Chow Down Chi Town
I go to Chicago every year. Whether it be the summer, fall, winter, or spring, I make a point to get to the best city in the United States annually. Maybe I am a little bias. But can you blame me? Chicago has EVERYTHING. The food scene is out of this world, the city is electric, and did I mention the views from the rooftop bars?! Good golly. Typically, I would give you a break down of the city, explain what I did day by day, & walk you through my trip. Well, I already did that and you can read about it here. This blog.. ha, this blog, is going to be one you can really… sink your teeth into. To write this one, I’ve visited over 100 restaurants to give you the inside scoop about eating your way through the Windy City. This post is not sponsored, I was not monetarily paid to visit, I simply reached out to different foodie spots and picked the restaurants I was most interested in visiting. These are my opinions on their service, ambiance, & duh, FOOD. Sit back, relax, and get ready to drool.
In no specific ranking or order, here are the hot spots I recommend you visit in Chicago.
Tortello
@tortello_pastificio
Well, we all know what goes is the number one spot. The best of the best. & I promise you, I’m not steering you wrong here. If you want the best Italian food in the city, look no further than Tortello. Everything, I mean everything, is perfectly made. I don’t say this lightly, I am straight up telling you, there is not one place ahead of Tortello for Italian food. From the pasta to the sauce, the salad to the dressing, the croutons, the tomatoes, the ricotta, the focaccia, it’s all phenomenal. I am confident there is not one thing on the menu that I wouldn’t finish and order again. Plus, it gets better. I know, how is that even possible… Well, not only is the food fantastic, but it’s also all made fresh, every day, under one roof. I had the pleasure of following Dario around and learning about his family and how he came about founding Tortello. Dario learned the art of preparing handmade pasta from his Nonna at a very young age in his hometown of Venice, Italy. No wonder everything is so authentically Italian. When Dario crafted up Tortello he wanted to keep doing what he loved. He sources ingredients from Italy, no surprise there, and purchases some ingredients locally. He told me a story about finding the perfect egg for his pasta and how it took a while to get the infrastructure in place. When someone cares enough to seek out the most perfect egg to create the most perfect pasta, you know you’re in for a treat. My recommendation? Go to Tortello on a sunny day. Bring good company. Sit outside. Order like one of everything. Drink Prosecco like the Italians. Enjoy the perfection of every bite. Let me tell you something; When love goes into a craft, you can taste it. You can taste the trial and error that went into perfecting that particular recipe. You can taste the joy that the chef gets from you enjoying their dish. You can taste the tradition in every bite, and you can feel how many people have enjoyed this dish before you. Because yeah, it’s really just that delicious.
What’s pictured:
Tortelli pasta - filled with burrata, topped with butter, sage, and toasted hazelnuts
Summer salad - fresh roma tomatoes, homemade croutons, aceto balsamico
Focaccia with ricotta & honey
Fora
@ForaChicago
Welcome to Fora, an exquisite, globally inspired restaurant and patio nestled within The Emily Hotel. Whether you're seeking a year-round delight or an exceptional summer experience in 2023, Fora is the place to be, especially during the enchanting Chandon Garden pop-up. This delightful pop-up transforms Fora's patio into an alluring oasis, curated to embody the refined elegance of Chandon while evoking the essence of a secluded, picturesque garden. Conveniently situated between the Fulton River District and West Loop, Fora's location couldn’t be better! The delectable food offerings are a true delight, complemented by an array of robust and thoughtfully crafted beverages. The ambiance exudes sophistication, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. For brunch enthusiasts, Fora is an absolute must-visit. Their offering of DIY Bloody Mary's at $16 and bottomless mimosas for $26 adds an element of interactive indulgence to the experience.
