Chicago Institutions Worth Another Visit 🍽️
It’s no secret that Chicago is a worldwide food mecca. People come from near and far to taste what our amazing culinarians are cooking up - and they’re always cooking something delicious! But even as new restaurants open, or some of our favorites update their menu and their look, there are some spots that know a good thing when they serve it. They’re sticking with the magic they’ve been creating for years (or decades) and continuing to churn out the amazing dishes and drinks they are known for.
That’s not to say you won’t see nightly specials or seasonal ingredients though! There are all kinds of reasons these restaurants have stayed successful and become such valued parts of our food family. Here are the top ten Chicago institutions that are always worth another visit, no matter how many times you’ve been before 🍷
Gino's East {multiple locations}: Because the Windy City is known for its deep dish, and Gino’s East is part of the reason why. Head here for a slice with your family, or a whole pie to yourself! Pizza is never a bad idea!
Batter & Berries {2748 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 773.248.7710}: Because every bite is worth it. That’s simply because Batter & Berries is as good a breakfast joint as the city has. Don’t miss a single bite of their famous French Toast Flights!
Club Lucky {1824 West Wabansia Avenue, Chicago; 773.227.2300}: Because these martinis are serious business. And so is the pasta menu! If you want seriously classic Italian, served in an environment that would make Capone and Sinatra proud, there is no other place.
Riccardo Trattoria {2119 North Clark Street, Chicago; 773.549.0038}: Because no one does Italian like Chicago. After moving to the US from Milan, Chef Riccardo Michi has spent decades creating dishes his homeland was known for. That includes more than a decade spent at this cozy Lincoln Park spot serving neighborhood customers in search of a great meal.
Chicago Chop House {60 West Ontario Street, Chicago; 312.787.7100}: Because they know their history! Chicago Chop House has heritage lining their very walls, with more than 1,400 historic photos featuring iconic Chicago personalities. While you dig in to their amazing chops and steaks, you’ll be dining among history.
Geja's Cafe {340 West Armitage Avenue, Chicago; 773.281.9101}: Because that’s amore! Ranked one of the most romantic restaurants in the country, and the site of countless engagements, Geja’s Cafe is known just as much for their atmosphere as their cheesy fondue.
Athena {212 South Halsted Street #1, Chicago; 312.655.0000}: Because we could all use a trip to the Mediterranean. Many Greektown restaurants are family-run institutions, but none of them have an indoor/outdoor patio like Athena. Come here for a relaxing respite and amazing food.
Le Colonial {57 East Oak Street, Chicago; 312.255.0088}: Because a new address has only upped their game. Le Colonial is a Gold Coast mainstay that got a new address in 2019. And since they only moved around the corner, neighborhood loyalists still flock to this stunning restaurant for unique dishes and colorful cocktails you can’t get anywhere else. Even with a new address, they’re here to stay.
Italian Village {71 West Monroe Street, Chicago; 312.332.7005}: Because the history speaks for itself. For almost a century, Italian Village has been serving Chicago’s most famous residents, like Al Capone himself, as well as its loving locals. Three stories of different Italian concepts mean plenty of chances to dig in at one of Chicago’s oldest spots.
Yoshi's Cafe {3257 North Halsted Street, Chicago; 773.248.6160}: Because at Yoshi’s, we’re all family. This Boystown haunt is as welcoming as can be, serving up French-Japanese fusion cuisine in an elegant setting that is perfect for a special date night out.
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor