The Most Delicious American in Chicago

Edgebrook Coffee Shop

★★★★☆ 4.4 (226) • $$

"Chris' s final day as owner. He found new owners and will be here for a couple weeks during transition. New owners are planning on keeping things the same. Always have enjoyed my visits over the past 7 years."

The Breakfast Club and Grill

★★★★☆ 3.5 (520) • $$

"*Note: CASH ONLY*This restaurant has some really delicious and unique items on their menu. The Irish Benedict, although a little spicy, had an amazing range of flavors and was perfect before a day out in the city. The breakfast potatoes on the side were fantastic as well. The restaurant has a nice, trendy interior and a cute patio with umbrellas if you prefer to sit outside. It gets busy on weekends, especially out on the patio in the summer. I was surprised to find out that this is a cash-only restaurant, which I did not know until the bill came. Luckily, I was carrying cash (which i don't think most young people do these days). There is also an ATM inside."

Miss Ricky's

★★★★☆ 3.8 (423) • $$

"A nice hidden gem in the Virgin Hotel with a range of options from salads to pizza to pasta to steak. The seating is comfortable with "couches" or traditional tables, and the staff are great. We had a well-paced, relaxed meal and every dish was quite solid. The seafood risotto was nice prepared and the truffle steak fries excellent - flavorful and not overly greasy and salty. It's worth a visit as the ambiance is great for a business or catch-up meal, and the service amazing."

Oooh We It Is

★★★☆☆ 2.6 (22)

"Good southern food at a reasonable price. Stopped in this location one day after work and was surprised to see the sitting areas is basically self service. There are no waiters to serve you. Here's the deal, you place your order when you walk in and then you wait. We secured a table to dine in, picked up our food when our name was called and we dined in. The portion size was good, the taste is superb so I will return but probably wouldn't dine in."

MCM Pub and Eatery

★★★★☆ 3.6 (45)

"I genuinely like this place. It has a wide variety of craft beers and a nice, friendly atmosphere. The reason for 3 stars is that the quality of food has shifted. When I first started going there last summer (2018), they had these amazing chicken wings. Big, meaty wings that could fill you up. Six wasn't quite enough but twelve was too many. I'd get the garlic parmesan. Did I mention they were amazing? Now? I swear they walk next door to Dominos and take their wings (yes Dominos has wings and if I'm gonna get small bits I might as well save some money). I'm still impressed that they have the truffle french fries. Those are amazing too and about the only reason, I keep going back. I'm sure the wings is a cost-cutting move but please, please, please find another way to save money."

Jack & Ginger’s

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (232) • $$

"Great place to have a drink and some food. Plenty of space for large groups both indoors and out. There's a large outdoor patio as well as a private party room upstairs that can hold about 30-50 people and a nice outside patio adjacent to private room and first level. The staff are really nice and supportive."

The Pumping Company Bar & Grill

★★★★☆ 3.6 (23)

"Not feeling like a night out on the town, I was just craving some quick, simple delivery for a night in.Ordered as 7:06 pm on a Friday (through GrubHub), quoted 55 to 65 minutes. Reasonable, I thought. Food was here in less than 30 minutes.Basic "bar food"-Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich, Broccoli & Cheese Soup and some Mashed Potatoes I asked they make "loaded with some bacon, cheese, and sour cream they were quite efficient at doing.All in all quite satisfying."

Patio Beef

★★★★☆ 4.2 (170) • $

"I've been going to Patio for over 20 years, so I guess it's time for a review. This is, indeed, a family run business since 1984. The owners are still there most days, but their daughters are running the show now. The quality of the food hasn't changed in all the years I've been going. Consistency is difficult in the restaurant business, but these folks have it down. The burgers, in particular, are the best in town, grilled to perfection every time. The Italian Beef combo is divine... not too salty, just goodness on a roll. If you want duck fat fries and Bleu cheese on a hot dog, go elsewhere. It's a great neighborhood dog and burger joint, and it's a treasure of Edgewater."

