Best Restaurants in Chicago
Chicago has a rich tradition of fine dining establishments, and each time I visit I’m greeted by excellent cuisine combined with superior service. From steakhouses to 8 course french feasts, this city has taste on the menu! See below for the ten best restaurants in Chicago:
1. NoMI
312-239-4030
Park Hyatt Hotel
800 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611NoMI offers a new phase in world-class contemporary French dining on the Seventh Floor of Park Hyatt Chicago under the direction of proficient executive chef Christophe David, an expert of high-end restaurants across four continents. You will enjoy a distinctive blend of experiences, engaging all the senses, NoMI offers guests a multitude of choices. From the contemporary French cuisine intertwined with a international flair, to their award-winning design and awe-inspiring setting to the personalized and discreet service from a well-seasoned wait staff.
2. Atwood Cafe
312-368-1900
1 W Washington St
Chicago, IL 60602The Atwood Café is an intimate restaurant found in the heart of Chicago’s Central Business District and the State Street retail and theater district. Enjoy colorful cuisine for breakfast, lunch or dinner in their vibrant dining room featuring contemporary American comfort food.
3. Odyssey Dining Cruise
888-957-2322
Navy Pier 600 E Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60611This dining cruise offers a refined yet affordable total entertainment experience starting at Navy Pier. Sample creative appetizers, entrees and desserts prepared fresh on board daily by the Executive Chef. Dance to live music or sit back and relax while enjoying skyline views that drift past your table.
4. Fogo de Chao
312-932-9330
661 N Lasalle St
Chicago, IL 60610Savor this dining establishments truly unique steakhouse atmosphere from Rio Grande do Sul in Southern Brazil. Their featured meats are seasoned to perfection and slow-roasted over an open flame to capture their individual flavor. The savory cuts are presented on skewers and carved tableside by their authentic Gaúcho chefs, at the guests’ request. They also offer a vast selection of wines to significantly enhance and complement every meat selection.
5. Tru
312-202-0001
676 N St Clair St
Chicago, IL 60611This fine dining restaurant offers dynamic French cuisine, presenting fresh ingredients with bold creativity and an artistic display. They also have an award-winning wine list featuring over 1,800 selections from around the world.
6. Tizi Melloul
312-670-4338
531 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610Take a voyage through the cuisine of the Mediterranean with tantalizing dishes like fire roasted mussels, crispy pork belly or tilapia with taro root gnocchi. They offer a full menu in the main
dining room as well as five course dinners served in the Moroccan Crescent Room.
7. Zed 451
312-266-6691
739 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60610Indulge in modern upscale grilling, fire grilled steaks, ribs, seafood, poultry and game are served here alongside comfort food sides. They offer Harvest Tables laden with housemade soups, inspired salads, artisan cheeses and breads.
8. II Mulino
312-440-8888
1150 N Dearborn St
Chicago, IL 60610Rest assured that only the finest extra virgin oils, the freshest herbs and spices, and the choicest tomatoes are used to create the entrees here. Enjoy top notch Italian cuisine like, Cannelloni, Fettuccine Ragout, or Ossobuco among many more delicious choices.
9. Crofton on Wells
312-755-1790
535 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610Suzy Crofton is an award-winning chef that creates bold American flavors with sophisticated French technique. Crofton keeps the dining room fresh with contemporary china, dove grey linens, Reidel stemware and an endless supply of whimsical brushed aluminum accents creating an all-around delightful dining experiance.
10. Le Lan
312-280-9100
749 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60610LE meaning French for THE, and LAN meaning ORCHID in Vietnamese, this symbolic name represents the delicate balance as eastern and western food and culture bond together while still maintaining their identities. This French Asian Restaurant is know as one the most romantic restaurants in Chicago.
