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Where to dine during the National Restaurant Association Show: Top picks from our Chicago team
In Chicago for the National Restaurant Association Show? Use this guide to discover the best dining spots in the city, according to our local team.
You’re in town for the National Restaurant Association Show, but don’t miss the chance to explore Chicago’s world-class dining scene. From classic deep-dish pizza to hidden neighborhood gems and MICHELIN-starred destinations, this city has something for everyone.
To help you navigate all that the city has to offer, we turned to the experts—our local OpenTable team. These are the spots they swear by, whether you’re looking for a quick bite between sessions or a memorable meal to cap off your trip.
And while you’re exploring, why not let OpenTable pick up the tab? We’re giving away a $150 Visa gift card each day of the show.* Simply follow @OpenTableForRestaurants on Instagram and comment on our NRA post with the restaurant you’re excited to try. We’re picking one winner per day during the show—don’t miss out!
Here’s where to eat in Chicago, according to the people who know it best.
Chicago classics
Spots known for iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, and more.
Topo Gigio
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of Chicago’s oldest and most iconic Italian restaurants. Just get the pasta— any pasta.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Topo Gigio
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of Chicago’s oldest and most iconic Italian restaurants. Just get the pasta— any pasta.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Book now
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of Chicago’s oldest and most iconic Italian restaurants. Just get the pasta— any pasta.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
RL Restaurant
Why Christopher Chang loves it: “The food, drinks, service, and atmosphere are always on point. Try the Chopin vodka dry martini, and crispy chicken sandwich.”
Christopher Chang, Account Executive
RL Restaurant
Why Christopher Chang loves it: “The food, drinks, service, and atmosphere are always on point. Try the Chopin vodka dry martini, and crispy chicken sandwich.”
Christopher Chang, Account Executive
Book now
Why Christopher Chang loves it: “The food, drinks, service, and atmosphere are always on point. Try the Chopin vodka dry martini, and crispy chicken sandwich.”
Christopher Chang, Account Executive
Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Co.
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “The Pizza Pot Pie is a Chicago original, around since 1972—they must be doing something right!”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Co.
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “The Pizza Pot Pie is a Chicago original, around since 1972—they must be doing something right!”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “The Pizza Pot Pie is a Chicago original, around since 1972—they must be doing something right!”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Lou Malnati’s
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “When I eat a deep dish pizza, this is it. The deep dish with the sausage patty has sausage in every bite. Order it on ON BUTTER CRUST”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Lou Malnati’s
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “When I eat a deep dish pizza, this is it. The deep dish with the sausage patty has sausage in every bite. Order it on ON BUTTER CRUST.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Book now
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “When I eat a deep dish pizza, this is it. The deep dish with the sausage patty has sausage in every bite. Order it on ON BUTTER CRUST.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
bar avec
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “bar avec for the Chorizo Stuffed Dates! Since 2003 Avec has been serving this dish and it’s been perfect since day one. Rumor has it the same prep cook is still preparing them in 2025.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “West Loop ‘deluxe’ focaccia with taleggio cheese, ricotta, truffle oil and fresh herbs – this is my favorite restaurant and a dish I have been craving for more than 10 years!”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
bar avec
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “bar avec for the Chorizo Stuffed Dates! Since 2003 Avec has been serving this dish and it’s been perfect since day one. Rumor has it the same prep cook is still preparing them in 2025.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Book now
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “bar avec for the Chorizo Stuffed Dates! Since 2003 Avec has been serving this dish and it’s been perfect since day one. Rumor has it the same prep cook is still preparing them in 2025.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “West Loop ‘deluxe’ focaccia with taleggio cheese, ricotta, truffle oil and fresh herbs – this is my favorite restaurant and a dish I have been craving for more than 10 years!”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “West Loop ‘deluxe’ focaccia with taleggio cheese, ricotta, truffle oil and fresh herbs – this is my favorite restaurant and a dish I have been craving for more than 10 years!”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “A mix of tavern-style and artisan pizzas, an array of entrées and small bites, as well as fresh salads, alongside an ever-rotating menu of Italian specialties, promising a dining experience that is both nostalgic and unique. My favorite is the Soppressata & Mortadella Pizza.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “A mix of tavern-style and artisan pizzas, an array of entrées and small bites, as well as fresh salads, alongside an ever-rotating menu of Italian specialties, promising a dining experience that is both nostalgic and unique. My favorite is the Soppressata & Mortadella Pizza.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “A mix of tavern-style and artisan pizzas, an array of entrées and small bites, as well as fresh salads, alongside an ever-rotating menu of Italian specialties, promising a dining experience that is both nostalgic and unique. My favorite is the Soppressata & Mortadella Pizza.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Shaw’s Crab House
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “The oyster bar at Shaw’s Crab House. Have never had a bad time sitting at that bar for some seafood and drinks.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Shaw’s Crab House
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “The oyster bar at Shaw’s Crab House. Have never had a bad time sitting at that bar for some seafood and drinks.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Book now
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “The oyster bar at Shaw’s Crab House. Have never had a bad time sitting at that bar for some seafood and drinks.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Fine dining + MICHELIN-Starred destinations
Elevated cuisine, exceptional service, and a refined atmosphere.
