Top 18 Best Restaurants American Food Chicago

American Food Chicago is the natural successor to the famed American Food New York. The Chicago restaurant is an authentic mom-and-pop eatery that has been serving mouthwatering burgers and fries for over 50 years.

Since opening in 1964, the restaurant has seen its fair share of accolades—it’s been written about in publications as varied as The Chicago Tribune and Playboy Magazine, eaten at by celebrities such as Al Capone (may he rest in peace), and declared a “Chicago Landmark.

Top 18 Best Restaurants American Food Chicago

American Food Chicago
American Food Chicago

1. The Burger Shack

The Burger Shack has been wowing the city of Chicago for over a decade and a good reason! They have one of the most extensive, delicious menus in town, and the super friendly staff will make you feel like family. Their prices are remarkably reasonable, and the portions are large enough to justify ordering in seconds.

2. Pat’s King of Steaks

This is the oldest and most popular steakhouse in Chicago, and it’s also home to some of the best shakes in town! Their menu features a variety of steaks, chops, and sandwiches, including their namesake salads. The Classic Caesar salad is a definite crowd-pleaser at this place.

3. Big Jones

The Big Jones is a Southern-style restaurant with a great selection of veggies and vegan options. Their Certified Humane beef burgers are some of the most flavorful in the city, and they’re also happy to cook any of their meat in olive oil. (Good news for you vegans out there!) If you feel like splurging, their fried chicken is worth every penny.

4. Naidu Sushi

Naidu Sushi specializes in making handcrafted sushi rolls and authentic Japanese cuisine. The sushi rolls here are beautifully arranged, and the fish quality is superb. They also have many traditional Japanese dishes on the menu, including dumplings and udon noodles.

5. El Tlacoyo

El Tlacoyo has plenty of delicious vegan options on its menu, so it’s the perfect place for you if you’re a vegetarian or a vegan. Not only do they have vegan options, but they also have very reasonable prices. Order one of their famous tacos, and pair it with one of their Mexican beers!

6. Portillo’s

Portillo’s is a chain restaurant that has been around for over 40 years, proving that satisfying food doesn’t need to be expensive! They offer burgers, sausages (from 100% beef), fresh-cut fries, breaded chicken tenderloins, and another traditional lunchtime fare.

7. Wingstop

American Food Chicago
American Food Chicago

In the heart of Chicago, you can find Wingstop, whose name is short for Wing and Grill. They have a vast menu to choose from, and their food won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Their fries are hot, fresh, and delicious.

8. The Water Tower Grille

Be sure to take full advantage of The Water Tower Grille’s terrific view! Plenty of outdoor seating is available for those who wish to be at Nature’s Bounty directly above them.

9. Gold Coast Dogs

Gold Coast Dogs has a variety of hot dogs to choose from, including their signature Chicago-style dog. The toppings for these hot dogs are piled high, and the hot dogs are juicy and delicious. If you’re in the mood for a snack, you can make your hot dog using any of the toppings available.

10. The Hot House

The Hot House is a fine dining establishment for dates and special occasions. They have a great menu and an even better wine list. The French toast is to die for!

11. Edzo’s Burger Shop

While Edzo’s Burger Shop may be a chain restaurant, it still offers plenty of flavors! Their classic burgers are juicy and flavorful, plus they’re very affordable. Their fries are crisp and hot, and you can choose the thickness of your burger patty!

12. Chili’s

Chili’s is a national chain, but that doesn’t mean that their food isn’t as good as you’d imagine! They have great food and good prices, and they’ve been around for over 30 years. You can feel confident in the taste of their meals because they’re certified USDA and USDA-approved products.

13. Doubletree Guest Suites

The Doubletree Guest Suites is a beautiful hotel with lots of character and spacious rooms. It’s conveniently located right off Lake Shore Drive, so it’s perfect for those who love the beach and have been craving an ocean view.

14. The Winking Lizard Tavern

The Winking Lizard Tavern has a variety of choices on its menu, but they specialize in burgers. If you’re tired of the same old burger options, order one of their amazing specialty burgers!

15. Gus’s World-Famous Fried Chicken

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is located in a small, beautiful building right on the shore of Lake Michigan. Their chicken is heavily seasoned and cooked to perfection, and their meals are flavorful, filling, and reasonably priced.

16. The Original Pancake House

The Original Pancake House is one of the city’s most popular brunch spots. Their pancakes are light, fluffy, and delicious; the French toast is a particular favorite of many. If you want something different to eat, they also serve waffles, hash browns, and omelets.

17. Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Tito’s Handmade Vodka is made from vine-ripened grapes in the rolling hills of California. The vodka is distilled from the purest, coldest spring water, which gives it a unique taste and smooth finish.

If you’re interested in experiencing this family-owned vodka firsthand, their tours can be scheduled at many of Chicago’s local bars.

18. BellyQburgerbar

The BellyQburgerbar has been “putting the Q in the US” since 2008, with locations in California and New York City. They specialize in grass-fed beef burgers that are as good as you will get.

Conclusion

The list of Top 20 Most Popular Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Chicago shouldn’t be taken further than this.

There are many fantastic vegetarian and vegan restaurants, but we’ve only given you a taste of just a few of them! While some places may be more famous, they all offer delicious food that is healthy and good for you.

FAQ

What food is famous in Chicago?

If you’ve been to Chicago before, you may have heard of Lean Cuisine. It’s kind of like a Macaroni and Cheese type food, but it’s made up of three different meals, including spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and various pieces of fish and chicken.

What is Chicago’s most famous dish?

If we had to pick, Chicago’s most famous dish would have to be Chicago-style hot dogs. These hot dogs are known for being very juicy and having many toppings piled high on them, including tomatoes, onions, relish, mustard, and a pickle!

What restaurant does Maneet Chauhan own in Chicago?

Maneet Chauhan is a very well-known chef in Chicago. She has her restaurants, and she’s appeared on Bravo’s best reality TV show, Top Chef. She owns Chauhan Ale and Masala House, which specializes in Indian food, and she holds Everest, which specializes in Nepalese food.

Is Chicago a foodie city?

If you love food, then you’re going to love Chicago. It has many restaurants where vegetarians, vegans, and health-conscious people can enjoy some delicious meals healthily.