Who’s Hungry?
One of our favorite things to do on the weekends is to eat out. Luckily we live in a city that is known for its exceptional food scene. So exceptional, in fact, it can be pretty tough to make a reservation if not booked in advance. We recommend if there is a place that you'd like to try - keep an eye on when reservations open to make sure you can snag a spot. But don't stress, there are plenty of options and you really can't go wrong unless you ask for ketchup on a hot dog... that is illegal here.
Google Map
Au Cheval
Some say it’s the best burger in Chicago… try it for yourself and decide! Be prepared to wait since this place does not take reservations and is very popular. Go early, put your name in, and grab a drink nearby while you wait.
D'agostino's
Whether you like deep dish or tavern style, their pizza never disappoints. Stop in if you’re up by Wrigley Field and grab a slice or several.
Naomi and Daniels order - 16 inch thin crust pepperoni with half mushrooms, half olives, and cooked well done
Duck Duck Goat
Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard’s Chinese-American restaurant and one of Naomi’s top 5 places to eat in Chicago.
Naomi’s faves- Jiaozi, Green Beans and Duck Fried Rice
Daniel’s faves- Char Siu Pork Bao and the Peking Duck
Green Street
Smoked Meats
Central Texas-inspired BBQ with tasty sides and a laid back vibe.
Walk ins only, no reservations! Will seat parties up to 12 people.
Ramen San
Noodle joint with yummy ramen, ice-cold beer, and old school hip-hop. Open for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining. Feeling adventurous? Try their sake bombs!
Naomi’s faves- Vegetable Gyoza and Tonkotsu Ramen
Daniel’s faves- Chicken Wings with both sauces combined and any Ramen plus wontons
Roister
This restaurant has a Michelin star but has a laid back vibe. One of the best meals Naomi and Daniel have ever eaten was here.
Everything here is delicious but you must order the Roister Chicken.
Rose Mary
Top Chef winner Chef Joe Flamm’s debut restaurant inspired by his Italian and Croatian heritage. Crazy yummy and one of Naomi and Daniel’s favorite restaurants in Chicago.
The menu rotates seasonally but some of Naomi and Daniels favorites are the Stracciatella, Tuna Crudo, Cacio e Pepe, and the Pork Ribs.
Small Cheval
Don’t want to wait 2 hours at Au Cheval but still want a tasty burger? Try Small Cheval instead. Their smaller more limited menu is still delicious.
No reservation needed here!
Trivoli Tavern
American tavern with some seriously cozy vibes.
If you have room at the end of your meal be sure to order the Sticky Date Cake!
CHICAGO CUISINES
CHICAGO CUISINES
DEEP DISH PIZZA
What is Deep Dish Pizza?
Deep dish pizza is baked in a deep pan in which gives the pizza its characteristically high edge and provides ample space for large amounts of cheese and a chunky tomato sauce. Some people love it, others (including Naomi) are not fans. Try it for yourself and decide! Can’t have gluten or dairy?... Avoid deep dish pizza.
CHICAGO DOG
What is a Chicago Dog?
A Chicago dog is an all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun that has been “dragged through the garden” - topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. No ketchup allowed.
The Wiener’s Circle
The Wieners Circle is a legendary, rowdy place for late night food, where the staff openly heckles you (don’t be surprised if you hear an F-bomb hurled your way).
No reservations
Murphy's Bleachers
Murphy’s has been a fixture in Wrigleyville for close to 80 years. Say hi to Wrigley Field then stop into Murphy’s for some cold beer, a dog and peruse at their impressive sports memorabilia collection.
No reservations
Italian Beef Sandwich
What’s an Italian Beef Sandwich?
Supposedly created by Italian immigrants working in the Chicago Union Stock Yards around the 1930’s and recently re-popularized by The Bear (great show, everyone should watch this immediately). Composed of thin slices of seasoned roast beef, simmered and served au jus on a long French roll and topped with giardiniera. Don’t wear a white shirt and order it “wet” if you want it dipped in au jus.
Mr. Beef
Yes this is the one from the TV show The Bear. While Chef Carmy may not work here in real life, the sandwiches truly are legendary and have been serving Chicago for six decades. According to the owner the only way to order the Italian beef is hot, sweet, and juicy.
Al's #1 Italian Beef
Chicago based chain known for overstuffed Italian beef sandwiches.
J.P. Graziano Grocery
Long running Italian market and sandwich shop. They serve a roast beef sandwich but according to Daniel the Italian sub is superior.