Chow Down Chi Town
Every summer, I find myself back in Chicago.
Maybe it's the perfect weather. Maybe it's the lakefront walks, the rooftop bars, the energy of the city, or the fact that Chicago somehow manages to feel both familiar and exciting every single time I visit. Whatever the reason, it's become one of my favorite annual traditions.
And while Chicago has no shortage of incredible architecture, museums, shopping, and attractions, let's be honest—I'm here for the food.
Over the years, I've eaten my way through well over 100 restaurants across the city. I've waited in long brunch lines, hunted down hidden neighborhood gems, celebrated special occasions at some of Chicago's most acclaimed dining destinations, and happily planned entire days around a single meal. Tough job, I know.
Normally, I share detailed itineraries from my trips, complete with hotel recommendations, activities, and day-by-day plans. But this guide is different.
This is my Chicago Restaurant Guide— a personal list of restaurants I'd send anyone who asked me where they should eat in Chicago.
Restaurants I've personally visited, loved, photographed, and still recommended time and time again. Some are iconic Chicago institutions. Others are newer spots that deserve a place on your must-visit list. What they all have in common is that I would gladly spend my own money to return. And speaking of money—this guide isn't sponsored. I wasn't paid to include these restaurants, and nobody purchased a spot on this list. These are simply my honest opinions based on my experiences dining at each location, taking into account the food, atmosphere, service, and overall experience.
So whether you're planning your first trip to the city or looking for your next reservation, I hope this guide helps you discover a few new favorites.
In no real specific ranking or order, here are the hot spots I recommend you visit in Chicago.
Tortello
@tortello_pastificio
Well, we've made it to my number one restaurant in Chicago.
The best of the best. The place I recommend more than anywhere else. And I promise you—I wouldn't steer you wrong.
If you're searching for the best Italian food in Chicago, this is it.
Tortello isn't trying to reinvent Italian cuisine or fill its menu with trendy dishes. Instead, it focuses on timeless Italian classics, handmade fresh every single day, with the occasional seasonal special making an appearance. It's the kind of menu you'll find yourself coming back to again and again because these are the dishes you'll never get tired of.
And somehow, it gets even better. Everything is made under one roof, and you can actually watch the pasta being rolled, cut, and filled by hand through the restaurant's pasta windows. It's part of the experience—a reminder that every plate begins with real craftsmanship.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to spend time with founder Dario Monni and hear the story behind Tortello. Originally from Venice, Italy, Dario learned the art of handmade pasta from his Nonna at a young age, carrying those family traditions with him long before opening his Chicago pasta shop. Listening to him talk about ingredients was fascinating. He spoke about sourcing products from Italy, building relationships with local farmers, and even searching for the perfect eggs for his pasta. It's rare to meet someone who cares that deeply about every single ingredient, but when you do, you can absolutely taste the difference.
There isn't a single dish I've tried that I wouldn't order again. Every ingredient feels intentional, every bite perfectly balanced, and every plate reminds you that simple food is often the hardest to master.
My recommendation? Go on a sunny afternoon. Grab a table outside. Order more than you think you need. Pour a glass of Prosecco. Stay awhile.
And if you're looking for an experience beyond dinner, book one of Tortello's intimate pasta-making classes. You'll step behind the pasta counter with a small group, learn how to make handmade pasta from scratch, enjoy a family-style meal, and leave with a box of pasta you made yourself. It's one of the most unique culinary experiences in Chicago.
Because that's the thing about Tortello—you can taste the love behind it.
You can taste the years of practice, the family traditions, the attention to detail, and the pride that goes into every plate. It's the kind of restaurant that reminds you why food is about so much more than eating.
It tells a story.
What's pictured:
🍝 Tortelli — Creamy burrata-filled pasta finished with butter, sage, and toasted hazelnuts.
🍅 Summer Salad — Fresh Roma tomatoes, homemade croutons, and aged balsamic.
🍯 Focaccia with Ricotta & Honey — Warm house-made focaccia topped with creamy ricotta and local honey.
Cora's Tips
🌆 Best Time to Visit: Early evening on a Friday or Saturday. Make a night of it by exploring Wicker Park before or after dinner.
🥂 Perfect For: Date night, dinner with friends, family gatherings, or celebrating a special occasion.
📍 Neighborhood: Wicker Park
⭐ Don't Miss: Watching the pasta being made by hand through the restaurant's pasta windows—or better yet, book one of Tortello's intimate pasta-making classes for a behind-the-scenes experience.
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive hungry and order several dishes to share. The menu is built around timeless Italian classics, and you'll want to save room for more than one pasta.
Aba
@abarestaurant
If I could bottle up everything I love about summer in Chicago, it would probably look a lot like lunch on Aba's patio.
Located in the heart of Fulton Market, Aba has become one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations since opening in 2018. Part of the Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants family, the restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a fresh California influence, creating a menu full of vibrant mezze, grilled meats, fresh seafood, and colorful dishes designed for sharing. As someone who could happily eat Mediterranean food every single day, Aba checks every box for me. Surrounded by olive trees and lush greenery, it's one of my favorite places to spend a summer afternoon in Chicago. The menu, created by Chef Partner CJ Jacobson—a two-time Top Chef competitor and winner of Top Chef Duels—is fresh, flavorful, and exactly what I crave during the warmer months. Every dish feels thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and meant to be shared around the table.
One of the best things about Aba isn't just the restaurant—it's the location. Fulton Market is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. It's one of Chicago's hottest dining districts and always seems to have something new and trendy going on. Make a day out of exploring the neighborhood, then steal my walkable happy hour trail below—
1:00 PM – Lunch at Aba
3:00–6:00 PM - Beatrix
Beatrix Happy Hour – Monday–Friday
4:00–6:00 PM - Costera
Costera Happy Hour – Monday–Friday
5:00–6:30 PM - Lyra
Lyra Golden Hour Menu – Monday–Saturday (Sunday: all day)
4:00–7:00 PM - The Vig (West Loop)
The Vig Happy Hour – Monday–Friday
What's pictured:
🥙 Crispy Short Rib Hummus — Creamy hummus topped with crispy short rib, smoked paprika oil, and fresh herbs.
🧀 Whipped Feta — Creamy whipped feta finished with honey, pistachios, and fresh mint.
🐟 Salmon Poké — Fresh salmon, avocado, sesame, crispy shallots, and chili vinaigrette.
🥩 Moroccan-Spiced Braised Short Rib — Slow-braised short rib seasoned with warm Moroccan spices.
🍗 Chicken Kefta — Herb and spice-seasoned chicken served with house-made tzatziki.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Summer weekday lunch. The patio is one of the best in Fulton Market.
🥂 Perfect For: Girls' day, lunch with friends, date day, and anyone who loves Mediterranean food.
📍 Neighborhood: Fulton Market
⭐ Don't Miss: The rooftop patio and Chef CJ Jacobson's vibrant, shareable Mediterranean menu.
💡 Pro Tip: Turn lunch into a full afternoon in Fulton Market. Follow the happy hour trail above—everything is within walking distance, making it one of my favorite ways to spend a summer day in Chicago.
Canal Street Eatery
@canalstreetchicago
🚨 CHICAGO FOOD DEAL ALERT 🚨
Tucked just outside the hustle and bustle of the West Loop near Union Station, Canal Street Eatery is a modern Italian neighborhood restaurant that's somehow managed to stay under the radar. Every Friday and Saturday, they host Italiano Weekends, where for just $25 you can enjoy unlimited pizza, pasta, and salad. It almost sounds too good to be true...until you try it.
The best part?
The food is actually really good. I love finding restaurants that completely exceed my expectations.
We started with the Burrata topped with frisée, toasted sunflower seeds, and aged balsamic, followed by the Melon & Prosciutto with crispy sherry potato chips and fresh mint. Then came the pasta flight—and let's just say we definitely got our money's worth.
We tried the Creamy Pesto, Cacio e Pepe, Bolognese, and Pomodoro, and honestly, there wasn't a bad one in the bunch. Add in a couple of Espresso Martinis and an Italian Margarita, and it turned into one of those meals where you're already planning your next visit before you've even finished the first one. I love that Canal Street Eatery proves you don't have to spend a fortune to have an incredible meal in Chicago.
What's pictured:
🍝 Pasta Flight — Creamy Pesto, Cacio e Pepe, Bolognese, and Pomodoro.
🧀 Burrata — Creamy burrata with frisée, toasted sunflower seeds, and aged balsamic.
🍈 Melon & Prosciutto — Sweet melon, thinly sliced prosciutto, crispy sherry potato chips, and fresh mint.