Best Gyms and Health Clubs in Chicago
The Midwest may not be known for its fitness culture, but don’t tell these Athletic Clubs, because they have done a fantastic job of combining the gym experience with simplicity and style. One aspect I especially liked about these establishments was the community feeling you have when walking through the doors, that is definitely not something you see in other big city workout destinations. See below for the best gyms and health clubs in Chicago:
1. D3: Dre’s Diesel Dome
312-276-5138
125 E 26th St (Corner of 26th and Michigan Ave)
Chicago, IL 60616
2. Lakeshore Athletic Club – Lincoln Park
773-477-9888
1320 W Fullerton Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
3. Equinox Fitness Clubs
312-254-4000
1750 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60614
4. David Barton Gym
212-897-5525
600 W Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60610
5. Chicago Fitness Center
773-549-8181
3131 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
6. The Cheetah Gym
773-728-7777
5248 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60640
7. East Bank Club
312-527-5800
500 N Kingsbury St
Chicago, IL 60610
8. Steamworks
773-929-6080
3246 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60680
9. Body Endeavors
312-254-0020
1528 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60622
10. Holmes Place
312-467-1111
355 E Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
Best Sushi Bars in Chicago
Don’t let the fact that Chicago is in the middle of the country fool you, this city has some excellent sushi bars. From fast food to upscale dining experiences, these restaurants will satisfy your ‘raw’ craving, and will do it with style. See below for the ten best sushi bars in Chicago:
1. RA Sushi Bar Restaurant
312-274-0011
1139 N State St
Chicago, IL 60610
2. Sushi Samba Rio
312-595-2300
504 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610
3. Blu Coral Contemporary Sushi
773-252-2020
1265 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
4. Coast Sushi
773-235-5775
2045 N Damen Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
5. Koko Sushi Bar
733-248-2988
3140 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
6. San Soo Gap San Korean BBQ and Sushi Bar
773-334-1589
5247 N Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60625
7. Butterfly Sushi Bar & Thai Cuisine
312-563-5555
1156 W Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
8. Mirai Sushi
773-862-8500
2020 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
9. Tank Sushi
773-769-2600
4514 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60625
10. Sushi Wabi
312-563-1224
842 W Randolph St
Chicago, IL 60607
Top Neighborhoods in Chicago
Wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Looking for a peaceful place to raise your kids in a family-friendly atmosphere, then look no further than these beautiful Chicago neighborhoods. The classical Midwest architecture will make you feel right at home, and the tall trees will make you forget that you live minutes away from one of the biggest cities in the US. See below for the top ten best Chicago Neighborhoods:
1. Lincoln Park
Lake Michigan to the east, Diversey Avenue to the north, North Avenue to the south and the Chicago River North Branch to the west
2. Lakeview
Irving Park Road to the north, Halsted Street to the east, Diversey Parkway to the south and Ravenswood Avenue to the west
3. Wildwood
Touhy Avenue to the north, Lehigh Avenue to the east, and Caldwell to the south and west
4. East Village
Division Street to the north, Ashland Avenue to the east, Grand Avenue to the south and Damen Avenue to the west
5. West Lakeview
Ashland Avenue to the east, Diversey Avenue to the south, Belmont Avenue to the north and the Chicago River North Branch to the west
6. Edison Park
Howard Street to the north, Harlem Avenue to the east, Devon Avenue to the south and Ozanam Avenue to the west
7. Lincoln Square
Leavitt to the east, Winnemac to the north, Wilson to the south and Rockwell to the west.
8. Ukrainian Village
Division Street to the north, Grand Avenue to the south, Western Avenue to the west and Damen Avenue to the east
9. Wicker Park
Damen Avenue to the north, Western Avenue to the west, Division Street to the south and the I-90/94 interstate (Kennedy Expressway) to the east
10. Belmont Terrace
Addison Street to the north, Pacific Avenue to the east, Belmont Avenue to the south and Cumberland Avenue to the west
Best Hotels and Resorts in Chicago
Business travelers can rejoice, Chicago is a luxury hotel paradise. From name brand hotel chains to upscale lodging nooks, I think you will enjoy your stay in the windy city. Over the years the city has also continued to draw families and tourists from all over the world and offers world-class accommodations for every style. So whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, this city will fit you like a glove. Below are the top ten best places to stay in Chicago:
1. The Drake Hotel
312-787-2200
140 E Walton Pl
Chicago, IL 60611Known as “The Grand Dame of Chicago,” this esteemed hotel has been a favorite since it opened in 1920. Decades later, it still lives up to its elegant moniker and is a symbol of service and personal attention. Since the roaring 1920s, The Drake has become the defining Chicago hotel experience. Located on The Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue’s “Gold Coast,” The Drake has hosted the Royal Family, heads of state, dignitaries, and countless discerning travelers. Whether you are looking to conduct business in Chicago, enjoy world-renowned shopping, dining, or experience unmatched meeting and banquet facilities, The Drake will never disappoint. The Drake Hotel, Chicago – enjoy a travel experience filled with perfection.
2. Sofetel Chicago Water Tower
312-324-4000
20 E Chestnut St
Chicago, IL 60611Sofitel Chicago Water Tower bids you welcome with world-class downtown Chicago hotel accommodations – minutes from the Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Art Institute, and trendy boutiques. Designed by the French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, our downtown Chicago Illinois hotel is a 32-floor prism of glass, boasting 415 rooms, including 33 luxurious suites.
3. Fairmont Chicago
312-565-8000
200 N Columbus Dr
Chicago, IL 60601Celebrities and dignitaries have frequented this stylish, modern hotel that affords great views of the lake and the city in a business-friendly location. Each guest room features individual decor, extra-long mattresses, and operable windows. Hotel restaurants follow suit, offering variety of cuisines and themes. Excellent service is a company standard, so expect to be pampered.Meeting areas accommodate up to 2700 people and is located 12 miles from the airport.
