5 Restaurants in Chicago On My List To Try

Life has been busy with the holidays, but my list of restaurants continues to grow! I'm constantly adding restaurants to my notes app, and I'm excited to take some time to try these in the future. Here is a list of 5 restaurants with a wide range of cuisines that you'll want to add to your list, too.

1. Creepies - West Loop

Creepies is West Loop's newest neighborhood bistro with a name that is certainly interesting and quickly captured my attention. This restaurant feels perfect for a cozy winter date night, with a dark, warm, wood-toned ambiance and a menu that looks filling and packed with flavor. The menu seems to be a lot of small sharable plates, which is perfect if you are looking to try a lot on the menu.

Dishes from the menu I've got my eye on: Oeuf Mayonnaise w/ Caviar, Chive & Espelette, Steamed Mussels w/ Fennel Giardiniera & Pernod, and Roasted Lamb w/ Swiss Chard & Herbs de Provence

Creepies Chicago

Creepies is a new neighborhood bistro in Chicago’s West Loop by Chefs David and Anna Posey, with Chef de Cuisine Tayler Ploshehanski leading the kitchen.

Creepies Chicago

2. Ada Street - Bucktown/Wicker Park

Ada Street came as a suggestion from a friend, and I've been eager to try it since. It's in a bit of an obscure location and not surrounded by a lot. But, by the looks of the menu and the reviews, it seems like a restaurant worth trying. It appears to be a good restaurant for groups and has a moody ambiance to it at night. This might be a good restaurant to add to your spring/summer list as the restaurant has an open outdoor area, too!

Dishes from the menu I've got my eye on: Parisian Gnocchi, Whole Roasted Branzino, and Mafaldine Bolognese

Ada Street

Ada Street

3. Ithaki Estiatorio - Greektown

Ithaki Estiatorio is bringing Mykonos vibes to Greektown with a beautiful, summery ambiance. The restaurant is brand new to the Greektown neighborhood and is delivering authentic greek flavors with a modern spin. The menu seems to focus a lot on seafood dishes while still including other classic Greek dishes. Very excited to try this one.

Dishes from the menu I've got my eye on: Ceviche, Youvetsi, and Squid Ink and Dungeness Crab

Ithaki Estiatorio | greek cuisine | 314 South Halsted Street, Chicago, IL, USA

Ithaki Estiatorio is a modern Hellenic restaurant in the heart of Chicago, inspired by the timeless traditions and flavors of the Greek Islands. We offer elevated Mediterranean cuisine focusing on seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood, and warm hospitality rooted in the ancient value of xenia—treating every guest like family. Whether you’re joining us for a leisurely lunch, an elegant dinner, or a celebratory evening, Ithaki invites you on a culinary journey to the soul of Greece.

Ithaki Estiatorio

4. YooYee - Uptown

YooYee also came as a suggestion from a friend who absolutely loved her experience. YooYee has great reviews with many claiming the restaurant does a great job capturing authentic Chinese flavors, great for group dinners, and is reasonably priced. Usually Chinatown is where I go when I'm craving Chinese food, but YooYee will definitely be the next place I go!

Dishes from the menu I've got my eye on: Wontons in Chili Sauce, Dan Dan Noodle, Spicy Braised Pork Ribs Hand Pull Noodle Soup

YooYee - Chinese restaurant | Online Order | Chicago | IL

YooYee - Chinese restaurant | Online Order | Chicago | IL

YooYee

5. Crying Tiger - River North

Crying Tiger seems to be all of the rave right now when it comes to River North's new restaurants. The menu is filled with southeast asian dishes and is certainly capturing the attention of many because of its elaborate decor, creative cocktails, and modern Southeast Asian dishes. This seems like a great restaurant for a special occasion!

Dishes from the menu I've got my eye on: Roasted Black Cod in Charred Scallion Tom Yum Broth, Roasted Delicata Squash Golden Tom Kha, and Garlic Chive Glass Noodles Woon Sen with Shiitake

Crying Tiger