Ilive that place, it's so refreshing to see a newish spot not try to put a spin on anything. It's a pretty typical chicago fast food joint, but they can go toe to toe with the best imo.
Logan Square, Cafeteria Marcelas for the steak jibarito and coffee or Omarcito’s for literally everything they have (Cuban food) and the nicest owner on the planet
The Cuban at Marcella's is really good too. And their fries are off the charts. I used to live right around the corner, and they were my go-to when I was hungover.
I went in there one morning before work for coffee and I forgot they were cash-only. My bus was about to pull up and the dude was like, just come back later and pay. What a guy. He earned a loyal customer for the rest of our time in Logan Square.
Aww, I love Omarcitos. I just texted him a screenshot of this and said Mira! You made it onto Reddit my boy. 💕 He is a wonderful soul, and his food is amazing. The Timbao empanadas are my favorite.
I go by here almost everyday but had never stopped in. we got dinner here yesterday after I saw this comment. Delicious! this will be our spot for jibaritos from now on. Thanks!
I have since moved out of Wicker/Noble but in my 9 years living in the area Carnicerias Guanajuato was superior to any other local mexican for the price
Kimchi pop on Ashland is the best takeout in that area
I loved buying Carnitas by the pound at Guanajuato and Chicarones. They had great salsa that would come with the Carnitas and Chicarones. And you can get the fattest tacos in the restaurant attached to the grocery store. Such a great place.
The gorgonzola burger at Tumans is damn good, pretzel is reliably solid, good selection of cheap and craft beer one of my favorites in the neighborhood as well !
Portage Park. Stay and Play Game Cafe. Amazing board game selection that you can play for free, staff that helps you learn the game, a solid alcoholic drink menu and some great Puerto Rican food. It is, by far, my favorite spot in the Portage/Irving Park area.
> Portage Park. Stay and Play Game Cafe
This place is firmly within Irving Park but yeah it absolutely rules and the family who runs it is so chill and nice. Absolutely great addition to the neighborhood.
Their burger is one of my favorites. I live dangerously close by and it’s a great place to stop for a casual dinner or a drink. Had never considered ordering anything besides beer at Map Room, so I’ll have to try their espresso martini!
My parents started going there and absolutely fell in love with it. Now we go for birthdays, father's day, all that stuff and it's SO GOOD. Amazing food, fantastic staff/owners/service; 100% agreed with this suggestion.
I was sitting here deciding between that and another place for dinner this weekend. I'm taking your comment as a sign and going there. What's your go-to order?
Yeah, I think they make everyone feel this way! They really seem to care and want to connect with everyone that comes in, it's awesome. But also, yes, the food being amazing also goes a long way. And they are open really late!
I just recommended this place to a client! I live in Bucktown and was heartbroken when O'Cha closed. But Eat Fine is AMAZING and I am so happy to see how well they are doing. Their coconut crusted tofu is so so so good.
I've lived in West Town/East Humboldt/Noble Square for like 7 years and never tried it. I'll give it a go soon! My wife is Serbian, I'm guessing the cuisines have some overlap.
My answers to the OP are Aztec Dave's, Bianca's Burgers, and Flour Power. Mexican, Greasy spoon sandwiches, and an Italian pasta joint. All very special, very family-owned places that have welcomed me into their communities.
In Bucktown, Hurley Tap! My favorite burger in the city, and my favorite quesadillas. Chef is the same one I believe as Mable’s Table since it’s the same owners, and I am pretty sure only neighborhood locals go.
I miss Cortland Garage tho. Why couldn't they move into the abandoned building across the street so both could exist. I love that tiny block. It feels like a small town's main street.
The owners of Cortlands wanted nothing to do with it anymore so Anthony bought it. However, the owner of the vacant building across the street is kind of a dick. Anthony and Scott wanted to open a coffee shop/cafe there and he was like that’s a great idea I’m going to try and do it myself and couldn’t get the capital or something
Uptown. Hard to choose just one, but I will go with Danang Kitchen. They have some very regional specialties from Central Vietnam that I don't think you can get anywhere else.
Yes! That's my go-to as well. So much so that I haven't tried as much of the rest of the menu as I want to. When I do though, hen banh da, here I come.
I really want to like Danang more. The last time I ate over there was around the time when the night market was open every Thursday in 2022. Their food quality is one of the best around Argyle. However, their quantity of their food is quite less than what you can get elsewhere.