4. Park Hyatt Chicago
312-335-1234
800 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611Truly the most intimate of Chicago luxury hotels, Park Hyatt Chicago is the perfect embodiment of pampering services and indulgent amenities. Recently named one of the top 20 “World’s Best Hotels” by Institutional Investor, Park Hyatt Chicago features museum-quality works of art, sophisticated yet inviting decor, award-winning dining, prime Magnificent Mile setting and a personal service team dedicated to ensuring a remarkable stay, making them the preferred hotel in downtown Chicago for discerning travelers.
5. Hotel Burnham
312-782-1111
1 W Washington
Chicago, IL 60602This Windy City landmark, has become the standard for Chicago boutique hotels. Named one of the best places to stay in the world, this four star luxury hotel is an architectural jewel. Designed by Daniel Burnham, John Root and Charles Atwood in 1895, their radically designed steel and glass Reliance Building set the stage for the modern skyscraper and revolutionized the world of architecture. Today, this National Historic Landmark has been reborn as a Kimpton Hotel, telling the story of the energy, charisma and history of Chicago.
6. Four Seasons Hotel
312-280-8800
120 E Delaware Pl
Chicago, IL 60611Always a landmark of refined comfort, with unrivaled Lake Michigan and city views, steps from chic North Michigan Avenue shops – and minutes from Chicago’s business and financial centers. Now with the sophisticated restyling of its guest rooms and executive suites, the Hotel offers a fresh, contemporary ambiance that remains as inviting as ever.
7. Peninsula Chicago
312-337-2888
108 E Superior St
Chicago, IL 60611I love their attitude of “Where Far Eastern Graciousness meets with Midwest Hospitality”. The Peninsula Chicago is for those who love to spoil themselves with a luxurious five-star experience, without losing that comfortable home-away-from-home feel. They offer some of the city’s most spacious rooms and suites, right across the street from Saks Fifth Ave and Neiman Marcus.
8. InterContinental Chicago
312-944-4100
505 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611Frequently referenced in architectural tours of the city, the original 1920′s world-class downtown Chicago hotel has been faithfully preserved through a series of renovations, which represent nearly a quarter-billion dollars of thoughtful investment. Enjoy an unrivaled array of recreational features–from a Junior-Olympic indoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, to three distinct food and beverage venues. Corporate travelers will appreciate high-speed Internet access, helpful event support, and a full–service business center.
9. Swissotel Chicago
312-565-0565
323 E Wacker Dr
Chicago, IL 60601Swissôtel Chicago is an award winning, four-diamond, all-glass triangular luxury hotel, situated in the confluence of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan and just steps away from exclusive shopping at The Magnificent Mile in downtown Chicago, with fabulous wrap-around views from Navy Pier to Millennium Park. Swissôtel Chicago offers 632 tastefully decorated and generously over-sized luxurious rooms and suites, designed by noted Chicago architect, Harry Weese.
10. Hotel Allegro (pet friendly)
312-236-0123
171 W Randolph St
Chicago, IL 60601Your stay at this Chicago hotel begins with a touch of red carpet treatment the moment you are ushered through the front door of their beautifully renovated hotel. Indulge in the four-star level of services and amenities that every celebrity deserves, including the furry four-legged type—Hotel Allegro Chicago is a pet-friendly hotel. And to top it off, their style and sophistication is eco-friendly—they raises the bar for green hotels in Chicago. At Hotel Allegro Chicago, their mission is very simple: “Treat every guest like the star that they are.”
Best Bars in Chicago
Chicago has a vibrant nightlife which has been illustrated in Hollywood films and TV shows for decades, and I have become a fan of the city and its drinking establishments over the past few years. As with many other metropolitan cities, no matter where you are, you are always within walking distance of a bar or pub. Below are the ten best bars in Chicago:
1. Tryst… an upscale lounge
773-755-3980
3485 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60657
2. Spoon
312-498-7770
1240 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610
3. Rockit Bar & Grill
312-645-6000
22 W Hubbard St
Chicago, IL 60610
4. Black Beetle Bar & Grill
773-384-0701
2532 W Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
5. The Redhead Piano Bar
312-266-7642
16 W Ontario St
Chicago, IL 60610
6. Tin Lizzie
773-549-1132
2483 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60614
7. Fizz Bar & Grill
773-360-5715
3220 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
8. Mad River Bar & Grill
773-935-7500
2909 N Sheffield Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
9. Cat’s Meow
773-489-6998
2700 W Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
10. Zella
773-549-2910
1983 N Clybourn Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
Best Apartments and Condos in Chicago
The fast-paced city of Chicago offers a wide range of luxurious apartments and condos for its citizens. Whether you are relocating to the city or going to school at one of the many prestigious universities, Chicago will put a roof over you head. Much like New York or San Francisco, the best places to live can be found in the innumerable high rises that fill the city, these condos vary in price from affordable studios to lavish penthouses that resemble mansions. Below are the ten best apartments and condos in Chicago.
