21 Best Places to Eat in Chicago in 2023 (Foodie Guide)

Despite the reputation for calorie-ridden, deep-dish pizza, the Chicago food scene is really quite varied and surprising. Expect tasty brunch, lunch, dinner, small brews, farm-to-table, international cuisine, and off-the-beaten-track places to eat in Chicago.

I’ve been to Chicago many times with my husband and friends and always enjoy what I eat — and at prices cheaper than what you’d find in New York City, what’s not to love? This is one of the best places in the US for foodies for sure.

21 Best Places to Eat in Chicago

Exploring all the best places to eat in Chicago is a delicious challenge when visiting the Windy City, one I’m always up for. Not to mention, eating your way around the city is one of the best things to do in Chicago.

Check out this Chicago food guide for my list of the top 21 best places to eat in Chicago:

Best Places to Eat in Chicago for Brunch

Chicago does brunch just right.

I’m a true-blue, native New Yorker and my love of my hometown will forbid me from admitting publicly that Chicago’s brunch scene could ever rival New York’s. That being said, I think most people can agree that Chicago knows how to kick brunch’s ass.

Whenever I come to the Third Coast to visit my friends, we always try to get our eat on. Here’s a list of some of our favorite places to eat in Chicago for brunch:

1. Mortar and Pestle

• Address: 3108 North Broadway
  Chicago, IL 60657. Click here for directions and reviews.
• Phone: (773) 857-2087
• Hours: Friday – Monday: 9am – 3pm.

I had the best Cubano sandwich I’ve ever had here. Try as I might, I haven’t found a place to top this one no matter which of the best places to eat in Chicago we dine at.

Mortal and Pestle is a classic, hipstery, modern-looking restaurant with big windows perfect for people watching.

Last time I was there, I felt comfortable seated in the window seats watching the world go by. I love going somewhere I don’t feel I need to rush out of, ya’ know?

Pro Tip: They are walk-in only and don’t take reservations.

☞ NOTE: another top thing to do in the city is going on the Chicago Architecture River Cruise. After you’ve had a fantastic lunch, hop aboard a boat and learn about the history and architecture along the Chicago River. Don’t miss it!

2. Batter and Berries

• Address: 2748 N Lincoln Ave
  Chicago, IL 60614. Click here for directions and reviews.
• Phone: (773) 248-7710
• Hours: Friday –…