Eat Your Way Through Chicago: 20 Top Picks

In a country filled with some of the most robust metropolises in the world, Chicago is certainly an institution. And the restaurant scene is eclectic enough to rival any eatery in Paris, Rome, and beyond. 

The best restaurants in Chicago are seasoned with all manner of surprises, from Peruvian plates to Italian icons. Below, we’ll take a savory tour through fine dining restaurants sumptuous enough to please the Roman gods, as well as a few local diners that you’ll never forget. 

Tanta Chicago

Tanta features inventive Peruvian cuisine in a stylish setting inspired by the country’s colorful culture. It’s a fun place to bring a group of friends who might enjoy sharing small plates and various mains. The rooftop is also a magical setting, especially as the sun starts to set in Chicago. One thing’s for sure: a glass (or two) of their red sangria will complement every bite you eat. 

Girl & The Goat

Continuing with the theme of small plates, Girl & The Goat delivers. It also rivals Tanta for its bright and glowing decor. The menu features an array of options, from beer brioche, to roasted oysters, to a sticky glazed pork shank served with butternut squash kimchi and hoisin mayo. Mouth watering, right? 

The Purple Pig

The Purple Pig manages to tantalize every sense. It features the flavors of Italy, Greece, and Spain, with an open kitchen and the most beautiful setting. While their main menu is robust, featuring over ten different pork dishes and a bounty of seafood and red meat selections, this is a fun place to come for brunch, as well. Their Mushroom Brioche dish, as well as Papas Bravas (pork belly, egg, parmigiano, and roasted garlic and mustard aioli) take the cake.  

Quartino Ristorante

Sticking with the flavors of Italy, Quartino certainly deserves a nod on any “best of” list. It’s a bustling bi-level space where groups of friends and family go for large, family-style plates and even larger carafes of delicious Italian wine. The food here is about as authentic as it comes, and, given its popularity, reservations are highly recommended.