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The Hottest New Restaurants in Chicago, January 2024

Where to Devour Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza

Chicago’s Essential Steakhouses

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A sandwiches packed with meat and peppers on a French roll.
Ever heard of Kasama?
Garrett Sweet/Eater

Where to Eat and Drink in West Town

Experience some of the best spots the city has to offer

by Eater Staff Updated
3 comments / new
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Ever heard of Kasama?
| Garrett Sweet/Eater
by Eater Staff Updated
3 comments / new

West Town continues to add restaurants to one of the strongest neighborhoods for food in the city. There’s wonderful culinary diversity as owners crave a more affordable alternative to West Loop where corporate interests have helped real estate prices soar. In many minds,

Chicago Avenue has replaced Randolph Restaurant Row as the city’s main food drag. While that’s debatable, one of West Town’s assets is that great eats aren’t confined to a single street. Below find Eater Chicago’s favorites in the area.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Boeufhaus

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Chicago is home to dozens of excellent steakhouses but few provide an experience similar to Boeufhaus. Instead of steakhouse staples, the small French-German-inspired brasserie touts dishes such as short rib beignets, ceci bean cavatelli, and country pâté. The ribeyes are dry-aged for 55 days, giving them intense beefy flavor, while the lunch menu is heavy on sandwiches like the “Boeuf on Weck,” a Buffalo, New York specialty featuring slow-roasted beef, horseradish, caraway, sea salt, and jus on a Kummelweck roll.

1012 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-2116
(773) 661-2116

Also featured in:

Kasama

Copy Link

The first Filipino restaurant to earn a Michelin Star doesn’t take prisoners. You’ll need a reservation for dinner — months in advance. It’s a tasting menu experience with dishes like adobo squab. The breakfast and lunch features silog, a Pinoy shaved pork served like an Italian beef sandwich, and a variety of sweet and savory pastries. 

1001 N Winchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 697-3790
(773) 697-3790
A sandwiches packed with meat and peppers on a French roll. Garrett Sweet/Eater

Also featured in:

Kimchi Pop by Chef Son

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Homestyle Korean food is the name of the game at this quaint restaurant on Ashland. Staples like bulgolgi (marinated ribeye) and tteokbokki (rice cakes) are wonderful, but indulge in one of the soups and stews. These restorative broths are spicy and unique. The Army Base Stew features hot dogs, Spam, cheese, kimchi, and more.

939 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(872) 802-4424
(872) 802-4424

Also featured in:

Temporis

Copy Link

Only one new Chicago restaurant received a star in the 2019 Michelin Guide and it was this intimate 20-seat spot in West Town. Chefs Sam Plotnick and Troy Jorge craft a tasting menu experience that puts the spotlight on progressive American cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing seasonal ingredients is represented in its hydroponic basement garden, which provides microgreens for the kitchen.

933 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 697-4961
(773) 697-4961

Also featured in:

Opart Thai House - West Town

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Opart Thai House is one of Chicago’s most beloved Thai spots, walking the line of what Americans like (pad Thai), with a few dishes that take chances (the Peanut Sauce Lover is a spicy stir fry that’s one of the best dishes in the city). They’ve had a few locations but have settled in in West Town. There’s also plenty for vegans.

1546 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 988-0986
(312) 988-0986

Also featured in:

Jeong

Copy Link

Dave Park and Jennifer Tran made waves running an acclaimed Korean stand (Hanbun) inside a suburban food court before deciding to close it down. The two have returned to the city in a big way with one of 2019’s biggest openings, Jeong. Taking a contemporary approach to traditional Korean flavors, Park constructs dishes like salmon tartare adorned with crème fraiche and crispy rice spheres, and tteokbokki bathing in spicy chili sauce and topped with pickled mustard and quail egg. In addition to the a la carte options, there’s also a modestly priced tasting menu as well as classic cocktails that feature Korean ingredients.

