Chicago
Chicago Culinary Gems: Where Style Meets Substance
Chicago is a city known for its dynamic food scene, offering everything from upscale fine dining to cozy coffee spots. Whether you’re in the mood for an indulgent steakhouse experience or a picturesque riverfront brunch, here’s a list of standout spots that define the city’s diverse and ever-evolving dining culture.
Adalina
Located in the Gold Coast, Adalina is an upscale Italian eatery that blends modern sophistication with timeless flavors. The atmosphere is sleek and refined, with warm tones, marble accents, and an intimate dining room. The menu focuses on elevated Italian classics, featuring handmade pastas and perfectly cooked meats. The ambiance feels both luxurious and welcoming, making it perfect for date night or special occasions. Expect the crowd to dress in smart-casual attire, with a fashionable yet laid-back vibe.
Le Colonial
Le Colonial offers a stunning blend of French-Vietnamese cuisine in a setting that transports you to 1920s Saigon. Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, this restaurant exudes elegance with its colonial-inspired decor—dark woods, tropical plants, and vintage details. The vibe here is chic and intimate, with a crowd that appreciates fine dining. The menu showcases delicate, flavor-forward dishes like lemongrass chicken and crispy spring rolls. As for attire, think stylish and upscale, with a touch of old-world charm.
Polo Bar
For a classic steakhouse experience with a dash of Ralph Lauren's signature style, Polo Bar delivers in spades. Located just off Michigan Avenue, this spot feels like stepping into a luxurious clubhouse, complete with leather banquettes, wood-paneled walls, and vintage equestrian artwork. The food is everything you’d expect from a high-end steakhouse, with perfectly aged cuts of beef, decadent sides, and expertly crafted cocktails. The crowd here is polished and preppy, with attire that reflects Polo Bar’s sophisticated, all-American vibe.
Maple & Ash
Maple & Ash is where steakhouse tradition meets a contemporary party atmosphere. The interior design is moody and chic, with dim lighting, sleek decor, and a lively bar scene. While known for its indulgent steaks and seafood, the menu also offers creative takes on classic dishes, including their signature fire-roasted seafood tower. The vibe here is fun and energetic, making it a popular spot for celebrations. Dress to impress, as the crowd at Maple & Ash leans toward high-end, trendy attire.
Good Ambler
For a more relaxed yet sophisticated experience, Good Ambler in the West Loop offers artisanal pastries and craft coffee. This café is sleek and modern, with minimalist decor and large windows that flood the space with natural light. It’s the perfect spot for a casual coffee date or a quiet afternoon with a book. The pastries here are the stars of the show, featuring intricate chocolates, flaky croissants, and other deliciously crafted treats. The crowd is a mix of young professionals and coffee enthusiasts, with attire that’s casual but stylish.
Beatnik on the River
Beatnik on the River offers a bohemian paradise right in the middle of the city. Located on the Chicago River, the restaurant is known for its eclectic decor—think Moroccan tiles, lush greenery, and vintage chandeliers. The outdoor patio offers some of the best waterfront views in the city. The menu is globally inspired, with flavors from the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Latin America all colliding in beautiful dishes. The crowd is trendy and free-spirited, with a fashion-forward boho-chic dress code that matches the restaurant’s laid-back yet vibrant vibe.
Fig & Olive
For a Mediterranean escape in the heart of Chicago’s Oak Street, Fig & Olive offers a bright and airy atmosphere that feels as refreshing as a coastal getaway. The decor is sleek and light, with white walls, olive trees, and terracotta accents. The menu is centered around fresh Mediterranean ingredients, with a focus on seafood, olive oils, and seasonal produce. The vibe is refined yet casual, making it a great spot for both lunch and dinner. The attire here is business-casual, with an emphasis on effortless style.
Au Cheval
Au Cheval is a culinary institution, often hailed for serving one of the best burgers in the country. The restaurant’s industrial-chic design, with its dim lighting, exposed brick walls, and cozy booths, gives it a relaxed yet refined feel. While the burger is the star of the show, the menu also offers a range of comfort foods elevated to gourmet levels, from foie gras to fried bologna sandwiches. Despite the casual vibe, Au Cheval attracts a fashionable crowd, with attire that’s laid-back but with an edge—think urban chic.
Girl and the Goat
Stephanie Izard’s flagship restaurant in the West Loop, Girl and the Goat, continues to be a trendsetter in Chicago’s dining scene. The industrial-chic interior and open kitchen create an energetic, bustling atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing plates and socializing. The menu is adventurous, featuring bold flavors and inventive combinations, from crispy pig face to roasted goat. The crowd here is diverse, ranging from foodies to trendy locals, with attire that’s stylish yet casual, embodying the West Loop’s cool, urban vibe.
Alla Vita
Alla Vita is a modern Italian eatery that captures the heart of casual, vibrant dining. Located in the West Loop, the restaurant has a fresh, welcoming vibe, with an open, airy dining room that features neutral tones and lush greenery. The menu offers Italian comfort food with a modern twist, featuring handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and flavorful meats. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, making it a great spot for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. The crowd is fashion-forward yet casual, with an effortlessly chic approach to attire.