Restaurant Guides
A Day in Chicago with inKind
Guide By Julia Kasputis
The windy city is calling, and inKind is your perfect dining companion! Let's explore a delicious day in Chicago hitting all the high notes from sunrise to sunset (and beyond).
From the lively avenues of River North to the eclectic charm of Logan Square and the historic appeal of West Loop, Chicago offers a rich mix of culinary destinations that reflect the city’s bold flavors and cultural diversity. Explore iconic eateries, chef-driven concepts, and buzzworthy new openings that make Chicago a true haven for food lovers.
With recommendations for every time of day, this guide is your go-to resource for navigating Chicago’s top dining neighborhoods and must-try experiences. Let inKind help you taste your way through the Windy City, one unforgettable meal at a time.
All of the restaurants featured in this guide are available on the inKind app, where you can earn 20% back when you pay for your meal using the app. New to inKind? Get $25 off your first meal of $50 when you visit any restaurant on the platform and pay your bill using the app.
With recommendations for every time of day, this guide is your go-to resource for navigating Chicago’s top dining neighborhoods and must-try experiences. Let inKind help you taste your way through the Windy City, one unforgettable meal at a time.
All of the restaurants featured in this guide are available on the inKind app, where you can earn 20% back when you pay for your meal using the app. New to inKind? Get $25 off your first meal of $50 when you visit any restaurant on the platform and pay your bill using the app.
Coffee & Breakfast
Multiple Locations
Avli, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, offers a taste of modern Greek cuisine, celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of Greece. Each dish is crafted with care and precision, using the finest ingredients sourced locally and from the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-inspired interior compliments your meal to bring you on a journey through the flavors of Greece, right in the heart of Chicago.
Multiple Locations
Batter & Berries offers a vibrant and welcoming breakfast, lunch, and brunch experience. Known for its made-from-scratch menu and heartfelt hospitality, the restaurant serves dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients—from hand-cracked eggs to house-made sausage and fruit-filled French toast batters. Every meal is designed to deliver both flavor and love, leaving a lasting impression on every guest.
1200 N Wells St, Chicago, IL, 60610
Cal's Corner Cafe in Chicago is a cozy neighborhood spot that exudes warmth and charm, offering a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Found in the vibrant West Loop, their menu of freshly brewed coffee, gourmet sandwiches, and delectable pastries makes every visit a treat for the senses. Cal's guarantees friendly service, quality ingredients, and a welcoming ambiance that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
3235 West Addison Street, suite C, Chicago, IL 60618
CheSa's Bistro & Bar is a full-service restaurant serving scratch-made Creole and contemporary American cuisine with a gluten-free menu. Don't miss their brunch menu, featuring a Catfish Skillet, Bourbon Peach Cobbler Waffles, Salmon Croquettes and more.
1757 N Kimball Ave., Chicago, IL 60647
Dayglow Coffee sells only the best coffees from the best roasters around the world, offering up to 20 different roasters in store. It was born out of love and curiosity of interesting coffee roasters, both internationally and domestically.
Multiple Locations
Stan's Donuts & Coffee is a neighborhood donut and coffee shop for everyone, serving made-from-scratch donuts, exceptional, locally-roasted coffee and good vibes all day long.
Lunch
314 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606
Canal Street Eatery and Market, located in Chicago’s West Loop, is an all-day market with coffee, breakfast, and lunch, as well as an Italian bar and restaurant offering lunch and dinner.
Multiple Locations
Casual fried chicken & fish stop with a hip vibe that's also dishing up cocktails, salads, sandwiches, and the infamous Negroni slushy.
Multiple Locations
Indulge in health with Protein Bar & Kitchen. Enjoy delicious, nutritious, protein-packed meals to fuel your day.
Multiple Locations
Saigon Sisters is a local gem that brings the vibrant flavors of Vietnam to the Windy City. With its cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality, their menu celebrates the diverse and aromatic cuisine of Vietnam. From traditional pho and banh mi sandwiches to hearty noodle dishes, each bite is an adventure that transports diners to the bustling streets of Saigon.
