Exploring the Best Restaurants in Uptown Chicago
Looking to quickly find the best restaurants in uptown chicago? Here's a brief list to help you out:
- Sun Wah BBQ – Famous for award-winning Peking duck.
- Kie-Gol-Lanee – Authentic Oaxacan dishes and flavors.
- Milly's Pizza In The Pan – Delicious artisan deep-dish pizzas.
- Demera Ethiopian Restaurant – Traditional Ethiopian dining with injera.
- Pho 777 – Popular spot for authentic northern Vietnamese dishes.
- Ba Le Sandwiches – Perfect place for mouthwatering Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches.
Uptown Chicago is one of the city's best-kept culinary secrets. Packed with a rich blend of cultures, the neighborhood offers a distinctive dining scene you won't find anywhere else.
This vibrant area mixes history with modern flavors, giving you everything—from traditional dishes passed down through generations to exciting, contemporary eats. Each restaurant in Uptown tells a unique story, reflecting the area's diverse community and heritage.
If you're exploring Chicago's food culture, Uptown is a fantastic place to start. This guide will dive deeper into the remarkable culinary experiences you'll find in the neighborhood.
Sun Wah BBQ: An Award-Winning Hong Kong Classic
When it comes to finding the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, Sun Wah BBQ is a local legend that should be at the top of your foodie bucket list. This beloved, family-run restaurant has been serving authentic Hong Kong-style barbecue to hungry Chicagoans for decades, earning itself a loyal customer base and plenty of acclaim along the way. In fact, their dedication to authenticity and quality was officially recognized in 2018, when Sun Wah BBQ received the prestigious James Beard Foundation's America's Classics Award.
The real star of the show here is their famous Peking Duck, served as an unforgettable three-course feast. Watching their experienced chefs skillfully carve the glistening, perfectly roasted duck tableside is a delicious spectacle worth experiencing at least once. Crispy skin and succulent meat are presented alongside steamed buns, fresh scallions, and sweet hoisin sauce, creating a memorable meal with each bite.
But the feast doesn't stop there. After carving, chefs transform the remaining duck meat into flavorful fried rice and a soothing duck broth, demonstrating Sun Wah's commitment to minimizing waste and honoring traditional cooking methods. One longtime patron even describes their tableside carving as "part cooking demonstration, part performance art," and it's easy to see why customers keep coming back for more.
Beyond their celebrated duck dishes, Sun Wah BBQ offers a mouthwatering selection of classic Chinese barbecue favorites. Try their char siu (barbecue pork) that's sweet, savory, and perfectly tender, or savor the roast pork belly with its crispy exterior that's impossible to resist. Their soy sauce chicken and comforting congee (rice porridge) make excellent meals any time of day, while seafood specials showcase the freshest ingredients prepared simply to let natural flavors shine.
Don't let the modest appearance of the restaurant along Broadway fool you—when you step inside, you'll immediately feel transported to a busy Hong Kong eatery. The inviting atmosphere, the sight of beautifully roasted meats displayed in the window, and the buzz of happy diners create an authentic experience that's hard to forget. Run by the next generation of the founding family, Sun Wah BBQ remains dedicated to preserving their culinary heritage and delivering dishes that stay true to their roots.
Pro tip: Planning to experience their famous Peking duck feast? Make sure you call ahead to reserve your duck, especially on weekends—these delicious meals sell out fast!
Find more about their menu and story by visiting the official Sun Wah BBQ website.
Kie-Gol-Lanee: Oaxacan Flavors in Uptown
If you're eager to explore the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, Kie-Gol-Lanee is a delightful stop on your culinary trip. This cozy restaurant introduces diners to the rich flavors of Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most vibrant culinary regions. Proudly holding a two-time Bib Gourmand Award (a recognition from the Michelin Guide for fantastic food at moderate prices), Kie-Gol-Lanee makes you feel like you've traveled south of the border without ever leaving Uptown.
The restaurant's unique name, "Kie-Gol-Lanee," comes from the Zapotec language of Oaxaca, meaning "house of night." This homage to indigenous roots is reflected not only in the restaurant’s name but also through its warm, welcoming decor and traditional menu offerings.
