by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
When you think about Chicago food, it s typical for the mind to conjure images of deep-dish (and thin crust) pizzas, hotdogs, and all ranges of Italian fare probably not barbeque. But believe it or not Chicago is knee-deep in a full out Barbeque renaissance these...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Events
Farmers Market season is taking full swing. Produce is growing nicely and the sun is making its appearance more often to give you that much needed dosage of vitamin D and happiness. These markets provide you with a great alternative to supermarket shopping and their...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Chicago Eats, Entertainment, Events, Holiday Specials
Holidays in the city are nothing short of pure entertainment’ that of course includes a Chicago 4th of July weekend! Celebrate this grand country’s independence at any (or all) of these locations around Chicago. Whether you are looking to eat and drink inside or...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Sandwiches are the quintessential lunch food. They were designed to be eaten on the go, and while that still may be the case, there are some sandwich shoppes in Chicago’s Loop that will make you want to sit down and indulge in each and every bite. There are varieties...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Lakeview, Reviews
The last time I was at the Stretch, I was in pursuit of their award-winning Cortland Street Burger and walked away with a very happy stomach. I made a return trip to the Wrigleyville sports bar and grille to sample their new spring menu—launching March 12—created by...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Entertainment
The search for the best chicken wing is a never ending journey for wing connoisseurs. Once you think, for that brief second, that you have found the best wings and your appetite is suddenly satisfied in each and every way you are wrong. With the sudden realization...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
This is a sign– a sign of everything great to come the next handful of months. Sitting outside on a patio just makes food taste better and beer more refreshing. While a few locations are still a few weeks out from opening, others have embraced the weather and opened...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Lincoln Park, Reviews
While fun in concept, build-your-own burger places like Meatheads or Five Guys have always left me feeling a little let down. Either the toppings are good but the meat hovers around McDonald’s quality, or the toppings are pretty basic. Lincoln Park’s Butcher &...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Chicago Eats, Events
Super Bowl is always a bittersweet event. The entirety of a season’s battles, trash talking and celebrations come down to this very day. It can be joyous, even if your team isn’t in the running for World Champions. It’s the perfect day for camaraderie. On the flip...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Chicago Eats, Reviews, River North
Open since 2012, Municipal Bar + Dining Co is a sports bar and restaurant located in Chicago’s River North, not far from Merchandise Mart. While the area already has its share of sports bars, Municipal is a bit more upscale than its rivals, quite spacious, and does...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews, Wicker Park
During a recent trip to New York City, I walked by multiple meatball-focused restaurants and now Mondo Meatball has come to Chicago’s Wicker Park. Are we in the midst of a meatball revolution? These are not just your classic Italian meatballs, either. Mondo...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Restaurants, Reviews, River North
The red Weber Grill has been a staple of American backyards since the 1950s, but you may not be aware that the iconic kettle was born right here in Chicago. In 1952, George Stephen Sr. was a part-owner of the Weber Metal Works in Chicago crafting marine buoys....