What’s pictured:
Chandon Garden Spritz - available for a limited time
Avocado Toast - cashew, smoked coconut, salsa seca
Chilaquiles - green chili pork, sour cream, queso fresco, red onion, cilantro
Carnivale
@Carnivalechi
Looking for a party? Look no further than Carnivale! From the moment you walk into the restaurants 25,000 sqft of dining, you’re surrounded by beautiful, bright art, colors literally hanging from the ceiling, and custom made furniture, fit just for a celebration. Happen to be in West Loop on Friday or Saturday night? Head to Carnivale for a free performance performed right alongside your table. Dinner & a show! Entertainers hanging from the ceilings and dancing around the room make Carnivale the most festive and electric place to get a bite! Whether you’re just coming for a drink or a full-course dinner, their Latin fusion cuisine is sure to brighten your day. Bursting with color, flavor, and authenticity, every dish Carnivale crafts is decadent and insta-worthy. Oh, and their cotton candy cocktails? Well, get your phone ready. It’s no wonder Carnivale is one of TripAdvisor 2020 Travelers’ Choice Winners. Don’t pass up on the party, Carnivale is a must-do if you’re in Chicago!
What’s pictured:
Ropa vieja - Braised Beef, Pickled Onions, Aji Amarillo Aioli, Queso Fresco, Sweet Plantains
Cotton candy martini - Ketel One, Pimm’s #1, Raspberry, Lime, Cotton Candy
Gaucho steak - 16 oz. U.S.D.A. Prime 45 Day Dry Aged Linz Heritage Ribeye, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Chimichurri
Hi-Vibe superfood Juicery
@hivibechi
Embracing a health-conscious lifestyle? Trying counts, right?? But let's clear the air – you don't need to be riding the health wave to step into the realm of Hi Vibe! While their creations are unquestionably the epitome of healthiness, they're equally as tasty! And when I say "everything," I'm not exaggerating – it's like stepping into a realm where every single offering is meticulously crafted for the utmost in taste and well-being. That coffee you spotted in the last image? Brace yourself – it's a concoction of coffee, matcha, butter, MCT oil, cacao butter, cacao, collagen, cordyceps, lion's mane, reishi, mucuna, and xylitol. Half of those ingredients might sound like something from a wizard's brew, but let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion that took me away to a world of sustained energy and vitality. Now, about that açaí bowl – just take a gander at the picture. I mean, it's almost as if the bowl outshines its surroundings... and that's saying something. Hi-Vibe is on my annual must-visit list, I look forward to that cup of coffee every year.
What’s pictured:
Blue Mood: reverse osmosis H2O, hemp hearts, chia seeds, coconut butter, blue spirulina, lucuma, maca, cacao, mesquite, chlorella, reishi, maple, hemp extract
Kill Shot: camu camu, oil of oregano, echinacea, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, local honey, lemon, green apple
Açaí Bowl #1: OG açaí: HI-VIBE granola, coconut shreds, bee pollen, seasonal fruit, cinnamon maca almond butter
Açaí Bowl #2: Cacao açaí: HI-VIBE granola, cacao nibs, coconut shreds, bee pollen, seasonal fruit, hazelnut cacao butter
Apex Coffee: coffee, matcha, butter, mct, cacao butter, cacao, collagen, cordyceps, lion’s mane, reishi, mucuna, xylitol
Maison Marcel
@maisonmarcelchi
Maison Marcel emerges as a romantic haven that effortlessly captures the essence of a charming French bakery and café. Every dish is thoughtfully plated on exquisite blue plates, transforming the act of dining into an aesthetic experience. The fusion of flavors and textures mirrors the careful balance that Maison Marcel strikes between culinary finesse and visual delight. Doors open at 7 AM, welcoming you to start your day in the most delightful way possible. After experiencing the aroma of freshly brewed coffee with the scent of buttery pastries, it’s the only way I want to start my morning. Maison Marcel will be added to my annual must-visit list, I’m excited to see what future creations they have in store.
