of how good the original Uno’s at 29 East Ohio or Due’s is.

BBQ in Chicago: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=308690

Avec is one of my favorite restaurants as of now, review here: http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=363329

Chicago has a large selection of Puerto Rican, Cuban, Mexican choices as well. I believe that Chicago has the third largest Hispanic population in the US.

Make sure you post in Community if you wish for some Chicago FT company; it has been awhile since the Chicago Crew has gathered to dine ;) :D

Hey people, this is awesome. I've decided to extend my stay to a week. Who needs to be at some boring conference in Madison anyway ;-)

By the way, I am trying to Priceline a hotel - someone recommended River North and North Michigan but I'm having trouble getting something. Would the Loop (current hotel rates there are much lower) be okay too?

Loop is fine, if not too late. Cabs & L are easy. While there, make sure and check out the museums - Art Institute is great. Catch a game at Wrigley - get bleacher seats.

And, never underestimate the greatness of a Chicago-style hot dog. Get the cheese fries too. My arteries ache just thinking about it.

God I miss Chicagoland. Never should have left.

And, never underestimate the greatness of a Chicago-style hot dog. Get the cheese fries too. My arteries ache just thinking about it.No doubt! it has to be the spreadable kind of cheese, no squirty junk for me.

No mention of Harold's Chicken Shack in Hyde Park and throughout the southside? :)

Kidding aside, Tru is awesome, but Harold's is my first stop whenever I get back to Chicago.

Iberico has slipped a little, but I think it's still the best tapas joint I've been to outside of Catalonia.

Man, I miss Chicago food.

Very timely thread, as I've just gotten back from a recent stint in Chicago and could dust up on some of my favorite old places, as well as a couple new ones.

Topolombompo is fantastic. I'm a huge fan of discovering a lot of varieties of Mexican food -- it's one thing I really got into down here in Texas -- and I can assure you that Topo does it absolutely as well as any place in Texas (that is, for authentic Mexican food, not Tex-Mex).

On the other hand, Frontera Grill, which is more casual, is also fantastic. Their brunch, in particular, on Saturday is knockout. I was really impressed with the level of cuisine at both places. Rick Bayless rocks.

Everest has been a family favorite for many, many years. They have a tremendous young sommellier and a really top-notch wine list.

On the pizza front, I went back to Gino's East just last month, and I have to say that they're not operating at the same high level they used to. Don't get me wrong -- I have a huge soft spot for Gino's -- the sausage is still fantastic, and the crust is the best around. But there's one major problem: Gino's isn't using enough cheese these days. I talked to a waiter about it. He said they went to a new proportion a few years back and cut back on the cheese. It wasn't oozing out of the pizza like it should. Very sad. But maybe you can ask for extra cheese. At this point, however, I prefer Giordano's or the original Uno.

Anyway, sorry to drag on, but I had to give my take. I love Chicago's restaurant scene, and there have been many excellent suggestions made here. You're going to have a great time.

A couple other places I've heard raves about recently: Brasserie Jo and Les Nomades.

Gene and Georgeti's (http://chicago-hotels.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g35805-d427812-Reviews-Gene_Georgetti_s_Restaurant-Chicago_Illinois.html) for a steak! ^

This is turning into a great thread!

As for hotels; I managed to PL the Millenium Knickerbocker. Sounds like a great location, but mixed reports on this place. In any case it'll be handy to all the eating places!! :-)

I've had some fantastic meals at Kevin and Crofton on Wells.
I'll typically eat at the bar at Kevin and get into conversations about wine with the staff and matre'd (the owner/chef's brother); from there the wine flooowwwws

This is turning into a great thread!

As for hotels; I managed to PL the Millenium Knickerbocker. Sounds like a great location, but mixed reports on this place. In any case it'll be handy to all the eating places!! :-)

I've stayed at the Knickerbocker and have had mixed experiences. However if you PL'd it for a good rate you'll probably make out fine. Some of the rooms are small and dark but the public areas are very nice (great small bar off the lobby if I recall correctly). You can't beat the location for food, shopping and general atmosphere.

Edited to ask what kind of rate you got on PL?

