The Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Chicago for 2015: A Culinary Heaven for Foodies!

Discover the top restaurants in Chicago for 2015 with our expert guide. From Michelin-starred eateries to hidden gems, we've got you covered.

Chicago is one of the most renowned food cities in the world, and it's not hard to see why. The city boasts of a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From classic deep-dish pizza to experimental fusion cuisine, there's something for everyone in Chicago. In this article, we'll be exploring the best restaurants in Chicago in 2015. These restaurants have been carefully selected based on their outstanding cuisine, exceptional service, and overall dining experience.

First on our list is Alinea, which has been named the best restaurant in Chicago for five consecutive years. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its innovative and avant-garde cuisine, which is served in a theatrical and immersive dining experience. From edible helium balloons to savory black truffle explosion, Alinea's menu is a journey of flavors and textures that will leave you amazed.

Next up is Grace, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Chef Curtis Duffy's culinary creations are as visually stunning as they are delicious, with dishes like the carrot dish and the lobster dish leaving a lasting impression on diners.

If you're in the mood for some seafood, then head over to Acadia, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in coastal-inspired cuisine. Chef Ryan McCaskey's menu features a range of dishes from raw bar selections to whole roasted fish, all prepared with exceptional skill and care.

For those who prefer a more casual dining experience, there's Au Cheval, a diner-style restaurant that serves up some of the best burgers in the city. The restaurant's signature double cheeseburger is a must-try, but be prepared for a long wait as this popular spot doesn't take reservations.

If you're looking for something a little more exotic, then Fat Rice is the place to be. This Macanese-inspired restaurant serves up a fusion of Chinese, Portuguese, and Southeast Asian flavors in dishes like the arroz gordo, a rice dish that's loaded with seafood, sausage, and spices.

Another restaurant that's been making waves in Chicago's culinary scene is Oriole, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a multi-course tasting menu of contemporary American cuisine. Chef Noah Sandoval's dishes are both inventive and elegant, with a focus on highlighting the natural flavors of each ingredient.

For fans of Italian cuisine, there's Spiaggia, a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in modern Italian fare. The restaurant's menu features a range of pasta dishes, seafood, and seasonal vegetables, all served in an upscale and sophisticated setting.

If you're in the mood for some barbecue, then head over to Smoque BBQ, a casual restaurant that serves up some of the best smoked meats in the city. From brisket to pulled pork, Smoque's menu is a meat-lover's dream come true.

For a taste of Mexico, there's Topolobampo, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers refined Mexican cuisine. Chef Rick Bayless' menu features a range of dishes from traditional street tacos to contemporary creations like the duck carnitas.

Last but not least is Girl & the Goat, a popular restaurant that offers a creative and eclectic menu of small plates. Chef Stephanie Izard's dishes are inspired by global flavors and ingredients, resulting in a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Overall, Chicago's culinary scene is constantly evolving and these restaurants are just a fraction of what the city has to offer. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great meal, these restaurants are definitely worth a visit.

Introduction

Chicago is known for its food culture, and it's no surprise that the city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. In 2015, several restaurants made a splash with their unique menus and culinary innovations. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great meal, these restaurants are not to be missed.

Alinea

Alinea has consistently been ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world, and it's easy to see why. Head chef Grant Achatz is known for his innovative dishes that push the boundaries of what is possible with food. The restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that changes seasonally, and each dish is a work of art. If you're looking for a truly unforgettable dining experience, Alinea is the place to go.

Another restaurant from Grant Achatz, Next is a unique concept that changes its menu entirely every few months. Each menu is inspired by a different time period, cuisine, or theme, making every visit to Next a completely different experience. The restaurant has received critical acclaim for its attention to detail and creativity.

Roister

Roister is a casual, yet upscale restaurant that offers a menu inspired by classic American comfort food. The restaurant is known for its wood-fired cooking techniques, which infuse each dish with a smoky flavor. Roister offers a communal dining experience, with large tables and an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs prepare their meals.

Smyth

Smyth is a small, intimate restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce. The menu changes frequently to reflect what's fresh and in season, and the chefs use a variety of cooking techniques to create unique and flavorful dishes. The restaurant also offers a tasting menu with optional beverage pairings.