1460 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 877-5016
(312) 877-5016
A bright sashimi dish that’s shaped like a disc. Jeong/Hahm Visuals

Also featured in:

Flour Power

Copy Link

Flour Power is a tiny storefront now helmed solo by mercurial chef and owner Wilson Bauer who worked fine dining jobs, including at Schwa. He’s pivoted from the pandemic practices of meal kits to concentrate on sustainability and using premium ingredients. Diners will find creative noodles with a fine dining touch. Check the restaurant’s Instagram for the daily menu. Beware, the hours are a bit erratic, so call ahead when in doubt.

1642 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Also featured in:

Flo

Copy Link

Flo is a Chicago brunch classic that serves Hatch chile burgers, and southwestern-style favorites. It’s a cozy space akin to a diner, and worth becoming a regular at.

1434 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 243-0477
(312) 243-0477

Also featured in:

Forbidden Root

Copy Link

Chicago is home to the most breweries of any city in the country and that impressive lineup includes this unique botanical brewpub. Using plants and other natural ingredients, Forbidden Root offers options like strawberry basil hefeweizen, wildflower pale ale, and sparkling rosé ale.

1746 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-2202
(312) 929-2202
Forbidden Root is a one of the best brewpubs in Chicago.
Marc Much/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Standing Passengers

Copy Link

This retro coffee shop is friendly and has a killer lineup up of subs, including an Italian that has no right to be as good as it is coming from a small cafe. The decor is full of TVs and 16-bit and 8-bit video game systems that patrons can play. They’re also open until 7 p.m., which is rare for a coffee shop.

1458 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Roots Handmade Pizza

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Probably the most family-friendly pizzeria in Chicago — they even give kids pizza dough to play with. The pizza is so-called “Quad Cities” style with malted crust and cut into strips. The beer list is deep, and there are those famous fried mozzarella sticks.

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 645-4949
(773) 645-4949

Also featured in:

Beatnik

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Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s boho-chic restaurant and bar has been one of the area’s most buzzed-about places since its opening in 2017. The beautiful interior is decorated with lush greenery, glittering chandeliers, fine rugs, and comfy seating. An enclosed courtyard with a retractable skylight lets diners bathe in natural light, regardless of season, while enjoying creative cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

1604 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-4945
(312) 929-4945
Beatnik [Official Photo]

Also featured in:

Lao Peng You

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The suburban brothers behind Lao Peng You have shared family recipes with Chicago that make up one of the most special Chinese restaurant in Chicago. The dumplings, which come in a slightly sour broth, are the highlight. Look for rotating specials, and the lamb bing bread is addictive.

2020 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(872) 206-8624
(872) 206-8624
A variety of Chinese dishes on a large table. Garrett Sweet/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Cafe Central

Copy Link

This Puerto Ricon icon continues to serve jibaritos, empanadas, and plantains to generations. It’s a divey space that’s great for lunch or early dinners. The garlic sauce will ward off vampires.

1437 W Chicago Ave #1, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 243-6776
(312) 243-6776

Also featured in:

Oggi Trattoria

Copy Link

This red sauce Italian classic has found a new location. It’s a family-friendly affair that is a community favorite with pasta, salads, and pizza. The menu doesn’t push boundaries, but the service and atmosphere more than makeup for it. 

1461 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 733-0442
(312) 733-0442
Oggi Trattoria

Also featured in:

More in Maps

Fatso's Last Stand

Copy Link

One of Chicago’s best hot dog stands has since opened a second location in Lincoln Park. While the original in West Town doesn’t have a liquor license, the burgers and dogs that made the operation special remain intact.

2258 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 245-3287
(773) 245-3287

Also featured in:

Fry the Coop

Copy Link

The star of the menu at this suburban import is Nashville hot chicken, and the temperature is not for the weak. The sandwiches are crunch and moist. The space, the former Mexique, never got a chance to develop a rhythm pre-pandemic, but there’s a full bar inside.

