by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Drinks, Top 10 Restaurants
From the hustle and bustle in the city of Chicago, we all need a little caffeine to keep us going. From an extra perk to get us through the day, to a latte to warm us up, to using a coffee shop as a get-a-way from our normal routine. These are the top Chicago coffee...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Airports can sometimes feel more like a prison than a gateway to the world. Time spent between flights should be well used rather than abused. This list compiles some of the best O’Hare restaurants to spend your time, indulge in some food, and refresh with a drink....
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 | Entertainment, Events, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
The time is upon us once again! It is bittersweet. One of the biggest games of the season, accompanied by copious amounts of food, alcohol and people screaming while wearing ridiculous colored jerseys. I.love.it. Chicago Super Bowl festivities take over the city we...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Chinese restaurants are gems hidden in plain view. Every once in awhile I get a craving so hard that I must go find some fluffy steamed rice, chicken, and soy sauce. When that utter desire hits you next, and only Chinese food can suppress the feeling, these ten...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago Mexican breakfast options are a welcome change to the traditional fifteen stack of pancakes and twelve-egg omelets that are large enough that you could wrap yourself in it. The primary reason to crave south of the border before noon is chilaquiles. ‘What are...
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, Top 10 Restaurants
As with many things in Chicago– people have very strong opinions about their favorite teams, music and food. Italian beef has become a staple in Chicago. I still remember my first– it was homemade and completely soaked through the bun with all of the hot goodness...
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, Jefferson Park, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago’s northwest side is rich in heritage and loaded with flavor. Many Jefferson Park restaurants embrace the Polish side of the community, but you can find quality cuisine from all nationalities in the area. With a true neighborhood feel, many of these restaurants...
by Chicago Traveler | Holiday Specials, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
Ahh, the green season is upon us once again. St Patrick’s Day is one of Chicago’s most dear holidays. Everyone becomes Irish for a week and enough whiskey is taken back to make John Jameson proud. The river flows green, as well as the beer. Corned-Beef is not in short...
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 | Top 10 Restaurants
Going out to dinner is always better when your best friend is with you. Whether it is a family dinner to bond or casual friends dinner to catch-up, it is not complete without your furry companion laying at your feet. No more must they remain at home–these dog friendly...
by Chicago Traveler | Top 10 Restaurants
There was once a time when people went to coffee shops either alone to decompress or to meet up with friends to converse over caffeine– think Central Perk coffee shop from the show friends. Now people tend to visit coffee shops to sit on their computers, tablets or...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Entertainment, Top 10 Restaurants
These Chicago food challenges are pretty intense. They evoke the feelings of excitement, jealousy, anxiousness, confidence, doubt, competitiveness. There is something uniquely satisfying about being able to finish a dish that was created with the notion in mind that...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Neighborhoods, Suburbs, Top 10 Restaurants
If you live in the city and love Japanese and Korean food, you may consider visiting the northwest suburbs. Many Japanese and Korean companies have made Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates their North American Headquarters. As a result, neighboring suburbs have a large...
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, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago was once known as one of the bacon capitals of the world. Back in the day, much of the pork in the U.S. of A. came from Chicago. Maybe that is one of the reasons that bacon bars exist in this land– a homage to the yesteryears. Or, maybe I need to stop being...
by Chicago Traveler | Events, Holiday Specials, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
St Patrick’s Day is a very relevant holiday in Chicago– being the deep rooted Irish community that resides in the city. It is seen by many as a time to wear green or fear being hurt, stuff your face with brats and beef and probably end up blacking-out and waking up...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, The Lists, Top 10 Restaurants
Italian food is easily the most popular style for Chicago restaurants. With so many different options, it can be hard to choose. You’ll find everything from restaurants with modern, cutting-edge d’cor to small, quiet discoveries that feel straight out of...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Some of Chicago’s best food can be found in ‘ma & pa’ restaurants and even on the sidewalk. To make your evening of dining out a true experience, a magnificent view of Chicago’s skyline is almost a must. These Chicago restaurants should be on everyone’s...
by Chicago Traveler | Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago may be known for its famous deep dish pizza and Chicago style hot dogs – but now it is time for the donut world to receive its praise. From the traditional buttermilk, to maple bacon, and banana Nutella infused creations – your taste buds will dance with every...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Juicing is a great and easy way to obtain your daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Avoid the shops that load their drinks with sugar – the best juice bar Chicago offers can be found at any one of these locations. Juice Bar Chicago Guide: Vegetarian Express – $...
