With The National Restaurant Association Show just around the corner, the Just For Kicks Crew deliberated and debated what’s what in Chicago for you to do while you’re here. Our Je Ne Sais Squad has curated a list of the best restaurants in the city for the perfect networking or relationship-building opportunity.
In the list that follows, click on the names to get a preview. Or head straight to reading reviews and making reservations.
What to Eat
Le Select
504 N. Wells St.
Chicago, IL 60654
This French brasserie is helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Rose. The menu features traditional fare with the best ingredients and classic French techniques.
Kindling Downtown Cookout and Cocktails
202 S. Franklin St.
Chicago, IL 60606
Live fire show kitchen, wood-fired plates and tasty cocktails. In the kitchen, James Beard Award-winning Chef Jonathon Sawyer brings decades of wood-fired cooking to the internationally inspired menu.
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
1020 W. Madison St.
Chicago, IL 60607
This James Beard Award-winning establishment blends the traditions of Italian culture and cooking with influences from Chef Sarah Grueneberg’s trips around the world.
Ever Restaurant
1340 W. Fulton St.
Chicago, IL 60607
Ever is the creative obsession of Michelin-starred Chef Curtis Duffy and his business partner Michael Muser, featuring an 8- to 10-course tasting menu focused on proteins from the land and sea, and seasonal vegetables complemented with fruits, grains, seeds and nuts.
Alinea
1723 N. Halsted St.
Chicago, IL 60614
Thanks to its innovative approach to modern cuisines, the James Beard Award-winning Alinea is one of 14 restaurants in the U.S. to earn the coveted Michelin 3-Star rating.
Kasama
1001 N. Winchester Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
Low-key café by day, fine dining by night with Filipino fare and big flavors—Kasama has more than earned its Michelin star.
Taqueria Chingon
2234 N. Western Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
There’s nothing better than Mexico City-style street food. At this Bucktown taqueria, the menu is focused on al pastor and features the genre classics and new, genre-bending tacos.
Does not accept reservations. First come, first serve basis.
Daisy’s Po-Boy and Tavern
5215 S. Harper Ave.
Chicago, IL 60615
Daisy’s brings New Orleans energy to the Windy City. With its vibrancy and celebrated, classic sandwiches, this establishment pairs personality with authentic po-boys.
Does not accept reservations. First come, first serve basis.
ROOH
736 W. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60661
ROOH means soul or spirit. And this Indian restaurant brings to life the inspiration for its name with a delicate balance of rich traditional flavors, fresh local ingredients and modern gastronomic techniques.
Au Cheval
800 W. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60607
If you don’t know Au Cheval, you’ve never been to Chicago. This burger-joint staple has a passion for eggs and a dimly lit ambiance with dark leather booths, dark wood paneling and an open kitchen.
Does not accept reservations. First come, first serve basis.
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
218 W. Kinzie St.
Chicago, IL 60654
Bavette’s is a hip steakhouse with plush leather booths and 1920’s jazz music—embracing French flair without pretense or formality.
Courtesy of the Esrock Partners “Just for Kicks” Team: Travis Fish, Lucy Staszel, Shawn Rudolph, Karolina Urbas, & Ella Shirk