What’s pictured:
BIG MAMA BURRATA - Stracciatella cheese, cherry tomatoes, basil, rustic bread, olive oil, salt and pepper (their burrata is the best I’ve had in the city, its actual creamy perfection)
FRENCH BREAKFAST - Egg any style with French bread basket *chefs kiss*
SMOKED SALMON TARTINE - Smoked salmon, organic country bread, herbed cream cheese, capers
Lou Malnati's
@Loumalnatis
Lou Malnati’s is defiantly top 3 in the deep dish category. The crust is buttery goodness, the sauce is tomato-rich, and the toppings are fresh everyday. Between the cheese and fillings, everything is piled so perfectly in the pie you’re going to need to get a large. Don’t skip on appetizers either, the stuffed spinach bread and their house salads with made from scratch dressings are EVERYTHING. I get it, I get it.. It’s Chicago for crying out loud, there’s a pizza joint on every corner. Do yourself a favor, & take it from me, you can’t say you were in the city if you don’t go to Lou Malnati’s, it’s been around the longest ya know. Yup, 1971. Forty-eight years of pizza making goodness. Grab a beer while you’re at it, they’re serving up local brews on tap.
What’s pictured: Small cheese deep dish with extra cheese, fresh garlic, pepperoni, and traditional sauce, all on Lou’s signature butter crust
Eataly
@eatalychicago
Eataly is located in the heart of the city and has a lot going on inside. A lot being an understatement. For starters there are THREE Italian restaurants inside: La Pizza & La Pasta, Birreria, & Osteria Del Mercato. In addition to the restaurants there are SEVEN separate counters: Ravioli & Co - a house made pasta bar, Pronto - premade Italian meals, La Pasticceria E Venchi - a Pastry bar, Cannoli & Granita Bar - Cannolis, Gelato Bar - serving gelato, sorbetto, and coppa, Focaccia - a bakery/break market, & Rosticceria - a meat market. In addition to the THREE restaurants and SEVEN counters, there are two cafes: LavAzza - espresso based beverages + cafe bites, and Caffe Vergnano - authentic Italian coffee + paninis. In addition to the THREE restaurants, SEVEN counters, and TWO cafes, Eataly also is an entire Italian market that sells fresh pasta to-go, Italian snacks & desserts, kitchen utensils, exclusive oils & spices, and authentic Italian candy. Eataly offers cooking classes, private dining, and hosts various events throughout the year. Stop by the wine shop on your way out, grab a bottle for later.
I had the pleasure of eating at La Pizza, La Pasta, which is located upstairs. I have to say, Eataly has some really great pasta, and they switch up their menu pretty regularly. With the open kitchen concept, you watch the whole pasta process which is such a treat!
What’s pictured: Margherita verace tsg (Pizza), Racioli di piselli (lighter colored pasta & my personal favorite), Lo spaghetto de pomodoro, & Arugula salad
Frances’ Brunchery
@francesonclark
For more than eight decades, Frances's has graced the heart of Chicago, delighting patrons with its breakfast, lunch, and brunch offerings—long before the latter became a trend. Renowned for its comforting dishes and cherished family recipes passed down through generations, this iconic establishment also earned a reputation for serving sandwiches so generously proportioned that finishing them in one sitting was a rare feat. Frances's Brunchery presents a unique soul-food adventure, offering a tantalizing array of delicious dishes and an irresistible mimosa flight that beckons indulgence. Stepping inside, guests are greeted by an Instagram-worthy interior adorned with a dedicated wall showcasing charming brunch signage and delightful quotes. In the company of friends, this is the perfect spot for unforgettable gatherings, creating cherished memories for the girlies seeking an exceptional culinary experience. Frances's is ready to embrace its illustrious legacy while embracing the exciting journey ahead under Chef Rylon's creative vision. I have high hopes for Frances’, I’ll be back every summer.
What’s pictured: French Toast flight, Mimosa Tower, Fresh Fruit, Egg Benedict Flight
honey butter
@honeybutterchi
Honey Butter is fantastic. Fried chicken, brunch, and just far enough out of the city for a breath of fresh air. If you’re a chicken fanatic or a lover of scratch sauces, Honey Butter is for you. Any traditional sandwich can be… brunchified by adding an egg to the top. They even have mimosas, buffalo mac n’ cheese, and their signature corn muffins. Food aside, a trip to Honey Butter is more about more than their crispy fried goodness. Their employees won’t accept a tip. Yup, you read right. Honey Butter believes in giving their employees such a fair and competitive wage that the staff doesn’t have to work for tips. The employees also enjoy perks like health insurance, training, and well, being spoiled with the best fried chicken around.
