Hungry? Lost? Follow this food.
1. Mahalo
When you’re too broke to actually visit Hawaii.
Image credit: Mahalo
Mahalo really wants you to play summer. Check out 1501 N Milwaukee Ave for tropical vibes and island-inspired dishes & drinks. Need more direction? Try the Kalua Pork Sandwich and Mahalo Mai Tai. Aloha.
2. Tapster
When you can’t decide on a six-pack.
Image credit: Eater/Nick Fochtman
An English-born nickname treads new ground at 2027 W North Ave. You’re the bartender here. Choose from over 60 taps plus a selection of snacks, wine, and cocktails. Ready, set, pour.
3. The Delta
When tamales and Southern charm are a lot more appealing than winter winds.
Image credit: The Delta
Red Hot Tamales (pictured) and punchy cocktails wow at The Delta. The modestly sized but completely memorable restaurant prepares for its first winter in Chicago. Everyone’s a friend at 1745 W North Ave. Get in there.
4. Red Beard Coffee
When you really need a cup of damn good coffee.
Image credit: Red Beard Coffee Traders
Marcus Lemonis supports this importer/roaster/coffee bar, and you should too. Travel to 1948 W North Ave for beard products and holiday blends.
5. Smoke Daddy
When the almighty cookie-in-a-pan calls.
Image credit: Yelp
1804 W Division St offers more than just the finest Chicago BBQ. They’re also cooking up some mean desserts, like the iron skillet cookie. Tackle yourself, or invite someone to share.
6. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria
When pizza and beer are on the brain.
Image credit: Piece Pizzeria & Brewery/@beatsweats
Ready to ring in the new year? Tired of bashing the old? Make peace with a Festivus (nondenominational, winter strong dark Belgian ale), and some “atomic” pies at the Wicker Park staple. 1927 W North Ave is waiting, without judgment.
7. Clever Rabbit
When you want to start eating cleaner but not lose your cool.
Image credit: Clever Rabbit
Hop to 2015 W Division St for a veggie-driven menu that’s also conscious of ingredient sources and dietary restrictions. Where else are you going to find both carrot dumplings and carrot margaritas?
8. Furious Spoon
When ramen cravings are making you grinchy.
Image credit: Furious Spoon
Stop before you regret something, or stoke the fire. Match offputting antics with a “Furious” or “Shrimp Curry” ramen bowl and a Japanese lager at 1517 N Milwaukee Ave. Spicy’s well received here.
9. Schwa
When you’re feeling adventurous…or need to impress the in-laws.
Image credit: Schwa
26 seats and nine courses. Still with us? Schwa curates an intimate and elevated dining experience at 1466 N Ashland Ave. Their fixed menu is updated seasonally but the effect lingers. Sample forest flavors, pheasant, cheesecake, and not your mother’s “ants on a log” snack — all in the same sitting.
10. Antique Taco
When every day is Taco Tuesday.
Image credit: Antique Taco
Family-owned and lots of flavors. Get Mexican bites and a worthy buzz from the stylish taco spot that blends antique and modern. Leave with a piece of history and maybe a bag of their daily-made chips.
11. Café Robey
When you want to eat AND stay the night. And have brunch the next day.
Image credit: Café Robey
Turn date night into a staycation, whether you’re a WP native or just passing through. Delectable and accessible menus, craft cocktails, and the whole “heart of the neighborhood” thing should have you on cloud nine. Don’t forget to end on a brunch note.