Tizi Melloul
Klay Oven
Reza's

Portillo's -- great Italian beef sandwiches
The Chop House -- wonderful steak
Shaw's Crab House -- good seafood and ambience

I'm surprised nobody has mentioned Moto (http://www.motorestaurant.com/).

Check out the reviews (http://www.motorestaurant.com/reviews.html)....a wild place! My parents hit it up last week and gave it good reviews as a once in a lifetime kinda thing.

Edited to ask what kind of rate you got on PL?

Very expensive (there are 6 major conferences going on when I am there) so had to go up to $115. :td: Still only about half of what I would have otherwise paid... ^

1. The Traven on Rush. $$$, but worth it

2. The Webber Grill Resturant ....a great concept idea and fun.

3. Harry Carey's.......Tourist spot, but very good and top service


We never get tired of Chicago and it's great choices to eat. Pick one and enjoy let us know what you think.

SA

Gino's East is a great pick, and they opened a new one near O'Hare so it is easy to get there - instead of going all the way downtown

Never been to Chicago, going next weekend to see a Red Sox-Cubs game. We're coming in Friday night and leaving Sunday. I wanted to try a few reasonably priced places that were unique to Chicago, so I was thinking Harry Caray's and Gino's East. We are staying at the Westin River North, so I think these are relatively close. Are they good choices? Frankly, for us, touristy is ok...we'll be tourists! How crowded do they get Fri. and Saturday nights? Is one better for a particular night?

Thanks!

Hey people, this is awesome. I've decided to extend my stay to a week. Who needs to be at some boring conference in Madison anyway ;-)

By the way, I am trying to Priceline a hotel - someone recommended River North and North Michigan but I'm having trouble getting something. Would the Loop (current hotel rates there are much lower) be okay too?

I recommend using Hotwire instead and consulting the betterbidding.com board first. You'll pay more than Priceline, but will have a really good idea of what hotel you are booking before you finalize. I've gotten the Swissotel several times for $100, the Westin River North for around $120 and the W for $129.

A recent find (not on Hotwire) was the Hotel Amalfi. Was able to book an internet only rate on their website of $134, during a major convention last month when most hotels were sold out or $300 +. Love the place - high thread count sheets, CD/DVD player in the room, continental breakfast on each floor, evening cocktail reception and impeccable service.

For Pizza, I recommend Girodanos over Gino's East. Yes, they aren't exactly the same style. Girodanos is stuffed, not deep dish, but their sausage is better IMO and Ginos uses too much.

For Pizza, I recommend Girodanos over Gino's East. Yes, they aren't exactly the same style. Girodanos is stuffed, not deep dish, but their sausage is better IMO and Ginos uses too much.

Well, the effect is basically the same. Put a Gino's pizza and a Giordano's one next to each other, and they're largely indistinguishable. I love both their sausages -- it's such a Chicago signature and better than anywhere else -- and, for me, it's hard to beat the Gino's patty on the bottom. BUT ... you're right. Giordano's is a half-notch better at the moment. I completely agree on overall quality. Go Giordano's.

Never been to Chicago, going next weekend to see a Red Sox-Cubs game. We're coming in Friday night and leaving Sunday. I wanted to try a few reasonably priced places that were unique to Chicago, so I was thinking Harry Caray's and Gino's East. We are staying at the Westin River North, so I think these are relatively close. Are they good choices? Frankly, for us, touristy is ok...we'll be tourists! How crowded do they get Fri. and Saturday nights? Is one better for a particular night?

Thanks!

You can do so much better than Harry Caray's. Walk a two-block radius around the restaurant, and you'll find a world of things. I believe both of Rick Bayless's restaurants are just down the street. Go there instead. Or any of a litany of other places.

Go to Todai! It's a great deal for lunch. $15.95 for lunch buffet includes all-you-can-eat sushi and other great chinese/japanese fare. I try to go there everytime I hit Chicago. :p It's 20-30 minutes from downtown at the Woodfield mall in Schaumburg.

Todai
5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL 60173
E109 Woodfield Shopping Center, Schaumburg, IL 60173
Tel: (847) 619-1088

You can also hit the Cheesecake factory at the bottom of the John Hancock tower or if you like the top, I heard the Signature Room is pretty good too.