What’s pictured: BLT brunch style fried chicken sandwich, buffalo mac n’ cheese, watermelon mimosa, house-made ranch, honey BBQ wings, the classic Honey Butter fried chicken sandwich.
Bounce Sporting Club
@bouncechicago
Bounce is a high-end sports bar just a mile or two from the immediate downtown area. Bounce turns into a premier club at night but has a fabulous rooftop bar, drinks, and an extensive menu to enjoy during the day. I have to be honest, Levi found this gem flipping through some foodie pages and just so happened to stumble upon these flaming hot Cheetos crusted wings that he just had to try! Thankfully, we went & on a beautiful day to enjoy the views Bounce has to offer. Check their Instagram for fun events like Bachelorette Monday’s, Celebrity guest appearances, & new exquisite additions to their menu. Pro tip: if you like sweet drinks, try their wine spritzers. It’s topped with a strawberry and all.
What’s pictured: Flamin’ Hot Cheetos crusted wings, patron shots, smoked chicken pulled nachos, & their house salad.
Mini mott
@eatminimott
If you find yourself near Logan Square, do not pass up on Mini Mott. This place is a smaller version of their flagship, Mott. Both restaurants excel in the Asian-American cuisine category and will blow your mind with the flavors, creations, and combinations that their creative staff comes up with. My favorite part? This waffle cone was made on a griddle right in from of me, my ice cream melted around the warm dough into a perfect god sent bite from heaven. Mini Mott has a great space with indoor and outdoor seating, perfectly located on the outskirts of Chicago in one of the trendier burbs and is super quick and convenient.
What’s pictured: Miso jack tacos with jackfruit carnitas, egg, miso onions, & cilantro.
Everything wings tossed in soy, jaggery glaze, dried chilis, seasame, poppy seed, and fried shallots.
The ‘Beefy Cheesy’ braised shank, in house cheese sauce, dipped in au jus, on a hoagie roll.
Blackberry ice cream in their signature taiyaki cone.
Aurelio’s pizza
@aureliospizza
Okay, hear me out. Deep dish IS great. It is a Chicago staple and I love it. BUT, crunchy & thin?? Game changer! Aurelio’s specializes in this tavern-style pizza AND they make their signature Italian sausage in house EVERY. DAY. What is better than hand-tossed, baked to crunchy perfection dough? Well, not much. But the delicious chunks of sausage that complement the pizza so perfectly, are definitely up there. Don’t miss out on their toasted ravioli or hot wings either! The crispy breaded ravioli is stuffed with your choice of spicy jalapeño cheese or a four-cheese blend. The hot wings are tossed in their special sauce and pack some heat. If you need a place to catch the game and enjoy some good food while doing it, look no further than Aurelio’s!
What’s pictured: Medium thin crust pizza. Half with sausage and pepperoni, and the other half with pepperoni and bacon. Risotto cheese balls, toasted ravioli, and hot wings.
Pizzeria Portofino
@pizzeria.portofino
Just along the Chicago River, Pizzeria Portofino emerges as an unrivaled culinary gem, a beacon of flavor and relaxation. With a reputation that precedes it, this eatery has been proclaimed the supreme destination for summer riverfront dining, a title well-deserved. The burrata is different every time I come. They use unique flavors and ingredients that complement the ever-changing seasons. In the summer it’s always fresh local fruit, in the fall I’ve seen them incorporate pumpkin puree, and once in the spring they garnished with seasonal olives. All have been outstanding, delicious, and very memorable. Also of note is the thin crust pizza. Yes, I know we’re in Chicago, and I know you love a deep dish. I wouldn’t send you here if I didn’t think you’d really enjoy it. Their thin crust is YUM, and their sauces made in-house compliment their dishes well. Beyond the culinary wonders, Pizzeria Portofino's cocktail menu features drinks inspired by the Italian coast. I recommend visiting during summer or fall. The floor to ceiling doors are open during this time, creating a covered open patio that perfectly frames the Chicago River. The coastal vibes and clean aesthetic create an atmosphere that's both inviting and refreshing. As you savor the flavors and immerse yourself in the ambiance, you realize that Pizzeria Portofino is more than a restaurant; it's an experience.
