The Best Local Restaurants in Chicago

Explore the best local restaurants in Chicago. From local dishes to international flavors, our Spotters have discovered the best places for every food lover. Enjoy spicy Somalian food at BULSHO Restaurant, savor the best pizza at Strapoli Pizzeria or experience cozy vibes at local diner Palace Grill. Discover these and many more local favorites for a delicious dining experience in Chicago.

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Restaurants

City guides by those who know their city best!

Why not just trust our Locals?

60 Hidden Gems

Sweet Cafe

Dim sum heaven

From sweet egg custard buns to savory BBQ pork buns — to classic plates of noodles and soups, Sweet Cafe has all of your Chinese food favorites.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

Apr 29, 2025

Oliang

Incredible Thai food

To conclude your meal I recommend Kanom tuay - Thai coconut milk custard that is surprisingly warm and absolutely incredible.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

Apr 29, 2025

Tostini

Turkish Cafe that feels like home

Tostini’s specialities are “tostini” sandwiches with different filling options such as veggie, chicken or köfte meatballs wrapped in pita bread.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

Apr 29, 2025

Verzenay Chicago

Fabulous French Bakery

Their chocolate croissant is flakey while still being chewy and buttery without being heavy. Verzenay also has a selection of macarons, quiches and more.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

Apr 29, 2025

Strapoli Pizzeria

Venezuela meets Neapolitan

The first distinguishing feature of their Margherita pizzas is the tomato sauce — which tastes just like the blended tomatoes picked from a farm in Italy!

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

Apr 29, 2025

Royal Highness Zhu

ChengDu Street Food

We ordered a hotpot of spicy broth, thick glass noodles, sesame balls, sweet glutenous rice balls, dumplings and I was very satisfied with the experience!

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

Apr 29, 2025

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60 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

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