It’s true that at one point, Chicago may have been best known for its deep-dish pizza, seven-ingredient hot dogs, and Italian beef. But in recent years, the scope of Second City dining has broadened significantly, ushering in a number of restaurants with destination-worthy status—and plenty of accolades (take one look at the town’s Michelin-starred or James Beard Award-winning spots to prove it). Credit the unflappable industry workers for that coveted reputation (to be sure) and they’ll likely turn your attention to all that supports their endeavors—the farmers markets, the Midwest’s seasons (and the creativity behind such timeliness), and the tight-knit community here—a rare bond that so many restaurant pros in these parts admit to cherishing.
And the fact that Chicago is home to one of the busiest, most connected airports in the world only further reflects the industry’s ability to keep a finger on the international pulse—as evidenced by the culinary landscapes sweeping the city now. From those offering Ethiopian platters or pristine omakase menus to venues showcasing Indian-inspired street food or traditional Beijing duck dinners, here are the best restaurants in Chicago right now.
Read our complete Chicago travel guide here.
Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that restaurant. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve.