One standout item that you need to experience at Kie-Gol-Lanee is their famous quesadilla de huitlacoche. Never heard of huitlacoche? Don't worry—think of it as Mexico's delicious answer to truffles. This earthy corn fungus adds a mushroom-like richness to their quesadillas that locals rave about.
Another beloved dish is their mole negro, a deeply flavorful sauce crafted from over 20 ingredients like chilies, spices, nuts, and even chocolate. Each mole is slow-cooked for hours, following traditional recipes passed down through generations. As their chef proudly shares, preserving these authentic cooking techniques—such as grinding spices on a stone metate—is what makes Oaxacan cuisine so unique and delicious.
If you're dining with friends or family, consider ordering their tlayudas, crispy tortillas generously topped with refried beans, creamy Oaxacan cheese, avocado slices, and your choice of protein—perfect for sharing. Vegetarians will find comfort in dishes like their flavorful chiles rellenos, filled with fresh vegetables and cheese, then gently simmered in a savory tomato sauce.
Kie-Gol-Lanee also takes pride in their impressive drink menu. You’ll find carefully selected mezcals, tequilas, and Mexican beers to pair perfectly with your meal. Prefer something alcohol-free? Their house-made horchata or refreshing aguas frescas beautifully complement the bold dishes on the menu.
Inside, colorful textiles, artwork, and cozy lighting create an inviting atmosphere to unwind and savor each delicious bite. The friendly staff encourages you to slow down, relax, and enjoy an authentic Oaxacan dining experience right in the heart of Uptown Chicago.
What truly sets Kie-Gol-Lanee apart from other Mexican restaurants in Chicago is its dedication to authenticity. Instead of adjusting dishes to American tastes, Kie-Gol-Lanee lets you taste Oaxacan flavors exactly as intended—bold, complex, and incredibly memorable.
To learn more and plan your visit, check out their website here.
Milly's Pizza In The Pan: Artisanal Deep-Dish Delight
When you're exploring the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, it's impossible to overlook Milly's Pizza In The Pan. This local gem has quickly risen to fame for reinventing classic Chicago deep-dish pizza, combining beloved traditions with innovative flavors.
Milly's journey began modestly as a ghost kitchen during the pandemic. Today, it occupies a cozy physical location that's become one of the neighborhood’s hottest dining spots. What sets Milly's apart is their dedication to quality, making only 45 pizzas a day. No, this isn't to create artificial hype—it's simply because owner Robert Maleski, who named the restaurant after his beloved grandmother Milly, insists on giving each pizza his undivided attention.
Milly’s pizzas feature a signature caramelized crust that's crisp and buttery on the outside, yet delightfully airy inside. If you've ever found deep-dish pizza a bit too heavy, Milly's version might just change your mind. The toppings are thoughtfully placed: instead of piling on cheese evenly, fresh mozzarella is added in tasty pockets, balancing perfectly with the sauce poured lovingly over the top.
The menu at Milly's is an exciting twist on traditional deep-dish, offering creative pizzas loaded with premium ingredients. Fan favorites include the "Uptown Deluxe" topped with savory fennel sausage, tangy pickled jalapeños, and a drizzle of hot honey, and the "Que Suerte," which features delicate slices of potato, fragrant rosemary, and luxurious truffle oil. Vegetarians will find plenty to love here too, with fresh seasonal veggies featured prominently.
Dining at Milly’s feels personal and inviting, with a minimalist space that lets the pizza be the star. From your seat, you can watch the chefs carefully stretching dough, layering ingredients, and finishing each pie with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s all part of the charm—and trust us, it only makes the pizza taste better.
Because of its popularity and limited supply, planning ahead is key. Orders typically open online about a week in advance, and pizzas sell out fast. Set a reminder—your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Check out their latest menu and grab your pie here: Milly's Pizza In The Pan.
Demera Ethiopian Restaurant: A Cultural Culinary Experience
If you're eager to explore global flavors right here at home, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago to add to your list. Known as a beloved spot for authentic Ethiopian cuisine, Demera doesn't just serve a meal—it invites you into a meaningful cultural experience.
