Chicago is a heavyweight in the culinary world, blending bold flavors, historic institutions, and cutting-edge innovation. From sleek rooftop bars to globally influenced tasting menus, the city offers experiences for every kind of diner—and drinker. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or looking to upgrade your local favorites, here are the best spots to eat and drink in Chicago right now.
- Esmé – Lincoln Park
Esmé is redefining fine dining with a philanthropic twist. Chef Jenner Tomaska and his team design art-driven tasting menus where proceeds support local nonprofits. The dishes are visually stunning, and the beverage pairings include both inventive cocktails and curated wines.
Esmé Chicago - Avec – West Loop & River North
This Mediterranean-inspired favorite has become a Chicago staple for a reason. At both locations, you’ll find signature dishes like chorizo-stuffed dates and wood-fired seafood, paired with natural wines and aperitif-style cocktails.
Avec Chicago - The Aviary – Fulton Market
More than a cocktail bar, The Aviary is a theater of liquid innovation. Their “In the Rocks” old fashioned comes encased in an ice sphere that must be cracked with a slingshot. Cocktail tasting menus offer a multi-sensory drinking experience that matches high-end cuisine in quality and creativity.
The Aviary - Monteverde – West Loop
Chef Sarah Grueneberg’s pasta-centric Italian kitchen continues to wow locals and travelers alike. Handmade noodles meet creative cocktails like fig negronis and fennel-infused spritzes.
Monteverde Chicago - Sepia – Near West Side
Housed in a 19th-century print shop, Sepia delivers Michelin-starred dining with timeless style. The menu focuses on seasonal American cuisine with globally inspired techniques, and the wine and cocktail list is just as thoughtful.
Sepia Chicago - Cabra – The Hoxton Hotel, West Loop
From Chef Stephanie Izard, this Peruvian rooftop restaurant serves cebiche, empanadas, and vibrant cocktails against a skyline backdrop. It’s ideal for brunch or late-night drinks with a view.
Cabra Chicago - Kumiko – West Loop
A Japanese dining bar that seamlessly blends food and drink. Bartender Julia Momose’s beverage program pairs omakase-style bites with house-crafted cocktails using sake, shochu, and Japanese whisky.
Kumiko Chicago - Lula Cafe – Logan Square
A pioneer in the farm-to-table movement, Lula Cafe still thrives with its seasonal menus, ethical sourcing, and creative takes on classics like sweet potato beignets and fennel sausage hash. Pair with their house spritz or a low-ABV herbal concoction.
Lula Cafe - Time Out Market – Fulton Market
This curated food hall gathers some of Chicago’s top chefs in one location. It’s a great place to sample several menus at once—from mini deep-dish pizzas to Korean fried chicken—with multiple cocktail bars and rooftop seating.
Time Out Market Chicago - Cherry Circle Room – Loop
Tucked inside the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, this refined supper club combines vintage charm with modern technique. Classic cocktails like the Sidecar and Sazerac are house specialties, often paired with dry-aged steaks and elevated bar snacks.
Cherry Circle Room
Bonus Tip: Explore With Rewards
If your culinary adventures take you to more casual chains or larger venues, remember that you can still dine smart. Use platforms like Fluz to earn cashback when buying gift cards for popular restaurants and bars. Whether you’re grabbing a post-dinner drink or rounding out the night with a movie, Fluz helps you stretch your Chicago experience even further.
From rooftop cebiche to cocktail science labs, Chicago continues to lead with innovation, diversity, and delicious energy. Whether you’re new to the city or rediscovering it through new menus, there’s always something to savor in the Windy City.
