Illinois has always been a hotspot for great food, but 2025 is proving to be an especially exciting year for food lovers. From Michelin-star fine dining in Chicago to hidden gems across the state, Illinois has something for every palate. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot or a tourist eager to taste the best, here are the top 20 restaurants you should try this year.
1. Oriole – Chicago (West Loop)
Cuisine: Contemporary / New American (Tasting Menu)
Why Visit: Oriole is one of Chicago’s most celebrated fine dining destinations, holding two Michelin stars. Chef Noah Sandoval and his team create an intimate experience with a seasonal multi-course tasting menu that blends creativity, precision, and flavor. The restaurant’s understated design makes the food the true star.
Visit Oriole’s official website for reservations.
2. Alinea – Chicago (Lincoln Park)
Cuisine: Progressive / Molecular Gastronomy
Why Visit: If there’s one restaurant that put Chicago on the global culinary map, it’s Alinea. Led by Chef Grant Achatz, Alinea offers one of the most unique dining experiences in the world, with immersive dishes that play with science, presentation, and taste. It’s consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants.
Check menus and booking details on the Alinea website.
3. Girl & The Goat – Chicago (West Loop)
Cuisine: Global Small Plates
Why Visit: Stephanie Izard’s flagship restaurant is famous for bold flavors and a lively, casual atmosphere. Expect dishes influenced by global cuisines—everything from roasted meats to inventive vegetarian plates. It’s perfect for foodies who want a high-quality yet approachable dining experience.
Explore their menu on the Girl & The Goat website.
4. Vie – Western Springs (Suburban Chicago)
Cuisine: Farm-to-Table / Contemporary American
Why Visit: Chef Paul Virant’s Vie has been a pioneer of farm-to-table dining in Illinois. Located in Western Springs, it’s a short drive from Chicago and focuses on seasonal produce, house-preserved ingredients, and Midwestern hospitality. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates locally sourced cuisine.
5. Frontera Grill – Chicago (River North)
Cuisine: Upscale Mexican
Why Visit: Rick Bayless’s Frontera Grill has been an Illinois favorite for decades. It blends authentic regional Mexican flavors with a modern twist, offering everything from flavorful tacos to refined entrées. If you want world-class Mexican cuisine in Chicago, this is the place.
6. Smyth – Chicago (West Loop)
Cuisine: Contemporary American, Michelin 3-Star
Why Visit: Smyth has earned a rare three Michelin stars, thanks to the vision of chefs John and Karen Urie Shields. The restaurant draws inspiration from Midwest farms and coastal ingredients, offering a menu that changes constantly but always pushes culinary boundaries. Dining here feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
7. Parachute – Chicago (Avondale)
Cuisine: Modern Korean-American
Why Visit: Husband-and-wife chefs Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark have built Parachute into one of Chicago’s most beloved restaurants. Their menu blends traditional Korean flavors with modern American twists. Their signature baked potato bing bread alone is worth the trip.
8. Sepia – Chicago (Near West Side)
Cuisine: Seasonal American, Michelin 1-Star
Why Visit: Located in a former 19th-century print shop, Sepia combines history with innovation. Chef Andrew Zimmerman emphasizes seasonal ingredients and artful plating. The refined yet approachable vibe makes it perfect for both romantic dinners and business dining.
See menus on Sepia’s website.
9. Everest – Chicago (South Loop)
Cuisine: French Fine Dining
Why Visit: Perched on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange building, Everest offers breathtaking skyline views and classic French cuisine. Chef J. Joho’s elegant approach makes it one of the city’s top spots for special occasions.
10. The Publican – Chicago (Fulton Market)
Cuisine: Rustic European / Farm-to-Table
Why Visit: Known for hearty dishes, craft beer, and communal tables, The Publican is a go-to for those who love pork, oysters, and seasonal vegetables. It combines rustic charm with big, bold flavors, making it one of the most enjoyable dining experiences in Illinois.
11. Pequod’s Pizza – Chicago (Lincoln Park)
Cuisine: Deep-Dish & Pan Pizza
Why Visit: You can’t talk about Illinois food without pizza, and Pequod’s is legendary for its caramelized crust and generous toppings. Locals argue it’s the best deep-dish in Chicago, often preferred over the big chains. It’s casual, affordable, and a must-try for pizza lovers.
See menu at Pequod’s Pizza.
12. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – Statewide Locations
Cuisine: Chicago-Style Deep Dish
Why Visit: Lou Malnati’s is an Illinois institution, famous for buttery crust, chunky tomato sauce, and loads of cheese. With multiple locations across Chicago and the suburbs, it’s an easy (and affordable) way to try a true Chicago deep-dish classic.