🍸 Espresso Martini — Rich, smooth, and the perfect after-dinner pick-me-up.
🍹 Italian Margarita — A refreshing Italian twist on the classic margarita.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Friday for lunch (11 AM–9 PM) or Saturday for dinner (4–9 PM) during Italiano Weekends. Visiting during the week? Stop by for Happy Hour Monday–Friday from 3–6 PM, featuring discounted pizzas, cocktails, wine, and beer.
🥂 Perfect For: Big groups, date nights, birthdays, families, and anyone who appreciates an amazing food deal.
📍 Neighborhood: West Loop (near Union Station)
⭐ Don't Miss: Italiano Weekends—$25 unlimited pizza, pasta, and salad. It's easily one of the best dining deals I've found in Chicago. Link the Italiano Weekends page here.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring at least three people. The more people you have, the more of the menu you can try, and trust me—you'll want to try everything.
Maple & Ash
@mapleandash
If you think steakhouses are only worth visiting after sunset, Maple & Ash is about to change your mind.
Although Maple & Ash has expanded to cities like Scottsdale, Miami, and Boston, it all started right here in Chicago. Since opening its Gold Coast flagship in 2015, it's become one of the city's most celebrated dining destinations, earning a reputation for reinventing the classic steakhouse with bold flavors, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that's equal parts sophisticated and fun.
Every visit I've made has been for lunch, and honestly, I think it's one of Chicago's best-kept midday secrets. That said, after every meal, I leave thinking the same thing—I need to come back for dinner. While the main dining room is stunning, I always request a table on the covered patio. It's tucked just far enough away from the busiest stretch of the Gold Coast that it feels like a little escape from the city without ever being far from the action. Add a cocktail, a table full of shareable plates, and good company, and it's the kind of lunch that effortlessly turns into an afternoon.
Speaking of sharing...that's exactly what I'd recommend.
The whipped feta is a must-order, the crispy tuna rice disappears almost immediately, and the lamb lollipops are packed with flavor. But the biggest surprise for me was the sushi. You don't usually expect to find incredible sushi at a steakhouse, yet the king crab roll ended up being one of my favorite dishes of the meal. Every plate felt thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and worthy of passing around the table.
One thing I love about Maple & Ash is that they know how to make a celebration feel memorable. If you're visiting for a birthday or anniversary, they'll personalize your menu with one of their signature messages—including the famous "Happy Fu@king Birthday" menu that's become part of the restaurant's personality. It's a small touch, but one guests seem to remember long after dessert.
If you're looking for a reason to stop by a little earlier in the day, don't overlook Tower Hour. Offered daily until 6 p.m., it features discounted cocktails, hand rolls, and their signature seafood tower, making it one of the best upscale happy hours in Chicago. View the Tower Hour Menu →
Dinner at Maple & Ash is still on my own Chicago bucket list, but if lunch is any indication, I have no doubt it'll live up to the hype. Until then, I'll happily keep recommending the patio, ordering far too many dishes for the table, and reminding people that one of Chicago's best steakhouses isn't just for dinner.
What's pictured:
🧀 Whipped Feta — Spicy olives, cucumber, and grilled ciabatta.
🐑 Lamb Lollipops — Salsa verde, serrano, and lemon.
🦀 King Crab Roll — Truffle, togarashi aioli, and drawn butter.
🍣 Crispy Tuna Rice — Tuna, avocado, and truffle served over crispy rice.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Lunch on the patio during the warmer months, followed by Tower Hour before 6 p.m.
🥂 Perfect For: Birthdays, anniversaries, girls' lunches, client lunches, celebrations, and date days.
📍 Neighborhood: Gold Coast (also located in Scottsdale, Miami, and Boston).
⭐ Don't Miss: Tower Hour. It's one of Chicago's best upscale happy hours and a great excuse to extend your afternoon. View the Tower Hour Menu →
💡 Pro Tip: Don't sleep on the sushi. It may be a steakhouse, but the King Crab Roll was one of the standout dishes of my entire meal. If the weather is nice, request a table on the covered patio when making your reservation.
Carnivale
@Carnivalechi
Some restaurants serve dinner. Carnivale throws a party.
The moment you walk through the doors, you're surrounded by soaring ceilings, vibrant colors, dramatic artwork, and an energy that's impossible to ignore. Located in Chicago's West Loop, Carnivale has been one of the city's most iconic dining destinations since opening in 2005, and after one visit, it's easy to understand why.
