Top 10 Restaurants in Chicago 2023
As a foodie and a Chicagoan, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the city’s culinary scene in depth. From hole-in-the-wall joints to Michelin-starred restaurants, Chicago has it all. So, without further ado, here are the top 10 restaurants in Chicago for 2023:
1. Alinea
If you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience, Alinea is the place to go. With its innovative and experimental cuisine, Alinea has been named the best restaurant in Chicago for several years in a row.
2. Girl & The Goat
Owned by celebrity chef Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat is a must-visit for anyone who loves bold flavors and creative dishes. Don’t miss the wood-fired pig face or the goat empanadas.
3. Smyth
Smyth is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up modern American cuisine with a Nordic twist. The tasting menu changes frequently, so you’re always in for a surprise.
4. Monteverde
Monteverde is a pasta-focused restaurant that serves up some of the best Italian food in Chicago. Don’t miss the cacio e pepe or the ricotta-filled gnocchi.
5. Giant
Giant is a cozy neighborhood spot that serves up seasonal American cuisine. The menu changes frequently, so you’re always in for a new treat.
6. Pacific Standard Time
Pacific Standard Time is a California-inspired restaurant that serves up wood-fired pizzas and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The interior is bright and airy, making it the perfect spot for a summer meal.
7. Oriole
Oriole is another Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up a tasting menu of innovative and creative dishes. The restaurant only seats 28 people, so be sure to make a reservation well in advance.
8. Avec
Avec is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves up small plates meant for sharing. The chorizo-stuffed dates and the focaccia with taleggio cheese are must-tries.
9. Fat Rice
Fat Rice is a Macanese-inspired restaurant that serves up dishes like arroz gordo (a rice dish with various meats and seafood) and pork belly bao. Be sure to save room for the egg tart for dessert.
10. The Publican
The Publican is a beer-focused restaurant that serves up hearty, meat-heavy dishes. The pork rinds and the charcuterie board are both must-tries.
Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts
- Chicago is home to over 7,000 restaurants.
- Chicago has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in North America except for New York.
- The average cost of a meal in Chicago is $34.
- Chicago-style pizza is a deep-dish pizza that was invented in Chicago in the 1940s.
- The Chicago-style hot dog is a hot dog served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, a pickle spear, and sport peppers.
My Personal Experiences
I’ve had the pleasure of dining at several of these restaurants, and each experience has been unforgettable. One of my favorite meals was at Alinea, where I was served a dish that was literally smoking.
I also love the cozy atmosphere at Giant, and the wood-fired pizzas at Pacific Standard Time are some of the best I’ve ever had.
But at the end of the day, my personal favorite restaurant on this list is Monteverde. There’s just something about their pasta dishes that keeps me coming back for more.
FAQs
What is the best restaurant in Chicago?
While this is subjective, many people would say that Alinea is the best restaurant in Chicago due to its innovative and experimental cuisine.
What is the average cost of a meal in Chicago?
The average cost of a meal in Chicago is $34.
What is Chicago-style pizza?
Chicago-style pizza is a deep-dish pizza that was invented in Chicago in the 1940s.
What is a Chicago-style hot dog?
A Chicago-style hot dog is a hot dog served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, a pickle spear, and sport peppers.