Charlie Beinlich's Food & Tap

★★★★☆ 3.9 (358)

"My husband grew up going here. He was excited to take me there. It was nice to share his memories. At the end of the day it is crowded. Tables very close to each other. It is just a good burger. Yes, I will go back with him."

The Original Granny's

★★★★☆ 3.9 (159)

"This is a staple in our lunch rotation durning the week. The food is always amazing and the service hands down the best."

Squabs Gyros

★★★★☆ 3.9 (193) • $$

"I love coming to Squabs for lunch. The food is extremely tasty and the service is friendly. The dinner plates are big enough to take half of your order Togo and eat later. My favorite plate is the chicken breast dinner or the chicken kabob which are always marinated/seasoned to perfection. The menu has a lot of variety so there's something for everyone. Unfortunately they serve their plates with plastic utensils so cutting up the food is sometimes a bit of a chore."

American Craft Kitchen & Bar

★★★★☆ 3.5 (133) • $$

"I enjoyed the open feel of the restaurant in the lobby of the Hyatt Regency. The service was a bit slow in getting to us and taking our order (you seat yourself and she acknowledged us as we sat down but took awhile to come get our order). After the waitress finally got around to us, she became pleasant to deal with and did a solid job. I had the fish and chips. The food was good albeit needed more seasoning on both. The crust of the fish was seasoned but the flaky inside was not. The fries had no salt, although truth be told I need less salt in my life anyway. The bourbon orange drink was quite good. All in all, an above average experience boosted by the atmosphere."

Golden Griddle Pancake House

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (103)

"One of the best breakfast spots with that old diner feel. They a little cheap with the drink refills but otherwise they are good. I'll be back even more once that new dealership opens up across the street and I need an oil change."

Byron's Hot Dog

★★★★☆ 3.5 (229)

"My love and I were in the area after a morning of walking around Ravenswood, so we were getting hungry. We decided to pop into Byron's, at the corner of Lawrence and Paulina. The interior has a bit of a retro design appearance, with black-surfaced seating in the booths and glass block. We each decided to go with a combo meal, which includes an order of fries and fountain drink. I don't believe any of the combos were priced below ten dollars, but the amount of food gives you the impression of a good value. They were fairly busy on this Saturday afternoon, but our food came out very quickly after we placed our order. My Philly cheesesteak was sizably loaded with toppings and was a hefty sandwich. I thought it was good but not great. I actually liked the brown sack of shoestring potatoes better than the sandwich, though you needed the ketchup for the fries. My love's hot dog extended past the length of the bun, but she agreed that it was also just OK. The fountain pop admittedly hit the spot for each of us after a lot of steps that day. Try the Green River soda (yes it's green) if you'd like!"

White Palace Grill

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (628) • $$

"This has been my go to diner for years. I typically get a burger but this time around decided on a Rueben sandwich deluxe. Deluxe sandwich comes with fries and soup. All for under $20"

Marco's Beef

★★★★☆ 4 (117) • $

"We came here for a quick bite. I hate these beef places that have these slices of pizza on display. Because I only came for a beef and the damn slices look so good just staring at me. So I couldn't resist and ordered a sausage slice as well. This place gets pretty busy with a lot of pick up orders as well as grub hub and all that other crap. I waited longer than I would have liked to, but it really wasn't all that bad. I ordered my beef with hot peppers and dipped. The only way it should be ordered if I'm being honest..I'm only kidding. The beef was packed with flavor. Just the right amount of seasoning and they filled the bread up pretty well. The hot peppers were also perfect. Just the perfect amount and right amount of spice. One of the best needs served in the city. We also ordered cheese fries. They serve crinkle fries and then topped with the cheese. I prefer my cheese on the side so I can dip it but then again you get more cheese when they just pour it on top like how they did. The sausage pizza slice was pretty good, just not sure if I would order it again. We also ordered a hot dog but it wasn't all that great. The beef is where it's at here. I'll definitely be back."