Step inside Demera, and you're greeted by the delightful scents of freshly roasted coffee, savory spices, and bubbling stews. The restaurant's warm interior features traditional Ethiopian art and artifacts, setting the stage for an immersive dining experience. It's the kind of cozy atmosphere that instantly makes you feel welcome.
At the heart of Ethiopian dining is injera, a soft, slightly sour flatbread made from teff flour. At Demera, injera is made fresh daily, serving as both your plate and utensil—no forks needed! Eating with your hands might seem unfamiliar at first, but it quickly becomes a fun and communal way to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
Demera's menu offers flavorful dishes that cater to both meat-lovers and vegetarians. For those new to Ethiopian cuisine, ordering the Messob platter is a great way to go. This abundant and colorful platter showcases a variety of dishes, making it perfect for sharing and sampling different flavors.
One standout dish is doro wot, a spicy chicken stew that's considered Ethiopia's national dish, simmered slowly with berbere—a vibrant spice blend that adds warmth and depth. Another favorite is kitfo, delicately seasoned minced beef served raw or rare and mixed with fragrant herbed butter. Vegetarians will love dishes like misir wot—rich, spicy red lentils—and gomen, a comforting preparation of collard greens.
What makes dining at Demera truly special is its sense of community. As owner and chef Tigist Reda explains, Ethiopian dining is naturally communal—everyone shares food from a single platter. It's a dining tradition that creates connection and conversation, perfect for date nights, family dinners, or catching up with friends.
Don't miss Demera's traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a delightful ritual that turns drinking coffee into a social event. Coffee beans are roasted tableside, filling the air with an inviting aroma, before being ground, brewed, and served fresh. The ceremony even includes tasty popcorn—a traditional pairing that might just become your new favorite snack combo.
Beyond delicious food and meaningful traditions, Demera often hosts special cultural events celebrating Ethiopian holidays, traditions, and culinary heritage. It's not just a restaurant; it's a vibrant community hub connecting Uptown Chicago to Ethiopia's rich culture.
For a meal that brings together great company, unique flavors, and cultural findy, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant is a must-visit spot among the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago.
For more information or to check out their menu, visit Demera Ethiopian Restaurant.
Pho 777: A Northern Vietnamese Staple
Any guide to the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago must include Pho 777, an enduring favorite nestled in the heart of Uptown's busy West Argyle Historic District, lovingly called "Little Vietnam." With years of loyal customers and genuine Northern Vietnamese recipes, this modest eatery has become a cornerstone of the neighborhood's food scene.
Pho 777's claim to local fame is, naturally, its pho—Vietnam's famed noodle soup that's comfort in a bowl. What's the secret? Patience. The broth slowly simmers for a full 14 hours, letting beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices blend into a rich yet clear soup base. One taste and you'll understand why regulars swear by it.
You can customize your pho with a variety of toppings like tender rare steak, brisket, chewy tendon, or tripe. Chicken pho (pho gà) offers a lighter but equally flavorful option. Each bowl is served with a side of fresh bean sprouts, aromatic Thai basil, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños—letting you dress it up exactly as you please.
Beyond pho, Pho 777 also shines in other traditional Vietnamese dishes. Spice-lovers will appreciate their bún bò Huế, a bold noodle soup from central Vietnam known for its fiery kick and deep, savory broth. For something lighter yet satisfying, their bún chả—grilled pork served with cool vermicelli noodles and tangy dipping sauce—never disappoints.
Inside, the atmosphere is no-frills and cozy, echoing the authentic feel of casual eateries you'd find in Vietnam. Service is prompt and friendly, ensuring you get your steaming bowl quickly so you can dive right in.
Pho 777's charm lies in its authenticity and dedication to classic Vietnamese preparation. While trendy fusion spots come and go, this restaurant remains devoted to serving dishes just as they would in the busy streets of Hanoi.