If you want to try unique restaurants in a city, why go to a chain? Cheesecake Factories are everywhere as are Todai. As others on here have said, pizza is definitely Giordanos. One place I have not seen mentioned, and is always a place I go, is "Mon Ami Gabi" near Lincoln Park. French steak place with amazing steaks and unbelievable desserts. Check it out: http://monamigabi.com/

I just returned from a wonderful weekend in Chicago!! Thanks go out to many who contributed their opinion in this thread.

We loved the original Uno for fantastic pizza and Portollo's for an incredible hot dog!!

We also loved Gunther Murphy's which is an Irish bar. The waitress Liz was so incredibly nice and friendly!!

On a bad note we had a horrible time at the WE rest. at the W Chicago City Center.

All in all, we loved the city, the food and the wonderful people!!!

in case it hasn't been mentioned - lth forums (http://www.lthforum.com/bb/index.php) is a great place for chicago eating ideas (restaurant reviews, recommendations, etc.)

in case it hasn't been mentioned - lth forums (http://www.lthforum.com/bb/index.php) is a great place for chicago eating ideas (restaurant reviews, recommendations, etc.)I really like the forum ^ If one enjoys going to places that are off the average diner's radar (for the most part) then for sure take a look, but I believe that the average diner does not really have an interest in going :( (I wish they would and perhaps lth can assist in spurring on someone to go).

I'm surprised nobody has mentioned Moto (http://www.motorestaurant.com/).

Check out the reviews (http://www.motorestaurant.com/reviews.html)....a wild place! My parents hit it up last week and gave it good reviews as a once in a lifetime kinda thing.

Went here and *loved* it! Incredibly creative. Not something to do too often but an experience for sure. Cool/sleek interior too.

One of my favorite out of the norm spots is Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders. About once a year or when guests come in that want something different, a stop at CPOG is in order. Truly a pizza pot pie bought by the pound with whole mushrooms. The salads are huge. Unfortunately, so are the lines. Waits are usually long and parking is a bear. But, every once in a while you have to bite the bullet.

One of my favorite out of the norm spots is Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders. About once a year or when guests come in that want something different, a stop at CPOG is in order. Truly a pizza pot pie bought by the pound with whole mushrooms. The salads are huge. Unfortunately, so are the lines. Waits are usually long and parking is a bear. But, every once in a while you have to bite the bullet.

Mmmmm! and you can feed for a week off the Grinders!

I used to live around the corner and blew off many good diets there...

NV

One of my favorite out of the norm spots is Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders. About once a year or when guests come in that want something different, a stop at CPOG is in order. Truly a pizza pot pie bought by the pound with whole mushrooms. The salads are huge. Unfortunately, so are the lines. Waits are usually long and parking is a bear. But, every once in a while you have to bite the bullet.

After all these years, probably the most unique pizza experience anywhere and still unbeatable. Split one of those huge salads (the best poppy seed dressing anywhere) which will feed about four people, with the garlicky and buttery flat bread and that delicious pot pie and you will be stuffed and happy.

One of my favorite out of the norm spots is Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders. About once a year or when guests come in that want something different, a stop at CPOG is in order. Truly a pizza pot pie bought by the pound with whole mushrooms. The salads are huge. Unfortunately, so are the lines. Waits are usually long and parking is a bear. But, every once in a while you have to bite the bullet.
I love CPOG! It's been too long since I've been there.... Hmmmm, sounds like we need to do a dinner soon at CPOG?

I love CPOG! It's been too long since I've been there.... Hmmmm, sounds like we need to do a dinner soon at CPOG?

Cuando?

http://www.chicagopizzaandovengrinder.com/default.htm

lunch only on Saturdays... dangit!

Cuando?
When's good for you? I can now do dinners during the week too, when I'm in town.

When's good for you? I can now do dinners during the week too, when I'm in town.

Well, definitely during the week, since that place is an absolute zoo on the weekends (unless something has changed). I'm reasonably free during the week for the next three weeks.

Well, definitely during the week, since that place is an absolute zoo on the weekends (unless something has changed). I'm reasonably free during the week for the next three weeks.
Let's chat tomorrow at lunch :)