Grace

Grace is a fine dining restaurant that offers a modern take on classic French cuisine. Chef Curtis Duffy's menu is inspired by his travels and experiences, and each dish is expertly crafted with attention to detail and presentation. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including three Michelin stars.

Girl and the Goat

Girl and the Goat is a popular restaurant that offers a menu inspired by global flavors and local ingredients. Chef Stephanie Izard's dishes are creative and flavorful, and the restaurant has a lively atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a night out with friends. Be sure to try the goat empanadas, one of the restaurant's signature dishes.

Parachute

Parachute is a Korean-American restaurant that offers a menu of small plates meant for sharing. The dishes are inventive and full of flavor, with a focus on bold spices and unique combinations of ingredients. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a casual meal with friends.

Publican

Publican is a gastropub that offers a menu of hearty, rustic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its house-cured meats and impressive selection of craft beers. Publican has a lively atmosphere and communal seating, making it a great spot for a casual night out.

Acadia

Acadia is a fine dining restaurant that offers a menu of modern American cuisine. The dishes are beautifully presented and full of flavor, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including two Michelin stars.

Blackbird

Blackbird is a contemporary American restaurant that offers a menu of inventive dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The chefs use a variety of cooking techniques to create unique flavors and textures, and the restaurant has a minimalist yet elegant atmosphere. Be sure to try the squab with foie gras, one of the restaurant's standout dishes.

Conclusion

Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and 2015 was no exception. From fine dining establishments like Alinea and Grace to casual spots like Roister and Girl and the Goat, there is something for every palate and budget. These restaurants continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with food, and they are not to be missed.

Chicago is a foodie's paradise, with a vibrant culinary scene that offers something for every taste and budget. From fine dining to casual eats, the city has it all. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best restaurants in Chicago for 2015, including the best options for a date night, the best Italian restaurants, seafood spots, brunch spots, steakhouse restaurants, vegetarian options, Mexican eateries, pizza joints, and outdoor dining experiences.

The Top 10 Best Fine Dining Options in Chicago

Chicago has no shortage of high-end restaurants that offer exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. Here are the top 10 best fine dining options in the city:

1. Alinea

Alinea is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that is known for its innovative and experimental cuisine. The restaurant's tasting menu features dishes that are designed to engage all five senses, from edible balloons to savory black truffle explosions.

2. Oriole

Oriole is another Michelin-starred restaurant that is known for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional cuisine. The restaurant offers a 15-course tasting menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and global flavors.

3. Smyth

Smyth is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern take on American cuisine. The restaurant's tasting menu changes frequently and features dishes that are both inventive and delicious.

4. Acadia

Acadia is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that is inspired by the cuisine of the Atlantic coast. The restaurant's tasting menu features dishes that highlight the flavors of the sea, from lobster to caviar.

5. Everest

Everest is a classic French restaurant that offers stunning views of the city from its perch on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange. The restaurant's tasting menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist.

6. Grace

Grace is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a sophisticated and elegant dining experience. The restaurant's tasting menu features dishes that are inspired by nature and the changing seasons.

7. Next

Next is a unique restaurant that changes its menu every few months to showcase different cuisines and culinary styles from around the world. The restaurant's past themes have included Paris, Thailand, and Childhood.

8. Topolobampo

Topolobampo is an upscale Mexican restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional cuisine. The restaurant's tasting menu features dishes that highlight the flavors of Mexico, from spicy chiles to fresh seafood.

9. Spiaggia

Spiaggia is a classic Italian restaurant that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan. The restaurant's tasting menu features dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Tuscany, from handmade pasta to roasted meats.

10. Boka

Boka is a contemporary American restaurant that offers a seasonally inspired tasting menu. The restaurant's dishes are creative and flavorful, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

The Best Restaurants for a Date Night in Chicago

Chicago is a romantic city that offers many options for a memorable date night. Here are some of the best restaurants for a romantic evening out:

1. RPM Italian

RPM Italian is a stylish and sophisticated restaurant that offers classic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant's elegant decor and romantic ambiance make it a perfect spot for a date night.

2. Geja's Cafe

Geja's Cafe is a fondue restaurant that offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant's dimly lit dining room and live flamenco guitar music create a romantic ambiance that is perfect for a date night.

3. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a French-inspired steakhouse that offers a vintage glamour and an intimate atmosphere. The restaurant's dim lighting, leather booths, and classic cocktails make it a perfect spot for a romantic evening out.

4. The Signature Room at the 95th

The Signature Room at the 95th is a fine dining restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the city from its perch on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. The restaurant's panoramic views and elegant decor make it a perfect spot for a special occasion.

5. Sepia

Sepia is a contemporary American restaurant that offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant's warm lighting and brick walls create a romantic ambiance that is perfect for a date night.

Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago has a rich Italian heritage, and the city offers many excellent Italian restaurants that serve authentic cuisine. Here are some of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago:

1. Quartino

Quartino is a lively Italian restaurant that offers small plates and family-style dining. The restaurant's menu features classic Italian dishes like pizza, pasta, and antipasti.

2. Piccolo Sogno

Piccolo Sogno is a charming Italian restaurant that offers an extensive wine list and delicious cuisine. The restaurant's menu features homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas.

3. Monteverde

Monteverde is a contemporary Italian restaurant that offers handmade pasta and seasonal dishes. The restaurant's menu features Italian classics like spaghetti carbonara and risotto as well as innovative dishes like cacio e pepe ravioli.

4. Spiaggia

Spiaggia is a classic Italian restaurant that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and delicious cuisine. The restaurant's menu features handmade pasta, roasted meats, and fresh seafood.

5. Coco Pazzo

Coco Pazzo is a rustic Italian restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious cuisine. The restaurant's menu features classic Italian dishes like bruschetta, lasagna, and tiramisu.

Chicago's Best Seafood Restaurants

Chicago is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, and the city offers many excellent seafood restaurants that serve fresh fish and shellfish. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Chicago:

1. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a classic seafood restaurant that offers a wide selection of fresh fish and shellfish. The restaurant is known for its stone crab claws, which are flown in from Florida daily.

2. GT Fish & Oyster

GT Fish & Oyster is a contemporary seafood restaurant that offers a modern take on classic dishes. The restaurant's menu features dishes like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fish tacos.

3. Shaw's Crab House

Shaw's Crab House is a classic seafood restaurant that offers excellent seafood and live jazz music. The restaurant's menu features fresh fish, oysters, and crab cakes.

4. The Fish Counter

The Fish Counter is a casual seafood restaurant that offers sustainable seafood and a laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant's menu features fish tacos, lobster rolls, and fish and chips.

5. The Crab Pad

The Crab Pad is a seafood restaurant that offers crab, shrimp, and crawfish boils. The restaurant's communal tables and casual atmosphere make it a great spot for a group dinner or a fun night out.

Where to Find the Best Brunch in Chicago

Chicago is a brunch-lover's paradise, with many excellent restaurants that offer delicious brunch dishes and creative cocktails. Here are some of the best brunch spots in Chicago:

1. The Publican

The Publican is a rustic-chic restaurant that offers a farm-to-table brunch menu. The restaurant's menu features dishes like Belgian waffles, omelets, and pork belly hash.

2. Beatrix

Beatrix is a trendy restaurant that offers a healthy and flavorful brunch menu. The restaurant's menu features dishes like quinoa cakes, avocado toast, and green juice.

3. Yolk

Yolk is a casual breakfast and brunch spot that offers classic dishes with a twist. The restaurant's menu features dishes like red velvet French toast, sweet potato pancakes, and breakfast burritos.

4. Lula Cafe

Lula Cafe is a cozy neighborhood spot that offers a creative and seasonal brunch menu. The restaurant's menu features dishes like ricotta pancakes, corned beef hash, and breakfast sandwiches.

5. Longman & Eagle

Longman & Eagle is a hip restaurant that offers a brunch menu with a focus on whiskey and bourbon cocktails. The restaurant's menu features dishes like biscuits and gravy, fried chicken and waffles, and smoked salmon benedict.

The Best Steakhouse Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is known for its love of steak, and the city offers many excellent steakhouse restaurants that serve high-quality cuts of meat. Here are some of the best steakhouse restaurants in Chicago:

1. Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse

Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse is a classic Chicago steakhouse that offers excellent service and delicious cuisine. The restaurant's menu features USDA prime beef, fresh seafood, and classic sides like creamed spinach and mashed potatoes.

2. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a French-inspired steakhouse that offers vintage glamour and an intimate atmosphere. The restaurant's menu features dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and classic cocktails.

3. Chicago Cut Steakhouse

Chicago Cut Steakhouse is a modern steakhouse that offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline. The restaurant's menu features USDA prime beef, fresh seafood, and creative sides like truffle mac and cheese.

4. Mastro's Steakhouse

Mastro's Steakhouse is a luxurious steakhouse that offers an upscale dining experience. The restaurant's menu features USDA prime beef, fresh seafood, and live music in the piano bar.

5. RPM Steak

RPM Steak is a contemporary steakhouse that offers a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant's menu features dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and creative sides like roasted bone marrow.

Best Restaurants for Vegetarians in Chicago

Chicago is a vegetarian-friendly city that offers many excellent restaurants that serve delicious meatless dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants for vegetarians in Chicago:

1. Green Zebra

Green Zebra is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a seasonal tasting menu. The restaurant's dishes are creative and flavorful, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

2. Bad Hunter

Bad Hunter is a vegetable-forward restaurant that offers creative and delicious dishes. The restaurant's menu features dishes like roasted carrots with avocado and smoked tofu with crispy rice.

3. Girl & the Goat

Girl & the Goat is a popular restaurant that offers a meat-centric menu as well as vegetarian options. The restaurant's vegetable dishes are creative and flavorful, with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

4. Handlebar

Handlebar is a casual restaurant that offers vegetarian and vegan comfort food. The restaurant's menu features dishes like seitan gyros, vegan mac and cheese, and tempeh Reubens.

5. The Chicago Diner

The Chicago Diner is a vegetarian diner that offers classic American comfort food. The restaurant's menu features dishes like vegan milkshakes, seitan burgers, and vegan deep-dish pizza.

The Best Mexican Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago has a vibrant Mexican community, and the city offers many excellent Mexican restaurants that serve authentic cuisine. Here are some of the best Mexican restaurants in Chicago:

1. Xoco

Xoco is a casual Mexican restaurant that offers delicious tortas, churros, and hot chocolate. The restaurant's menu features traditional Mexican street food, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

2. La Josie

La Josie is a contemporary Mexican restaurant that offers a modern take on classic dishes. The restaurant's menu features dishes like ceviche, tacos, and mole.

3. Mi Tocaya Antojería

Mi Tocaya Antojería is a trendy Mexican restaurant that offers creative and delicious dishes. The restaurant's menu features dishes like huitlacoche quesadillas, mole coloradito, and cochinita pibil.

4. Frontera Grill

Frontera Grill is a classic Mexican restaurant that offers excellent cuisine and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant's menu features dishes like guacamole, chiles rellenos, and carne asada.

5. Antique Taco

Antique Taco is a casual Mexican restaurant that offers creative and flavorful dishes. The restaurant's menu features dishes like al pastor tacos, elote, and queso fundido.

Chicago's Best Pizza Joints

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, but the city also offers many other excellent pizza joints that serve delicious pies. Here are some of the best pizza joints in Chicago:

1. Pequod's Pizza

Pequod's Pizza is a legendary pizza joint that offers crispy and delicious deep-dish pizza. The restaurant's caramelized crust is a local favorite.

2. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a classic Chicago pizza joint that offers excellent deep-dish pizza. The restaurant's buttery crust and tangy sauce are a local favorite.

3. Paulie Gee's Logan Square

Paulie Gee's Logan Square is a hip pizza joint that offers wood

Best Restaurants in Chicago 2015

Point of View

As a foodie and a resident of Chicago, I have explored the city's culinary scene and have come across some of the best restaurants in 2015. Chicago is known for its diverse food culture, and the restaurants that made it to the list in 2015 were no exception. From classic American cuisine to exotic international flavors, these restaurants offered an unforgettable dining experience.

Pros

The quality of food at these restaurants was exceptional, with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
Many of the restaurants featured a trendy ambiance and modern decor, making them perfect for special occasions or date nights.
The service at these restaurants was top-notch, with knowledgeable staff who were passionate about the food they served.
There was a wide range of cuisines available, catering to different tastes and dietary restrictions.