What’s pictured:
Imported Burrata & Local Strawberries - Pistachio Pesto, Aged Balsamic, Ciabatta
Tuna Tartare - Basil Pesto Aioli, Ciabatta
Charred Pepperoni Pizza - Ezzo Pepperoni, Mozzarella, Mama Lil's Peppers, Portofino Hot Honey
nandos peri peri
@nandosusa
If you’re a lover of grilled chicken and homestyle potatoes this is the place for you! Besides being known for their tangy scratch-made sauces, Nando’s take the cake on fresh chicken and loaded sides. This olive bowl?! To die for. Sangria?! Boozy and fruity. Chicken?! Seriously, don’t get me started… you can cut it with a butter knife it’s that tender and juicy. The wings were even out of this world, and I’ve had a lot of wings in my day. These wood-fired babies are melting in your mouth good and pack a little heat on their own. Order at the counter for this fast-casual dining experience and they’ll bring it to you. Don’t miss the sauce bar or pass on a drink, it’s all part of the Nando’s experience.
What’s pictured:
Chicken breast in hot sauce
Chicken breast in lemon & herb sauce
Spicy mixed olives, mashed potatoes, French fries, wood-fired wings, side salad, red sangria, and local craft beer.
Jojo’s Shake bar
@jojosshakebar
Okay, where are my people with the sweet tooth? You’re going to want to tune in for this one. Jojo’s is the place to be for all your sweet treat needs. This isn’t just your average milkshake shop for a number of reasons. One, it’s in Chicago, the heart of the city so that’s special. It’s also poppin’ and just about any given time. By that I mean there are people hanging out, taking Neapolitan shots, yup, alcohol in ice cream it’s what I live for. They also rotate their menu so if you go a couple of times and you’re ready to.. shake it up, they’ve got you covered. Their shakes speak for themselves, I mean just look at that picture, good god. It’s also not just a good photo op, these shakes are seriously good. So what they’re like 2,000 calories, LIVE A LITTLE. I bet you can’t finish it anyway, issa whole meal.
What’s pictured:
Three’s company shake - the ultimate trio of strawberry, banana, & pineapple filled with peanuts, milk chocolate, a dipped sugar cone, sugar cookie, & fruit chunks
Rocky IV milkshake with banana, peanut butter pieces, milk chocolate, chocolate chip cookie, A SOLID PEANUT BUTTER BOXING GLOVE, and a chocolate-covered marshmallow rolled in peanuts
Cheesies
@cheesies_chicago
If you want an afternoon of fun and cheese you have to check out Chicago’s first grilled cheese restaurant with full bar & arcade games, Cheesies. If you’re not a grilled cheese fanatic, look next-door to Cheesies pizza, one of their joints are sure to fill your cheese void. Play a couple of games, write on your table with chalk, hang out at the bar that’s serving up local brews, and get to chowin’ down on their loaded grilled cheese sandwiches. Pro tip: mac n’ cheese bites are everything and Cheesies mac n’ cheese bites are everything x 6652945278. These little crispy balls of goodness are made to perfection and have the perfect balance of crisp and cheese. The drool is real. With locations all over the city, make sure you hit up Cheesies for an afternoon lunch and get the cheese while it’s hot.
What’s pictured:
The melt stuffed with chicken, tomatoes, & two types of cheese.
The tenderizer with crispy buffalo chicken, bacon, and CHEESE.
Fried mac and cheese bites, french fries, side salad, cider, & buur.
The Gringo
@thegringochicago
The Gringo is located right outside of downtown and is servin’ up brunch and tacos all at the same time. Taco bout heaven.. was that too punny? On a serious note, the tacos are flat out deliciousness. They’ve got all the favorites, Al Pastor, Carne Asada, Chicken, Chorizo, & Shrimp all with unique twists and toppings. They’ve got brunch on the weekends and specials like chorizo scramble, Mexican chopped salad, Gringo toast, and so much more. Don’t pass on the elote, best elote ever. Grab a beer on draft or check out their bottle & cans list to make the meal complete. For my wine & cocktail drinkers, they’ve got that too. There’s a lot of places to get tacos in the city, but The Gringo is doing it right.
What’s pictured:
The gringo breakfast, eggs, bacon, potatoes, and tortillas.
Elote & chips.
Taco flight with al pastor and pineapple, sazon and citrus-marinated chicken, ancho chile marinated sirloin.
Formentos
@formentoschi
First, let me start by saying sorry to my vegan friends, I admire your strength to turn down meat. I, on the other hand, can’t say no to chicken wings little own veal the side of your head. BUT let’s talk about Formento’s. This is the place for dating anniversaries, family dinners, anniversary parties, birthday dinner, or any other special occasion. Not that you need a special occasion to eat here, but damn you might need a small loan. It is nothing shy of perfection and every plate is something exquisite. Freshly made pasta every day, beautifully plated dishes, & don’t even get me started on those potatoes.. roasted to perfection. Just look at that veal. That veal is enough for three meals on its own and I’m not going to lie I ate it in two, and since our hotel didn’t have a microwave, I ate it cold. You know what? It was better cold from Formento’s that warm at other places.
What’s pictured: Veal parmesan, roasted potatoes, New York strip, bucatini.
Fulton galley (Closed)
@fultongalley
Fulton Galley was a pleasure to visit, not only is the location just outside the city by tons of scooters and fresh air, but it’s also a food hall! Yes, a whole food hall of five different kitchens, a full bar, 20+ craft beers, and a stellar cocktail program. And let me just say, it gets poppin’ for weekend brunch! You know, my favorite meal & time of the week. To get the full experience I had to go to each restaurant in the Fulton Galley. I mean, duh. So, I started at Italianette and got pasta, made my way to Steingold’s for a bagel sandwich, over to Pink Salt for a fresh coconut filled with coconut milk, then past Taco Muncho for some chips & guac, and lastly to Fairview for some tasty wings that brought the heat. I have to say, the mimosas were great, the whole atmosphere is spacious and upbeat, the lighting is 100%, and the concept is just on the rise. The whole place is shared with all the restaurants, and it certainly has something for everyone in your party.
What’s pictured: Roasted potatoes, smoked burrata ravioli with egg on top, BBQ wings, Margherita pizza, bacon/egg/cheese on a salt bagel, coconut milk in coconut, & brisket burger with egg.
The Gwen
@thegwenchicago
Experience this hidden gem of Chicago, Upstairs at the Gwen, a rooftop oasis exuding Art Deco charm. Catch the breathtaking skyline views and indulge in expertly crafted cocktails amidst a relaxed open-air terrace perfect for summer days. The Gwen is the perfect place to stop for a drink or two and a light bite in between shopping or exploring one of the many excursions Chicago has to offer. Conveniently located right near Chicago’s famous, magnificent mile, The Gwen is a must do to see stunning views of downtown. Swing by for their brunch menu, Saturdays & Sundays 7 am - 2 pm. During the summer, a reservation is recommended.
What’s pictured: Tuna Tartare
Quartino
@quartinochicago
Quartino, Quartino, Quartino. The best place in the city to try everything Italian. By that I mean, ITALIAN TAPAS. Yes, small plates of Italian food to share with your whole table and they’re reasonably priced. Quartino is right in the city and has nearly every wine you could imagine. Wine lovers, this is the place for you. Check out Quartino with a group of 4 or more to get the experience of sharing is caring. Order a bottle for the table, go late at night, they’re open till 2 a.m. and enjoy the atmosphere of chaos happening all around you. If you’re looking for a fun experience, this is the place for you.
What’s pictured: Roasted chicken, gnocchi, signature alfredo.
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