Welcome to April! This month brings exciting new restaurants to the Chicago dining scene. Notable additions include an all-you-can-eat Balkan restaurant, a River North pizzeria from one of Chicago’s largest restaurant groups, an Indian restaurant created by a Michelin-starred team, and a Detroit-style pizza spot located next to the Salt Shed.
Chicago’s best new Restaurants in April
Ambar
A new chapter begins at the corner of Clark and Huron with the opening of Ambar. It’s featured on our list of the best new restaurants in April because it offers a modern interpretation of Balkan cuisine with a “Dining Without Limits” experience.
Guests can sample over 30 signature dishes for a set price, and the menu is rich with regional specialties. On the menu, you’ll find slow-cooked Serbian dishes alongside Montenegrin and Croatian seafood, all crafted to take you on a culinary journey through the Balkans.
📍 Location: 700 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Jōtō Sushi
If you’re a sushi aficionado, get ready to experience one of Chicago’s best new restaurants in April—Jōtō. The new spot is taking the place of Jinsei Motto, which officially closed from CH Distillery last month. Jōtō adopts a seasonal approach while emphasizing high-quality sushi made with dry-aged fish. Guests can choose from an à la carte menu for a more casual dining experience or opt for the omakase option in the hidden sushi bar and dining room.
📍 Location: 564 W Randolph St Ste 1E, Chicago, IL 60661
Zarella
Zarella’s menu is straightforward, yet every dish is utterly satisfying. Coming from the same team behind Alla Vita, it’s no surprise that Zarella has become one of the best restaurants in April. The menu features two distinct pizza styles: tavern and artisan. Both styles boast the perfect crunch, melted cheese, and savory toppings.
📍 Location: 531 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654
NADU
NADU is the latest restaurant concept from Michelin-starred Chef Sujan Sarkar. The restaurant showcases India’s regional cuisines, featuring 24 carefully curated à la carte dishes that celebrate the depth and variety of Indian cuisine. Some standout dishes include Kerala crab and Naga smoked pork ribs paired. If you order a turmeric-infused cocktail, you can trust us that Nadu will leave a lasting impression.
📍 Location: 2518 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Sharpies Pizza + Cocktails
Sharpie’s Pizza and Cocktails happens to be one of the best new restaurants in April, not because of the cosmic-themed interior (although that’s a plus), but for the delicious Detroit-style pizza. The menu is packed with indulgent options, from thick, caramelized-crust pies to creative appetizers like wings and blooming onions. Founded by the team behind Ada Street, Sharpie’s is the perfect spot for a pre- or post-concert bite near the Salt Shed.
📍Location: 1721 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Cafe Yaya
Since Michelin-starred Galit is one of the best restaurants in Chicago, it’s no surprise that its newest cafe, Cafe Yaya, is among the top new restaurants in April. The inviting bistro-style setting serves up Middle Eastern-inspired light bites, specialty coffee, and a curated wine list, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed breakfast, lunch, or evening glass of wine. With a focus on fresh flavors and a warm, approachable atmosphere, Cafe Yaya brings a taste of the Mediterranean to Lincoln Park.
📍Location: 2431 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Garcia’s
Garcia’s Chicago is the newest restaurant in Fulton Market, and it stands out from the rest. This tribute venue to Jerry Garcia features a 300-capacity concert space serving bluegrass, jazz, and jam bands, all accompanied by a delicious menu. Chef Ivy Carthen’s menu has curated dishes that blend Spanish flavors with American comfort food.
📍Location: 1001 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607
Noriko
Noriko Handroll Bar remains one of the most popular and sought-after dining destinations, with reservations fully booked until June. The restaurant offers an intimate counter experience, offering affordable handroll sets and chef-inspired cocktails. Located in the basement beneath Perilla Korean American Fare, it showcases creative interpretations of cone-shaped sushi. Of course, there are other standout starters such as edamame hummus and the Noriko salad.
📍Location: 401 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60654