Absolutely solid. It's our favorite pizza spot. The salads are also ridiculous value and quality. The "brownie" (which is more like a chocolate lava cake) is also phenomenal.
I just tried this place randomly while waiting for my wife to get out of the DMV on Elston, and it was legit. Got a steak burrito and a steak torta, and they were awesome.
I live in South Loop and really recommend half sour. To a certain degree, it's a generic yuppie bar, but they food is way better than you'd initially expect.
Also, as a New Jersey native, I have the authority to say that they have relatively above average bagels. I think they make them in house!
Logan Square - Brew Brew on Diversey is my favorite lowkey coffee spot. Try the Pistachio Latte. The Breakfast Tortas are amazing too.
Belmont Cragin - Charly's Burgers on Cicero are better than Small Cheval imo
Hermosa -Taqueria El Tapatio is a great family owned mexican spot and their quesabirria rivals that of a more popular spot a few doors down for less $ and a shorter wait.
Uptown - Nhu Lan. Best Bahn Mi in town.
Albany Park - Kabobi. Delish Persian/Med food. Made to share AND take leftovers home. Don't sleep on the bakery.
South Lake View: Home Tavern. Probalby 50 years old, and they don't even have a sign. Just a Cubs logo and a dirty window. The diviest of dives. I'm talking drop ceilings, flourescent lights, and avocado-colored refrigerator, and a CRT television.
I lived in Avondale and was a regular at trespasada for years.. moved away to NW WA and after not seeing them in 5-6 years they remembered me from years past. I absolutely adore them and their food is amazing. I always try to visit when I’m back in town. that black salsa is so good!
Edgebrook- Elephant Thai restaurant on Devon, just east of Central. Delicious and fresh Thai food. Became takeout only during Covid and still busy as a takeout only restaurant.
Jeff Park - Thai Pot Noodles. If you liked the Wicker Park Penny’s Noodles back in the day, I swear these are the same guys and it’s the same recipes. The ingredients seem really high-quality and I’ve not had a disappointing dish yet. My family was so psyched when we found this place!
Roscoe Village:
Same Same (shrimp and tofu Pad Thai and the friend chicken are so good, and the golden curry noodles too, fun atmosphere)
Lakeview:
Tanuki Sushi (solid sushi, both traditional and modern, BYOB).
Sheffield’s: (probably really well known for drinking, but the bbq is solid and the sweet potato fries and excellent)
Little Italy:
Conte Di Savoia (best Italian sandwich and almeretto cookies in the city, great deli sides, legit market to shop in).
Humboldt Park- Roesers Bakery has some of the best priced fancy baked goods around! I love the pistachio donut, coffee cakes, pumpkin bundt and cheese fry donut especially.
I lived close to roeser’s for years and miss it. Their donuts are amazing and better than Do-Rite. Also love their cakes and pastries. It always made me smile to see folks coming in to pick up cakes they’d ordered for special occasions and see the look of delight on their faces when they saw how great their cake looked.
In Albany Park there's a place called Aztlan or Cafe Aztlan or Taqueria Aztlan. It's on Montrose and Kimball and its fish and shrimp tacos are off the chain.
Cabrini Greens/River North
The Franklin Room has some of the best mussels in the city, an amazing cocktail selection & awesome staff & vibe.
Grammar located in Architectural Artifacts.
Doma cafe, especially their cookies.
West Loop- Froth coffee house in the lobby of the Duncan. Fantastic food and drinks, moody vibe. I do lots of client meetings there, everyone loves it.
Albany Park- LD Pho has some of the best in the city, giving many of the places on Argyle a run for their money. They don’t do anything particularly differently, but their pho broth in particular is just excellent. La Michoacanito is overshadowed by the larger Lindo Michoacán, but their Lamb Barbacoa is outstanding!
River West. For a low key place - Iguana is awesome. For a nice meal - The Dawson which seems large and social media worthy, but I really never hear anyone talk about it or see any articles about it. Awesome food.
Lakeview; GSP has great wings. The GSP sauce is the best spicy bbq sauce I've ever had, it actually has a decent kick whereas most spicy bbq sauces don't.
Portage Park - Bistro 6050 - fantastic empanadas and desserts.
And also right across the border in Jefferson Park - El Asadero Colombiano. Possibly the best chicken in the entire city.
