Cheese pizza, Chicago style deep dish italian cheese pizza with tomato sauce.
Chicago is known for its iconic food scene, from deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to Italian beef sandwiches and pierogis. But beyond these classic staples, an exciting, emerging food scene is quietly taking over the city’s culinary landscape. Hidden gems, lesser-known eateries, and experimental restaurants are making waves across the Windy City, offering adventurous foodies something new to explore. Whether you’re a longtime Chicago resident or a first-time visitor, here’s a guide to some of the hottest hidden food spots in the city right now.
1. Parachute – Korean-American Fusion Excellence
Located in the Avondale neighborhood, Parachute is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant that has been turning heads for its creative Korean-American fusion dishes. Chef-owner Karen Akunowicz brings her expertise and love for flavor to a menu that features dishes like the famous “Korean fried chicken,” along with inventive takes on kimchi, rice bowls, and a seasonal tasting menu that marries traditional Korean ingredients with modern American techniques.
What sets Parachute apart is its ability to combine bold flavors with refined technique. The dishes are creative but accessible, ensuring that each bite surprises and delights the palate. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone craving a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
2. The Aviary – Cocktail Innovation at Its Finest
For those who love a sophisticated drink as much as a great meal, The Aviary in the West Loop is the place to be. This high-end cocktail lounge, led by renowned bartender Grant Achatz and his team, elevates the art of mixology to new heights. The cocktails are crafted with precision and flair, often incorporating molecular gastronomy techniques, making each drink a performance.
Not only are the cocktails extraordinary, but The Aviary also offers an innovative bar menu, with light bites that complement the drinks, including duck fat fries and foie gras parfaits. It’s a hidden gem for cocktail lovers and a spot that continues to raise the bar for Chicago’s food and drink scene.
3. Fat Rice – Global Flavors Meet Comfort Food
If you want a culinary adventure, head to Fat Rice in the Logan Square neighborhood. This vibrant restaurant celebrates the flavors of Macau, blending Portuguese and Chinese influences in a unique and flavorful way. The menu contains bold, global-inspired dishes, including the signature “Fat Rice”—a rich, hearty rice dish filled with chorizo, chicken, and seafood.
From their famous “Piri Piri Chicken” to the “Duck & Foie Gras Pot Pie,” Fat Rice offers a fusion of flavors that reflect the cultural melting pot of Macau. It’s one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets, where the food is as rich and diverse as the city itself.
4. Daisies – Farm-to-Table Italian Dining
Located in Logan Square, Daisies is a hidden gem that takes Italian cuisine to new heights with a farm-to-table philosophy. Chef Gabrielle St. Germain uses locally sourced ingredients to craft a menu highlighting the beauty and simplicity of Italian dishes made with the freshest produce and sustainable meats.
Whether you’re enjoying their homemade pasta, like the ricotta cavatelli with pork ragu, or diving into the seasonal vegetable-focused dishes, Daisies offers an unforgettable dining experience. The cozy, welcoming ambiance with the farm-to-table menu has made Daisies a favorite for locals and newcomers alike.
5. The Chippy – British Fish and Chips with a Chicago Twist
If you’re craving a British classic, The Chippy in the Roscoe Village neighborhood is the spot for you. Serving authentic fish and chips, along with a variety of other British comfort foods, The Chippy brings the flavors of the UK to Chicago. The menu includes perfectly battered fish, crispy fries, and traditional sides like mushy peas and curry sauce.
What makes The Chippy stand out is its commitment to quality, offering a menu that combines traditional recipes with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s a cozy spot that will transport you to the UK without leaving the city.
6. Arepa House – Venezuelan Delights
Hidden in plain sight, Arepa House is a Venezuelan restaurant on the North Side of Chicago that has quickly gained a loyal following for its flavorful arepas, empanadas, and other Venezuelan delicacies. The signature dish, the “Reina Pepiada,” features a perfectly grilled arepa stuffed with avocado, chicken, and mayo, offering a comforting yet refreshing taste.
The restaurant’s vibrant flavors are perfect for those seeking new culinary experiences. Arena House offers a welcoming atmosphere, where every dish bursts with flavor and is prepared with care and authenticity. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to dive into the diverse world of Latin American cuisine.
7. Mott St. – Asian-Inspired Global Cuisine
A trendy spot in Logan Square, Mott St. is known for its inventive take on Asian-inspired comfort food. The menu contains bold, eclectic dishes like Korean BBQ short ribs and “Mott St. fries” topped with spicy mayo, jalapeños, and kimchi. The fusion of flavors and the casual but chic atmosphere make Mott St. a standout in Chicago’s culinary scene.
The creativity of the menu, combined with the hip, relaxed vibe, makes Mott St. the perfect place to gather with friends and experience flavors from across the globe in one meal. It’s one of the best hidden food spots in the city right now.
8. Elske – Danish-Inspired Fine Dining
For an elegant yet understated dining experience, Elske in the West Loop offers a blend of Danish-inspired cuisine with modern American touches. The menu features seasonal ingredients prepared with precision, such as venison tartare and roasted bone marrow. The artistic and flavorful dishes offer a taste of Denmark with a touch of Chicago’s culinary flair.
Elske’s intimate setting and carefully crafted tasting menu make it one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets for food lovers seeking something unique and special.
Conclusion
Chicago’s hidden food scene is full of unexpected gems offering a refreshing take on traditional and innovative cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for inventive cocktails, fusion dishes, or global flavors, the city’s culinary scene is evolving, and these spots are at the forefront of this delicious revolution. Check out these restaurants next time you’re in Chicago—you won’t be disappointed!
