I’m always on the hunt for the best restaurants in Chicago. People always ask me about the restaurants I’ve recently tried and enjoyed. In an attempt to streamline this information, I will recap my dining experiences monthly with rundown!
From happy hours to hidden gems, I loved trying and revisiting some amazing restaurants in Chicago.
BAR AVEC
640 N. LaSalle Street
If you’re looking for delicious food in a beautiful restaurant, Bar Avec is a great rooftop in the heart of River North. My personal favorite menu item was the schwarma fried chicken thighs. They’re served in a “bucket” with falafel-seasoned fries and delicious dipping sauces.
CBR
505 N. State Street
I recently had brunch at CBR, and the Chickpea Frittata was unbelievable. It’s not a traditional frittata, but it’s just as delicious, if not more so. It’s flavorful both flavorful and filling.
If you’re looking for a new and exciting brunch option, I highly recommend CBR. You won’t be disappointed!
DISTRICT BREW YARDS
417 N. Ashland Avenue
The picture does not even do the Brisket Fries at District Brew Yards justice. In fact, the West Loop location has BBQ fare from Lillie’s Q, which pairs perfectly with the huge selection of beers on draft. For example, the rich, smoky flavor of the brisket is perfectly complemented by the hoppy notes of an IPA, while the crispy fries are delicious dipped in a cold, refreshing lager.
EVETTE'S CHICAGO
350 W. Armitage Avenue
Evette’s Chicago is INCREDIBLE. There are a few locations, but I went to the one in Lincoln Park. They have some of the best Mediterranean food in Chicago.
I had the Brunch Bowl (za’atar fried potatoes, cheesy egg scramble, peppers and onions, avocado, pickled onion, and chipotle mayo), and I was blown away by how much I loved it. This will definitely be on my list to try for lunch in Lincoln Park.
GILT BAR
230 W. Kinzie Street
Weekend happy hours in Chicago are rare finds, but Gilt Bar has come to the rescue!
This is home to one of the best fries in Chicago, and they pair perfectly with the garlic aioli. The stuffed mushrooms were incredible, and I love mussels. Needless to say, I am excited for my return to Gilt Bar for daily happy hour!
OWEN & ENGINE
2700 N. Western Avenue
I had to make one last trip to Owen & Engine before it closed. The burger is among the best in Chicago, and I am so sad that it’s only available on occasion at Owen & Engine’s sister restaurant, Bixi Beer.
The burger is made with high-quality beef and cooked to perfection. The bun is soft and fluffy, and the toppings are simple but delicious: caramelized onions and a dill pickle.
SCHNEIDER DELI
600 N. LaSalle Street
Recently opened in the River North neighborhood, Schneider Deli is a small but mighty concept. I got there later in the day, so I missed out on trying the bagels.
The corned beef hash was everything I hoped for and more. The corned beef was tender and flavorful, and the potatoes were perfectly cooked. The hash was also seasoned perfectly, with a hint of salt and pepper. I ordered my hash with two scrambled eggs on top, and it was the perfect way to start my day. If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Jewish deli experience, I highly recommend checking out Schneider Deli.
The food is fantastic, the service is friendly, and the prices are reasonable.
SWIFT & SONS TAVERN & OYSTER BAR
3600 N. Clark Street
Located right at the corner of Addison and Clark, Swift & Sons Tavern is an excellent place to go before a Cubs game, or if you’re just looking for one of the best restaurants in Wrigleyville.
Where should I go next month? We need to make the most of patio season before we are trapped inside all winter!