1529 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 600-6198
(312) 600-6198
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

JJ Thai Street Food

Copy Link

Sometimes diners want pad Thai. And while the trusted dish can be satisfying, J.J. Thai Street Food is a delightful reminder that there’s more to Thai cuisine in American than the standbys. Find Thai delights from pork sausage, Tiger cry, and fun noodle dishes. Try something new.

1715 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-4435
(312) 929-4435

Also featured in:

Arami

Copy Link

Sushi excellence is on full display at this Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient. Guests who want the complete experience can opt for the omakase options that feature some of the most premium ingredients.

1829 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 243-1535
(312) 243-1535

Also featured in:

Dell' Rooster Restaurant & Bar

Copy Link

This pan Latin restaurant has a little bit for everyone with appetizers like empanadas and tasty steak and pork chop options. They have a full bar and are family-friendly. Good for groups and for folks looking for someone different.

1825 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 526-3109
(312) 526-3109

Also featured in:

All Together Now

Copy Link

One of the best wine shops in the city is also a palace of cured meats and fine cheeses. The sandwiches are top notch (get the smashed bean sandwich), and there’s asolid dinner meal with an underrated smash burger. Also, don’t forget the goat cheese curds and the best party mix ever. Get a bag of Crunch Party and a bottle of wine for a nice day at home.

2119 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-1599
(773) 661-1599

Also featured in:

Bartoli's Pizzeria & Catering - West Town

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One of Chicago’s best deep-dish pizzerias recently opened up a second location. This small spot also sells pizza by the slice. The crust is buttery, but not the soggy sponges like some inferior pies offers. 

658 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-4133
(312) 929-4133
A slice of deep dish pizza being lifted out of the pan. Bartoli’s [Official Photo]

Also featured in:

Aya Pastry

Copy Link

Aya Fukai’s genius is at play in West Town where her pastries have soared in popularity. From doughnuts that taste like Girl Scout cookies, to pizza dough for the home cook, Aya Pastry has become one of the city’s most indispensable businesses. Order to go.

1332 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 846-6186
(312) 846-6186

Also featured in:

Bari

Copy Link

Peruse the aisles for Italian goods at this grocer and deli and then head to the back of the store for a bite. The Italian sub is a favorite, while the beef sandwich is a contender for the best version in town. The tender, thick-cut meat is further improved with the addition of extra-spicy giardiniera. The meatballs are also top notch. Grab some to go for an easy weekday dinner.

1120 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 666-0730
(312) 666-0730

D'Amato's Bakery

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Known for its bread — which caused a family spat with neighboring Italian grocer and sub shop Bari — D’Amato’s provides a taste of the old world with great cookies, tiramisu, and more. The bakery also sells sandwiches, but the sheet pizza is a more attractive meal option.

1124 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 733-5456
(312) 733-5456

Also featured in:

Elina's

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Elina’s is a BYO Italian restaurant with a succinct menu inside a tiny space. There’s more of a chef’s touch here compared to many of the other Italian spots in the area. Find fresh pasta, chicken Parmesan, and more. It’s a spot that will impress diners on dates and for picky eaters who don’t like fancy spots. This is a restaurant that will fool them.

1202 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 929-2249
(312) 929-2249
chicken parmesan Garrett Sweet

Also featured in:

Tempesta Market

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Chicago’s sandwich scene received a big boost with the opening of this deli and eatery in 2017. Father-son duo Agostino and Tony Fiasche, who also operate Nduja Artisans Salumeria, are making terrific sandwiches filled with quality meats and cheeses. The signature nduja is a spicy spreadable sausage from the Calabria region of Italy and on the Dante sandwich, it’s whipped up into an aioli and layered with hot soppressata, mortadella, finnochinoa, hot coppa, porchetta, and more.

1372 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 929-2551
(312) 929-2551

Also featured in:

Uncle Mike's Place

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Chicago’s enjoyed a recent surge in Filipino restaurant openings. Before that wave, Uncle Mike’s Place had been proudly serving Filipino-style breakfast which is delicious on its own merits, but even more valuable to those who prefer savory over sweet for their morning meals. This might be the best skirt steak in Chicago.

1700 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 226-5318
(312) 226-5318

Also featured in:

Output Bar & Lounge

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This bar, a short walk from the United Center, wasn’t the most friendly until recently when owners realized it was sitting on a gold mine thanks to its chicken wing recipes. Output’s wings are among the best in the city, and the classic Buffalo style is hard to beat.

1758 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-2515
(312) 929-2515

Coalfire

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One of the city’s best pizzerias for thin crust, Coal Fire continues to deliver. The honey and salumi pie is a favorite, as is the lasagna pie.

1321 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 226-2625
(312) 226-2625

Also featured in:

Publican Quality Bread

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Greg Wade is a James Beard Award-winning baker and at PQB he has a dedicated store front for his loaves of breads, pastries, and a few sandwiches. There’s no indoor seating, but there’s some on the sidewalk. Get there early and makes sure you make plans for the ridiculous Big Sandwich which has limited availability. 

1759 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 605-1618
(312) 605-1618
A man stands behind a bakery counter loaded with pastry and sandwiches. Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Diego

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Diego is a love letter to San Diego and Baja med cuisine. Find delightful cocktails and a great burrito and this small bar with a sizeable patio. Look for more from chef Stephen Sandoval in the coming months.

459 N Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 291-8449
(312) 291-8449
The exterior of Diego, a bar in West Town. Ashok Selvam/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Mart Anthony's Italian Restaurant

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Step into a time warp while visiting Mart Anthony’s, a classic Chicago dive. Red sauce lovers will enjoy the cooking here, and the bar provides neighborhood ambience. For fans of venerable Sabatino’s, an Italian restaurant that closed in 2019, find solace that one of the eatery’s chefs has found new work at Mart Anthony’s.

1200 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 421-3477
(312) 421-3477

Also featured in:

The Breakfast Club and Grill

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American breakfast items with a Mexican touch is what Breakfast Club specializes in, giving West Town a great option for those who want brunch during the week. And for a city that’s lacking in breakfast sandwich selections, Breakfast Club’s variety satisfies.

1381 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 666-2372
(312) 666-2372

Also featured in:

Lillie's Q

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Lillie’s Q pitmaster Charlie McKenna relocated his business from Bucktown to District Brew Yards, the beer loves pour-it-yourself paradise. McKenna’s Memphis-style meats pair well with the beer. Find ribs, brisket, and fried chicken. McKenna has found success peddling his sauces to retailers. Don’t forget to grab a bottle.

417 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 295-1270
(773) 295-1270

Also featured in:

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Boeufhaus

1012 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Chicago is home to dozens of excellent steakhouses but few provide an experience similar to Boeufhaus. Instead of steakhouse staples, the small French-German-inspired brasserie touts dishes such as short rib beignets, ceci bean cavatelli, and country pâté. The ribeyes are dry-aged for 55 days, giving them intense beefy flavor, while the lunch menu is heavy on sandwiches like the “Boeuf on Weck,” a Buffalo, New York specialty featuring slow-roasted beef, horseradish, caraway, sea salt, and jus on a Kummelweck roll.

1012 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-2116
(773) 661-2116

Kasama

1001 N Winchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

The first Filipino restaurant to earn a Michelin Star doesn’t take prisoners. You’ll need a reservation for dinner — months in advance. It’s a tasting menu experience with dishes like adobo squab. The breakfast and lunch features silog, a Pinoy shaved pork served like an Italian beef sandwich, and a variety of sweet and savory pastries. 

1001 N Winchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 697-3790
(773) 697-3790
A sandwiches packed with meat and peppers on a French roll. Garrett Sweet/Eater

Kimchi Pop by Chef Son

939 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Homestyle Korean food is the name of the game at this quaint restaurant on Ashland. Staples like bulgolgi (marinated ribeye) and tteokbokki (rice cakes) are wonderful, but indulge in one of the soups and stews. These restorative broths are spicy and unique. The Army Base Stew features hot dogs, Spam, cheese, kimchi, and more.