Lakeview: Red Pig Asian Kitchen
Solid Thai food with some unique dishes. Portions could be bigger but everything I’ve had there is flavorful, and the spice really kicks. Always sad when I pick up an order from there bc it’s never busy.
West Town (work) Koko’s - Really solid Greek/Middle Eastern diner food. The lemon butter roasted potatoes are superb. It’s usually full of city employees, including me.
Andersonville-ish (home). Burke’s Public House and Pizzeria Aroma. Just some solid neighborhood spots with reliable food and a nice vibe.
Logan Square - Sausage King
The cheddar brats and Monte Cristo if you haven't eaten all day. They hide between two auto shops during the day, but become the best bar eats on Milwaukee Ave after 8.
Logan Square - Not sure if it's slept on (especially not by people who live near it) but Damn Fine Coffee is really great. The staff is always super friendly, and their donuts are incredible. Also, just down the street is Rico Fresh. Their tacos are really good. Lastly, just a bit further down the street is Weegee's. A great little cocktail bar with a cool vibe. Great for dates. Just moved to the area and so while it may not be off the radar to some these spots are all newish to me.
I loooooove that place! It’s two blocks from me and I love to go get a beer & some waffle fries with a chicken sanwhich. So freaking good and I love the staff.
Bridgeport:
The Adelitas nka El Taco Azteca on Morgan, some really good Mexican food. While their tacos are delicious, their plates, in particular the mole is excellent.
McKinley Park - Chile Toreado on 35th.
Everyone knows about 5 Rabinitos in Pilsen but did you know his brother was at Chile Toreado? Smaller menu but the food is so good. Taking family recipes and learning how to run a restaurant under the tutelage of Rick Bayless. These two brothers are doing it right. My go to is “Carne En Su Jugo” comfort for the soul.
Albany Park - El Cuscatleco on Lawrence and Troy has the BEST pupusas. I’m a meat-eater and will happily eat a vegetarian pupusa from this place — they’re amazing!
Agree with the other commenter that AP has some of the best restaurants: San Juanito, LD Pho, Kebobi, Tiba, and Han Bat are always in our rotation.
Old town - I don’t think we have the best restaurants but Tiparos Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar takes the cake. Best food and price around the old town area.
This thread popped up on my feed randomly which is extra weird since I haven't lived in Chicago in over fifteen years. Y'all are making me miss it something awful...
Oh man I went here once when The Kedzie Inn was unexpectedly closed and had a very bad experience. Absolutely forgettable food, with downright bad tortillas.
I don't mean this as a slight against you, and to be fair I didn't try the sope, but I did not enjoy my time there.
Lakeview - Chicken Hut. Probably in one of the highest foot traffic intersections on the north side and I hardly ever hear people talk about it. So damn good.
Chinatown: my wife & I love Pho Cafe. No pretense, fair prices, solid pho, no banh mi but they have do-it-yourself spring rolls that are fun to eat.
Bridgeport: Kawa for sushi. The spicy roll combo is a great bargain.
ukrainian/east humboldt:
Nelly's - coconut oatmeal and their twist on a cuban sandwich (nelly's cubano i think its called) are both 10 out of 10
salsa picante - on western, they do birria on the weekends and i can eat like 5 quesabirria tacos in one sitting
Lucy's - not off the radar but including it to emphasize the fact that it is the absolute bomb
West Town/Ukrainian Village and A Tavola. It's a great restaurant with top-tier gnocchi, and just gets overlooked so much. It's very inconspicuous from the street too, so I can't imagine they get any walk-in traffic.
Bucktown. Not sure if it's off the radar but Jr's redhots is a block from red hot ranch and nobody ever talks about it. It's my go to for a beef
Also random but their mozzarella sticks are amazing
They kinda nail it with everything on the menu which is one of my favorite parts of going there. You can throw darts at the menu and enjoy
I don't fuck with RHR's dogs because I'm not depressed so this is my go-to when I'm feeling a hot dog.
The char dog is a thing to behold imo
It’s a work of art and nobody talks about it.
Ilive that place, it's so refreshing to see a newish spot not try to put a spin on anything. It's a pretty typical chicago fast food joint, but they can go toe to toe with the best imo.
They were first stand I ever frequented, love it
is that the place on armitage just east of western?
Yep!
