Best Restaurants, Must Try Places in Forest Park

"Though Chicago is a city that prides itself on tradition, it is also a city that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. Enter Alinea, a Michelin-starred restaurant that has consistently been named one of the Top 50 restaurants in the world. Since its opening, Alinea has redefined what fine-dining can be and nothing exemplifies that better than its edible balloon made from green apple taffy."

"This long-time West Loop favorite is a pioneer in the business-oriented district, drawing crowds with vibrant Mediterranean cuisine. Small and large plates almost demand ordering extra, just to sample as many flavors as possible. Roasted skate wing is exemplary of the kitchen's finesse with seafood, while memories of chorizo-stuffed medjool dates will keep you up at night."

"There are now two Avecs - the original in the West Loop, and a newer (much larger) River North location. They have almost identical menus, but the classic Avec is our favorite, mainly because we’ve had so many incredible meals there. The Mediterranean small plates here are consistently delicious, so order whatever sounds good to you."

"For those of you who prefer fine dining, this is more of an upscale restaurant experience. Blackbird is a restaurant where you’ll find fantastic mid-western food showcasing farm-to-table ingredients. They offer great choices for meat eaters and vegetarians alike."

"Topo Gigio embodies everything that comes with excellent Italian food, comfort, hominess, and of course, romance. But during the warmer months in Old Town, Chicago, Topo Gigio becomes the best casual date spot in the neighborhood. With outdoor seating right on N Wells Street, you really get a sense of the neighborhood, the people laughing as they go to and from shows, the sweaty athletes heading to their favorite pub after a hard fought victory, and everyone else in between."

"Located on North Wells Street, Topo Gigio is a favorite amongst those who favor Tuscan-style cuisine. This Old Town restaurant has traditional Italian charm, and the menu offers something for everyone. Some examples of the dishes on the menu include eggplant parmesan, baked clams, veal chops, and traditional tiramisu."

"Residing comfortably along the riverfront is this relaxed American hotspot. If you’re looking for a Chicago restaurant with a view to bring a date, this destination offers a beautiful upward perspective of the buildings across the water. It’s easy to get a pleasant kind of vertigo from checking out all of the surrounding architecture."

"Restaurants American River North. No matter the season, this sweet riverfront restaurant offers unparalleled views of the city. Come summer, a narrow patio along the water gives guests an eyeful of the Riverwalk and the surrounding skyscrapers."

"There are endless bold flavors at this Bucktown restaurant, known for its clever spin on Korean staples. Begin with the jap chae, a sweet potato noodle stir fry topped with vegetables and beef, then dig into a bibim-bap bowl full of veggies and protein. Don’t forget to try the tacos, too, which are served on flaky paratha bread with kimchi and sesame, an approach that’s far from traditional."

"A conversation about perfect patios in Logan Square isn’t valid until Boiler Room enters the discussion. Pizza by the slice and boozy ice cream cones make for the perfect Sunday (or Monday or Tuesday or Wednesday….) funday."

"The heated, covered patio at this Logan Square restaurant is decorated with string lights and leafy plants for an enchanting effect. When it gets cold, a gas-powered fireplace will keep things toasty."

"Set 6 floors up at The Peninsula Chicago, above Michigan Avenue, Z Bar is an upscale, refined and internationally inspired rooftop bar, offering amazing views over the central parts of Chicago. Out on the comfy and luxurious outdoor terrace you can indulge in both globally inspired cocktails and tasty bites, all served in a sophisticated yet lively and upbeat lounge atmosphere. Z Bar also offers a monthly 'Wanderlust Cocktail Class', if you want to deep-dive into the making of perfectly crafted cocktails."

"It’s easy to feel instantly important upon entering Z Bar, a new upscale lounge in the Peninsula Hotel. Stroll through the foyer to discover several scenic murals depicting Chicago’s iconic bascule bridges and a dramatic bean-shaped skylight, along with ample portraits of pugs—a playful homage to manager Maria Zec’s fondness for canines. Head outside to check out the sweeping city skylines, then retreat inside to the rooftop’s focal point: a large, oval-shaped bar, where an ace beverage team awaits."

"DMK goes beyond the burger with clever updates to the classic. Top grass-fed patties with Reuben ingredients — pastrami, sauerkraut and cheese — or New Mexico's Hatch green chilies and smoked bacon. The restaurant can also swap out the beef patty for alternative fillings."

"A lucky charms shake in March, a donut one for national donut day – DMK Burger Bar’s shakes are always creative and tasty. Plus, you now have an excuse to go at least once a month."

"A post shared by Insomnia Cookies (@insomniacookies) on Jul 17, 2019 at 12:04pm PDT. If even picking up cookies is low on your to-do list, Insomnia Cookies comes to the rescue. This chain specializes in late-night cookie delivery (yes, you read that right), including sugar cookies, double chocolate mint cookies and drool-worthy smores cookies."

"Insomnia cookies are next on this list of the best desserts in Chicago. Cookies are the perfect addition to any day, so why not stop by Insomnia Cookies for an ice cream sandwich fix?. Unlike some other joints that offer ice cream sandwiches, Insomnia Cookies lets you customize your treat every step of the way!"

"6 locations in and near the city; Online: insomniacookies.com. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Defloured Bakery (@deflouredbakery) on Aug 4, 2019 at 8:26am PDT"

"You can probably already tell that we love our cupcakes here in Chicago. More Cupcakes is known for their upscale environment and minimalist display. Stop by for delicious cupcakes with unique toppings."

"The Burnham Wildlife Corridor is a 100-acre area of urban wilderness running through Burnham Park. There is a bird sanctuary, a bioretention basin, nature paths, and a centennial prairie. Native prairie grasses, savanna, and woodland ecosystems create the largest natural area along the lakefront, according to the park district."