De Mar's Family Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.2 (44) • $

"My favorite diner in Blue Island. The managing is by far the best I've seen. They are always welcoming and as a regular, I appreciate that they remember me. The food is NEVER bad and I try all kinds of food. I mean, where else can you get an omelette and meatloaf in the same place? It's worth a try if you're in the area. Come on Wednesdays, the split pea soup is good!"

Kevin's Hamburger Heaven

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (53)

"I got the one and only burger with cheese. Very plain. Nothing to it except their burger is supposed to be seasoned. I could taste a little bit of it. I felt like it could use more seasoning and even some kind of sauce. The burger is juicy. The service was great. Very nice people and very accommodating. There is some seating available. It's a small space but no one was there when we went so that wasn't a problem. It's a bit divey.Try it if you're hungry. If not, I would go somewhere else."

Pancho's Rooftop Cantina

★★★★☆ 3.7 (31)

"The re-brand this place needed! What a fun atmosphere and restaurant. It's perfect for a happy hour with coworkers or friends, or affordable drinks and food with whoever you're with. Their pulled chicken nachos and carne asada fries were to die for. I loved all their drinks - I recommend the Mexican mule, frozen margs, or margs on the rocks. I especially liked their mango and strawberry margaritas. The bathrooms are downstairs so you have to go down 1-2 flights of stairs to access their 2-stall bathroom. Our servers were soooo awesome and personable. I'd totally come here again if I'm looking for a happy hour in the loop!"

Seven Bar and Restaurant

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (60) • $$

"My husband and I went to Seven Bar and Restaurant with a group of about 60 people for our wedding after party on Saturday night, and everyone had a fabulous experience. Our wedding planner had reached out ahead of time since we'd have a large group coming in, and the owner was super accommodating and helpful. The place isn't very big but the atmosphere was so fun with disco lighting and people LOVED the karaoke. We also ordered several trays of fried food that I assume were good because everyone gobbled them up. We've had so many guests compliment us on how much fun it was and a perfect after party setting. Several people including my husband and I shut the bar down at 3am we were having so much fun. It's a hidden gem being on the 7th floor you do have to show ID and check in with security. But any brides getting married in the north loop should definitely consider Seven, or anyone looking to go somewhere for a party or after an event, we had such a great time!Thank you Seven Bar and Restaurant!"

Chicken Works & Salad Company

★★★★☆ 4.3 (279) • $$

"This place never disappoints. I used to come here 10+ years ago and it's just as good as I remember. They have a salad bar as well as various chicken options and wraps. Great spot to grab lunch!"

Hoots Wings

★★★☆☆ 3 (47)

"Wow this place is pretty cool.. wings are so nice , hot and so crispy..delish...9.99 for 10 boneless wings.. Service is great by the employees pretty clean place..will sure come again n again.."

DSTRKT Bar & Grill

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (51)

"Check it out: another Wicker Park hipster spot with good drinks and okay food. DSTRKT is like a Mexican-American hipster bar and grill. It has some pretty decent prices, making it actually not that bad so I can't hate this place a lot. Gets busy so it may take a long time before orders arrive or anyone even says anything. The drinks are the best thing, and even the food isn't that bad honestly. After the last time here my opinion of it improved, and we actually had good service as well as drinks and food. It was lightly busy on a weeknight, but we didn't wait for long. There were quite a few specials. On both drinks and food. We each got a Margarita. It was $5 and was bigger than we thought it would be. They probably used cheap liquors. Even so, it was hard to tell though, so good job. Of course we also had to get the food special. It was a Taco Dinner. It was $10 for three small tacos. There was the choice of chicken, steak, or black beans and vegetables. My friend got the chicken. We got the vegetarian ones, and were pleased. Even though these were small, they were bigger than many of these mini tacos you find around here. They also were packed full of beans, lettuce, and pico de gallo, some good shit. Go here on a weekday to get better prices on drinks and food. It's also open on weekends for a club atmosphere where it's much busier and service is slower. Those wanting to actually get food should come on weekdays."

