Chicago is the Midwest’s epicenter for great eats and global flavors. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian staples, authentic Mexican and Indian food, world-class Asian fare, or something new in the fusion space, Chicago neighborhoods are full of great options – which can make it difficult to find the right spot.
That’s where Beal Properties comes in! We’ve looked at some of the great culinary options in Chicago’s most fun neighborhoods. From cozy neighborhood spots in the North Suburbs to vibrant restaurants in the Gold Coast, we have you covered when you’re on the hunt for a great restaurant in your new neighborhood!
Wrigleyville
Tucked away on North Sheridan just past the Sheridan Red Line stop is PR Italian Bistro, a cozy spot with phenomenal service and even better handcrafted pasta. Stop by in the evening for a house cocktail like the Pomodoro Martini and a plate of house-made gnocchi. Is brunch more your speed? PR Italian Bistro hosts brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 3pm, where you’ll find a bottomless mimosa special and twists on your favorites like savory scallion pancakes and french toast with bourbon maple syrup.
For delicious Thai food in a fun setting, set out for Tac Quick which features Thai classics as well as an impressive in-house cocktail menu. The vibrant atmosphere and summer patio make this place the perfect stop before or after you catch a game at Wrigley Field. Keep an eye out for their secret menu which offers delicious bites like the som tum Thai and duck curry.
Lakeview
This casual spot located in the center of the Southport neighborhood corridor offers classic Americana food with rich flavors you won’t find anywhere else. You’ll feel like you’re in Grandma’s kitchen with their warm buttermilk biscuits and roasted chicken. Crosby’s Kitchen is known as one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in the area, offering kids eat free nights and even stroller valets! Don’t miss the brunch on Saturdays and Sundays where you can try their famous iron skillet blueberry cornbread topped with maple butter.
Looking for something light, fresh, and savory? Head over to Poké Poke for the now famous Hawaiian dish of poké: a combination of sushi with rich sauces and fresh fruits and vegetables. Poké Poke is known for their wide variety of flavors and options which makes it the perfect place for both long-time fans of poké and newcomers. Make sure to try one of their signature dishes like the Tsukiji Bowl or the Kani Bento.
Evanston
For incredible flavor in a sophisticated setting, head over to Kabul House nestled next to Evanston’s Harbert Park. This delightful restaurant features classic Afghan dishes infused with flavors passed down through generations made with sustainably sourced ingredients. Their extensive menu ranges from well-known lamb shish-kabobs to authentic dishes like Aushak and Mantoo. Kabul House can please any palate and dietary need, from vegetarian to carnivore!
Conveniently located next to Northwestern University’s Ryan Field, Ten Mile House is a local favorite for everything from brunch to kid-friendly dinners and late-night bites. Comfort food is their expertise with their crispy grilled cheese sandwich for dinner and fried chicken and waffles for brunch. Don’t miss out on their dessert menu which includes a donut ice cream sandwich and their decadent Super Creamy Orange and Dreamy dessert cocktail.
Winnetka
Located just off of Green Bay Road, Once Upon A Bagel is one of the best spots in the North Suburbs. They offer everything from classic bagel and lox to delicious corned beef sandwiches. Be sure to test out Once Upon’s Mexican Grill with favorites like the chilaquiles con asada and the huevos con chorizo. Looking to cater your next event? They have you covered with a comprehensive menu that’ll please even the pickiest eaters.
Grateful Bites Pizza Shoppe is the brick-and-mortar restaurant of our favorite local caterers: Grateful Bites Catering. This cozy location offers an inviting atmosphere and a menu featuring their delicious pizza cooked in a wood-burning oven. Don’t miss the elote white pizza with cotija cheese, cilantro and chili powder or the margheroni pizza that features classic margherita flavors with the addition of pepperoni. Finish off your visit with a decadent cast iron chocolate chip cookie drizzled with caramel and fudge sauce.
