Happy New Year, everyone! It's hard to believe it's already 2025—time feels like it’s flying by. Growing up just outside of Chicago and spending so much time in the city, I’ve visited countless restaurants over the years. Yet, it never fails to amaze me how there is always something new to discover in this constantly-evolving food scene. Lately, I’ve been diving into restaurant research in neighborhoods I’m excited to explore more, and I thought I’d share a few spots from the list I’ve put together.
1. HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen - Pilsen: I have heard great things about this Vietnamese restaurant in Pilsen, and I'm very excited to try it. The menu blends classic Vietnamese recipes with contemporary techniques. It seems like it has become a local favorite for food enthusiasts seeking authentic, Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant also has a great $10 happy hour deal! Wednesday-Sunday, 4:00pm-5:30pm, $10 cocktails and select dishes.
2. Kama - Wicker Park: I'm always on the hunt for a good Indian restaurant around the city, and when I came across Kama in my research, I knew I had to add it to my list. The menu offers a modern twist on traditional Indian dishes, presenting them in a modern way. It has some of my favorite dishes like chicken tikka, paneer, and samosas to a lobster bisque with tarragon. The warm, stylish atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy flavorful Indian food in a chic setting. Kama also has a short happy hour, Tuesday through Friday 5:00pm-6:00pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 3:00pm to 4:00pm. The happy hour menu has $10 select cocktails, $8 select wines, $6 select beers, and 1/2 off select appetizers.
3. Mirra - Bucktown: Mirra in Bucktown is another Indian restaraunt I found in my search. This restaurant was featured in the Eater's Best New Restaurants in America list. The menu is a unique fusion of Mexican and Indian cuisines, blending traditional flavors with innovative techniques. This is certainly a combination I wouldn't have previously thought of, but I am incredibly excited to try! I saw dishes on the menu like Lamb Barbacoa Biryani and Charred Cauliflower salad that I think exemplify their creative culinary approach.
4. Cariño - Uptown: Cariño has been on my list for a while, and has taken Chicago by surprise, creating tons of buzz around its Latin-infused menu. Locals and visitors have left raving reviews about it. The restaurant offers various dining experiences, including a Latin-inspired tasting menu, a taco omakase, and a chef's counter reservation. I love what they included on their website: "Every little detail of Cariño's intimate setting is deeply personal and tells a story rooted in family and love of craft offering each guest an opportunity for a truly memorable dining experience."
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5. Irazu - Bucktown: I was drawn to Irazu because this is the first restaurant I have found in Chicago that focuses on Costa Rican dishes. The menu has a variety of flavorful dishes inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the region. It features dishes like Gallo Pinto (a savory rice and beans dish), Casado (a traditional Costa Rican platter with rice, beans, salad, and your choice of meat), and fresh seafood like ceviche. The restaurant has great reviews and seems like a great casual spot to try.
6. Lula Cafe - Logan Square: Lula Cafe is another restaurant I've heard many great things about, and a place people seem to keep going back to. It certainly seems like a beloved spot in the Logan Square neighborhood. The restaurant seems to be known for its farm-to-table approach and creative New American dishes. The menu changes seasonally, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and offering a mix of fresh vegetables, handmade pastas, and inventive entrees.
7. Akahoshi Ramen - Logan Square: There is nothing that comforts me more on a cold Chicago night than a bowl of ramen. I have read countless raving reviews about this fairly new Logan Square ramen shop. Reservations have been booked up so far in the future, but I was finally able to grab one for later this month, and I can't wait to try this spot! The chef and owner, Mike Satinover, spent time in Hokkaido, Japan, and seems like he is doing an excellent job dedicating himself to perfecting his craft and developing techniques to elevate ramen.
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8. Bavette's - River North: This restaurant has been on my list to try for quite some time, and for good reason. As a steak lover, I’ve heard nothing but great things about Bavette’s. The restaurant has a speakeasy ambiance, and seems like a great date night spot. The menu features a variety of prime cuts, including a bone-in Ribeye and Filet Mignon. The menu also has some seafood options like Oysters, Salmon Crudo, and a Seafood Tower. I have found that reservations for this restaurant can be tough to come by, so it's definitely worth planning ahead to experience this iconic River North restaurant.
9. Ciccio Mio - River North: This River North restaurant has been on my radar for a while for a date night spot. The restaurant seems like it has a very cozy, old-fashioned and intimate atmosphere. The menu features a range of house-made pastas, including Spicy Vodka Rigatoni and Orecchiette Pugliese. There are also a variety of seafood options such as Salmon Crudo and a Whole Branzino.
10. Lardon - Logan Square: Lardon is an all-day restaurant that changes from a café, offering espresso and house made pastries in the morning, and charcuterie boards and wines at night. It seems like it is a great spot for a laid-back experience for some drinks. The small dinner menu is telling that the restaurant places an emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features items like Steak Tartare, Beignets, and Steak Frites. I'm excited to check this spot out and unwind with a glass of wine.
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