Illinois is a Midwestern US state best known for its largest city, Chicago — a global hub of architecture, culture, food, and commerce. From the iconic skyline and world-class museums to Lincoln's historic home in Springfield and the rugged beauty of Shawnee National Forest, Illinois offers an incredibly diverse travel experience.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Alinea
Grant Achatz's three-Michelin-starred flagship, widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world. An avant-garde multi-course experience that defies conventions — dishes are served on the table, in the air, and sometimes on the diner.
1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Girl & The Goat
Stephanie Izard's celebrated flagship in the vibrant Fulton Market District offering creative shared plates with bold global flavors. The goat empanadas, roasted pig face, and wood-oven dishes are legendary.
809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Au Cheval
Frequently ranked among America's best burgers, Au Cheval's double cheeseburger with a soft fried egg and crispy bacon is a revelation. A stylish diner vibe with a full cocktail program.
800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
An absolute Chicago institution since 1971, Lou Malnati's is widely considered the city's best deep dish pizza. The Malnati Chicago Classic — butter crust, sausage, tomatoes, and mozzarella — is an unmissable experience.
439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654
Giordano's
Famous for their 'stuffed' deep dish pizza with cheese packed between two layers of crust — a style distinct from traditional deep dish. The Giordano's original recipe has been served since 1974.
130 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Pequod's Pizza
Beloved by locals for its caramelized-cheese-crust pan pizza that creates a crunchy, slightly burnt cheese ring around the edges. Less touristy than other deep dish spots, making it a local favorite since 1971.
2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Portillo's Hot Dogs
The quintessential Chicago hot dog experience — Vienna Beef franks on a poppy seed bun with yellow mustard, sweet relish, onions, tomatoes, sport peppers, dill pickle, and celery salt. Never ketchup.
100 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654
Al's Beef
The original Chicago Italian beef stand since 1938, where thin-sliced seasoned roast beef is piled into Italian bread and dipped into flavorful au jus. Order it 'dipped' and 'hot' with giardiniera for the full Chicago experience.
169 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Alinea
Girl & The Goat
Au Cheval
Smyth
Chicago q
Lula Cafe
The Berghoff Restaurant
Beatrix
Longman & Eagle
Cozy Dog Drive In
Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery
Rosewood Restaurant
Niko's Red Mill Tavern
Chicago
Portillo's Hot Dogs
Superdawg Drive-In
Pequod's Pizza (Wrigleyville)
Gold Coast Dogs
Pizano's Pizza
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Giordano's
Pequod's Pizza
Italian
Al's Beef
Mr. Beef
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Mediterranean
The Purple Pig
Avec
Aba Chicago
Mexican
Xoco
Big Star
Frontera Grill
Steakhouse
RPM Steak
Chicago Chop House
The Capital Grille
Bakery
The Doughnut Vault
Mindy's Bakery
Spanish
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Café Iberico
Belgian
Publican
Japanese
Nobu Chicago
New Orleans
Ina Mae Tavern
Tex
Dove's Luncheonette
Vegetarian
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Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |