The ultimate Chicago travel guide for foodies, I’m sharing ten don’t-miss spots for your next visit to the Windy City, plus tips on where to stay!
Last month I returned to one of my favorite cities of all time, Chicago! While I had a blast writing my wellness travel guide to Chicago as well as my kid-friendly travel guide to Chicago, I couldn’t wait to return to write my ultimate foodie guide to Chicago.
Let’s be real, everyone knows that Chicago is a foodie town. Most famous for their deep dish pizza, Chicago hot dogs and Italian beef subs, I was determined to do a deep dive and show you a few of MY favorite foodie spots in Chicago.
Of course, before we deep dive into my top ten spots for foodies in Chicago, let’s start with where to stay when visiting the area. When it comes to luxury hotels, there is no better than the famed Langham Chicago.
Located in Downtown Chicago, The Langham offers breathtaking views of the skyline, Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Voted the number 1 luxury hotel in Chicago, this 5 star property features floor to ceiling windows that will absolutely take your breath away.
Featuring a modern fitness studio, indoor pool and the most luxurious hotel room bathrooms you’ll ever witness, every detail and amenity has been thought of and taken care of for you.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend upgrading to The Langham Club Floor so that you can enjoy the complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails, appetizers and desserts. You can learn more about the Langham Club here.
Now that we’ve covered where to stay when visiting Chicago, let’s get into my top ten list of things to do for foodies!
MingHin Cuisine: If you love authentic Chinese food, MingHin is not to be missed.
I’ve been multiple times and it never lets me down.
Hands down, MingHin offers the best dim sum in Chicago’s Chinatown!
Greek Islands Restaurant: We grew up eating in Greektown when we would visit Chicago and while my childhood favorites have closed down after many years (Rodytis and Parthenon), Greek Islands fit the bill perfectly. Offering traditional Greek specialties including avgolemono (chicken rice soup), gyros, roasted fish, saganaki, and more.
Travelle at the Langham: Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert, Travelle has a little something for everyone.
Located on the second floor of Chicago’s most luxurious hotel, The Langham, Travelle is a casually elegant restaurant and lounge located right along the Chicago river.
In fact, I even had an opportunity to get in the kitchen with Chef Jeff Vucko to prepare a fall-inspired recipe for the holidays. You can check that video out here if you haven’t seen it!
HaiSous Vietamese Kitchen: One of the highlights of my entire visit, HaiSous is run by husband and wife team Chef Thai and Danielle Dang.
Showcasing the flavors of Vietnam, every dish that came out was well balanced, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor.
I will definitely be back here again and again!
Cira Chicago: Small plates and sharable mains, the menu features fresh, coastal ingredients that rotate throughout the year. I’m still dreaming about the rich and creamy pumpkin ravioli sprinkled with chopped pistachios.
Three Dots and a Dash: Hidden below one of Chicago’s busiest neighborhoods, River North, Three Dots and a Dash is the ultimate tropical tiki and craft cocktail bar.
Named one of The World’s 50 Best Bars by Drinks International, each cocktail is made with fresh exotic fruits, the finest rums and cold-pressed elixirs. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for two or the ideal location for a girl’s night out, Three Dots and a Dash isn’t to be missed.
Somerset: Located in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, I love to hit up Somerset for a fresh and healthy breakfast.
Situated inside the 1920’s era famed Cedar Hotel, Somerset’s Chef Lee Wolen describes his seasonal menu as “food people like to eat.” I couldn’t put it better myself.
Limitless Coffee: Need a pick-me-up during your visit to Chicago? Head to the sleek and modern Limitless Coffee. Offering a wide variety of coffees, teas and other drinks, I highly recommend this coffee shop if you need a spot to get work done or an espresso to go.
Barrio Chicago: Mexican food is always on my radar so when I heard about Barrio I couldn’t wait to check it out myself.
Led by “Top Chef” alum, Chef Katsuji Tanabe, the menu features shared plates offering locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. I was blown away by the homemade salsas and fresh tacos.
You will also find a wide variety of options for any dietary needs including paleo and gluten free options. Be sure to check our Barrio if you’re craving fresh Mexican food in Chicago!
Cerise Rooftop: Last but not least, head to Cerise Rooftop located on top of the Virgin Hotel in downtown Chicago. Offering some of the most breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline, I highly recommend this rooftop bar for happy hour snacks and cocktails. They also feature a wide variety of live music, DJ’s and other events so be sure to check their website to stay up to date.
What did I miss? What are your favorite foodie hot spots in Chicago? I’m all ears!
Your passport is waiting.
Disclosure: Choose Chicago helped me arrange complimentary meals throughout my visit. All thoughts are my own.
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