What sets Carnivale apart is that the entertainment doesn't stop at the décor. Throughout the year, the restaurant hosts live samba dancers, Latin-inspired performances, music events, and immersive dining experiences that transform an ordinary dinner into a night out. If you're lucky enough to visit during one of their entertainment nights, don't be surprised when performers appear throughout the dining room and the entire restaurant feels like it's joined the celebration.
Of course, the food holds its own. The menu showcases Latin fusion cuisine inspired by Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, with bold flavors, colorful presentations, and dishes that are just as memorable as the atmosphere. Pair your meal with one of their creative cocktails, and you'll quickly understand why Carnivale has remained a Chicago favorite for birthdays, girls' nights, anniversaries, and celebrations of every kind.
What I love most about Carnivale is that it feels like an experience from the moment you arrive. It's one of those restaurants where everyone is celebrating something, the music is always upbeat, and you can't help but get caught up in the energy. If you're planning a special night in Chicago, this is the kind of place people talk about long after dinner is over.
If you're looking for a quiet dinner, keep scrolling.
If you're looking for one of the most fun dining experiences in Chicago, Carnivale belongs at the top of your list.
What's pictured:
🥩 Ropa Vieja — Braised beef, pickled onions, aji amarillo aioli, queso fresco, and sweet plantains.
🍬 Cotton Candy Martini — Ketel One vodka, Pimm's No. 1, raspberry, lime, and a cloud of cotton candy.
🔥 Gaucho Steak — 16 oz. USDA Prime 45-day dry-aged ribeye served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and chimichurri.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Friday or Saturday evening, especially when live entertainment is scheduled.
🥂 Perfect For: Birthdays, girls' nights, bachelorette parties, anniversaries, group dinners, and anyone looking for a high-energy night out.
📍 Neighborhood: West Loop
⭐ Don't Miss: Check Carnivale's entertainment calendar before booking. Live samba dancers and themed performances take the experience to another level.
💡 Pro Tip: Make a reservation, dress up a little, order a fun cocktail, and lean into the experience. Carnivale isn't just dinner—it's dinner and a show.
Maison Marcel
@maisonmarcelchi
Maison Marcel feels like stepping into a charming Parisian café right in the heart of Chicago. Equal parts bakery, café, and neighborhood gathering spot, it's the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and savor your morning.
Opening bright and early at 7 AM, Maison Marcel is the perfect place to start your day. From the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm, buttery pastries to the thoughtfully crafted breakfast and brunch dishes, every visit feels like a little escape to France. Founded by French restaurateur Xavier "Avi" De Yparraguirre, Maison Marcel was created to bring an authentic French café experience to Chicago, and you can feel that inspiration in every detail—from the warm hospitality to the pastries crafted daily by a French Maître Boulanger (master baker).
While you might see a few seasonal specials pop up throughout the year, the heart of the menu stays true to timeless French favorites. Instead of constantly reinventing itself, Maison Marcel focuses on perfecting the classics—those comforting, authentic dishes you'll find yourself coming back for again and again.
Every dish arrives beautifully plated, turning breakfast into an experience that's just as visually stunning as it is delicious. After one visit, I completely understood why so many people rave about this place. It's become a staple on my Chicago must-visit list, and whether it's your first visit or your fifteenth, you'll always find those French staples you love waiting for you.
What's pictured:
🥖 Big Mama Burrata — Stracciatella cheese, cherry tomatoes, basil, rustic bread, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Easily one of the best burrata dishes I've had in Chicago—the cheese is unbelievably creamy and absolutely perfect.
🍳 French Breakfast — Eggs any style served with a basket of fresh French bread. Simple, classic, and executed flawlessly. Chef's kiss.
🐟 Smoked Salmon Tartine — Smoked salmon, organic country bread, herbed cream cheese, and capers. Fresh, flavorful, and the perfect balance of rich and light.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Early weekday mornings or a leisurely weekend brunch on the patio.
🥐 Perfect For: Brunch with friends, coffee dates, solo mornings with a book, or anyone craving an authentic French café experience.
📍 Neighborhood: Lakeview
⭐ Don't Miss: The pastry case. Even if you come for brunch, leave with a croissant or pastry to enjoy later.
💡 Pro Tip: Don't rush your visit. Order a coffee, linger a little longer than planned, and soak in the atmosphere. It's one of those places that's meant to be enjoyed slowly.