Multiple Locations
As a Mexican company founded on the soft sands of the Yucatan, Tacombi is focused on sharing authentic taco culture. Their taqueros proudly work every day to preserve and share Mexico’s culinary traditions, recipes & flavors.
Multiple Locations
The Hampton Social is a coastal-inspired restaurant, offering a taste of the East Coast with a Midwest twist. With its breezy, nautical-themed decor and laid-back ambiance, this popular spot captures the essence of a beachside retreat right by the river. Their menu features a delicious array of seafood specialties, from fresh oysters and lobster rolls to hearty fish tacos and flavorful salads.
Dinner
564 W. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60661
Alla Vita is a modern Italian gem in the West Loop, known for its warm ambiance, stylish décor, and menu of elevated comfort food. Guests can enjoy handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and beautifully plated seasonal dishes, all designed for sharing and savoring with friends, family, or a date night.
802 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, 60607
Found in the River North neighborhood, Nisos Prime offers a sophisticated take on the classic steakhouse experience with their top-quality cuts of meat and extensive selection of fine wines. From perfectly aged steaks and chops to succulent seafood and inventive appetizers, each dish is crafted with precision and care. The sleek interior, accented with luxurious touches and warm lighting, sets the scene for a memorable dining experience that's perfect for special occasions or intimate gatherings.
736 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, 60661
ROOH, found in Chicago's West Loop, provides a modern take on Indian cuisine. This stylish establishment celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of India with a contemporary twist. With unique small plates, resplendent entrees, and decadent desserts, each dish at ROOH is a fusion of tradition and innovation. Their inviting ambiance, adorned with elegant touches and vibrant artwork, provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
Multiple Locations
Rosebud is known for its classic Italian-American cuisine and warm hospitality that's been serving up hearty pasta dishes, tender steaks, and fresh seafood since it first opened its doors nearly 50 years ago. With its timeless decor and inviting atmosphere, Rosebud offers a dining experience that feels both elegant and familiar, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving some comfort food.
127 West Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60654
Yasemi Modern Mediterranean offers a refined take on the bold, bright flavors of the Mediterranean, with influences from Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. With its elegant setting and menu featuring fresh seafood, house-made spreads, and perfectly grilled meats, Yasemi is ideal for a relaxed yet sophisticated dinner.
531 Wells Street, Chicago , IL 60654
Enjoy tavern-style and artisan pizzas crafted from scratch using only the finest ingredients in a space reminiscent of a classic Italian eatery, exuding a timeless charm that makes it feel as if it has been a beloved corner spot for generations.
Cocktails
738 W Couch St., Chicago, IL 60661
Esco is known for its South American vibes, latin tunes and extensive high end rum list. Open weekends for your after dinner drinks and late night food menu.
1039 West Lake Street, Chicago, IL 60607
Inkwell is a cocktail bar that pays homage to great American writers, reflected in our décor, ambiance, and storytelling where cocktails are approached with precision and a sense of purpose.
300 S. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL, 60606
Little Toasted is a charming spot offering a modern twist on classic comfort food favorites. With their wide selection of craft cocktails, local and international brews, premium spirits, and wines, you can enjoy a lively yet comfortable evening. The contemporary interior, with its warm wood accents and stylish decor, provides the perfect backdrop for a casual meal with friends or a quick bite on the go.
1270 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622
Revolver is a stylish cocktail bar in Chicago’s River West neighborhood, known for its moody ambiance, sleek design, and expertly crafted drinks. With a rotating cocktail menu that blends classic technique with inventive flair, Revolver offers an elevated yet approachable experience perfect for a night out.
1239 W 18th St., Chicago, IL, 60608
At S.K.Y., the commitment to excellence extends beyond just their food—it's evident in every sip of their meticulously crafted drinks. From innovative cocktails to carefully curated wine selections, the beverage program is designed to complement and enhance the dining experience.
675 N Franklin St., Chicago, IL, 60654
The Franklin Room, located in the heart of the Loop, is a distinguished establishment that pays homage to the classic American tavern experience, combining timeless charm with modern flair. Their menu features an extensive selection of craft cocktails, premium spirits, and an impressive array of whiskey from around the world.