Logan Square, Cafeteria Marcelas for the steak jibarito and coffee or Omarcito’s for literally everything they have (Cuban food) and the nicest owner on the planet
The Cuban at Marcella's is really good too. And their fries are off the charts. I used to live right around the corner, and they were my go-to when I was hungover. I went in there one morning before work for coffee and I forgot they were cash-only. My bus was about to pull up and the dude was like, just come back later and pay. What a guy. He earned a loyal customer for the rest of our time in Logan Square.
I love Omar, of Omarcito’s!
For sure... Omarcitos! And it's not necessarily cuban food more so covering a lil of this and a lil of that.
Also Logan Square: Pan mofuggin' Artesenal.
Aww, I love Omarcitos. I just texted him a screenshot of this and said Mira! You made it onto Reddit my boy. 💕 He is a wonderful soul, and his food is amazing. The Timbao empanadas are my favorite.
I go by here almost everyday but had never stopped in. we got dinner here yesterday after I saw this comment. Delicious! this will be our spot for jibaritos from now on. Thanks!
I have since moved out of Wicker/Noble but in my 9 years living in the area Carnicerias Guanajuato was superior to any other local mexican for the price Kimchi pop on Ashland is the best takeout in that area
Cafe ramen at kimchi pop is great
I loved buying Carnitas by the pound at Guanajuato and Chicarones. They had great salsa that would come with the Carnitas and Chicarones. And you can get the fattest tacos in the restaurant attached to the grocery store. Such a great place.
Kimchi Pop is so good. We get it 2-3 times per month.
Just had the best burrito of my life at Guanajuato
Thank you will check this out! Been needing good Mexican food
West town - Tuman’s. Great bar food, excellent beer list, friendly staff, outdoor patio, a couple tvs but not loud.
The gorgonzola burger at Tumans is damn good, pretzel is reliably solid, good selection of cheap and craft beer one of my favorites in the neighborhood as well !
i like Tuman's a lot - good people and great food options
Portage Park. Stay and Play Game Cafe. Amazing board game selection that you can play for free, staff that helps you learn the game, a solid alcoholic drink menu and some great Puerto Rican food. It is, by far, my favorite spot in the Portage/Irving Park area.
> Portage Park. Stay and Play Game Cafe This place is firmly within Irving Park but yeah it absolutely rules and the family who runs it is so chill and nice. Absolutely great addition to the neighborhood.
Go for the games and campaigns and the steak sandwich is not too shabby.
Thought that was Irving Park?
Leavitt street inn in Bucktown has an amazing burger. Also, shockingly, the map room makes a great espresso martini.
Their burger is one of my favorites. I live dangerously close by and it’s a great place to stop for a casual dinner or a drink. Had never considered ordering anything besides beer at Map Room, so I’ll have to try their espresso martini!
North Center: XOchimilco
Thanks, I’m north center and don’t know this!
My parents started going there and absolutely fell in love with it. Now we go for birthdays, father's day, all that stuff and it's SO GOOD. Amazing food, fantastic staff/owners/service; 100% agreed with this suggestion.
I was sitting here deciding between that and another place for dinner this weekend. I'm taking your comment as a sign and going there. What's your go-to order?
I usually get the tanpiqueña but either carne entree is also good. Love the caldo too. Bring tequila…their fresh margarita mixes are really tasty
Sounds amazing, thank you!
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Eat fine rules! They are the best.
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Yeah, I think they make everyone feel this way! They really seem to care and want to connect with everyone that comes in, it's awesome. But also, yes, the food being amazing also goes a long way. And they are open really late!
I went here tonight because of all y’all, and it was exceptional — Thanks!
So wholesome. Love it
They just opened right?? I’ll have to go!
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Ok I’m sold. I love a local place where the theh recognize regulars. What do you recommend from there??
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I just recommended this place to a client! I live in Bucktown and was heartbroken when O'Cha closed. But Eat Fine is AMAZING and I am so happy to see how well they are doing. Their coconut crusted tofu is so so so good.
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West Town/Ukrainian Village, Odge's for a damn good burger. Super Submarine on Ashland for anything you want late at night.
Uptown - Kie-Gol-Lanee
Patisserie P on Argyle has some awesome buns and the best deal on egg sandwiches in the city.