Uncle Mike's Place

★★★★☆ 4.4 (907) • $$

"Great diner spot if you're looking for some authentic Filipino style breakfast food. You could wait up to 10-15 minutes for a table if you're there during peak brunch hours, but the servers really work hard to clean up tables and take orders. I loved the combination meal with longanisa and tocino, but I opted for spam this time. Anything you get will always be a hit! The bill was about $45 plus tip. Highly recommend!"

Skidoe's Cafe and Grill

★★★★☆ 3.5 (33)

"Batter done right - fried okra was amazing! My friend devoured his wings as well. My vegetarian burrito was delicious and filling. She was able to swap out a few things for me as well. So friendly! I ended up ordering a steak to go. Everything from sauces to side dishes are done with care.Prices are great and the service was exceptional. I see lots of people ordering take out since they are on uber eats and a few more delivery apps. Can't wait to come back and try their breakfast offerings!"

River North Bistro

★★★★★ 4.5 (26)

"Came here for brunch, stayed for the bottomless mimosas. At $22 a pop, this is a very good deal for a downtown location. I was happy that they allowed you to select the juice of your choice (OJ, cranberry or pineapple). Food was good, Lake Benedict (smoked salmon, poached eggs, béarnaise, house made biscuit). This also came with potatoes, which were nicely seasoned. Biscuit was nice and tender and the béarnaise sauce was very good. I also got a "side" of pancake, which was one....should have gotten a full order as it was very good and my daughter dipped into it. The cake was nice and fluffy and the coloring was great. I am picky about pancakes and like a certain brown coloring for them and this one was perfect.My hubby go the steak and eggs and said it was nicely prepared. My daughter got the Truffle and Wild Mushroom scramble with potatoes (scrambled eggs, truffle oil, sautéed wild mushrooms, sautéed leeks). She cleaned her plate, so you can say she enjoyed it :-) She said that the flavors were light and the dish itself was just the right amount of food.Service was great, with the server being attentive. He kept those carafes of mimosas coming. The time limit for mimosas was 1.5 hours, but we were not rushed or stopped from our quest to get hydrated. We also met the GM, Tomas, who was also very nice and helpful, doing things in and outside of the restaurant.There is a lovely covered outdoor seating area. Would have sat out there as it looked inviting but the wind was too crazy that day. We will definitely be back as they offer a Happy Hour from 4-6 pm, Sun-Thurs. Happy Hour on a Sunday? Count me in."

George's Gyros

★★★★☆ 4.3 (111) • $

"We were unable to visit Greek town so we door dashed gyros! Best gyros I've had so far and I am always on the hunt for my favorites comfort food. Big thick cuts of meat, tons of yogurt sauce, and the warm soft pita! Chef's kiss!"

Riverside Cafe

★★★☆☆ 2.7 (33) • $$$

"I came here 2 day in a row place is very niceFood is really good they really have good breakfast buffet too very worth the money .But the customer service here is top of the line from the host to the chef .I don't eat pork and I ask the chef MELCHOR if the sausages are chicken he said no but he offered to me even before I ask ( I can make chicken sausage)Very nice of him.5 stars the waiter GEORGE he is very attentive and very nice and good customer service he knows how to make people come back"