939 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(872) 802-4424
(872) 802-4424

Temporis

933 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Only one new Chicago restaurant received a star in the 2019 Michelin Guide and it was this intimate 20-seat spot in West Town. Chefs Sam Plotnick and Troy Jorge craft a tasting menu experience that puts the spotlight on progressive American cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing seasonal ingredients is represented in its hydroponic basement garden, which provides microgreens for the kitchen.

933 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 697-4961
(773) 697-4961

Opart Thai House - West Town

1546 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Opart Thai House is one of Chicago’s most beloved Thai spots, walking the line of what Americans like (pad Thai), with a few dishes that take chances (the Peanut Sauce Lover is a spicy stir fry that’s one of the best dishes in the city). They’ve had a few locations but have settled in in West Town. There’s also plenty for vegans.

1546 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 988-0986
(312) 988-0986

Jeong

1460 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Dave Park and Jennifer Tran made waves running an acclaimed Korean stand (Hanbun) inside a suburban food court before deciding to close it down. The two have returned to the city in a big way with one of 2019’s biggest openings, Jeong. Taking a contemporary approach to traditional Korean flavors, Park constructs dishes like salmon tartare adorned with crème fraiche and crispy rice spheres, and tteokbokki bathing in spicy chili sauce and topped with pickled mustard and quail egg. In addition to the a la carte options, there’s also a modestly priced tasting menu as well as classic cocktails that feature Korean ingredients.

1460 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 877-5016
(312) 877-5016
A bright sashimi dish that’s shaped like a disc. Jeong/Hahm Visuals

Flour Power

1642 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Flour Power is a tiny storefront now helmed solo by mercurial chef and owner Wilson Bauer who worked fine dining jobs, including at Schwa. He’s pivoted from the pandemic practices of meal kits to concentrate on sustainability and using premium ingredients. Diners will find creative noodles with a fine dining touch. Check the restaurant’s Instagram for the daily menu. Beware, the hours are a bit erratic, so call ahead when in doubt.

1642 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Flo

1434 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Flo is a Chicago brunch classic that serves Hatch chile burgers, and southwestern-style favorites. It’s a cozy space akin to a diner, and worth becoming a regular at.

1434 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 243-0477
(312) 243-0477

Forbidden Root

1746 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Chicago is home to the most breweries of any city in the country and that impressive lineup includes this unique botanical brewpub. Using plants and other natural ingredients, Forbidden Root offers options like strawberry basil hefeweizen, wildflower pale ale, and sparkling rosé ale.

1746 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-2202
(312) 929-2202
Forbidden Root is a one of the best brewpubs in Chicago.
Marc Much/Eater Chicago

Standing Passengers

1458 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

This retro coffee shop is friendly and has a killer lineup up of subs, including an Italian that has no right to be as good as it is coming from a small cafe. The decor is full of TVs and 16-bit and 8-bit video game systems that patrons can play. They’re also open until 7 p.m., which is rare for a coffee shop.

1458 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Roots Handmade Pizza

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Probably the most family-friendly pizzeria in Chicago — they even give kids pizza dough to play with. The pizza is so-called “Quad Cities” style with malted crust and cut into strips. The beer list is deep, and there are those famous fried mozzarella sticks.

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 645-4949
(773) 645-4949

Beatnik

1604 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s boho-chic restaurant and bar has been one of the area’s most buzzed-about places since its opening in 2017. The beautiful interior is decorated with lush greenery, glittering chandeliers, fine rugs, and comfy seating. An enclosed courtyard with a retractable skylight lets diners bathe in natural light, regardless of season, while enjoying creative cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

1604 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-4945
(312) 929-4945
Beatnik [Official Photo]

Lao Peng You

2020 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

The suburban brothers behind Lao Peng You have shared family recipes with Chicago that make up one of the most special Chinese restaurant in Chicago. The dumplings, which come in a slightly sour broth, are the highlight. Look for rotating specials, and the lamb bing bread is addictive.