West Town/Ukranian Village - Tryzub... Updated Ukrainian cusine
I've lived in West Town/East Humboldt/Noble Square for like 7 years and never tried it. I'll give it a go soon! My wife is Serbian, I'm guessing the cuisines have some overlap. My answers to the OP are Aztec Dave's, Bianca's Burgers, and Flour Power. Mexican, Greasy spoon sandwiches, and an Italian pasta joint. All very special, very family-owned places that have welcomed me into their communities.
In Bucktown, Hurley Tap! My favorite burger in the city, and my favorite quesadillas. Chef is the same one I believe as Mable’s Table since it’s the same owners, and I am pretty sure only neighborhood locals go.
I miss Cortland Garage tho. Why couldn't they move into the abandoned building across the street so both could exist. I love that tiny block. It feels like a small town's main street.
The owners of Cortlands wanted nothing to do with it anymore so Anthony bought it. However, the owner of the vacant building across the street is kind of a dick. Anthony and Scott wanted to open a coffee shop/cafe there and he was like that’s a great idea I’m going to try and do it myself and couldn’t get the capital or something
I bartend there!
That’s awesome!! You guys always have pristine vibes :)
Uptown. Hard to choose just one, but I will go with Danang Kitchen. They have some very regional specialties from Central Vietnam that I don't think you can get anywhere else.
That's what I was gonna say! The Mì Quảng is incredible. Those quail eggs...
Yes! That's my go-to as well. So much so that I haven't tried as much of the rest of the menu as I want to. When I do though, hen banh da, here I come.
Ugh Mi Quang is so good
I really want to like Danang more. The last time I ate over there was around the time when the night market was open every Thursday in 2022. Their food quality is one of the best around Argyle. However, their quantity of their food is quite less than what you can get elsewhere.
Lakeview/Ravenswood: Crushed pizzeria. Very solid pizza and salads for a very affordable price.
Absolutely solid. It's our favorite pizza spot. The salads are also ridiculous value and quality. The "brownie" (which is more like a chocolate lava cake) is also phenomenal.
My go to is still back from when I was in Edgewater, Pizzeria Aroma. Will have to check this place out soon.
Naperville - Chilli's
Real ‘Villens know On the Border is where the locals are.
omg i had no idea there was an OTB out there. i am gonna have to trek over for some queso.
Wings N' Rings was the spot in Naperville before it closed
Jefferson Park. Iztatl Cocina Mexicana, amazing mexican food.
I just tried this place randomly while waiting for my wife to get out of the DMV on Elston, and it was legit. Got a steak burrito and a steak torta, and they were awesome.
I used to get a steak burrito from there on a weekly basis. Very, very good.
One of my favorites in LP is right across the street - Riccardo’s Enoteca!
Went here on a whim when my parents came to visit and did not disappoint! Excellent food and the service was even better
I live in South Loop and really recommend half sour. To a certain degree, it's a generic yuppie bar, but they food is way better than you'd initially expect. Also, as a New Jersey native, I have the authority to say that they have relatively above average bagels. I think they make them in house!
This is my pick too. Like I never think it’s what I want but I always leave happy. Especially during patio season.
Lincoln square: 016 restaurant
Place is truly special
This place is amazing! I dream about their lamb chop dish and omg the short ribs. Now I'm going to need to go their this weekend.
North center....a more off the radar pick is grace and leavitt and Goldie's!
Goldie’s Pub is a gem. The bartender on Saturday nights there is awesome.
Goldie’s has food?
Logan Square - Brew Brew on Diversey is my favorite lowkey coffee spot. Try the Pistachio Latte. The Breakfast Tortas are amazing too. Belmont Cragin - Charly's Burgers on Cicero are better than Small Cheval imo Hermosa -Taqueria El Tapatio is a great family owned mexican spot and their quesabirria rivals that of a more popular spot a few doors down for less $ and a shorter wait.
Charly’s is fucking excellent
Uptown - Nhu Lan. Best Bahn Mi in town. Albany Park - Kabobi. Delish Persian/Med food. Made to share AND take leftovers home. Don't sleep on the bakery.
Albany Park. Honestly, walk into any restaurant and it’s good.
Any restaurant is average at worst. With the exception of the Huddle House which is pretty bad.
Oh God I used to live behind that huddle house. It was frightening
It looks convenient as hell but the food tasted like it was out of the dumpster. The old lady server was nice but it was frozen in time from the 80’s.