Cons

The prices at these restaurants were on the higher side, making them less accessible to those on a budget.
Some of the restaurants had long wait times, especially during peak hours and weekends.
As many of these restaurants were popular, it was often necessary to make reservations well in advance.
Some of the restaurants had limited vegetarian or vegan options.

Table Comparison of Best Restaurants in Chicago 2015

Restaurant Name	Cuisine	Price Range	Reservation Required?
Alinea	American	$$$$$	Yes
Grace	American	$$$$	Yes
Avec	Mediterranean	$$$	No
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf	Steakhouse	$$$	Yes
Girl & the Goat	New American	$$	Yes

In conclusion, the best restaurants in Chicago in 2015 offered a diverse range of cuisines, exceptional food quality, and top-notch service. However, they may not be accessible to those on a budget and require reservations well in advance. Despite these cons, they are worth checking out for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Best Restaurants in Chicago 2015: A Culinary Journey

Dear readers,

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey through the best restaurants in Chicago in 2015. It was a pleasure to share my experiences with you and I hope that you found this article helpful in your search for great dining options in the Windy City.

Chicago has always been known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, and 2015 was no exception. From classic deep-dish pizza to innovative fusion cuisine, there was something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we explored some of the best restaurants that Chicago had to offer, each with their own unique style and flavor.

We began our journey at Alinea, one of the most highly-regarded restaurants in the city. The restaurant's innovative tasting menu, paired with exceptional service and a breathtaking atmosphere, made for an unforgettable dining experience. From the black truffle explosion to the savory lamb dish, every course was a delight for the senses.

Next, we visited Grace, a restaurant known for its elegant and refined dishes. The restaurant's minimalist decor and attention to detail created a serene ambiance that complemented the artistry of the food. Highlights of the meal included the potato, uni, and truffle dish, as well as the succulent pork belly.

If you are looking for a more casual dining experience, we recommend checking out Girl & the Goat. This trendy spot is known for its small plates and bold flavors. The goat empanadas and roasted beets were particular favorites, but the real star of the show was the goat leg confit, which was cooked to perfection and packed with flavor.

For seafood lovers, we recommend visiting Nico Osteria. The restaurant's coastal Italian cuisine is sure to please, with dishes like the Maine lobster spaghetti and the wood-roasted monkfish stealing the show. The restaurant's chic interior and attentive service also make for a memorable dining experience.

If you are in the mood for classic Chicago-style pizza, look no further than Lou Malnati's. This iconic restaurant has been serving up deep-dish pizza since 1971, and it remains a beloved favorite among locals and tourists alike. The buttery crust and generous toppings make for a truly indulgent meal.

Another standout restaurant from our journey was Oriole, a Michelin-starred establishment that offers a personalized dining experience. The restaurant only seats 28 people at a time, allowing for an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The tasting menu changes frequently, but some of our favorite dishes included the smoked eel and the poached lobster.

For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, we recommend checking out Topolobampo. This restaurant, helmed by renowned chef Rick Bayless, offers a range of bold and flavorful dishes that showcase the diversity of Mexican cooking. The mole negro was a particular standout, and the margaritas were expertly crafted.

Another restaurant that impressed us was Duck Duck Goat, a Chinese-inspired eatery that serves up playful and inventive dishes. The restaurant's colorful decor and lively atmosphere make for a fun and vibrant dining experience. We particularly enjoyed the duck fried rice and the goat & dumplings dish.

If you are looking for a romantic spot for a date night, we recommend visiting Sepia. This cozy restaurant has a vintage-inspired interior and a warm ambiance that is perfect for a special occasion. The farm-to-table cuisine is also exceptional, with dishes like the seared scallops and the roasted duck breast standing out.

Finally, we visited Smyth + The Loyalist, a dual-concept restaurant that offers both high-end tasting menus and more casual bar fare. The tasting menu was a tour de force of creative and delicious dishes, with highlights including the caviar and potato and the smoked beef tartare. The Loyalist, the more casual side of the restaurant, is also worth checking out for its inventive cocktails and tasty snacks.

Thank you again for joining me on this culinary journey through the best restaurants in Chicago in 2015. I hope that this article has given you some inspiration for your next dining adventure in the Windy City. Happy eating!