Located right on Argyle Street, Pho 777 is perfectly positioned for a little post-meal stroll. After finishing your meal, wander nearby to explore the neighborhood's vibrant shops, grocery stores, and bakeries offering Vietnamese treats. It's a delicious cultural outing that's right at your doorstep.
Pro tip: Be sure to bring cash—Pho 777 is a cash-only establishment. New to pho? Don't hesitate to ask the servers for tips on how locals like to season, garnish, and enjoy their bowls.
For more information, visit their website.
Ba Le Sandwiches: Best Banh Mi in Uptown Chicago
When you're hunting for the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, Ba Le Sandwiches is a true gem you won't want to miss. This beloved sandwich shop has been an Uptown staple since 1988, when chef Le Vo first introduced Chicagoans to the perfect marriage of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions.
The star of the show? Their incredible banh mi sandwiches, available in a whopping 17 different varieties. Each sandwich starts with the same perfect foundation – crusty-yet-light French baguettes baked fresh throughout the day right on the premises. These heavenly breads cradle a vibrant mix of tangy pickled daikon and carrot, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, cucumber, and a generous smear of their house-made mayonnaise.
"What makes our sandwiches special is that we don't compromise on ingredients," a friendly staff member might tell you as you ponder the menu. "Our bread is baked fresh throughout the day, and we prepare all our pickled vegetables and pâtés in-house using traditional methods."
Most first-timers gravitate toward the Classic Vietnamese sandwich, which remains their bestseller for good reason. It features a harmonious blend of pâté, ham, headcheese, and Vietnamese cold cuts that creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. If you're feeling more adventurous, the Grilled Pork sandwich with its fragrant lemongrass marinade offers a more aromatic experience, while the Spicy Catfish provides a unique option you won't commonly find at other banh mi shops. Vegetarians aren't forgotten either – the lemongrass tofu banh mi has converted many a meat-lover.
Ba Le isn't just about sandwiches, though. Their menu extends to other Vietnamese favorites like spring rolls, steamed buns, and rich Vietnamese coffee sweetened with condensed milk. Don't leave without trying one of their colorful che (sweet puddings) or flaky pastries that beautifully showcase the French influence on Vietnamese cuisine.
The space itself is unpretentious and functional – a few tables accommodate those who want to eat in, though many customers grab their sandwiches to go. Service moves at an efficient clip, making Ba Le perfect for a quick but satisfying lunch break.
What truly makes Ba Le special among the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago is its dual role as both a culinary destination and a cultural landmark. For Vietnamese Americans, it offers authentic flavors that transport them home; for others, it provides an accessible entry point into Vietnamese cuisine beyond the more familiar pho.
Perhaps most remarkably in today's dining landscape, Ba Le remains incredibly affordable. A full-sized, filling sandwich costs significantly less than many lunch options in the city, proving that exceptional flavor doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag.
If you're planning a visit, here's a local tip: Ba Le gets particularly busy during lunch hours, so consider coming a bit earlier or later to avoid the rush. And whatever you do, don't miss their house-made Vietnamese iced coffee – it's the perfect companion to your sandwich experience.
Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Uptown Chicago
Uptown Chicago is a foodie's paradise, and plant-based diners aren't left out of the fun. When exploring the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, you'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly spots that cater to your cravings—without the meat.
Pick Me Up Cafe
Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, or just veg-curious, Pick Me Up Cafe is a beloved Uptown gem that'll quickly become your go-to. This cozy spot effortlessly blends plant-based dishes with traditional options, making it easy for everyone to find something tasty.
Come for breakfast (served all day long), and you'll find vegan pancakes so fluffy you'll swear they're traditional, and tofu scrambles loaded with fresh veggies and flavor. Their vegan biscuits and gravy are legendary—rich, comforting, and just as indulgent as the original meaty classic. And don't skip their vegan "chicken" sandwich, a hearty favorite that's won over many meat-eaters too.
One regular customer jokes, "They've completely spoiled brunch for me anywhere else. The ingredients here are just next-level delicious."
Not to mention, their milkshakes come in both vegan and classic versions, providing the perfect sweet finish to any meal.