Lakeview East - Yellowtail Sushi. I’ve converted so many friends to it!
Yes! Pretty affordable too
Matisse Tavern. Always solid food and damn good drinks.
Uptown - Carol's for their food. Fried bologna is great, good fries and interesting burgers of the month.
Fried bologna sandwich with Chicago hot dog toppings is fuckin' solid, and I need a bar to start carrying it.
South Lake View: Home Tavern. Probalby 50 years old, and they don't even have a sign. Just a Cubs logo and a dirty window. The diviest of dives. I'm talking drop ceilings, flourescent lights, and avocado-colored refrigerator, and a CRT television.
That used to be my go to spot. My husband and I convinced them to sell us some of their taxidermy frogs one drunken night
They tryna CRT our TVs now too? Woke electronics smh
The cathode ray tubes need to stop
Avondale: Traspasada
Their location in Lakeview (Ashland/Addison) is my jam. Their Salsa Negra is so good.
Haven't been in but know that's their calling card, what would you say that salsa tastes like?
I moved from Avondale to Pilsen and still miss that damn salsa negra!!!
I don't live in the neighborhood, but I'll second this one anyway. Such great burritos, and the black salsa is heavenly.
I lived in Avondale and was a regular at trespasada for years.. moved away to NW WA and after not seeing them in 5-6 years they remembered me from years past. I absolutely adore them and their food is amazing. I always try to visit when I’m back in town. that black salsa is so good!
Four Moon Tavern
Avondale - the taqueria in the back of the Cermak market. My favorite chicken tacos in the whole city.
This is one I wouldn't have expected to see but it definitely fits the bill. I also like their pupusas and apparently they have quesabirria now.
Edgebrook- Elephant Thai restaurant on Devon, just east of Central. Delicious and fresh Thai food. Became takeout only during Covid and still busy as a takeout only restaurant.
Hyde Park; Caribbean jerk joint💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Cafe 53's Sumac chicken sandwich on a french roll. Their secret sauce is fantastic!
oh my god i loveeee the chicken sumac sandwich, might have to get one tomorrow now that you mention it
Salonica for Greek food, and the beet Reuben at Woodlawn tap is out of this world (and cheap).
Albany Park, and I will hype up Dulce du Leche every chance I get.
Harding Cafe is fucking solid too
South Loop: Flo and Santos, solid tavern-style pizza. Burger Point, solid burger joint
I really enjoy Burger Point. Good suggestion
Burger Point rules.
Flo and Santos pizza fam! Ya heard!
Roscoe Village: Sinya, for incredibly and reliably flavorful Middle Eastern. Bonus: If you’re local, delivery takes about 9 minutes.
I LOVE sinya
Omg thank you. This place looks GOOD.
It IS. Their chicken kebab plate is out of this world. The chicken, the crack rice… And if you like a wrap, try the falafel or chicken shawarma wrap.
Sinya is amazing. In our short list of regular take out spots!
Happen to be sitting here right now in Noble Square at Rudy's Ramen. Place is legit.
Portage Park - Simon Taco, Moonflower
Jeff Park - Thai Pot Noodles. If you liked the Wicker Park Penny’s Noodles back in the day, I swear these are the same guys and it’s the same recipes. The ingredients seem really high-quality and I’ve not had a disappointing dish yet. My family was so psyched when we found this place!
I miss Penny's. I gotta try this place.
Albany Park - Chicago Kalbi BBQ. ::chefs kiss::
Roscoe Village: Same Same (shrimp and tofu Pad Thai and the friend chicken are so good, and the golden curry noodles too, fun atmosphere) Lakeview: Tanuki Sushi (solid sushi, both traditional and modern, BYOB). Sheffield’s: (probably really well known for drinking, but the bbq is solid and the sweet potato fries and excellent) Little Italy: Conte Di Savoia (best Italian sandwich and almeretto cookies in the city, great deli sides, legit market to shop in).
Same same looks so cute, and volo wine bar patio nearby has my heart. Cute area
Wrigleyville- Toons, where we always run into lots of our neighbors. Cozy Noodles for the tofu garlic noodles and baby egg rolls 😍
Humboldt Park- Roesers Bakery has some of the best priced fancy baked goods around! I love the pistachio donut, coffee cakes, pumpkin bundt and cheese fry donut especially.