The Brunchery
@brunchonclark
For more than 80 years, The Brunchery (formerly Frances') has been serving breakfast in Chicago, but the story behind the current menu is what makes this place so interesting.
I had no idea Chef Derek Rylon was behind it until after my visit, and suddenly everything made sense. If you've ever been to Batter & Berries, you've already experienced his cooking. He's the chef behind the restaurant's famous French Toast Flight—the dish that helped kick off the brunch flight trend that's now all over Chicago. After leaving Batter & Berries, Chef Rylon took over this longtime Lincoln Park institution, bringing fresh ideas to a restaurant that generations of Chicagoans have loved while still honoring its roots.
Today, the menu offers everything from indulgent French Toast Flights and Eggs Benedict Flights to soul-satisfying comfort food, creative cocktails, and Mimosa Towers that are perfect for celebrating with friends. The bright, colorful dining room is filled with fun brunch-inspired décor, making it just as photo-worthy as the food itself.
What I love most is that The Brunchery doesn't feel like it's trying too hard. It has the comfort and familiarity of a neighborhood breakfast spot, but with a menu that feels fresh, creative, and just plain fun. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, catching up with friends, or simply looking for one of the best brunches in Chicago, it's the kind of place you'll find yourself wanting to come back to.
Something tells me this is going to become one of my Chicago summer traditions.
What's pictured:
🍓 French Toast Flight — Chef Derek Rylon's signature trio of French toast creations with rotating flavors that helped make brunch flights famous in Chicago.
🥂 Mimosa Tower — Perfect for sharing and celebrating with friends over brunch.
🍉 Fresh Fruit — A colorful assortment of seasonal fresh fruit.
🍳 Eggs Benedict Flight — Three creative takes on Eggs Benedict served together so you can sample a little bit of everything.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Weekend brunch with friends or family.
🥂 Perfect For: Girls' brunch, birthdays, celebrations, family gatherings, and anyone who loves a fun, over-the-top brunch experience.
📍 Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
⭐ Don't Miss: The French Toast Flight and Mimosa Tower—they're what put this place on my radar.
💡 Pro Tip: The Brunchery is first come, first served and doesn't take reservations, so arrive early on weekends or be prepared for a wait. Trust me—it's worth it.
Pizzeria Portofino
@pizzeria.portofino
If I had to choose one restaurant to spend a summer afternoon along the Chicago River, Pizzeria Portofino would be at the top of my list.
Nestled directly on the waterfront, this Italian-inspired hotspot from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants combines incredible food, refreshing cocktails, and some of the best views in the city. Inspired by the Italian Riviera and created by James Beard Award-winning Chef Tony Mantuano, it's one of those places that instantly transports you somewhere else the moment you sit down.
What keeps me coming back is that the menu never feels stale. The burrata changes with the seasons, and every version somehow manages to be better than the last. I've enjoyed it topped with fresh summer fruit, seasonal vegetables, and other creative combinations that highlight the freshest ingredients available. It's one of those dishes I order every single visit without even looking at the menu. Hear me out—the thin-crust pizza here is fantastic. Perfectly crisp, loaded with flavor, and paired with house-made sauces that elevate every bite. It's the kind of pizza that disappears from the table much faster than you intended.
The atmosphere is what truly sets Pizzeria Portofino apart. During the warmer months, the floor-to-ceiling windows open completely, creating an airy indoor-outdoor dining experience that feels more like the Italian coast than downtown Chicago. Add in a Mediterranean-inspired cocktail, boats floating by on the river, and a sunset reflecting off the skyline, and you'll quickly understand why this spot has become one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. Whether you're entertaining out-of-town guests, planning a date night, or simply looking for a restaurant that feels like summer, Pizzeria Portofino delivers every time.
What's pictured:
🍓 Imported Burrata & Local Strawberries — Pistachio pesto, aged balsamic, and toasted ciabatta.
🐟 Tuna Tartare — Basil pesto aioli served with toasted ciabatta.
🍕 Charred Pepperoni Pizza — Ezzo pepperoni, mozzarella, Mama Lil's peppers, and Portofino hot honey.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: About an hour before sunset during the spring, summer, or early fall.
🥂 Perfect For: Date night, girls' night, entertaining out-of-town guests, or a leisurely lunch along the river.
