Discover our locals' 114 hidden gems in Chicago

Let's hit it! Discover Chicago’s local favorites with Spotted by Locals! From jazz clubs tucked away in the Loop to the best deep-dish pizza outside the tourist zones, our Spotters reveal the city’s true character.

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Know your way in Chicago like a local!

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✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks

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Tesfa Ethiopian

East African comfort food

The food here is prepared by Moses Sake, chef and co-owner of Tesfa, who learned how to cook from his mother. He runs Tesfa with his brother, Samuel Sake.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 9, 2025

Mella Cafe

Local spot for Eritrean food

I recommend getting the traditional breakfast combo, a sampler with three dishes, that comes with complimentary warm, crispy bread!

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 9, 2025

De Luna Taco Grill

Spicy Truck Tacos

The star of the show is De Luna's "volcano" taco, made with spicy poblano pepper and melted cheese. It may be one of the best tacos I've eaten in my life!

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Restaurants
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Snacks

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 9, 2025

Nhà Hàng Vietnam

Traditional Vietnamese

Although this street is dominated by Vietnamese eateries, Nhà Hàng is a quieter, no-frills joint as opposed to the touristy, upscale restaurants nearby.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 9, 2025

Irazu

Chicago's Only Costa Rican

Here diners sit in the naturally lit patio while enjoying traditional homemade Costa Rican food: sweet plantains, grilled veggies, rice and beans.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 9, 2025

Bolivar & Lincoln

Venezuelan Haven

My favorite thing to order here is the vegetarian arepa, which is stuffed with black beans, a generous portion of avocado, and sweet plantains.

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Restaurants
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Snacks

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 9, 2025

Superdawg Drive-in

Classic Chicago hot dog spot

Founded in 1948, "Superdawg" is THE quintessential Chicago hot dog place - they'll bring your order right to your car, like they did in the '50s!

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Restaurants

by

Sophie

Amado

May 2, 2025

FLW Home & Studio

Architecture of the ages

Architecture lovers - if you are in Chicago, make sure to grab a ticket and get ready to explore "Frank Lloyd Wright's Home & Studio"...

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Art & culture

by

Sophie

Amado

May 2, 2025

Denden Restaurant

Affordable Eritrean

The lentils are filling and creamy; the veggies are lightly cooked and nourishing; the injera bread is the perfect balance of slightly tangy and spongey.

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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 1, 2025

OMI Cafe

Japanese Dessert Café

OMI has many good menu options, but their Japanese dessert toast is their all-star. Think of it as a fluffy French toast served with vanilla ice cream.

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 1, 2025

Sweet Rabbit Bakery

Loaf Perfection

Choose from multigrain sourdough, their house sourdough and miso rye sourdough; pastry choices include croissants, morning buns, and fruit danishes.

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 1, 2025

The Momo World

Nepalese Dumplings

Momos are bite-sized dumplings from Nepal and Tibet, usually filled with meat that is seasoned with spices like turmeric, garlic, cumin, and chili peppers.

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Restaurants
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Snacks

by

Lydia

Schultz

May 1, 2025

Heading to Chicago?

114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Going to Chicago?

✓ Escape the Crowds

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✓ Authentic Stories

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What to expect?

Authentic & Unbiased Content

Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!

Go off the Beaten Path Gems

We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.

Responsible Travel

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.

Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.

With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.

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