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, 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 | Neighborhoods, Top 10 Restaurants
Madison Street, which runs thru Oak Park and Forest Park, is full of boutiques, antiques, restaurants, bars and anything else under the sun. With the holidays coming up, this street is a festive place to do your holiday shopping, and eat some fabulous food. Their...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago is known for many things: towering skyscrapers, gorgeous lakefront, Al Capone, sometimes questionable politicians, and of course, food. Chicago offers some of the best eats in the country, especially when it comes to pizza. There s no other place in the world...
by Chicago Traveler | Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
Nothing combats the cold bite of a winter wind better than huddling around a fireplace. Fortunately, there are a plethora of bars and restaurants with fireplaces Chicago warms up at. These venues range from very upscale eateries and lounges, to very laid back bars...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago is full of great spots to eat, and when we sat down to make this list, we knew it could draw some controversy. In fact it did among the staff here – but we powered through and came up with these as a consortium. This is a general list of a variety of types of...
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 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...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
There is just something about dining at the food trucks in Chicago that makes this sidewalk dining experience so enjoyable. Maybe it’s a sense of rebellion against sit-down restaurants, maybe it’s quality fast-food service, maybe it’s taking advantage of the...
by Chicago Traveler | Top 10 Restaurants
Coffee is the equivalent to an adrenaline shot for the eyes and more importantly, mind. Chicago is a hard working community and some days that need for a little extra boost is more than others. After really digging into the coffee shops Chicago has, you will realize...
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
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, 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 | Family, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago may be known for its very high-end dining experiences– but that isn’t necessarily the best situation for everyone. In fact, some ritzy locations don’t even allow babies and/or children. Fortunately, for the ones that want to skip the babysitter and treat the...
by Chicago Traveler | Holiday Specials, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 Restaurants
The atmosphere of the Christmas season is truly something special. Finding your way into a holiday decorated venue can completely turn your day around. Kick out the Scrooge and embrace phenomenal food and fantastic festive surroundings. Ann Sather 909 West Belmont...
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, Top 10 Restaurants
Chicago vegetarian restaurants offer many forms of cuisine– from takes on meat dishes to full blown Mexican food and so much more in-between. Being a vegetarian doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor and only eating celery– which seems to be a common misconception. In fact,...
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 | Entertainment, General Information, Top 10 Bars, Top 10 in Entertainment, Top 10 Restaurants, Top Ten
I have a soft spot for live trivia. It’s something that my brother and I try to do on a weekly basis- sometimes as teammates, sometimes foes to see who has to buy the round. With busy schedules, it doesn’t always line up on the same day every week. Fortunately, every...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Going out to eat should be an experience, something that you can make a night of. Small plates of gourmet dishes eaten amongst friends is the perfect reason to check out these tapas Chicago venues. Tapas Valencia Tapas Valencia is an award winning Spanish tapas venue...
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 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
Wings are a sacred meal. They are messy, delicious, mainly eaten with friends and beer, and taste even better when sports are streaming across the screen. If you are going to support your favorite teams, then also support your tastebuds by letting them indulge in the...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
Eating breakfast pizza in Chicago does not have to mean cold deep dish from the night before or even ordering a deep dish before noon. Eating pizza for breakfast means that you’ll be taking in a deliciousness of ingredients that are reminiscent of a hearty,...
by Chicago Traveler | Chicago Eats, Top 10 Restaurants
*This list appears to be a constant work in progress, which is actually perfect! We have been contacted a couple times to have places added to this list. It is great to see that people are passionate about these types of restaurants and will take the time to make sure...
by Chicago Traveler | Top 10 Restaurants
These restaurants near O Hare airport and Rosemont are a short car drive. If you have a layover or are staying a few days and want to experience some great and unique food, then these places will not disappoint. AGOSTINO GUSTOFINO 2817 N Harlem Ave, Chicago, IL 60707...
