Chicago abounds with iconic restaurants, and you'll never forgive yourself if you don't try them all. Whether you've lived here all your life or just enjoy visiting, there's no excuse for missing out on these 12 amazing eateries.
From American classics to brand new inventions, you'll find a diverse range of cuisines on this list. Keep scrolling for more information.
1. Kaiser Tiger (1415 W Randolph Street)
This bacon-themed restaurant is a popular hang out for locals. It is situated in the West Loop and features wide open spaces and a rustic atmosphere. The best menu item is The Bomb, which is sausage wrapped in a brown sugar bacon weave and slow cooked.
2. North Pond (2610 N Cannon Drive)
Unique eats abound at this wonderfully fancy restaurant. Guests enjoy views of the water and the distant skyline while dining here. Items on the rotating menu are farm fresh and one-of-a-kind.
3. Billy Goat Tavern (430 N Michigan Avenue)
This is one of the most iconic restaurants in the city due to its history being deeply entwined with Chicago's. It has gained fame for its claim to the Cubs curse as well as for being featured on Saturday Night Live long ago.
4. Twin Anchors Ribs (1655 N Sedgwick Street)
If it was good enough for Sinatra, it's good enough for anyone. All sort of celebrities have graced this wonderful diner for a taste of its famous ribs. One of the most iconic restaurants in Chicago, it has been around for more than 35 years and features a nautical theme.
5. Red Apple Buffet (3121 N Milwaukee Avenue)
With an additional location in Norwood Park, this is the best all-you-can restaurant in Chicagoland. Enjoy a mix of Polish and American favorites non-stop at this fantastic spot.
6. Elizabeth (4835 N Western Avenue)
Delicate dining is the specialty at this unique eatery. It features a rotating tasting menu that draws from the restaurant's garden and other locally sourced ingredients. You'll definitely regret passing up this place.
7. Calumet Fisheries (3259 E 95th Street)
Another restaurant with a wealth of history, this classic fish shack serves up fresh seafood like none other. It smokes its own salmon and chubs on-site, which is something no one else in the city is doing.
8. Joey G's Mac N' Cheese (2351 W Augusta Boulevard)
Relive your childhood at this mac and cheese restaurant. With all different types of noodles and cheeses, there's always something new to try.
9. Arbor (2545 W Diversey Avenue)
Utilizing fresh ingredients, this eatery is known for its unique and upscale dishes. The interior design is simple but the food will send you to another world.
10. Gayle's Best Ever Grilled Cheese (108 N State Street, Level B1)
Take another trip down memory lane with these nostalgic sandwiches. Gayle's specializes in gourmet grilled cheeses that can't be beat. Choose from a plethora of meats and cheeses to make your sammich one-of-a-kind.
11. The Barn (1016 Church Street in Evanston)
Just north of the city line, on the lake, sits a suburb with nearly as much food to offer as downtown alone. This rustic steakhouse is known for its upscale dishes and signature steaks.
12. Daley's Restaurant (809 E 63rd Street)
This South Side favorite has been around since 1918 and is open early for breakfast. Comfort food at a good price can be enjoyed throughout the day. Menu items include delicious home-style eats like meatloaf, chicken, burgers, and seafood dishes.
When you're in the mood for a morning treat, check out one of these eight unique coffee shops in Chicago.
Which of these iconic restaurants do you frequent? Share your favorite place with us!
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