Unearth The Voyage
Illinois has become a dining destination that goes far beyond deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. Yelp users have spoken, rating and reviewing thousands of restaurants across the state to help you find the best places to eat. From hidden gem Burmese spots in the suburbs to high-end sushi temples in Chicago, these restaurants have earned their reputations through consistently outstanding food, service, and experiences that keep diners coming back for more.
Pa Lian – Wheaton
Ranked #2 on Yelp’s Top 100 Restaurants in the Midwest for 2023, Pa Lian brings authentic Burmese cuisine to suburban Wheaton. This isn’t your typical strip-mall restaurant experience.
Adventurous eaters flock here for dishes you won’t find anywhere else in the region. The menu features traditional Burmese curries, tea leaf salads, and noodle dishes that showcase complex flavor profiles blending Indian, Chinese, and Thai influences. Each plate tells a story of Myanmar’s rich culinary heritage.
Yelp reviewers consistently praise the generous portions and reasonable prices. The family-run atmosphere makes first-timers feel welcome, even if they’ve never tried Burmese food before. Staff members happily explain unfamiliar dishes and offer recommendations based on your taste preferences.
Sunset Pho Caffe – Chicago
Vietnamese-Yugoslavian fusion sounds unusual, but Sunset Pho Caffe on Clark Street makes it work brilliantly. Featured in Yelp’s Midwest Top 100 list, this unique spot has carved out a loyal following by blending two distinct culinary traditions.
The menu offers traditional Vietnamese pho alongside Yugoslavian specialties like cevapi and burek. Somehow, these seemingly incompatible cuisines complement each other perfectly. Diners appreciate the authenticity of both sides of the menu, with recipes passed down through family generations.
Yelp users rave about the cozy atmosphere and attentive service. The cafe setting encourages lingering over coffee and conversation after your meal. Whether you’re craving comfort food from Southeast Asia or the Balkans, this Clark Street gem delivers both with equal skill and passion.
Butcher and the Bear – Chicago
Landing at #10 nationally on Yelp’s Best New Restaurants 2025 list is no small feat. Butcher and the Bear has quickly become Lincoln Park’s go-to destination for serious steak lovers who refuse to compromise on quality.
This self-described “steak-easy” focuses on exceptional cuts prepared with precision. The butcher-shop aesthetic reminds you that quality starts with sourcing, and every steak here receives the respect it deserves. From dry-aged ribeyes to lesser-known cuts, the menu educates as much as it satisfies.
Yelp reviewers highlight the knowledgeable staff who guide diners through meat selections and cooking preferences. The intimate setting makes it perfect for date nights or celebrating special occasions. Prices reflect the premium quality, but patrons consistently report leaving satisfied and planning their return visit.
La Serre – Chicago
Ranked #17 on Yelp’s Best New 2025 list, La Serre transports diners to a European garden paradise without leaving Chicago. The name means “the greenhouse” in French, and the plant-filled dining room lives up to that promise beautifully.
French-Mediterranean cuisine takes center stage, with dishes that balance sophistication and approachability. Fresh herbs from the restaurant’s own planters often garnish plates, adding visual appeal and aromatic freshness. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring ingredients are always at their peak.
Yelp users can’t stop photographing the stunning ambiance alongside their meals. Natural light filters through abundant greenery, creating an Instagram-worthy backdrop that doesn’t overshadow the food. Service strikes the perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive, letting the environment and cuisine speak for themselves.
Daebak Korean BBQ – Chicago (Wicker Park)
Korean BBQ has exploded in popularity, and Daebak in Wicker Park shows why it’s earned spot #24 on Yelp’s Best New 2025 list. This isn’t just about grilling meat at your table—it’s a complete cultural dining experience.
Premium marinated meats arrive with an impressive array of banchan (side dishes) that add color and variety to every bite. The modern ventilation system keeps smoke under control while you cook. Staff members monitor tables and offer grilling assistance, ensuring perfect results even for first-timers.