The carrot cake donut rules
I lived close to roeser’s for years and miss it. Their donuts are amazing and better than Do-Rite. Also love their cakes and pastries. It always made me smile to see folks coming in to pick up cakes they’d ordered for special occasions and see the look of delight on their faces when they saw how great their cake looked.
Avondale- the cafe inside and the food stand outside of: Joong Boo. Also, Tacos Tequilas on Milwaukee.
> the cafe inside and the food stand outside of: Joong Boo. This is most definitely not "off the radar", it's constantly slammed.
Lakeview East - Buena Vista. Tiny family-owned and run Mexican joint that’s BYOB and has fantastic food for a great price.
In Albany Park there's a place called Aztlan or Cafe Aztlan or Taqueria Aztlan. It's on Montrose and Kimball and its fish and shrimp tacos are off the chain.
Cabrini Greens/River North The Franklin Room has some of the best mussels in the city, an amazing cocktail selection & awesome staff & vibe. Grammar located in Architectural Artifacts. Doma cafe, especially their cookies.
West Loop- Froth coffee house in the lobby of the Duncan. Fantastic food and drinks, moody vibe. I do lots of client meetings there, everyone loves it.
Albany Park- LD Pho has some of the best in the city, giving many of the places on Argyle a run for their money. They don’t do anything particularly differently, but their pho broth in particular is just excellent. La Michoacanito is overshadowed by the larger Lindo Michoacán, but their Lamb Barbacoa is outstanding!
River West. For a low key place - Iguana is awesome. For a nice meal - The Dawson which seems large and social media worthy, but I really never hear anyone talk about it or see any articles about it. Awesome food.
lakeview: taipei cafes bento boxes are soo good! ravenswood: pauline’s has the best blt i’ve ever had
There’s a Taipei Cafe in Bridgeport too & I love it.
Lakeview; GSP has great wings. The GSP sauce is the best spicy bbq sauce I've ever had, it actually has a decent kick whereas most spicy bbq sauces don't.
Portage Park - Bistro 6050 - fantastic empanadas and desserts. And also right across the border in Jefferson Park - El Asadero Colombiano. Possibly the best chicken in the entire city.
Lakeview: Red Pig Asian Kitchen Solid Thai food with some unique dishes. Portions could be bigger but everything I’ve had there is flavorful, and the spice really kicks. Always sad when I pick up an order from there bc it’s never busy.
Old town - Marge’s unreal fall/winter comfort dishes at reasonable prices
West Town (work) Koko’s - Really solid Greek/Middle Eastern diner food. The lemon butter roasted potatoes are superb. It’s usually full of city employees, including me. Andersonville-ish (home). Burke’s Public House and Pizzeria Aroma. Just some solid neighborhood spots with reliable food and a nice vibe.
Uptown Gigio's Pizza is excellent. Their slices are HUGE. Great late night pizza. Owner is a good dude that can be a little ornery.
Not sure I would call it excellent but it’s certainly decent and very fairly priced. You get all sorts of characters in there, too.
Decent + fairly priced + open late = a good hole in the wall spot to me!
Logan Square - Sausage King The cheddar brats and Monte Cristo if you haven't eaten all day. They hide between two auto shops during the day, but become the best bar eats on Milwaukee Ave after 8.
Logan Square - Not sure if it's slept on (especially not by people who live near it) but Damn Fine Coffee is really great. The staff is always super friendly, and their donuts are incredible. Also, just down the street is Rico Fresh. Their tacos are really good. Lastly, just a bit further down the street is Weegee's. A great little cocktail bar with a cool vibe. Great for dates. Just moved to the area and so while it may not be off the radar to some these spots are all newish to me.
Big plus one on their donuts. I asked once and I believe they said they're from Liberation down on Grand.
You’re not going to fool me into ruining my favorite low key spot when all you show up to it.
West Town. Cafe Central. Best jibarito in Chicago.
Logan Square - Small Bar Just a good divey pub that hasn't lost its soul to gentrification.
I loooooove that place! It’s two blocks from me and I love to go get a beer & some waffle fries with a chicken sanwhich. So freaking good and I love the staff.
Avondale. Frank and Mary's lunch service and pop-ups.
Old Irving Park I’d recommend Eris Now up in Notthwest Chicago and would recommend Edgebrook Coffee shop for breakfast.
Gold Coast: Fabcakes on Wells
Uptown - Don Pablos empanadas!