📍 Neighborhood: River North / Chicago Riverwalk
⭐ Don't Miss: The seasonal burrata. It changes throughout the year and somehow gets better every time I visit.
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive a little early or stay after your meal to stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. It's one of my favorite ways to end a meal, especially on a warm summer evening.
Formentos
@formentoschi
Hands down, Chicago has one of the best dining scenes in the country, and nowhere is that more obvious than Restaurant Row in the West Loop.
This stretch of Randolph Street is home to some of the city's most iconic restaurants, including Girl & the Goat, Monteverde, Au Cheval, and Formento's. It's one of my favorite neighborhoods to spend an evening because there's always something happening. Whether you're grabbing dinner, hopping between cocktail bars, or making your way through a few appetizers at different spots, it's the kind of place that reminds you why Chicago is such an incredible food city.
Formento's fits right in.
The menu is rooted in classic Italian-American comfort food, with house-made pasta, generous portions, and the kind of dishes that remind you why these recipes have stood the test of time. It was actually where I had veal parmesan for the very first time, and I still think about it. Everything we ordered was excellent, but those roasted potatoes? I honestly don't know what they do to them, but I could've made an entire meal out of those alone.
It's upscale without ever feeling pretentious, making it just as perfect for celebrating an anniversary as it is for catching up with friends over a great bottle of wine.
Formento's is also part of Ballyhoo Hospitality, the same restaurant group behind Trivoli Tavern—another one of my favorite restaurants in the neighborhood. If you're planning a night out, I'd start with dinner at Formento's, then make the short walk over to Trivoli Tavern for one of their incredible cocktails. It's one of my favorite ways to spend an evening in the West Loop.
What's pictured:
🍝 Bucatini — House-made bucatini with freshly grated Parmesan.
🥩 New York Strip — A beautifully cooked New York strip served with classic steakhouse accompaniments.
🥔 Roasted Potatoes — Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and one of the most memorable sides on the table.
🍅 Veal Parmesan — Crispy breaded veal topped with house-made tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Sunday Dinner, after exploring the West Loop.
🥂 Perfect For: Date night, anniversaries, family dinners, business dinners, or celebrating a special occasion.
📍 Neighborhood: West Loop (Restaurant Row)
⭐ Don't Miss: The house-made pasta and classic Italian-American dishes that have made Formento's a neighborhood favorite.
💡 Pro Tip: After dinner, take the short walk to Trivoli Tavern for a cocktail or dessert. It's one of my favorite ways to end a night in the West Loop.
Girl & the Goat
@girl.and.the.goat
If you're planning a trip to Chicago and only have time for one Stephanie Izard restaurant, make it Girl & the Goat.
After becoming the first woman to win Bravo's Top Chef, Stephanie Izard helped put Chicago's modern dining scene on the national stage. She opened Girl & the Goat in the West Loop in 2010, and more than 15 years later, it's still one of the best reservations to have in the city. Since then, she's expanded her Chicago restaurant family with Little Goat Diner in Lakeview, Duck Duck Goat in the West Loop, and Cabra, her Peruvian-inspired rooftop overlooking Fulton Market. I've had the chance to visit both Girl & the Goat and Little Goat Diner, and after those experiences, Cabra and Duck Duck Goat have definitely earned a spot on my Chicago bucket list.
One thing I love about Stephanie's restaurants is that they're anything but ordinary. Her menus are bold, creative, and full of unexpected flavor combinations that somehow just work. If you're looking for traditional pancakes and eggs Benedict, this probably isn't the place. But if you love trying new things and aren't afraid to order outside your comfort zone, Girl & the Goat is absolutely worth the reservation.
I visited for Sunday brunch, and every dish completely exceeded my expectations. The Sourdough Waffle was easily one of the most photo-worthy waffles I've ever seen—and yes, it tasted every bit as good as it looked. The Pork Belly Noodle stole the show for me. Between the jammy egg, grilled pineapple, chili crunch, and pickled vegetables, every bite was packed with flavor. We also ordered the Roasted Pig Face with a sunny-side-up egg, crispy potato sticks, and maple gastrique. It was fantastic, although if I went back, I'd probably branch out and order something different simply because it was a little too similar to the pork belly noodles.
Honestly, that's the fun of dining here. The menu is filled with dishes you won't find at your average brunch spot, making every visit an opportunity to try something new. Next time, I've already got my eye on the Potato Crêpe and the Crispy Thai Fried Egg Salad.
