Best Restaurants, Must Try Places in Downtown Chicago

"Alinea is Chicago’s only three-star Michelin restaurant, but sister restaurants Next and Roister each have a star of their own (and offer takeout); the Alinea Group is the most decorated restaurant group in the city. Founded in 2005 by Chef Grant Achatz and Tock creator Nick Kokonas, Alinea is more of an immersive flavor experience than a conventional restaurant. Which makes it all the more impressive that they have translated their food-art into a take out format."

"Believe the hype and secure tickets—yes, tickets—well in advance. Chicago's most exciting restaurant demands an adventurous spirit and a serious...Read More"

"West LoopWhen this West Loop pioneer opened back in 2003, the elegant yet approachable eatery quickly made a name for itself thanks to sleek communal tables, a forward-thinking wine list, and, most importantly, the juiciest medjool date dish the Midwest had ever encountered. Plump dates undergo the full hog treatment here, plied with spiced chorizo sausage before being wrapped in a thick slab of bacon, fired until crisp and crackling, and doused in a warm piquillo pepper tomato sauce that practically demands a hunk of good, freshly baked bread. Don’t think, just order.How to book: Reserve via Tock or order take-out and delivery via DoorDash, GrubHub, and Caviar."

"Go to this Euro-style wine bar when you're feeling gregarious; the rather stark space has seating for only 48 people, and it's a tight fit....Read More"

"Stationed in the Gold Coast, The Little Beet Table is an entirely gluten-free establishment, with a mostly vegetable-friendly menu. Choose from sunflower hummus sprinkled with za’atar and ready to be scooped up with vegetable crudité, or opt for cauliflower and mushroom tacos, stuffed with black beans and avocado. The airy, sun-drenched space offers a not-to-be-missed happy hour, where everything from snacks to cocktails and wine is $7."

"The Little Beet Table has locations in both New York City and Chicago. This hot spot in Chicago’s Gold Coast sets the stage for a great night after work or while exploring the city. The menu includes great dishes like sunflower hummus, baby kale salad, mushroom and black bean burger, charred cauliflower, rigatoni and cauliflower and mushroom tacos."

"This New York import strives for healthy, gluten-free choices that center on vegetables. Instead of a traditional chickpea hummus, Little Beet Table makes its version with cauliflower and dresses it with sorghum, seeds, red onion, and dill."

"Though the Northwest Side has since become the center of the community, Division Street near Wicker Park was once known as “Polish Broadway” with numerous businesses surrounding the strip. One of the last reminders of that past life is Podhlanka, which stands across the street from the Polish Triangle, where Ashland, Milwuakee, and Division cross. Pierogi, borsht, and other classics are served at this warm dive known for affordable meals."

"Matcha lovers now have a dedicated cafe to satisfy their cravings. Housed inside Squeez Juice Bar, Matchacita creates all kinds of hot and cold green tea beverages, including a “Purple Haze” latte (CBD, lavender, matcha, oat milk), a charcoal matcha latte, and a matcha horchata. They’re paired with brunch-y foods like waffles, toasts, and smoothie bowls."

"Kung Fu Tea has an impressive range of bubble tea flavors to choose from. Their tapioca pearls are cooked to perfection and give the bubble tea a perfect texture. The boba is soft, not too sweet and has a good consistency."

"Located in the Chinatown district of Chicago, you’ll find a few boba or bubble tea places. One of them being Kung Fu Tea. We’re sure you’re familiar with this spot already though."

"Specializes in made-to-order tea, milk & fruit-based beverages. Offers a wide selection of drink toppings including bubbles, beans, jellies & pudding."

"If you’re looking for fresh comedy or considering doing a 5-minute set yourself, the Gallery Cabaret is perfect for you. Located in Bucktown, just north of downtown, the Gallery Cabaret is a fun dive bar with comedy open-mic nights. They offer decent food, great cocktails, beer, and everything you need for making the nightlife in Chicago fun for you and your friends."