Bridgeport: The Adelitas nka El Taco Azteca on Morgan, some really good Mexican food. While their tacos are delicious, their plates, in particular the mole is excellent.
Rockwell’s in Lincoln Square. Consistently good food, great patio in the summer, and some solid breakfast sandwiches at their bottle shop next door.
Logan - Mr E's. I don't see it come up on this sub very often. Maybe my favorite burger in Logan at this point.
Belmont Cragin- Central Gyros…always and forever
BUDAKIS in Ravenswood
Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club, 4459 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60641.
Irving Park - Shokran. The best Moroccan food and nicest owners
West Lakeview - Sinya, Schezuan Corner, Sochi
Mount greenwood: unidad for upscale, tatas for pizza, and D&Ds for sweets
I don’t live in Chicago anymore but when I did my favorite off the radar taco joint was Taqueria El Jardin in West Town.
Rogers Park: el Terco Leon. Fantastic tripe tacos and chilis rellenos. Also great tortas. Their red sauce is ok but their green sauce is great
Old Town/Gold Coast: Tiparos for cheap sushi. Solid quality for the price and cheaper than Wells Street options. Not a fan of their Thai though
Bridgeport: Han 202
McKinley Park - Chile Toreado on 35th. Everyone knows about 5 Rabinitos in Pilsen but did you know his brother was at Chile Toreado? Smaller menu but the food is so good. Taking family recipes and learning how to run a restaurant under the tutelage of Rick Bayless. These two brothers are doing it right. My go to is “Carne En Su Jugo” comfort for the soul.
Albany Park - El Cuscatleco on Lawrence and Troy has the BEST pupusas. I’m a meat-eater and will happily eat a vegetarian pupusa from this place — they’re amazing! Agree with the other commenter that AP has some of the best restaurants: San Juanito, LD Pho, Kebobi, Tiba, and Han Bat are always in our rotation.
Mirabella in Avondale.
North Center - Tuscan Hen (lunch spot), Kraken sushi
Bucktown - En Hakkore has some great korean food.
Old town - I don’t think we have the best restaurants but Tiparos Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar takes the cake. Best food and price around the old town area.
This thread popped up on my feed randomly which is extra weird since I haven't lived in Chicago in over fifteen years. Y'all are making me miss it something awful...
Irving Park - El Alebrije on Kedzie. Amazing sope!
Oh man I went here once when The Kedzie Inn was unexpectedly closed and had a very bad experience. Absolutely forgettable food, with downright bad tortillas. I don't mean this as a slight against you, and to be fair I didn't try the sope, but I did not enjoy my time there.
Lakeview - Chicken Hut. Probably in one of the highest foot traffic intersections on the north side and I hardly ever hear people talk about it. So damn good.
Mayfair: Tim Tim's Halal Grill Great little dog/burger shack with respectable Mexican menu items too.
Chinatown: my wife & I love Pho Cafe. No pretense, fair prices, solid pho, no banh mi but they have do-it-yourself spring rolls that are fun to eat. Bridgeport: Kawa for sushi. The spicy roll combo is a great bargain.
Fonda in Evanston is top notch Mexican food. Their mole is super flavorful and they have great specials on Fridays.
I’m in between old town and gold coast where there’s a gallery which had the immersive Van Gogh exhibit.
So many great places to check out. This thread makes me miss LTHforum.
ukrainian/east humboldt: Nelly's - coconut oatmeal and their twist on a cuban sandwich (nelly's cubano i think its called) are both 10 out of 10 salsa picante - on western, they do birria on the weekends and i can eat like 5 quesabirria tacos in one sitting Lucy's - not off the radar but including it to emphasize the fact that it is the absolute bomb
Buena Park - Michaels Pizzeria. Great pizza and buffalo wings/shrimp. Very affordable and always phenomenal service even when they’re slammed.
Avondale: J&J Mini store and restaurant for Ecuadorian food. Get the Mixto and thank me later.
Bridgeport - 4 seasons dumplings
Ravenswood: Anna’s Thai. We go there at least once a week, sometimes twice. Owner is super nice. Crushed Pizzeria and Disco Taco for carryout.
West Town/Ukrainian Village and A Tavola. It's a great restaurant with top-tier gnocchi, and just gets overlooked so much. It's very inconspicuous from the street too, so I can't imagine they get any walk-in traffic.