Restaurants

Food writer David Hammond explores the many fathers of Italian beef, and the sometimes contentious origin stories of other original Chicago foods like deep dish and hot dogs.

The winners for the American food industry's biggest awards have been announced, and Chicago has a single winner among them. The James Beard Awards were once again held in Chicago this year.

The James Beard Award-recognized chef Rodolfo Cuadros' The Basement is a cocktail lounge themed around Millennial nostalgia that features off-the-wall drinks and food from a wood-burning oven in Logan Square.

Photographer Kathleen Hinkel visited The Wiener's Circle in May to capture the food, customers, and, of course, the colorful language of the employees steering the ship. 

The team behind the oyster-and-more pop-up Motorshucker is opening a restaurant on the patio of Avondale's Guild Row that will serve po' boys, soft serve, and natural wine during the warm season.

“I didn’t get into cooking because I wanted to cook,” says the chef and owner behind a new Taiwanese restaurant. “I got into cooking because I wanted to introduce Taiwanese food.”

The 2024 nominees for the James Beard Awards, the American food industry's biggest honors, have been announced. Four Chicago restaurants and chefs are among them.

Kevin Hickey opened The Duck Inn on the residential street in Bridgeport where he grew up, and has since contributed to revitalizing the neighborhood, including through his involvement in the resurrection of the historic Ramova Theatre.

A few years ago, Francis Almeda opened a coffee shop dedicated to showcasing people's creative pursuits. Now he's a partner in everything from another coffee shop to a pizza business.

Three Michelin stars is one of the restaurant industry's highest honors. Chicago's Smyth became one of thirteen restaurants in the United States to get the award in November. How did they do it, and what effect does it have?

After steering Atelier to a Michelin star in its first year, Chef Christian Hunter is now opening a Cincinnati chili parlor and bar that will celebrate the Midwest.

Omarcito's in Logan Square, which recently won the Jean Banchet Award for Best Counter Service, serves up home-style Latin American plates and handhelds. Owner and chef Omar Cadena, "a big softie with big energy and a big voice," wants everyone to feel loved and included when they walk up to the window.

Trinidadian cuisine is a unique reflection of its multicultural history, with an iconic street food that incorporates Caribbean and Indian flavors. D's Roti and Trini Cuisine is one of only two Chicago restaurants where you can try it.

Over 50 Black-owned restaurants, bakeries, beverage purveyors, caterers, and more will be offering fixed menus, discounts, and special prices to help get people in during the slow months of winter.

Long Grove, Illinois is home to the state's oldest restaurant, The Village Tavern. What was once a watering hole 177 years ago is now a charming spot steeped in history.