Order or find a location at Lou Malnati’s.
13. Kuma’s Corner – Chicago (Avondale & Other Locations)
Cuisine: Gourmet Burgers / American
Why Visit: If you love burgers, Kuma’s Corner is a rock-and-roll paradise. Known for massive, creative burgers (many named after heavy metal bands), it’s a fun, casual spot with a cult following. Pair it with craft beer for the perfect night out.
Explore their burgers at Kuma’s Corner.
14. Gene & Jude’s – River Grove
Cuisine: Chicago-Style Hot Dogs
Why Visit: Sometimes the simplest foods are the most iconic. Gene & Jude’s has been serving no-frills hot dogs since 1946, always topped with fries (yes, on the dog!). It’s affordable, nostalgic, and one of the best representations of classic Chicago street food.
More details on Gene & Jude’s official site
15. Au Cheval – Chicago (West Loop)
Cuisine: Diner-Style / American
Why Visit: Widely hailed as having one of the best burgers in America, Au Cheval is a must-visit. The single or double cheeseburger with a runny egg and thick-cut bacon has achieved cult status. Expect a wait, but the food is worth every minute.
Visit Au Cheval for menu and hours.
16. Shaw’s Crab House – Chicago & Schaumburg
Cuisine: Seafood / American
Why Visit: For seafood lovers, Shaw’s is the gold standard in Illinois. Known for fresh oysters, Alaskan king crab legs, and classic seafood dishes, it’s a timeless spot whether you’re in downtown Chicago or the suburbs. Their Sunday brunch is especially popular.
See menus at Shaw’s Crab House.
17. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse – Chicago (Gold Coast)
Cuisine: Classic American Steakhouse
Why Visit: Gibsons has been a Chicago landmark since 1989. Known for USDA Prime beef, oversized portions, and a lively atmosphere, it’s the go-to place for steak lovers. Celebrities, athletes, and politicians are often spotted here.
Book a table at Gibsons Steakhouse.
18. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf – Chicago (River North)
Cuisine: French-Inspired Steakhouse
Why Visit: Bavette’s offers an upscale yet cozy twist on the traditional steakhouse, with dim lighting, leather banquettes, and French flair. The menu features prime steaks, fresh seafood, and one of the best bone marrow appetizers in town.
Learn more at Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf.
19. Mon Ami Gabi – Lincoln Park & Oak Brook
Cuisine: French Bistro
Why Visit: For a more casual French dining experience, Mon Ami Gabi delivers bistro classics like steak frites, escargot, and onion soup in a relaxed, romantic setting. With locations in both Chicago and Oak Brook, it’s accessible for city and suburban diners.
Explore the menu at Mon Ami Gabi.
20. Giant – Chicago (Logan Square)
Cuisine: Modern American / Creative Plates
Why Visit: Giant may be small in size, but it’s big on flavor and creativity. The restaurant is known for bold dishes like king crab pasta and rich, flavorful meats. It’s casual, modern, and a favorite among younger foodies looking for inventive cuisine.
See what’s cooking at Giant Chicago.
Final Conclusion
Illinois truly has one of the most diverse and exciting food scenes in the country. From world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurants in Chicago like Alinea, Oriole, and Smyth, to iconic comfort foods like Lou Malnati’s deep dish pizza and Gene & Jude’s hot dogs, the state offers something unforgettable for every type of food lover.
Whether you’re planning a special night out, a casual lunch with friends, or a foodie road trip through the suburbs, these top 20 restaurants highlight the very best Illinois has to offer in 2025. Each one stands out for its quality, creativity, and lasting reputation—making them must-visit destinations for both locals and tourists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. What is the best restaurant in Illinois right now?
It depends on your taste. For fine dining, Alinea and Oriole are at the top. For casual eats, locals swear by Pequod’s Pizza and Au Cheval. - 2. Do I need reservations at these restaurants?
Yes, for most fine dining and popular spots like Oriole, Smyth, and Girl & The Goat, reservations are strongly recommended. Casual places like Gene & Jude’s or Lou Malnati’s usually accept walk-ins. - 3. Are there good restaurants outside of Chicago?
Definitely. Vie in Western Springs and Mon Ami Gabi in Oak Brook are excellent suburban picks. Many smaller towns also have hidden gems worth exploring. - 4. What food is Illinois most famous for?
Illinois, especially Chicago, is famous for deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and fine steakhouses. - 5. Are these restaurants family-friendly?
Yes. Spots like Frontera Grill, Lou Malnati’s, and The Publican welcome families, while Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants are best suited for adults or special occasions.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
