From spicy Mexican to aromatic Indian, it seems like there are infinite restaurants to choose from in Chicago. From arbitrary TikTok recommendations to opinionated Tweets, narrowing down the Chicago dining scene is easier said than done. That’s why we’ve done it for you with this unequivocal list of the best new restaurants in Chicago. However, after reading this, you should hurry up and make that reservation.
1. Ummo
You may have heard of Jose Sosa, the renowned chef who has gained prominence for his artisan execution and culinary creativity. His latest vision is Ummo, an Italian and American-influenced restaurant with the pendulum swinging first to opulence and then amusement.
The favorites include Pomodoro e Basilico, a mirage of an heirloom tomato made of tomato, raspberry, and vanilla compote, yogurt, mousse, olive oil, and basil sorbet—it looks like a piece of art that could be on your grandparent’s coffee table.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · No takeout · No delivery
📍Address: 22 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at UMMO here
2. Fioretta
One of the best new restaurants in Chicago, this Italian American Steakhouse has a sumptuous atmosphere reminiscent of a new-age Copacabana. Located in the Fulton Market District, this enigmatic spot has a savory menu featuring old-world Italian cuisine, including the dreamy Truggle Mushroom Lasagna and a list of decadent steaks ranging from a 24oz Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye to a Hand-Cut Filet Mignon.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · No delivery
📍Address: 318 N Sangamon St, Chicago, IL 60607
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Fioretta here
3. “SUSHI POP!”
Well, this restaurant hasn’t officially opened yet—it’s one of the most anticipated fall openings, so we’re giving you a head start to book a reservation. With Sushi Maki Rolls, including Crunch Smoke Lobster Maki, Smoked Cucumber Avocado Maki, and entrees, Caprese, Kanpachi Crudo, and more, the menu will satiate any seafood aficionado.
For nine weeks, beginning at the end of September, “Sushi POP!” a pop-up dining experience at the Peninsula Chicago, will be bringing a bit of nostalgia from the ‘80s and ‘90s, featuring pop music, culture, and art—everything meticulously attentive, from a “Walkman Playlist” cocktail list to the top 100 songs from the ‘80s and ‘90s.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · No delivery
📍Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Sushi POP here
4. Yokocho
Another spot in Fulton Market, however, unlike the grandiose Fioretta, Yokocho is a nestled hideaway. Inspired by the enchanting allure of traditional Japanese alley bars, the restaurant will transport patrons to the vibrant Tokoyo nightlife.
The menu is divided into three sections: an omakase, “trust the chef” 10-course meal, various small plates, and nigiri, sashimi, and handrolls—the perfect combination, which all are deliciously refreshing.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · No takeout · No delivery
📍Address: 167 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Yokocho here
5. Boonie’s Filipino Restaurant
Situated near Ravenswood, you’ll be greeted with a fluorescent sign displaying the words “Kain Tayo” by the doorway. From the creative talents of Joe Fontelera, Boonie’s is a new Filipino spot and one of the best new restaurants in Chicago.
Starting in the Revival Food Hall, Boonie’s has a rustic sprawling space that is BYOB. Some menu highlights include the crispy Lumpiang Shanghai and Sizzling Sisig, the juicy Bistek, and the enchanting Talong.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · Delivery · No takeout
📍Address: 4337 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Bonnie’s Filipino Restaurant here
6. Diego
A nod to street food, Diego is a culinary voyage that intertwines the artistry of Mexican mixology and the authentic food you find on the street—Founded by Chef Stephen Sandoval, the craft cocktail bar is infused with the spirit of Baja in Chicago’s hip heart of West Town. The newest hot spot includes one of our happy hours of bright cocktails, beer, and bites.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · No takeout · No delivery
📍Address: 459 N Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Diego here
7. Daisies
We love a sequel, and that’s just what Daises is. Moving down the street from its original location, Daisies, a charming pasta-driven, veggie-centric restaurant in Logan Square, has undergone a major renovation.
The new 5,500-square-foot restaurant still features customer favorites like Agnolotti and Cappelletti and an expanded pasta and entree menu, such as Salmon Collars and Rainbow Trout.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · Takeout · Delivery
📍Address: 2375 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Daises here
8. Sifr
Led by Chef Sahil Sethi, the same revered team that opened up one of our favorite Indian restaurants in Chicago, comes Sifr. A Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant that has refreshingly creative dishes cooked over a charcoal and wood-fired hearth.
The family-style menu includes Mezze, Muhammara, Tunisian Eggplant, sharing plates, Herb Falafel, and Halloumi, and selections straight from the grill, like Maitake Mushroom and Chicken Shish Taouk.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · No takeout
📍Address: 660 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Sifr here
9. Thattu
Located in Avondale, Thattu was born from Chef Margaret Pak’s love for the southwest Indian coastal cuisine of Kerala. It is considered one of the best new restaurants in Chicago because the menu is a story of Kerala, bringing playful interpretations filled with aromatic spice and blending the love between land and sea.
🍽️ Service options: Dine-in · Takeout · No delivery
📍Address: 2601 W Fletcher St, Chicago, IL 60618
📲 Reservation: Make a reservation at Thattu here
With the incredible dining scene in Chicago, it’s hard to choose where to go—however, stopping by one of these best new restaurants in Chicago should be top on the list.