Yelp reviewers appreciate the trendy atmosphere that attracts both Korean food enthusiasts and curious newcomers. The restaurant stays busy, so reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Groups particularly enjoy the interactive nature of Korean BBQ, making it ideal for celebrations or casual get-togethers with friends.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – Chicago / Chicagoland
Yelp crowned Lou Malnati’s as America’s top pizza chain with 60+ locations based on customer ratings. That’s impressive for any chain, but especially remarkable in Chicago’s fiercely competitive pizza landscape.
The secret lies in their commitment to the classic deep-dish formula perfected over decades. That buttery, flaky crust supports layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce in perfect proportion. Whether you order the classic cheese, the famous “Lou” with spinach, or load it with toppings, consistency remains outstanding across all locations.
Tourists and locals alike trust Lou Malnati’s for reliable deep-dish excellence. The restaurants offer both dine-in and carry-out options, plus they ship frozen pizzas nationwide. Yelp users frequently mention this spot when recommending essential Chicago food experiences, proving that chain status doesn’t diminish quality or authenticity.
Gene & Jude’s – River Grove
Some restaurants achieve cult status, and Gene & Jude’s has earned every bit of its legendary reputation. This no-frills hot dog stand in River Grove has been serving Chicago-style dogs since 1946, and the formula hasn’t changed.
What makes it special? They pile fresh-cut fries directly on top of your hot dog in the bun, creating a carb-loaded masterpiece that defies conventional hot dog construction. The Depression Dog (their signature) comes loaded with mustard, onions, relish, and sport peppers. No ketchup allowed—this is Chicago, after all.
Yelp reviewers warn about the cash-only policy and often-long lines, but insist it’s worth the wait. The bare-bones atmosphere focuses attention where it belongs: on simple, perfectly executed food. Grab extra napkins, find a spot at the outdoor picnic tables, and enjoy a true Chicago institution.
The Girl & the Goat – Chicago
Celebrity chef Stephanie Izard’s flagship restaurant has become one of Chicago’s most photographed and reviewed dining destinations according to Yelp’s 20-year data. The Girl & the Goat revolutionized the West Loop dining scene when it opened.
Small plates encourage sharing and sampling multiple flavors throughout your meal. The menu changes regularly but always features bold, creative combinations that surprise and delight. Goat appears in various preparations, but there’s plenty for every palate, from vegetables to seafood to pork.
Yelp-savvy diners know to book reservations weeks in advance or try their luck at the bar for walk-in seating. The energetic atmosphere and open kitchen create excitement that matches the food. Servers navigate dietary restrictions with ease and offer thoughtful recommendations. It’s pricey, but the experience justifies the splurge for special occasions or treating yourself to world-class dining.
Johnnie’s Beef – Elmwood Park / Arlington Heights
Chicago lunch institutions don’t get more authentic than Johnnie’s Beef. With locations in Elmwood Park and Arlington Heights, this casual spot has perfected the Italian beef sandwich that defines Chicago street food.
Order yours dipped (the whole sandwich dunked in savory au jus), wet (extra juice poured over), or dry (just the meat juice). Add hot giardiniera for a spicy kick or sweet peppers for milder flavor. The thin-sliced, perfectly seasoned beef piled high on fresh French bread creates a messy, delicious experience.
Yelp reviewers consistently praise the generous portions and authentic preparation that honors Chicago’s Italian-American culinary heritage. Expect lines during lunch hours, but service moves quickly despite the crowds. Bring cash, wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy, and prepare for one of Chicago’s most satisfying sandwiches.
Pequod’s Pizza – Chicago
According to Yelp search data, Pequod’s consistently ranks among the most reviewed pizza spots in America. Their secret weapon? That legendary caramelized crust that forms when cheese meets the edge of the pan.
Unlike traditional deep-dish, Pequod’s specializes in pan pizza with a focus on that crispy, cheesy perimeter. The crust develops a dark, almost burnt appearance that delivers incredible flavor and texture. Toppings are generous without overwhelming the balance, and the sauce-to-cheese ratio hits the sweet spot.
Located in Lincoln Park and Morton Grove, both locations maintain fanatical followings. Yelp users debate whether it’s better than Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s—a compliment in itself. Waits can stretch long on weekends, but the pizza rewards your patience. Order a salad to balance the richness, though honestly, you came for that crust.