2020 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(872) 206-8624
(872) 206-8624
A variety of Chinese dishes on a large table. Garrett Sweet/Eater Chicago

Cafe Central

1437 W Chicago Ave #1, Chicago, IL 60642

This Puerto Ricon icon continues to serve jibaritos, empanadas, and plantains to generations. It’s a divey space that’s great for lunch or early dinners. The garlic sauce will ward off vampires.

1437 W Chicago Ave #1, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 243-6776
(312) 243-6776

Oggi Trattoria

1461 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

This red sauce Italian classic has found a new location. It’s a family-friendly affair that is a community favorite with pasta, salads, and pizza. The menu doesn’t push boundaries, but the service and atmosphere more than makeup for it. 

1461 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 733-0442
(312) 733-0442
Oggi Trattoria

Related Maps

Fatso's Last Stand

2258 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

One of Chicago’s best hot dog stands has since opened a second location in Lincoln Park. While the original in West Town doesn’t have a liquor license, the burgers and dogs that made the operation special remain intact.

2258 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 245-3287
(773) 245-3287

Fry the Coop

1529 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

The star of the menu at this suburban import is Nashville hot chicken, and the temperature is not for the weak. The sandwiches are crunch and moist. The space, the former Mexique, never got a chance to develop a rhythm pre-pandemic, but there’s a full bar inside.

1529 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 600-6198
(312) 600-6198
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

JJ Thai Street Food

1715 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Sometimes diners want pad Thai. And while the trusted dish can be satisfying, J.J. Thai Street Food is a delightful reminder that there’s more to Thai cuisine in American than the standbys. Find Thai delights from pork sausage, Tiger cry, and fun noodle dishes. Try something new.

1715 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-4435
(312) 929-4435

Arami

1829 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Sushi excellence is on full display at this Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient. Guests who want the complete experience can opt for the omakase options that feature some of the most premium ingredients.

1829 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 243-1535
(312) 243-1535

Dell' Rooster Restaurant & Bar

1825 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

This pan Latin restaurant has a little bit for everyone with appetizers like empanadas and tasty steak and pork chop options. They have a full bar and are family-friendly. Good for groups and for folks looking for someone different.

1825 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 526-3109
(312) 526-3109

All Together Now

2119 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

One of the best wine shops in the city is also a palace of cured meats and fine cheeses. The sandwiches are top notch (get the smashed bean sandwich), and there’s asolid dinner meal with an underrated smash burger. Also, don’t forget the goat cheese curds and the best party mix ever. Get a bag of Crunch Party and a bottle of wine for a nice day at home.

2119 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-1599
(773) 661-1599

Bartoli's Pizzeria & Catering - West Town

658 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

One of Chicago’s best deep-dish pizzerias recently opened up a second location. This small spot also sells pizza by the slice. The crust is buttery, but not the soggy sponges like some inferior pies offers. 

658 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-4133
(312) 929-4133
A slice of deep dish pizza being lifted out of the pan. Bartoli’s [Official Photo]

Aya Pastry

1332 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Aya Fukai’s genius is at play in West Town where her pastries have soared in popularity. From doughnuts that taste like Girl Scout cookies, to pizza dough for the home cook, Aya Pastry has become one of the city’s most indispensable businesses. Order to go.

1332 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 846-6186
(312) 846-6186

Bari

1120 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Peruse the aisles for Italian goods at this grocer and deli and then head to the back of the store for a bite. The Italian sub is a favorite, while the beef sandwich is a contender for the best version in town. The tender, thick-cut meat is further improved with the addition of extra-spicy giardiniera. The meatballs are also top notch. Grab some to go for an easy weekday dinner.

1120 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 666-0730
(312) 666-0730

D'Amato's Bakery

1124 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Known for its bread — which caused a family spat with neighboring Italian grocer and sub shop Bari — D’Amato’s provides a taste of the old world with great cookies, tiramisu, and more. The bakery also sells sandwiches, but the sheet pizza is a more attractive meal option.