XMarket Foodhall
If you haven't checked out XMarket Foodhall yet, you're missing out on what they call "The Midwest's Vegan Oasis." This vibrant, all-vegan foodhall gathers multiple local vendors under one roof, offering everything from sushi to street tacos.
Grab a flavorful vegan sushi roll from Bloom Sushi Counter or indulge in authentic Mexican street eats at El Hongo. You can even satisfy your craving for comfort food with delicious plant-based hot dogs from Chicago Not Dogs. The variety here is fantastic, making it easy to explore new vegan dishes or find comforting favorites.
And that's not all—XMarket even houses a vegan bodega stocked with specialty grocery products and an inviting bar featuring vegan cocktails and spirits. Plus, they regularly host fun community events like pop-up markets and cooking workshops, so it's more than just a food destination—it's a welcoming gathering spot for plant-based food lovers.
More Vegetarian-Friendly Favorites Around Uptown
Even restaurants that aren't explicitly vegetarian or vegan-focused offer delicious plant-based options around Uptown. You can savor a vibrant vegetarian combo platter at Demera Ethiopian Restaurant, showcasing flavorful Ethiopian stews and veggies on their traditional injera bread. Over at Ba Le Sandwiches, their lemongrass tofu banh mi is a crowd favorite, proving that plant-based sandwiches can be just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts.
What's special about vegetarian dining in Uptown is how naturally it reflects the neighborhood's cultural diversity. You'll find Ethiopian lentil stews, Vietnamese tofu delights, Mexican plant-based tacos, and plenty more—all prepared with quality ingredients and authentic flavors.
One diner summed it up perfectly: "There's such a great balance between healthy and indulgent here. Everything just feels fresh and tastes amazing."
If you have dietary restrictions beyond vegan or vegetarian diets—like gluten-free or nut-free—many restaurants in Uptown clearly mark their menus and have knowledgeable staff who are happy to help.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites in Uptown
When exploring the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, it's easy for visitors to stick to the well-known places. But locals know there are plenty of delicious hidden gems tucked away throughout the neighborhood. These local favorites might fly under the radar but offer some of Uptown’s most exciting and authentic culinary experiences. Here are a few you won't want to miss.
Ragadan
If you love falafel (and who doesn't?), Ragadan puts a delightful spin on this Middle Eastern classic. Known as an "American falafel shoppe," Ragadan fuses traditional flavors with fun, American-style twists. Their signature item, the "doubledan" burger, pairs a crispy falafel patty with melty American cheese, tangy pickles, and a special sauce, all sandwiched between a sesame seed bun.
Regulars rave about their ka'ak patty melt, a unique dish that's become a neighborhood obsession. Pair it with their za'atar mayo-topped fries for a true flavor experience. And if you're feeling extra indulgent, the baklava milkshake is a sweet treat guaranteed to brighten your day (and possibly inspire an afternoon nap).
Inside, Ragadan feels bright and welcoming, combining modern decor with a laid-back vibe. It's the perfect spot to enjoy delicious, casual food in a friendly atmosphere.
Munno Pizzeria & Bistro
While Uptown is celebrated for Milly’s deep-dish pies, Munno Pizzeria & Bistro offers a different Italian experience that's equally delicious. Specializing in Roman-style thin-crust pizzas and house-made pasta, Munno is an intimate, neighborhood favorite where every dish is crafted with care.
Their pizzas feature a perfectly crisp crust topped with quality ingredients like imported cheeses and fresh seasonal veggies. Pasta dishes here range from classics like creamy cacio e pepe to inventive seasonal specials. The cozy dining space and attentive, friendly staff help Munno feel like your own secret spot, ideal for relaxed dinners and catching up with friends.
VN Tofu
Walk past VN Tofu on Argyle Street, and you might not notice it at first. But locals know this tiny shop makes some of the freshest tofu in Chicago. Prepared daily right on-site, VN Tofu’s silky, flavorful tofu is miles away from anything you'll find at the supermarket. Many neighborhood restaurants source from here, but visiting directly means you can snag some still-warm, delicious tofu to enjoy at home.
