The Best Casual Restaurants in Chicago

Alla Vita is a bustling Italian restaurant in downtown Chicago with a relaxed, welcoming feel. The friendly staff and high-quality ingredients create a warm setting that works for anything from a quick lunch to a lively dinner. It’s a comfortable spot to gather, thanks to its genuine hospitality and lively atmosphere.

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Dan Fahy

Travelling Foodie

Bustling, homely, Italian gem Top-class, rustic, busy Italian in the heart of downtown Chicago. Staff are well-versed, friendly and helpful and the food is all fresh and high quality. A great spot for work lunch or a lively dinner.

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Apolonia is a Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago’s South Loop from Chef Stephen Gillanders. This second venture from the team behind Restaurant S.K.Y. focuses on seasonally inspired dishes, a wood-fired oven, and thoughtful beverage options. Its name honors the chef’s grandmother, adding a personal touch to a relaxed and welcoming dining experience.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Tastes of the Mediterranean in Chicago's South Loop. From the team behind Restaurant S.K.Y., tastes of the Mediterranean in the South Loop, in a sort of restaurant desert. Stephen Gillanders and his team cook handmade pastas but also have a unique pastry program. Do not miss the truffle bread, an earthy, lusty baked-and-fried creation that is not only Insta-worthy, but seriously delicious as well. Photo credit: Barry Brecheisen

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Avec is a Chicago spot that offers Midwestern takes on Mediterranean-inspired cooking, reflecting the region’s four seasons. Originally conceived as a wine bar, it features a thoughtful selection of wines alongside a menu that evolves throughout the year. The restaurant’s simple, rustic style and welcoming atmosphere have made it a local favorite for two decades.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Very simple and rustic with Midwestern influences. A great wine list. Mediterranean, but the ingredients are all local or regional, and the cooks have to work within the distinct four seasons of the Midwest. There are just two dishes on the menu that have never left: chorizo-stuffed dates resting in a shallow pool of tomato sauce, and the uber-thin focaccia stuffed with taleggio and a whiff of truffle oil. I’d get the whole fish and whatever salad they have going; the hidden gem is usually the one pizza they have on offer as well. Superb wine list curated by Eduard Seitan from mostly Mediterranean countries.

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Galit is a Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, owned by Andrés Clavero and James Beard Award-winning chef Zachary Engel. It draws on flavors from across the Middle East, influenced by the global Jewish diaspora, and fosters a sense of community in a lively, welcoming space. The kitchen takes a seasonal and localized approach to its dishes, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to thoughtful hospitality.

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Ari Bendersky

Food and drinks writer

A modern Middle Eastern restaurant, Galit — helmed by partners Zach Engel and Andres Clavero — pulls culinary influence from the whole Middle East region, while also reflecting the global Jewish diaspora that has influenced cooking there. Come for the fresh-baked​ fluffy pita and various hummus (especially Bubbe's Brisket), stay for the Salatim, the beautiful plate of "snacks" like labneh and pickles, as well as the selection of roasted items: carrots, halloumi, chicken thigh and a gorgeous shakshuka. The convivial space begs for intermingling and lively conversation while you drink from a well-thought-out and playful wine list.

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Birrieria Zaragoza is a family-owned spot in Chicago that brings the flavors of Jalisco to town. They’ve been serving their signature style since 2007, focusing on traditional methods that capture the essence of Mexican cooking. With a friendly feel and straightforward menu, it’s a welcoming place to enjoy a comforting meal.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

This is as close to Jalisco as you’ll get in Chicago. Using only goat (not beef), rubbed with house made red mole. Stop by for a bowl of birria. Located on the far SW Side, past Midway airport, the Zaragoza family has been making birria from their native Jalisco, since 2007. Using only goat (not beef) they first steam it, then rub with their house made red mole, and finally roast the goat slowly, until tender. They also make a separate consommé, a thin soup made from tomatoes and chiles, served alongside the tender meat with house made tortillas that are produced throughout the day. This is as close to Jalisco as you’ll get in Chicago.

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Boeufhaus is a French- and German-inspired brasserie in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village, blending old-world techniques with modern style. They focus on using sustainably raised meats and artisanal house-made products, with a seasonally evolving menu that keeps things fresh. Owned by two classically trained chefs, the restaurant offers a relaxed but refined atmosphere for anyone looking to enjoy thoughtful, meat-centric fare.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

One of the city's best-kept secrets for meat lovers. Unlike the giant, overpriced steak temples downtown, this Ukrainian Village gem is led by two classically-trained chefs, who get the same dry-aged meat everyone else in town does, but they cook them in the French style, that is, in cast iron, with butter and herbs. Lunch is also a great option, including their must-have Philly cheesesteak made with prime rib.

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Frida Room Pilsen in Chicago gives off a welcoming vibe that feels like a local spot in Mexico, thanks to its smiling staff and laid-back setting. The Spanish menus show the restaurant’s dedication to staying true to its roots. It’s a comfortable place for those looking for a genuine, down-to-earth dining experience.