Boka
Why Shane Mones loves it: “Everything on the menu is incredible—seriously. It’s a Michelin-starred spot where you can go all-in with the tasting menu or keep it chill with à la carte.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “Boka for the Grilled Heirloom Carrots and the Roasted Chicken. Worked there, got married there, and will always eat there. Great food prepared and served by even better people. Refined and on point, but so welcoming and comfortable.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “An ever changing menu in a chic setting, this Michelin starred gem serves up some of the best American contemporary fare in the city.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Why Christopher Chang loves it: “Boka is an institution here in Chicago, and has maintained a 1-Michelin starred restaurant since the Michelin guide began in 2011. Every year they continue to put out amazing and creative dishes”
Christopher Chang, Account Executive
Boka
Why Shane Mones loves it: “Everything on the menu is incredible—seriously. It’s a Michelin-starred spot where you can go all-in with the tasting menu or keep it chill with à la carte.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Book now
Why Shane Mones loves it: “Everything on the menu is incredible—seriously. It’s a Michelin-starred spot where you can go all-in with the tasting menu or keep it chill with à la carte.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “Boka for the Grilled Heirloom Carrots and the Roasted Chicken. Worked there, got married there, and will always eat there. Great food prepared and served by even better people. Refined and on point, but so welcoming and comfortable.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Book now
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “Boka for the Grilled Heirloom Carrots and the Roasted Chicken. Worked there, got married there, and will always eat there. Great food prepared and served by even better people. Refined and on point, but so welcoming and comfortable.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “An ever changing menu in a chic setting, this Michelin starred gem serves up some of the best American contemporary fare in the city.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “An ever changing menu in a chic setting, this Michelin starred gem serves up some of the best American contemporary fare in the city.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Why Christopher Chang loves it: “Boka is an institution here in Chicago, and has maintained a 1-Michelin starred restaurant since the Michelin guide began in 2011. Every year they continue to put out amazing and creative dishes”
Christopher Chang, Account Executive
Book now
Why Christopher Chang loves it: “Boka is an institution here in Chicago, and has maintained a 1-Michelin starred restaurant since the Michelin guide began in 2011. Every year they continue to put out amazing and creative dishes””
Christopher Chang, Account Executive
Elske
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Always their Chef’s menu – A culinary journey with genuine hospitality that you do not want to miss.”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Elske
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Always their Chef’s menu – A culinary journey with genuine hospitality that you do not want to miss.”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Always their Chef’s menu – A culinary journey with genuine hospitality that you do not want to miss.”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
North Pond
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “North Pond, a beautiful restaurant in a prairie-style building a la Frank Lloyd Wright with stained glass windows, overlooking a pond in Lincoln Park. A lovely tasting menu with gracious service. And a great place to take a stroll before or after your meal.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
North Pond
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “North Pond, a beautiful restaurant in a prairie-style building a la Frank Lloyd Wright with stained glass windows, overlooking a pond in Lincoln Park. A lovely tasting menu with gracious service. And a great place to take a stroll before or after your meal.””
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Book now
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “North Pond, a beautiful restaurant in a prairie-style building a la Frank Lloyd Wright with stained glass windows, overlooking a pond in Lincoln Park. A lovely tasting menu with gracious service. And a great place to take a stroll before or after your meal.””
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Moody Tongue
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “12 Layer German Chocolate Cake. The world’s only Michelin starred brewery is here in Chicago, steps away from the National Restaurant Association in the South Loop. In the bar you can enjoy an a la carte menu with their chef driven beers.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Moody Tongue
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “12 Layer German Chocolate Cake. The world’s only Michelin starred brewery is here in Chicago, steps away from the National Restaurant Association in the South Loop. In the bar you can enjoy an a la carte menu with their chef driven beers.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “12 Layer German Chocolate Cake. The world’s only Michelin starred brewery is here in Chicago, steps away from the National Restaurant Association in the South Loop. In the bar you can enjoy an a la carte menu with their chef driven beers.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Sepia
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Great tasting menu experience, love sitting at the bar—one of the best around.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Sepia
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Great tasting menu experience, love sitting at the bar—one of the best around.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Book now
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Great tasting menu experience, love sitting at the bar—one of the best around.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Hidden Gems
Lesser-known eateries that the locals love.