1. The Bernardin
866-801-4021
747 N Wabash Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
2. Grand Plaza
866-627-9053
540 N State St
Chicago, IL 60610
3. 420 East Ohio
866-203-5838
420 E. Ohio St
Chicago, IL 60611
4. Sky 55
866-791-4535
1255 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60605
5. Museum Park Place
847-452-7367
1841 S Calumet Unit
Chicago, IL 60616
6. Lake Meadows
888-628-0926
500 E 33rd St Ste 315
Chicago, IL 60616
7. 1401 South State
866-389-3451
1401 S State St
Chicago, IL 60605
8. Burnham Pointe
866-691-6304
730 S Clark
Chicago, IL 60605
9. Chestnut Tower
866-729-0949
121 W Chestnut
Chicago, IL 60610
10. 180 North Jefferson
866-661-2651
180 N Jefferson St
Chicago, IL 60661
Best Wine Bars in Chicago
Looking to unwind after a hard day in fast-paced Chicago? Well then I have good news for you, this city has some of the best wine bars in the country. As you may be aware, Chicago was constantly in the news during the years of prohibition, and this city’s passion for spirits has not run dry! I enjoyed each of the establishments I visited, I especially was happy to see the great service I received at the top selections. Below are the ten best wine bars in Chicago:
1. 404 Wine Bar
773-404-5886
2856 N Southport Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
2. Pops For Champagne
312-266-7677
601 N State St
Chicago, IL 60610
3. Vivere
312-332-4040
71 W Monroe St
Chicago, IL 60603
4. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
312-266-8999
1028 N Rush St
Chicago, IL 60611
5. Vintage Wine Bar
773-772-3400
1942 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
6. Cab’s Wine Bar & Bistro
630-942-9463
430 N Main St
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
7. Volo Restaurant Wine Bar
773-348-4600
2008 W Roscoe St
Chicago, IL 60618
8. Enoteca Roma Wine Bar
773-342-1011
2144-2146 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
9. The Bluebird Bistro & Wine Bar
773-486-2473
1749 N Damen Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
10. Juicy Wine Co.
312-492-6620
694 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
Best Coffee Bars in Chicago
Looking for that java fix? Chicago has a great selection of coffee bars that will suit your ‘taste’. Along with coffee, these establishments also offer a wide variety of exotic teas and other specialties, just in case you are in the mood for something different. Either way, you will be able to sit back and relax due to their pleasant atmosphere and unique music. Below are the ten best coffee bars in Chicago.
1. Fixx Coffee Bar
773-248-0841
3053 N Sheffield Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
2. Metropolis Coffee Company
773-764-0400
1039 W Granville Ave
Chicago, IL 60660
3. Caribou Coffee
312-214-0887
55 W Monroe St
Chicago, IL 60603
4. Intelligentsia Coffee
312-253-0594
53 W Jackson Blvd
Chicago, IL 60604
5. Savor The Flavor Coffee House
773-883-5287
2545 N Sheffield Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
6. Sip Coffee House & Garden
312-492-7686
1223 W Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
7. Coffee Chicago
773-784-1305
5256 N Broadway St
Chicago, IL 60640
8. I Coffee House
773-777-7311
4945 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60630
9. Maui Wowi
773-321-6425
2854 N Broadway St
Chicago, IL 60657
10. Purabelleza Coffee & Art
773-276-1146
2161 N Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
Best Luxury Stores in Chicago
Chicago has always been known for style and fashion, and that heritage has positively affected the shops in the city. From fashion boutiques to high end designers, I have no doubt you will be able to find what you are looking for on the bustling city streets. For the ten best shopping establishments in Chicago, see below:
1. Tiffany & Co.
312-944-7500
730 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
2. Burberry
312-787-2500
633 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
3. Neiman Marcus
312-951-2299
835 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
4. Giorgio Armani
312-573-4220
800 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
5. Louis Vuitton
312-944-1183
919 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
6. Manifesto
312-664-0733
755 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60611
7. Ultimo
312-787-1171
114 E Oak St
Chicago, IL 60611
8. Hermes of Paris
312-787-8175
110 E Oak St
Chicago, IL 60611
9. Mig & Tig Furniture
312-644-8277
540 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610
10. Kate Spade
312-654-8853
56 E Oak St
Chicago, IL 60611
