Unearth The Voyage
Chicago’s food scene stretches far beyond the famous steakhouses and deep-dish pizza joints that fill every tourist guide. Scattered across quiet neighborhoods and tucked into modest storefronts, dozens of extraordinary restaurants serve incredible food without the hype or the wait lists. These hidden gems offer everything from family-style Cambodian feasts to Alpine comfort food, often at prices that won’t empty your wallet. Ready to eat like a true Chicagoan?
1. Hermosa — Cambodian “Family Meal” in a tiny sandwich shop
By day, this Hermosa spot looks like any modest counter serving sandwiches. But when the sun sets, Chef Ethan Lim transforms the tiny space into something magical—an 11-course Cambodian-inspired dinner that feels like being invited to a secret supper club.
You’ll need to book through email or Tock, and the experience is BYOB, which keeps things relaxed and affordable. With only a handful of seats, every meal feels personal, almost like dining in someone’s home. The rotating Family Meal showcases flavors you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
When à la carte Cambodian staples appear on the menu, grab them. This is neighborhood dining at its most intimate and unforgettable.
2. The Duck Inn — river’s-edge tavern with a serious roast duck
Locals know this pre-Prohibition tavern on the Pilsen/Bridgeport border is the ace up their sleeve when out-of-towners visit. Perched on a quiet street, it blends old-school tavern charm with a menu that punches way above its weight.
The namesake rotisserie duck is the star—crispy skin, tender meat, and enough flavor to make you forget every other bird you’ve eaten. But don’t sleep on The Duck Inn Dog, a playful twist that’s become a cult favorite.
The riverside location adds to the appeal, especially on warm evenings. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like an insider, even on your first visit.
3. Luella’s Southern Kitchen — brunch-only comeback
Chef Darnell Reed’s August 2025 reopening brought Luella’s back to life in Albany Park with a fresh focus: breakfast and brunch, Wednesday through Sunday. Fans of the original location breathed a collective sigh of relief.
The shrimp and grits remain as soulful as ever—creamy, rich, and perfectly seasoned. But it’s the beignets that haunt your dreams, arriving hot and dusted with powdered sugar, each bite a little cloud of Southern comfort.
The cozy space feels like someone’s welcoming kitchen, where every dish is made with care. Brunch reservations fill up fast, so plan ahead. This is the city’s go-to for genuine Southern hospitality on a plate.
4. Ghareeb Nawaz — the late-night hero
When hunger strikes at midnight, students, cabbies, and night owls all know where to go. This West Rogers Park stalwart on Devon Avenue serves enormous platters of Indian and Pakistani food at prices that seem frozen in time.
The chicken boti paratha roll is legendary—juicy, spiced meat wrapped in fresh-baked bread that’s still warm. Biryanis arrive piled high, fragrant with saffron and spice, enough to feed two hungry people or one very dedicated eater.
The atmosphere is casual and fast-paced, with zero pretense. You order at the counter, grab a seat, and prepare for flavors that punch way above the price tag.
5. Kabobi Grill — Persian platters & charcoal kebabs
Albany Park’s Persian treasure serves up some of the city’s best kebabs, all kissed by charcoal and impossibly tender. The saffron rice alone—fluffy, golden, fragrant—is worth the trip.
Order the soltani and you’ll get one skewer of buttery barg and one of koobideh, giving you the best of both worlds. The juicy chicken barg is another crowd favorite, marinated to perfection. Long hours and BYOB policy make it perfect for leisurely dinners.
Portions are generous enough for sharing, and the welcoming staff treats regulars and first-timers with equal warmth. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that makes you wish you lived closer.
6. The Gundis Kurdish Kitchen — Chicago’s first Kurdish restaurant
Chicago’s first Kurdish restaurant sits unassuming on Clark Street, but inside is a menu unlike anything else in the city. Chef Anas Atassi brings flavors from his heritage—think tirşik, sac tawa, and kebabs with spice profiles you won’t find elsewhere.
Weekend breakfast is the sleeper hit: a sprawling Kurdish breakfast spread with fresh breads, cheeses, olives, and eggs that turns mornings into celebrations. The sac tawa, a sizzling skillet dish, arrives bubbling and aromatic.
The space is modest, but the hospitality is huge. Every dish tells a story, and the staff is happy to guide newcomers through the menu.
7. MingHin Cuisine
At MingHin Cuisine, diners are greeted with the aroma of freshly prepared dim sum. Known for its authentic Cantonese flair, the restaurant is a favorite among locals.
The bustling environment complements its diverse menu, offering everything from steamed buns to savory pork dishes. Each bite is a celebration of flavor.
Nestled in Chinatown, MingHin offers an experience that rivals Hong Kong’s finest. Whether you’re a dim sum novice or a seasoned enthusiast, it’s an adventure for the palate.
8. Longman & Eagle
Longman & Eagle combines rustic charm with innovative American cuisine. Located in Logan Square, its intimate setting is perfect for a relaxed dining experience.
The menu boasts a range of artisanal dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Each plate is both a visual and culinary delight, reflecting a commitment to quality.
With a whiskey selection that impresses, Longman & Eagle appeals to both foodies and spirit enthusiasts.
9. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf exudes the timeless elegance of a vintage steakhouse. Nestled in River North, it’s a sanctuary for steak aficionados.
The menu features expertly prepared steaks, complemented by rich, flavorful sides. The ambiance, with its dim lighting and plush decor, adds to the dining allure.
With an impressive wine and cocktail selection, Bavette’s ensures a complete culinary journey. Satisfy your steak cravings by visiting them.
