Chicago restaurant week started off with a bang this past Friday. With a timely March 25 start date, the annual foodie celebration is expected to conclude on April 10.
There are over 300 establishments participating this year. So, expect restaurants to be filled to the brim. Plus, over 60 of the selections are women or minority-owned. While you don’t need a reservation, they are highly encouraged.
As for travel time, opt for the CTA or use the Regional Transportation Authority’s trip planning tool.
Every participating restaurant is incredible in its own right and illuminates Chicago’s diverse food options. Here are 10 places, from established favorites to minority-owned places, you can go to celebrate Chicago’s culinary scene.
1. Avec Restaurant
The exciting restaurant is a bright mix of Mediterranean and Midwestern influences. Since its opening in 2003, the bright spot offers up two different locations. There’s one in West Loop and another in River North. Both are participating in Restaurant Week with a wine-focused menu and rustic, flavorful food options.
Address: 615 W. Randolph St., Chicago IL 60661
2. Sepia
If you’re looking for a fancy dining option (No shade to the side of the road quick bites), there’s a bevy of Michelin Star restaurants on the list. Sepia makes the list. Prepare to be stunned by executive Chef Andrew Zimmerman’s creative menu. The space itself is a sight to behold. Plus, there’s no shortage of gasp-worthy dishes when you dine here.
Address: 123 N. Jefferson St., Chicago IL 60661
3. Arya Bhavan Restaurant
Vegans and vegetarians, REJOICE! This delicious and enticing Indian-fusion restaurant offers a large variety of tasty options for everyone to enjoy. Made using raw only ingredients, Arya Bhavan is all about promoting togetherness and healthy options. It’s a delightful addition to the list of participating restaurants.
Address: 2508 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
4. Beatrix
A cozy brunch is on top of the list and Beatrix delivers just that. Here, you’ll find vegetable-forward options and comfort foods populating the menu. The space itself is made for gathering with an iconic coffee bar filled with local roasters.
Address: 671 N. St Clair St., Chicago IL 60611
5. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
There are tapas and drinks a-plenty at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! An incredible Spanish-style menu features made to share plates with plenty of options for everyone in your party. The lively Mediterranean-style restaurant ensures you’ll leave full and happy.
Address: 2024 N. Halsted St., Chicago IL 60614
6. The Gage
A burger just has to be on the docket during restaurant week and The Gage is sure to deliver. The rustic-inspired restaurant has a certain vintage charm and a menu that transports you straight to a gastropub in Ireland. They serve up some of the best burgers, fresh seafood, and Scotch eggs, too.
Address: 24 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago IL 60603
7. Bar Sienna
Head to Bar Sienna for an unforgettable and lively Italian meal. You’ll want to go for a family-style spread, as each dish is perfectly curated for a sharable portion. They have individual brunch, lunch, and dinner menus ready for the week. Don’t miss out on dessert either. The BomboBar dessert is epic.
Address: 832 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
8. Mango Pickle
Join for high tea or opt for the 5-course meal inspired by Indian “thali”. Either option is great, and odds are, you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind culinary treat that will have you coming back for more. The 5-course offering is only available during restaurant week and includes a beautiful serving or dishes you’ll want to write home about.
Address: 5842 N. Broadway, Chicago IL 60660
9. Honeymoon Cafe
This minority-owned business serves up a bevy of tasty Cantonese-inspired dishes. The dining experience is simple but delicious with a vast menu to choose from. Here, everything is handmade with love.
Address: 1138 W. Argyle St., Chicago IL 60640
10. Sugargoat
End your journey on a sweet note and indulge your inner child at Sugargoat. Hailed as Stephanie Izard’s latest inspired concept, the sweet confectionery-based space offers everything a sugar-fiend could imagine. From fries in a milkshake flavored cake to classic chocolate chip cookies, and more. Let your imagination run wild here.
Address: 820 W. Randolph St., Chicago IL 60607