1124 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 733-5456
(312) 733-5456

Elina's

1202 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Elina’s is a BYO Italian restaurant with a succinct menu inside a tiny space. There’s more of a chef’s touch here compared to many of the other Italian spots in the area. Find fresh pasta, chicken Parmesan, and more. It’s a spot that will impress diners on dates and for picky eaters who don’t like fancy spots. This is a restaurant that will fool them.

1202 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 929-2249
(312) 929-2249
chicken parmesan Garrett Sweet

Tempesta Market

1372 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Chicago’s sandwich scene received a big boost with the opening of this deli and eatery in 2017. Father-son duo Agostino and Tony Fiasche, who also operate Nduja Artisans Salumeria, are making terrific sandwiches filled with quality meats and cheeses. The signature nduja is a spicy spreadable sausage from the Calabria region of Italy and on the Dante sandwich, it’s whipped up into an aioli and layered with hot soppressata, mortadella, finnochinoa, hot coppa, porchetta, and more.

1372 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 929-2551
(312) 929-2551

Uncle Mike's Place

1700 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Chicago’s enjoyed a recent surge in Filipino restaurant openings. Before that wave, Uncle Mike’s Place had been proudly serving Filipino-style breakfast which is delicious on its own merits, but even more valuable to those who prefer savory over sweet for their morning meals. This might be the best skirt steak in Chicago.

1700 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 226-5318
(312) 226-5318

Output Bar & Lounge

1758 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

This bar, a short walk from the United Center, wasn’t the most friendly until recently when owners realized it was sitting on a gold mine thanks to its chicken wing recipes. Output’s wings are among the best in the city, and the classic Buffalo style is hard to beat.

1758 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-2515
(312) 929-2515

Coalfire

1321 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

One of the city’s best pizzerias for thin crust, Coal Fire continues to deliver. The honey and salumi pie is a favorite, as is the lasagna pie.

1321 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 226-2625
(312) 226-2625

Publican Quality Bread

1759 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Greg Wade is a James Beard Award-winning baker and at PQB he has a dedicated store front for his loaves of breads, pastries, and a few sandwiches. There’s no indoor seating, but there’s some on the sidewalk. Get there early and makes sure you make plans for the ridiculous Big Sandwich which has limited availability. 

1759 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 605-1618
(312) 605-1618
A man stands behind a bakery counter loaded with pastry and sandwiches. Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Diego

459 N Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Diego is a love letter to San Diego and Baja med cuisine. Find delightful cocktails and a great burrito and this small bar with a sizeable patio. Look for more from chef Stephen Sandoval in the coming months.

459 N Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 291-8449
(312) 291-8449
The exterior of Diego, a bar in West Town. Ashok Selvam/Eater Chicago

Mart Anthony's Italian Restaurant

1200 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60642

Step into a time warp while visiting Mart Anthony’s, a classic Chicago dive. Red sauce lovers will enjoy the cooking here, and the bar provides neighborhood ambience. For fans of venerable Sabatino’s, an Italian restaurant that closed in 2019, find solace that one of the eatery’s chefs has found new work at Mart Anthony’s.

1200 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 421-3477
(312) 421-3477

The Breakfast Club and Grill

1381 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60642

American breakfast items with a Mexican touch is what Breakfast Club specializes in, giving West Town a great option for those who want brunch during the week. And for a city that’s lacking in breakfast sandwich selections, Breakfast Club’s variety satisfies.

1381 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 666-2372
(312) 666-2372

Lillie's Q

417 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Lillie’s Q pitmaster Charlie McKenna relocated his business from Bucktown to District Brew Yards, the beer loves pour-it-yourself paradise. McKenna’s Memphis-style meats pair well with the beer. Find ribs, brisket, and fried chicken. McKenna has found success peddling his sauces to retailers. Don’t forget to grab a bottle.

417 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 295-1270
(773) 295-1270

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