Mart Anthony’s
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “Mart Anthony’s for Italian comfort food. Tucked away on the edge of the West Loop this family run spot is just so good and consistent. Pappardelle Bolognese and a glass of red wine for the win.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Mart Anthony’s
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “Mart Anthony’s for Italian comfort food. Tucked away on the edge of the West Loop this family run spot is just so good and consistent. Pappardelle Bolognese and a glass of red wine for the win.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Book now
Why Matt Sherry loves it: “Mart Anthony’s for Italian comfort food. Tucked away on the edge of the West Loop this family run spot is just so good and consistent. Pappardelle Bolognese and a glass of red wine for the win.”
Matt Sherry, Account Manager
Le Bouchon
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Serving up classic French fare since 1993. Starting with decadent Onion Tart, Garlic-y Escargot, and Salade Lyonnaise, to entrees including Steak Frites, Poulet Roti and a Full Duck for two. The staff is knowledgeable and will be able to guide you in the right direction with their extensive French wine list.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Le Bouchon
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Serving up classic French fare since 1993. Starting with decadent Onion Tart, Garlic-y Escargot, and Salade Lyonnaise, to entrees including Steak Frites, Poulet Roti and a Full Duck for two. The staff is knowledgeable and will be able to guide you in the right direction with their extensive French wine list.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Serving up classic French fare since 1993. Starting with decadent Onion Tart, Garlic-y Escargot, and Salade Lyonnaise, to entrees including Steak Frites, Poulet Roti and a Full Duck for two. The staff is knowledgeable and will be able to guide you in the right direction with their extensive French wine list.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Anelya
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Go for the Pork Belly Shashlik! Anelya has comforting favorites inspired by old-world cooking in a whimsical setting. Their main dishes offer a variety of homestyle flavors just like your mother made from thick soups to layered pasta and fluffy Ukrainian garlic bread.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Anelya
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Go for the Pork Belly Shashlik! Anelya has comforting favorites inspired by old-world cooking in a whimsical setting. Their main dishes offer a variety of homestyle flavors just like your mother made from thick soups to layered pasta and fluffy Ukrainian garlic bread.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Go for the Pork Belly Shashlik! Anelya has comforting favorites inspired by old-world cooking in a whimsical setting. Their main dishes offer a variety of homestyle flavors just like your mother made from thick soups to layered pasta and fluffy Ukrainian garlic bread.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Vegetarian-friendly
Restaurants with delicious, plant-based options.
Bloom
Why Shane Mones loves it: “Bloom Plant Based Kitchen, cool vibe in the heart of wicker park”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Ema
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Ema, all the spreads with house made bread are great. This place is recommended to share and there are many vegetarian friendly options, and the space is lovely, good drinks and NA bev options ”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Ema
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Ema, all the spreads with house made bread are great. This place is recommended to share and there are many vegetarian friendly options, and the space is lovely, good drinks and NA bev options”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Book now
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Ema, all the spreads with house made bread are great. This place is recommended to share and there are many vegetarian friendly options, and the space is lovely, good drinks and NA bev options”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Eden
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Mushroom Katsu Sandwich – I love the flavors – who needs meat?”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Eden
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Mushroom Katsu Sandwich – I love the flavors – who needs meat?”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Mushroom Katsu Sandwich – I love the flavors – who needs meat?”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Casual bites
Laid-back dining spots to grab a meal in a casual setting.
Akahoshi Ramen
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of the hottest restaurant openings in America, and the miso ramen lives up to the hype—it’s rich, savory, and unforgettable.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Akahoshi Ramen
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of the hottest restaurant openings in America, and the miso ramen lives up to the hype—it’s rich, savory, and unforgettable.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Book now
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of the hottest restaurant openings in America, and the miso ramen lives up to the hype—it’s rich, savory, and unforgettable.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
PIZZ’AMICCI
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of the hottest openings in Chicago this year. Their tavern-style pizza is crispy, cheesy perfection.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Tavern Pizza with Sausage & Giardiniera. The real Chicago pizza is tavern style, thin and crispy. This neighborhood spot has all the buzz and it’s worth it. Start with the Caesar Salad and some Sausage & Peppers and dig into a Chicago Thin Crust Pizza, make sure to add J.P. Graziano Giardiniera.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
PIZZ’AMICCI
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of the hottest openings in Chicago this year. Their tavern-style pizza is crispy, cheesy perfection.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Book now
Why Shane Mones loves it: “One of the hottest openings in Chicago this year. Their tavern-style pizza is crispy, cheesy perfection.”