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Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

Frida Room: Authentic Mexico in Chicago Stepping into Frida Room feels like being whisked away to the vibrant streets of Mexico City—a sensation I'm familiar with, having visited the city numerous times. The hallmark of authenticity? Often, it's a family touch. Here, young staff greet patrons with heartfelt smiles, hinting at genuine Mexican hospitality. Located in Chicago, they've audaciously retained Spanish menus, resisting the urge to Americanize. It's a refreshing nod to authenticity, a far cry from places that resort to gimmicky taco puns. The brunch is the pièce de résistance, a symphony of rich flavors that are distinctly Mexican. Frida Room doesn’t just serve food; it offers a genuine slice of Mexico. It's a culinary journey that resonates with tradition, pride, and a love for genuine Mexican cuisine. For those longing for a true taste of Mexico, your search might just end here.

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Frontera Grill in Chicago’s River North neighborhood has been a local favorite for decades, offering authentic regional Mexican cuisine guided by Chef Rick Bayless’s travels. Its lively, welcoming atmosphere and colorful décor reflect the vibrant culture that inspires it. It’s a comfortable spot for those looking to explore the flavors and traditions of Mexico in a relaxed setting.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Frontera Grill is still a Chicago classic. Authentic regional Mexican cuisine by chef Rick Bayless. The first Mexican restaurant of its kind in America to do authentic regional Mexican cuisine, they made making mole and tortillas from scratch the norm. 30 plus years later, Frontera Grill is still a Chicago classic. Rick Bayless tastes the line nearly every day, making sure moles and sauces are properly calibrated. Don’t come expecting tacos, but rather, a regional approach to Mexican cuisine rarely found anywhere else in the U.S. Photo: Galdones Photography

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George’s Deep Dish in Chicago is known for its crust, which uses an all-natural starter and draws inspiration from Greek pastry. The subtle sourdough tang and balanced texture make it stand out among other deep-dish spots. It’s a relaxed place where you can enjoy a hearty slice without any fuss.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

I love the flavor and texture of his crust, and I like that there’s a hint of a sourdough tang. George Bumbaris, a Greek boy from Chicago, bases his dough on a Greek pastry and uses an all-natural starter, which you rarely see in a deep dish pie. I love the flavor and texture of his crust, and I like that there’s a hint of a sourdough tang. He has the right ratio of bottom crust to cheese, and understands balance. You don’t need a knife and fork, you can pick it up and eat it. It’s almost like having a thick Sicilian slice. Photos by Azuree Wiitala.

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HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood offers a fresh take on Vietnamese cooking under Chef Thai Dang, who’s been recognized by the James Beard Foundation. The inviting atmosphere balances tradition with a modern touch, making it a favorite among locals.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Thai Dang is one of Chicago's most talented chefs. After stints at high-end hotels and Embeya, he and his wife opened this personal homage to Thai's homeland, Vietnam, in Pilsen, a historically Czech and now Mexican neighborhood, south of downtown. There is a cafe next door with outstanding coffees and other Vietnamese comfort food like rice bowls and banh mi.

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JJ Thai Street Food offers a warm, neighborhood feel where you’ll often spot the owner personally greeting guests. The menu draws on Northern Thai cooking traditions, and fresh ingredients are a point of pride. You can choose to dine in or grab takeout for a relaxed and tasty experience.

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Genie Kwon

Chef

Authentic Thai street food in a cozy atmosphere with the best service. We eat here once a week. Honestly every dish we have ordered is delicious so you can’t go wrong. Don’t skip dessert! And the thai tea with lime is a more traditional way of drinking it and it is amazing.

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La Casa Del Pueblo Taqueria in Chicago serves authentic Mexican food in a friendly, cafeteria-style setting. Known for consistently satisfying plates, it’s a convenient spot for anyone looking for a fast, hearty meal.

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Genie Kwon

Chef

Cafeteria style authentic Mexican serving some of the most satisfying plates in Chicago. On our days off we need something that we know will be the most satifying thing we can eat. It has to be fast and convenient. We eat here once a week. They know our order. The service is always friendly and they get busy but are so attentive. Eveything we have tried is delicious be we are creatures of habit and our go tos are: Chilaquiles en salsa verde, carne de res en salsa roja and flour tortillas and chicharron en salsa verde.

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Labriola Chicago is an Italian restaurant in the city with lunch, dinner, and dessert menus in a comfortable setting. They offer a loyalty program, catering services, and host private events. It’s a relaxed spot to enjoy a meal or gather with friends and family.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Chicago-style deep pan pizza Chicago-style deep pan pizza (wait, what’s the difference between deep-dish and deep-pan?) Deep pan is inspired by legendary joints such as Burt’s or Pequod’s from the suburbs, and usually have a browned, maillard reaction along the outer, upper edge, consisting of excess mozzarella. Also, unlike deep-dish, a deep pan pizza doesn’t necessarily have a pronounced wall around the perimeter, but rather, a crust that is simply spread to the edge and then left to rise a third time in the pan. Rich Labriola uses Russo sausage (always raw, bulk sausage that’s pinched and pressed onto the pie) so that when it bakes, the fat and fennel render into the pie.