VN Tofu also offers tasty Vietnamese snacks like bánh giò (steamed rice dumplings filled with pork and mushrooms) and bánh cuốn (delicate rice noodle rolls). These quick bites make perfect grab-and-go snacks or lunches when you're on the move.
Other Local Favorites
Another neighborhood treasure is Cafe Hoang, located on Argyle Street. Their expansive menu offers flavorful Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese dishes. Favorites here include the spicy and satisfying bún bò Huế (beef noodle soup) and hearty cá kho tộ (caramelized fish in a clay pot). Family-owned and long-standing, Cafe Hoang consistently delivers delicious comfort food beloved by the Uptown community.
For a fun brunch spot, check out Tweet, a relaxed café known for fresh, locally sourced ingredients. During the day, Tweet serves mouthwatering brunch dishes like hearty breakfast burritos and vibrant avocado toasts topped with house-made pickled veggies. In the evening, the space transforms into Big Chicks, a vibrant, welcoming neighborhood gay bar. It's this dual identity—and consistently delicious food—that makes Tweet a truly unique Uptown gem.
These hidden gems are the soul of Uptown Chicago’s diverse culinary scene. While they might not always get the spotlight, they're the spots Uptown residents return to again and again, making them indispensable additions when exploring the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago.
Tips for Enjoying the Best Restaurants in Uptown Chicago
Exploring the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago is an trip that's as much about timing and atmosphere as it is about the delicious dishes themselves. To truly savor all the vibrant tastes Uptown has to offer, keep these helpful insider tips in mind.
Timing Is Everything
Uptown's popular restaurants can get pretty busy, especially on weekends. To dodge the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience, try visiting on weekdays—Tuesday through Thursday evenings tend to be quieter. For dinner, arriving a bit earlier (around 5:00 to 5:30 PM) or later (after 8:30 PM) often means shorter waits and a calmer vibe. If brunch is your thing, consider getting there before 10:00 AM or after 1:30 PM.
Certain spots, like Milly's Pizza In The Pan, are super popular and make only a limited number of pies (just 45 a day!). Be sure to check their online ordering ahead of time and place your order well in advance—you'll thank yourself later!
Cultural Events and Seasonal Opportunities
One of the best parts about dining in Uptown is how it pairs delicious meals with vibrant community events. A neighborhood favorite is the Argyle Night Market, which runs every Thursday evening through August. Here you'll find tasty street food, cultural performances, and a lively atmosphere that's perfect for an evening stroll.
Special cultural celebrations also improve the local food scene. During Lunar New Year festivities in February, Uptown's Asian restaurants often offer unique menus and festive dishes. Similarly, Ethiopian establishments like Demera host special events around Ethiopian New Year (in September) and Timkat (in January), offering diners a deeper dive into Ethiopian traditions.
"It's especially cute for a date or at night time with the string lights zigzagging down the street," says Erin Hoang, a local who loves the ambiance of Argyle Street during evening events.
Accept the Cultural Context
When dining in Uptown, part of the fun is embracing new culinary traditions. Don't be shy—ask servers about traditional ways to enjoy unfamiliar dishes or request recommendations. Restaurants here love sharing their culture through food, whether it's explaining how to enjoy Ethiopian injera at Demera, customizing your pho at Pho 777, or savoring the famed Peking duck at Sun Wah BBQ.
Dining family-style is a great way to experience dishes as they're traditionally enjoyed, especially at Ethiopian, Chinese, or Vietnamese restaurants. Sharing different dishes encourages conversation and makes your dining experience even richer.
Explore Beyond the Main Streets
While Argyle Street and Broadway have plenty of fantastic eateries, don't miss out on the hidden gems tucked along Uptown's quieter side streets. Wander around the Clifton Avenue Street Art Gallery area or explore Lawrence Avenue for cozy eateries with less foot traffic. Heading towards Clark Street and toward Andersonville offers even more culinary delights and often less crowded spots.
"When in Uptown, make sure to look up," advises local Susy Garcia. "There are many vintage buildings with beautiful architectural details that can't be appreciated unless you look up and take your time to explore a little."