Shane Mones, Account Executive
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Tavern Pizza with Sausage & Giardiniera. The real Chicago pizza is tavern style, thin and crispy. This neighborhood spot has all the buzz and it’s worth it. Start with the Caesar Salad and some Sausage & Peppers and dig into a Chicago Thin Crust Pizza, make sure to add J.P. Graziano Giardiniera.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Tavern Pizza with Sausage & Giardiniera. The real Chicago pizza is tavern style, thin and crispy. This neighborhood spot has all the buzz and it’s worth it. Start with the Caesar Salad and some Sausage & Peppers and dig into a Chicago Thin Crust Pizza, make sure to add J.P. Graziano Giardiniera.”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
The Izakaya at Momotaro
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Tuna Tostada and a great Sake – such a great vibe and delicious food.”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
The Izakaya at Momotaro
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Tuna Tostada and a great Sake – such a great vibe and delicious food.”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Nicole Ellenbecker loves it: “Tuna Tostada and a great Sake – such a great vibe and delicious food.”
Nicole Ellenbecker, Senior Account Manager
Bar La Rue
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Get ‘The Frenchy’ a steak frites sandwich on the patio and match it with a great glass of wine.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Bar La Rue
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Get ‘The Frenchy’ a steak frites sandwich on the patio and match it with a great glass of wine.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Book now
Why Brad Rosenblatt loves it: “Get ‘The Frenchy’ a steak frites sandwich on the patio and match it with a great glass of wine.”
Brad Rosenblatt, Account Manager
Big Star
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Big Star is Chicago’s bourbon and beer-focused, taco-slinging, honky-tonk hangout. With three locations in Chicago’s Wicker Park, Wrigleyville, and West Town neighborhoods. Grab a Pescado Taco and a Margarita!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Big Star
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Big Star is Chicago’s bourbon and beer-focused, taco-slinging, honky-tonk hangout. With three locations in Chicago’s Wicker Park, Wrigleyville, and West Town neighborhoods. Grab a Pescado Taco and a Margarita!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Big Star is Chicago’s bourbon and beer-focused, taco-slinging, honky-tonk hangout. With three locations in Chicago’s Wicker Park, Wrigleyville, and West Town neighborhoods. Grab a Pescado Taco and a Margarita!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Other
Brasero
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Wood fired & Latin inspired, Chef John Manion spirited menu is not one to miss! Brasero is known for their incredible steaks and seafood. Beautifully designed, this restaurant will transport you to somewhere more tropical than West Town Chicago. The Wagyu Picanha is a home run!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Brasero
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Wood fired & Latin inspired, Chef John Manion spirited menu is not one to miss! Brasero is known for their incredible steaks and seafood. Beautifully designed, this restaurant will transport you to somewhere more tropical than West Town Chicago. The Wagyu Picanha is a home run!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Wood fired & Latin inspired, Chef John Manion spirited menu is not one to miss! Brasero is known for their incredible steaks and seafood. Beautifully designed, this restaurant will transport you to somewhere more tropical than West Town Chicago. The Wagyu Picanha is a home run!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Mirra
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “One of my favorite openings of recent, Mirra is the cultural fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines. Flavorful and expertly crafted, each dish is a standout. Start with the Mirra Mezze!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Mirra
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “One of my favorite openings of recent, Mirra is the cultural fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines. Flavorful and expertly crafted, each dish is a standout. Start with the Mirra Mezze!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “One of my favorite openings of recent, Mirra is the cultural fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines. Flavorful and expertly crafted, each dish is a standout. Start with the Mirra Mezze!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Mott Street
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Supremely Asian American, Mott St serves vibrant feast-style dining in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. Make sure you get the Hamachi Crudo!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Mott Street
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Supremely Asian American, Mott St serves vibrant feast-style dining in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. Make sure you get the Hamachi Crudo!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
Book now
Why Jacquelyn DeVries loves it: “Supremely Asian American, Mott St serves vibrant feast-style dining in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. Make sure you get the Hamachi Crudo!”
Jacquelyn DeVries, Senior Account Manager
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