Glencoe
An Apple A Day Catering & Meg’s Cafe
Just down the street from the Glencoe Metra station, An Apple A Day Catering & Meg’s Cafe is a delightful spot where you can enjoy the catering company’s gourmet dishes for brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Heading out for brunch? Try their classic chocolate chip pancakes or the breakfast tacos. If you’re headed to Ravinia for a concert, stop by the cafe to pick up one of their Ravinia Box Meals which includes sandwiches, salads, dessert, and of course, an apple!
Highland Park
On the west side of Highland Park, you’ll find Bluegrass, a cozy restaurant serving American flair with southern inspiration. This neighborhood favorite offers southern favorites like jambalaya and dry-rubbed, freshly smoked, baby back ribs. Bluegrass features an extensive seafood menu, again with a southern flair, like the crawfish etouffee and shrimp and grits. Pair your food with one of their house-crafted cocktails like the Crimson Martini and the Georgia Peach.
In the heart of Highland Park, you’ll find Mizuki Grill, a sushi restaurant with a burst of American influences. This local favorite only uses the freshest fish for their sushi and sashimi, which range from traditional Unagi Rolls to the chef’s more creative options like the Marilyn Monroe Roll and the Crazy Roll. If sushi is not your thing, Mizuki also offers teriyaki chicken, filet mignon, and even burgers – all with a Japanese taste.
Lincoln Park
Conveniently located on North Halsted in Lincoln Park, Cafe Ba Ba Reeba is one of Chicago’s favorite tapas restaurants. Offering authentic Spanish dishes and traditional sangria in a warm, vibrant space, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to Spain. From their bacalao croquette to our personal favorite, the patatas bravas, you can’t go wrong. Be sure to stop by for brunch where you’ll find breakfast favorites tapas style and even a bloody mary bar!
Nestled on North Clark St. near the bustling shopping area on Diversey Parkway, La Creperie is an intimate spot serving some of the best crepes outside of France. From their savory ratatouille crepe to the sweet la citron crepe, their flavors can satisfy any palate. During the summer, La Creperie offers a back garden where you can dine in your own oasis surrounded by delicious food. Brunch is served daily and features omelets and their delicious crepe florentine.
Lincoln Square & Ravenswood
Part bakery, part restaurant, Cafe Selmarie is a neighborhood favorite hidden away inside of Lincoln Square. Inspired by European cafes, you’ll find a range of food options from pastries to brunch to a robust dinner menu. Stopping by for breakfast? Don’t miss the cinnamon roll griddlecakes that are topped with vanilla cream cheese butter. If you’re just out and about shopping, pick up one of their signature tortes or some caramel apple bread pudding before heading home.
Logan Square
Just off the California Blue Line stop you’ll find Serai, an Asian-infusion restaurant with a focus on Malaysian flavors. Dig into pan-fried noodles like the char koay teow or traditional dishes like the hainanese chicken. Serai’s Asian-infusion style means you’ll find some of your favorite dishes like Szechuan spicy beef and pineapple fried rice. Wash it all down with one of their classic Malaysian drinks of teh tarik, a hot milk tea beverage.
Down the street from Logan Square Park is The Crab Pad, a vibrant BYOB restaurant offering some of the best casual seafood dishes in Chicago. It all starts by ordering your seafood by the pound, then selecting your seasoning and spice level. If the extensive menu is daunting, you can always select one of the combos which range from 4-8 pounds of a variety of seafood plus sides of potatoes and corn. Quell your thirst with one of their fresh iced tea lemonades or boba tea drinks.
Gold Coast
Arguably the best taco joint in Chicago, Velvet Taco is a must-have in the Gold Coast. There are over 20 varieties of tacos at any given time, with creative ingredients like chicken tenders, tikka sauce, and even strawberry jam! For the adventurous foodie, try the Ahi poké taco which features raw poké fish, seaweed salad, and wasabi crema. If you want to keep to more classic flavors, try the Cuban pig or the rotisserie chicken taco. No matter which one you choose, you can’t go wrong.