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Lula Cafe in Chicago is known for its inventive, market-driven, mostly organic fare served in a casual, funky setting. For more than two decades, it has kept a community-focused vibe while offering a popular brunch. Its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful approach continue to draw both locals and new visitors.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Jason Hammel's crew has always been laser-focused on working with local farmers (before everyone else was). Monday night farm dinners highlight whatever was delivered over the weekend, and the brunch is one of the toughest tables in town. If Alice Waters lived in Chicago, she'd be eating here weekly.

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Mr. Beef is a longtime Chicago spot that some say inspired the TV show “The Bear.” It’s known for its lively vibe and connection to local television lore. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere that offers a glimpse into the city’s culture.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

Mr. Beef: "The Bear" Sandwich shop in real life. A Taste of TV Reality Stepping into Mr. Beef, you're not just entering a sandwich shop but a piece of Chicago's television history. Said to be the inspiration behind the hit TV show "The Bear", whispers even suggest some episodes were filmed here. As you revel in the lively ambience, each bite of their juicy sandwiches is a testament to their culinary craft. Paired with golden crispy fries, and Pepsi served on a plastic cup, it's a flavor journey unlike any other. Beyond the food, it's the soul of the place that captures hearts. If you ever in Chicago and craving an iconic meal? Mr. Beef is the answer.

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My Pi Pizza has been serving old-school Chicago deep-dish since 1971 in the Bucktown neighborhood, about a short ride from downtown. Its single location uses a long-standing crust and sauce recipe that you can easily pick up and enjoy without utensils, creating a casual and welcoming spot for anyone who wants a hearty slice.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Old school Chicago deep-dish, off the beaten tourist track. This old school deep-dish slinger started in 1971, and shows no signs of slowing down, even though they have just one location in Bucktown, about a 15 min. cab ride from downtown. Currently run by founder Larry Aronson’s son, Rich, the pies are highlighted by a seasoned tomato sauce, so that even if you don’t choose a sausage pie (the preferred order in Chicago), you’ll still get some of the trademark fennel and oregano seasoning by virtue of the sauce. The crust is light and somewhat flaky, not at all what the tourists are eating downtown on Michigan Avenue. These are slices that require no utensils; just lift and eat! Photos courtesy of My Pi.

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Pazza Pizza in Chicago offers sturdy-crusted, NYC-style slices that are easy to fold and enjoy on the go. The casual setting makes it a great option for a quick meal or late-night snack. With its straightforward approach and focus on fresh flavors, it’s a reliable spot to grab a satisfying slice.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

NYC-style pizza slices with a sturdy crust and a tight crumb. There aren’t that many NYC-style slice shops in Chicago as we just don’t have the same portable pizza culture here, but the few I’ve found seem to really know what they’re doing. Pazza is one of them. With a sturdy crust and a tight crumb, the low-moisture mozzarella blends superbly with the even-handed tomato sauce application. You can easily do a three-finger fold here and have zero tip sag on your East Coast-worthy slice.

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PERILLA fare is a modern Korean barbecue spot in Chicago’s West Loop that balances classic techniques with forward-thinking ideas. The welcoming atmosphere and do-it-yourself grilling style highlight the high-quality, locally sourced ingredients that drive its menu.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Modern Korean BBQ in West Loop While most of the mom & pop Korean joints are way up north on Lawrence Ave., Perilla is one of the few BBQ houses near downtown, and thankfully they don’t pander to tourists. Andy Lim’s food is both tradition-bound and forward-looking. You can tuck into a bowl of kimchi jigae but also find über chewy rice cakes studded with savory bits of tender bulgogi. Grilling is do-it-yourself and don’t overlook the kimchi fried rice with Spam and egg. Lim’s professional training shines through in his choice of purveyors and farms he sources.

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Robert’s Pizza & Dough Company is a relaxed spot in downtown Chicago known for its thin-crust, artisan pizzas. Floor-to-ceiling windows and an open kitchen let you see the cooking in action, and the outdoor patio along the Ogden Slip offers a quieter place to sit by the water. It’s a comfortable place to stop by for a casual meal or a drink with friends.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Artisan pies with a 3-day ferment, homemade toppings and a delicious range of flavors. Duck prosciutto, Calabrian chiles and fresh mozzarella on one pie; fennel in four stages (roasted, pickled, fronds and pollen) on another. Great craft beer list too.

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Scofflaw is a gin-focused bar in Chicago’s Logan Square, known for its inviting atmosphere and wallet-friendly drink prices compared to downtown. It’s a casual spot to meet friends and enjoy creative cocktails in a comfortable setting. The space is strictly 21+ and welcomes walk-ins for a laid-back evening out.

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Steve Dolinsky

Food Writer

Chicago’s most prolific gin bar, located next to one of the best places to eat - Giant. Start with an Aviation or a Corpse Reviver, and move on from there. Since you’re deep in the heart of Logan Square, cocktails here will run several dollars less than what you’d pay downtown.

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