What's pictured:
🧇 Sourdough Waffle — Seasonal fruit, crème fraîche, and toasted sesame.
🍜 Pork Belly Noodle — Jammy egg, grilled pineapple, chili crunch, and pickled vegetables.
🐷 Roasted Pig Face — Sunny-side-up egg, crispy potato sticks, tamarind, and maple gastrique.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Sunday brunch.
🥂 Perfect For: Foodies, brunch with friends, and anyone who loves trying something new.
📍 Neighborhood: West Loop
⭐ Don't Miss: The Pork Belly Noodle. I'd order it again in a heartbeat.
💡 Pro Tip: Don't come here expecting a traditional brunch. Skip the safe choices, order a few dishes to share, and trust Chef Stephanie Izard to surprise you.
Quartino
@quartinochicago
If your group chat can never decide where to eat, send them to Quartino. Because Italian tapas has never failed me.
One of the reasons Quartino has been a Chicago favorite since opening in 2005 is because there's truly something for everyone. Part of the Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants family, the menu is built around sharing, making it nearly impossible for anyone at the table to leave unhappy. Fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, house-made salumi, roasted meats, salads, endless wine options—it's the kind of place where the table is completely covered in plates within twenty minutes of sitting down.
The energy here is half the experience. The dining room is loud, bustling, and packed with people passing around dishes, pouring another glass of wine, and deciding what to order next. It feels like you've stumbled into a big Italian family dinner rather than a restaurant.
In fact, if you're looking for a quiet, romantic dinner, this probably isn't your place.
If you're looking for fun, however, you're going to love it.
Wine lovers should come prepared. Quartino's wine list is extensive, with plenty of options available by the glass, bottle, or quartino—a quarter-liter pour that's actually where the restaurant gets its name. It's one of my favorite places in Chicago to split a few bottles (or quartinos!), order way too much food, and spend hours catching up with friends.
My advice? Bring at least four people, order more food than you think you need, and don't rush. Some of the best meals in Chicago happen around crowded tables, and Quartino has absolutely perfected that experience.
What's pictured:
🍇 Charcuterie Board — A selection of imported meats, cheeses, olives, and accompaniments perfect for sharing.
🧀 Burrata — Creamy imported burrata served with seasonal accompaniments and grilled bread.
🍝 Signature Alfredo — Fresh pasta tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce.
Cora's Tips
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Weekday evenings or weekend lunch if you want a little less of a wait.
🥂 Perfect For: Large groups, birthdays, family dinners, double dates, girls' night, and anyone who struggles to choose just one dish.
📍 Neighborhood: River North
⭐ Don't Miss: Ordering wine by the quartino and building your meal around several shareable dishes.
💡 Pro Tip: The larger your group, the better the experience. Order everything for the table and plan on leftovers—you'll thank me later.
🍴 Chow Down Chi-Town by the Numbers
Because apparently I have a type...
🍽️ Restaurants Featured: 11
🍝 Pasta Dishes Consumed: 20+
🧀 Burrata Dishes Ordered: 6 (and counting...)
🍸 Espresso Martinis Ordered: Enough that I should probably switch to water.
🥂 Happy Hours Recommended: 7
🌇 Chicago Neighborhoods Explored: 7
🫒 Appetizers Ordered Before Entrées: ...Let's just say I don't believe in skipping straight to the main course.
🤎 Things I've Learned About Myself While Eating My Way Through Chicago
✔️ I will order burrata if it's on the menu.
✔️ I firmly believe appetizers deserve their own food group.
✔️ I'm a sucker for a great patio.
✔️ I can always be convinced to split "just one more pasta."
✔️ I'll happily walk 20 minutes for a good meal.
✔️ If there's an Espresso Martini on the menu...there's about a 95% chance I'm ordering it.
✔️ Some of my favorite travel memories started with, "Let's just grab a quick bite."
🏆 Cora's Current Chicago Favorites
🌿 Best Patio: Pizzeria Portofino
🍝 Best Pasta: Tortello
🍕 Best Pizza: Giordano’s
🥩 Best Steakhouse: Maple & Ash
🥂 Best Celebration Spot: Carnivale
💰 Best Bang for Your Buck: Canal Street Eatery
👯 Best for Groups: Quartino
🍳 Best Brunch: Girl & the Goat
🥐 Best Breakfast: The Brunchery
❤️ Most Romantic: Formentos
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