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, General Information
I most certainly would not consider myself to be a master when it comes to grilling– but I do know a thing or two about cooking in the kitchen. This easily translates to cooking on the grill. Essentially everything that you can fry or bake can also be grilled– even...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Restaurants, Reviews, The Loop
It’s noon and time for lunch. You’ve really got a craving for Antique Taco, but there’s definitely not enough time to go to Wicker Park and back on your meager lunch break. I guess you’ll have to settle for Taco Bell again… If this is the sad existence you’ve led as a...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Naperville, Reviews, Suburbs
Whenever I find myself in Naperville, Jackson Avenue Pub seems to be my go to spot (followed by Quigley’s Irish Pub). The atmosphere is pretty low-key and their food is spot on– especially if you have burgers on your mind. Atmosphere The interior of Jackson Avenue Pub...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Chicago Eats, Near West Side, Reviews, West Loop
Up a secretive set of stairs at Little Goat, the casual sibling restaurant of Girl & the Goat, lies a gorgeous private dining space featuring a sleek, modern kitchen, a homey and bright dining area, accompanied by a rooftop area with a gorgeous view of the...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Sitting down at a restaurant is not always the most convenient way to grab a bite to eat and fast food is not always appetizing. Chicago food trucks roam throughout the city to offer a welcome change to the normal food options. Beware, once you find a truck that you...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews, Suburbs
I found myself in Naperville on perhaps the most sacred day of the week– Taco Tuesday. With no lunch plans, my own two feet for transportation, a craving for tacos and wide eyes– I spotted the On The Border Naperville location just down the road. This Tex-Mex...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago is known for its famous pizza creations; because of this there are extensive amounts of options. There really is no time to give to eating bad pizza when there are some many taste bud exploding options out there! Follow this list and you will experience some...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Lakeview, Reviews
Located in Lakeview’s Southport Corridor, Southport & Irving (SIP) is a classy yet relaxed cocktail bar and restaurant taking inspiration from the days of speakeasies and jazz clubs giving it the feeling it’s been around since the days of Capone and Machine Gun...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Poutine Chicago options are beginning to expand, from the traditional ways that originated in Canada, to some of the most exquisite ways that you could ever imagine eating fries, cheese-curds, and gravy. When eggs, brisket, pulled pork, or even prime rib are added...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
Mondays seem to be one of the most hated things that have ever existed. Rather than despised, they should be celebrated. Set the mood for the rest of the work week by going out and enjoying these Monday specials Chicago provides to its good patrons. From here on out...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Restaurants, Reviews, South Loop
Walking into Belly Up, you’ll be astounded by how surprisingly huge it is. The restaurant is very long and has these really high ceilings. The vibe is Chicago warehouse industrial with lots of brick, exposed fixtures, and wood ceiling beams with some subtle cowboy...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago is known for its incredible food, but that recognition doesn’t just come from the Windy City’s many fine dining establishments. In fact, some of Chicago’s most memorable food can be found at locally owned and operated hot dog stands. For the perfect lunch or...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews, South Loop
Chop Steakhouse is the First Restaurant at the South Loop’s Roosevelt Collection •Chop Steakhouse Opened July 15, 2015• The Roosevelt Collection is a combination of newer high-end apartments in the South Loop, along with a large shopping area. Despite the gorgeous...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews, Wicker Park
Division Street in Wicker Park is rich in bar food, but if you just want a quick bite on your way home from work your options are pretty limited and pretty greasy. Thankfully, there’s MAK: Modern Asian Kitchen. MAK is a fast casual, counter-service restaurant...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Chicago Eats, Entertainment, Reviews
Wandering through the boutiques that make up LuxeHome (website), on the first floor of Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, you didn’t know what you’d find. Tucked away in model bathrooms, kitchens with Wi-Fi ready refrigerators, and next to paint...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
It seems like, more often than not, when I go out for the night with a group, we end up starting dinner with a heaping plate of nachos. They really are the perfect way to feed a small army if you aren’t counting your calories. That is why we set out to find the best...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, The Lists, Top 10 Restaurants
Orson Welles once drunkenly stumbled through a television commercial extolling the virtues of Paul Masson’s California champagne inspired by the same excellence that goes into crafting French champagne. Likewise, Chicago may not be Paris, but there are still...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Restaurants, Reviews, West Loop
Part of the Fifty/50 Group— and located right next door to sibling restaurants Roots and Homestead— West Town Bakery & Diner looks like your favorite college town hangout. Walk in and you’ll notice the eye-popping street art and graffiti, colorful seats and...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Restaurants, Reviews, West Town
As if Restaurant Row wasn’t already a foodies dream come true, the West Loop’s dining scene continues to grow and expand beyond the confines of Randolph. Head just a little bit south of Randolph to 1045 W. Madison Street and you’ll find the Mad Boiler, a Cajun seafood...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Restaurants, Reviews, The Loop