Esmé – Chicago
Fine dining reaches new heights at Esmé, where Yelp reviewers praise the refined tasting-menu experience that justifies every dollar spent. This isn’t just dinner—it’s culinary theater that engages all your senses.
The multi-course tasting menu changes frequently, showcasing seasonal ingredients prepared with technical precision and artistic flair. Each dish arrives with a story, explained by knowledgeable servers who enhance appreciation for the chef’s vision. Wine pairings elevate the experience further, with sommeliers matching each course thoughtfully.
Yelp-driven visitors consider Esmé a splurge-worthy choice for milestone celebrations or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The intimate dining room creates an exclusive atmosphere without feeling stuffy or pretentious. Reservations book up quickly, so plan ahead. Dress nicely, arrive hungry, and prepare for an evening that redefines what restaurant dining can be.
Kyōten – Chicago
Sushi purists and special-occasion diners converge at Kyōten, where Yelp reviewers frequently highlight the omakase experience as worth every penny. This high-end destination brings Tokyo-level sushi craftsmanship to Chicago.
The omakase (chef’s choice) format puts your meal in the hands of skilled sushi masters who source exceptional fish and prepare it with reverence. Each piece arrives at the perfect temperature and texture, meant to be eaten immediately. The progression builds flavors thoughtfully from delicate to rich, light to intense.
Counter seating lets you watch the chef’s precise knife work and interact throughout your meal. Yelp users recommend this spot for proposals, anniversaries, or impressing out-of-town guests who appreciate fine dining. Expect to spend significantly, but know that you’re paying for ingredients and expertise that rival the best sushi restaurants anywhere. Reservations are essential and often book months ahead.
Roister – Chicago
From the team behind Alinea comes Roister, a more approachable yet still exceptional dining experience that Yelp users love for its creative energy and outstanding food. The open kitchen centered around a wood-fired hearth creates drama and warmth.
The menu focuses on fire-roasted and grilled dishes that showcase smoke and char without overpowering natural flavors. Shared plates encourage communal dining, though portions are substantial enough to satisfy. Ingredients change with seasons, but the commitment to bold flavors and expert technique remains constant.
Yelp reviewers appreciate that Roister offers high-end dining without the formality or extreme price tags of ultra-fine establishments. The energetic atmosphere suits both date nights and group celebrations. Reservations are recommended but sometimes easier to snag than at the city’s most exclusive spots. Come hungry, embrace the smoke and fire, and enjoy Chicago’s innovative culinary scene at its most accessible.
Mirra – Chicago
Innovation drives the menu at Mirra, where Yelp reviewers praise the unique fusion cuisine that draws inspiration from multiple culinary traditions. This restaurant proves that “fusion” doesn’t mean confused—when done right, it creates exciting new flavors.
The menu reads like a world tour, with dishes incorporating Latin American, Asian, and European techniques and ingredients. Each plate balances familiar comfort with unexpected twists that keep your palate engaged. Vegetable dishes receive as much attention as proteins, making it friendly for various dietary preferences.
Yelp users seeking something different from typical Chicago dining frequently recommend Mirra. The cocktail program matches the food’s creativity, with drinks that complement rather than compete with the complex flavors. Prices fall into the moderate-to-expensive range, but portions and quality justify the cost. The modern space buzzes with energy from diners who appreciate culinary adventurousness paired with solid execution.
The Duck Inn – Chicago (Bridgeport)
Duck takes center stage at this Bridgeport gem that Yelp reviewers appreciate for its creative menu and neighborhood charm. The Duck Inn elevates humble comfort food with duck-centric twists that sound gimmicky but taste phenomenal.
Yes, they really do serve duck-fat hot dogs, and yes, they’re as indulgent as they sound. The rotisserie duck showcases perfectly crispy skin and tender meat that converts even those who claim not to like duck. Other menu items range from elevated bar food to more refined entrees, all executed with care and quality ingredients.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for casual dinners without the stuffiness of fine dining. Yelp users praise the friendly service and reasonable prices considering the quality. Bridgeport’s off-the-beaten-path location means it attracts more locals than tourists, giving it an authentic neighborhood feel. Reservations help on busy nights, but the bar welcomes walk-ins looking for great food and craft cocktails.
