#chicago-dining

#chicago-dining

When the gin and tonic glasses are drained, and the crab tostada and chimichurri-dressed steak plates are cleared from the table, customers can snake through the kitchen and descend candlelit stairs to an entirely different experience: Laberinto, an underground speakeasy. The theme at Laberinto, which means labyrinth in Spanish, is escapism - a micro vacation after the meal has ended where guests chat, flip through vinyl records, and sip Mexican spirits and liqueurs layered with notes of oregano, sage, and palo santo.

Cariño stands out as one of Chicago's most exciting fine dining destinations. Chef Norman Fenton's cooking reflects a deep respect for Latin American tradition alongside a drive to innovate. Whether you're a Michelin-starred tasting menu enthusiast or just looking for a well-earned splurge, it's a memorable experience worth the price, which starts at $200 per person. The tasting menu changes with the seasons, but a few favorites are permanent staples, including the ravioli.

The 2026 awards will feature 12 categories, from Restaurant of the Year to Best Counter Service to Pastry Chef of the Year. Last year's newcomer, Best Pizza, won't return this time around. The Banchets will also honor two local legends. Grant Achactz, the molecular gastronomy luminary behind Alinea, will receive the Culinary Excellence Award, while longstanding River North steakhouse Gene & Georgetti will be named the first-ever Iconic Restaurant of the Year.

Chicago has always been considered one of America's greatest food cities-one where fully loaded hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, and ultra luxe 18-course tasting menus are revered in the same dining scene. You could practically fill a travel itinerary with places to get Italian beef sandwiches (à la The Bear) alone. The city's restaurants, cafés, and bars reflect the diversity of Chicago's neighborhoods, and knowing where to stay is the key to having convenient access to the best spots.

Private members club Astor Club has introduced a new dining experience led by a prominent Chicago chef. Trevor Teich, who earned a Michelin star at his Bucktown fine dining restaurant Claudia, now leads the club's culinary program. At The Chef's Table, he presents a tasting menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and French technique. The exclusive 10-seat communal experience is priced at $325 per person. 24 E. Goethe Street.

Fulton Market, once a meat-packing district, is now home to some of the finest dining options in Chicago, featuring everything from fine dining to steakhouses.