Chicago’s the Fifty/50 Group has so far been known for their eclecticism with restaurants ranging from the namesake sports bar to Roots Handmade Pizza to craft cocktail lounges like the Berkshire Room. With the recent opening of Steadfast in the Loop’s business...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Holiday Specials
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Chicago typically brings thoughts of satisfying tacos and gulping down margaritas, which is a great start. In addition to the traditional celebration dishes that many of us are accustom to, you can also indulge in American cuisine that has...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Finding a place to eat late at night can sometimes be a struggle. With a growling stomach, all you really want is some food and your bed. These are some of the best late night restaurants Chicago stumbles to; the diverse offerings should please anyone. Five Faces Ice...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
There are a lot of secrets in the dining world, but one of the most well-kept secrets are culinary school restaurants. Since Chicago is a big dining town, there are many. If you are looking to have a Chicago fine dining experience on a budget, these places would fit...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Holiday Specials, Top 10 Restaurants
The holidays are meant to bring everyone together– but not everyone fancies meeting in the kitchen. There are many choices for Christmas restaurants around Chicago, along with Christmas Eve choices. There is a chance that your favorite venue may be open, but here are...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Chicago Eats, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
Going out for a night on the town is what most people look forward to all week. The only thing better than that is a night out above the town! Chicago’s summer weather should be enjoyed to the fullest while it is around. Outdoor seating with a skyline view can really...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Sometimes being unrestricted is much needed. The buffets in Chicago aim to lift limitations and let you choose your own boundaries. Buffets do not always have to be traditional style, as you will see, some of the buffets in Chicago are quite exquisite with their...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Let’s face it, whether it’s an early morning breakfast, or brunch after an evening out, there’s nothing more fun than hitting a great spot in Chicago for breakfast or brunch. With lots of great places to chose from, we compiled a list that we know...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Good ole’ Southern cooking has blessed our palates with many unique and favorite dishes? but one of the very most cherished dishes is the simple Chicken and Waffles combination. There is just something about the soft, yet crunchy experience of a waffle matched up with...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Logan Square, Reviews
Burgers are one of America’s favorite comfort foods. Many of us have fond memories of going to the local burger joint with our parents and friends and enjoying some greasy goodness. For a lot of Chicago’s Southside residents, that burger joint was Grant’s Wonderburger...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Events, Holiday Specials, Top 10 Restaurants
St.Patrick’s Day in Chicago is kind of a big deal. The city turns into one giant party and the river turns green. With a rich history of Ireland embedded into the city– everyone can feel a little Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Even though the actual holiday isn’t until...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Events, Suburbs
Typically, when you want to indulge in some tasty food trucks you have to run all over Chicago. It’s like a giant scavenger hunt. Truckin’ Around has changed that. No more must you run amuck through the street looking for that late night treat. Actually, that is a...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews
The General, in Logan Square, is a hot spot for craft beer and satisfying food. Their focus is on soul food and artisan tacos– which is a mighty fine combination if you ask me. Their daily special is really one of the best in Chicago. For $8ºº you can have yourself...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Pho is somewhat of a miracle in a bowl. It has this way of bringing comfort into your life when you didn’t even know that you needed to be comforted. If you happen to find yourself sick or a little hungover, Pho can speed up the healing process. Whether you are...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, The Lists, Top 10 Recreation, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago is a city known for its culinary diversity, but trying to experience it all can be overwhelming and expensive. Food tours offer a great way to experience the city, and there are a lot of them available throughout our great city. Guided tours will take you...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
If you’ve got a taste for raw fish and the many ways it can be prepared, you may be interested to know which the top sushi places in Chicago are. Each has its own unique décor and personality. They’re about as different from each other as night from day, but Sushi...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews, Wrigleyville
The idea of going to a Wrigleyville bar could either be the greatest or worst thing every depending on who you are. If that is your scene, there’s certainly no shortage of places to choose from to watch the game, grab some lunch, or have a boozy weekend. Located just...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Reviews
An egg sandwich at brunch can be a wonderful thing; however, when you’re in the rush before work it always seems like your only option is to run into McDonalds or Starbucks. Eastman Egg Company is out to change that. They started with the idea that you can get an...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Known for some of the finest establishments when it comes to dining out, Chicago is one of the best restaurant cities in the world. Some may say Chicago’s claim to fame is the deep-dish pizza, but make no mistake, when it comes to steak, the Windy City knows how...