Tiztal Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.3 (634) • $$

"Tiztal Cafe is the only place I can go for Chilaquiles. I have been coming to Tiztal Cafe for the last 6 going on 7 years and they have remained consistent. I am so happy in this day and age with things becoming more expensive and it becoming easier to cut but on food quality to save money it does not seem as though Tiztal Cafe is taking that route.I love that I still see some of the staff that I saw when I first visited back in 2016. Tiztal Cafe gives you the feeling of a family restaurant even though they get really busy. The staff is always wonderful! No matter how busy the restaurant gets the wait staff is always smiling and patient with everyone. I truly cannot order an entree outside of the Chilaquiles because they make the best on the Northside. I have tried other Chilaquiles around the Northside and always find myself comparing them go Tiztal Cafe that I no longer try. I am happy that Tiztal Cafe still gives you large portions of food. I easily get three meals out of my breakfast. The trick to keep the chips from getting soggy is asking for the salsa on the side. I remember once when they accidentally put salsa on top, the waitress gave me extra chips to take home without me asking. That moment solidified why I keep coming back and telling anyone that will listen about Tiztal Cafe. The amount of food you receive is worth the price. They align with what you would typically see on the Northside. I highly recommend coming to Tiztal Cafe. If you aren't big on crowds, come on a weekday or really early in the morning on the weekend. The line moves fast if there is a crowd. Bonus: they have an outside patio!"

Victory Grill

★★★★☆ 3.6 (125)

"Love this place. Elite burger and nice staff. Will be back for sure. I just have to workout first."

The Globe Pub

★★★★☆ 3.9 (478) • $$

"The last time I had an English Breakfast, I was in England about 20 years ago. Let me tell you, the breakfast that I had at the Globe Pub was delicious! Very much worth it and I definitely recommend. Me and my friend went there to watch a football game and the food was a must try. The service was outstanding and the ambiance was crazy good. I have never seen that many football fans in America and I was enjoying every cheer during the game."

Lucky Grill

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (80)

"Solid 3.5. Showed up and was let in and we picked a booth in the back. The waitress was late so we waited until she arrived. She came after we were there for about five minutes. I think this was about 15 minutes late but stuff happens so no biggie. She walked over and asked us if we knew what we want to order and we didn't have menus yet so waited a couple minutes to look through. My sister ordered eggs with ham and potatoes. I ordered a gyro omelette with potatoes and pancakes. My sister ordered a mini waffle and gave that to me to try. My omelette was big and delicious and the potatoes were amazing. I didn't particularly like the pancakes or the waffle. My sister liked her meal. All in all I am happy this place is in the neighborhood and I like their food. I know what I would order if I came back again and I would definitely come back."

Reno

★★★★☆ 4 (586) • $$

"Reno is walkable from Logan Square Auditorium and offers indoor and outdoor seating with a wide selection of thin crust pizzas and pastas and many other things.After a show at the auditorium we walked over and were able to snag a nice outdoor table for an early dinner. For the 4 of us, 2 pies were the perfect amount and we finished everything. For our red sauce pizza, we selected the Combo (fennel sausage, cremini mushroom, smoked onion, mozzarella, red sauce) and for the white sauce pizza we got the Philomena (robiola cheese, mozzarella, arugula, truffle oil). I think we selected the best two that complemented each other. The combo was heavier and meatier while the Philomena was earthy and fresh at the same time. Service was super fast and friendly and it was overall a delightful experience."

Yolk - Oak Park/River Forest

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (95) • $$

"Coffee is amazing! Service is ok. Food is great. They give you a ton of food. Everyone leaves w a to-go box. Pancakes were delicious. French toast was amazing. Can't wait to come back and get kid menu for our boy that way we can further enjoy our adult meal. You can get added to waitlist before you get there which is good to know. Parking stinks tho. You can park a block or two away and walk too."

Captain Hook's Fish & Chicken

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (67)

"Very ready for my first sit down meal after a stuffy flight, followed by the bus ride from hell, I would have eaten linoleum if you offered it.The kitchen crew was noticeably boisterous but having good clean fun while plugging along at their stations. Great service at the counter, guiding me towards what menu item to order as I clearly needed help. The catfish was well prepared, a homemade tartar would have really been a plus to this platter but its not yet to be. The French fries were the run of the mill, the frozen type so many places use, so no points off there."