Combine Dining with Other Experiences
Uptown is about more than just delicious food—the neighborhood is bursting with cultural venues and activities that pair perfectly with meals at the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago. Consider pairing dinner with live music at historic venues like the Green Mill, Aragon Ballroom, or Riviera Theatre.
In warmer months, enjoy a picnic-style meal or a casual bite before spending the afternoon at Montrose Beach or strolling along the harbor. Uptown is also home to more than 100 public murals—perfect for exploring either before or after your meal.
And for residents of The Sally Apartments, these incredible restaurants and unique experiences are practically right outside your front door, making it easy to explore and become a regular at your favorite local spots.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dining at the Best Restaurants in Uptown Chicago
What are the must-try signature dishes at the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago?
When exploring the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago, trying their signature dishes will give you a true taste of what makes each spot special.
At Sun Wah BBQ, the Beijing Duck Feast is legendary. This award-winning dish is served in three courses and carved right at your table. Be sure to reserve ahead of time—it frequently sells out!
If you're heading to Kie-Gol-Lanee, make room for their quesadilla de huitlacoche. This unique dish features corn fungus, often called Mexican truffle, adding an earthy, mushroomy flavor you'll love. Their mole negro is another standout sauce, carefully crafted from over 20 different ingredients.
At Milly's Pizza In The Pan, the signature "Milly" pizza is hard to beat. Featuring savory sausage, garlic, and hot honey atop their famous caramelized deep-dish crust, it's a pizza experience unlike any other in the city.
For a truly immersive meal, order the Messob platter at Demera Ethiopian Restaurant. This vibrant, shareable plate includes an assortment of Ethiopian stews and vegetarian options, all served on spongy injera bread.
Craving Vietnamese cuisine? Pho 777 has you covered with their signature pho bò. This classic Vietnamese noodle soup features a flavorful broth simmered for 14 hours—rich, aromatic, and warming.
And don't skip the Classic Vietnamese sandwich at Ba Le Sandwiches. Loaded with pâté, ham, headcheese, and Vietnamese cold cuts, it perfectly blends French and Vietnamese culinary traditions in every crunchy, savory bite.
For something a little different, stop at Ragadan and try their "doubledan" burger, a playful sandwich that combines Middle Eastern falafel with American cheese and special sauce.
Regular diners suggest starting with these dishes on your first visit. They're famous for a reason and truly capture each restaurant's culinary personality.
How do Uptown Chicago restaurants reflect the neighborhood's cultural diversity?
One of the best things about dining at the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago is experiencing the neighborhood's incredible cultural diversity firsthand.
Uptown has long been a melting pot of different communities, each bringing unique culinary traditions. The Vietnamese community, especially prominent along Argyle Street, emerged in the area following the 1975 fall of Saigon. Restaurants like Pho 777 and Ba Le Sandwiches reflect these roots by serving authentic dishes that transport diners to Vietnam.
The neighborhood's Ethiopian restaurants, like Demera, offer an immersive communal dining experience, reflecting the vibrant Ethiopian community present in Chicago since the 1980s. Here you'll find dishes rich in spices and tradition, served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mexican heritage also plays a big role in Uptown's restaurant scene. Kie-Gol-Lanee showcases regional Oaxacan cuisine rather than typical Mexican-American fare, providing diners a deeper understanding of Mexico's culinary diversity.
Then you have exciting fusion spots like Ragadan, blending Middle Eastern flavors with American classics. This playful creativity illustrates the evolution of Uptown's food culture as it continues to mix and innovate.
In short, dining in Uptown isn't just about the food—it's a cultural journey. Each restaurant offers not only authentic flavors but a chance to experience unique traditions and stories from around the globe.
Are there vegetarian and vegan-friendly options at the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago?
Absolutely! Uptown Chicago welcomes diners of all dietary preferences, and many of its best restaurants offer tasty vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
For an entirely vegan dining experience, visit XMarket Foodhall. This creative food hall hosts multiple vendors, offering everything from plant-based sushi and Mexican street food to vegan comfort classics. It's an ideal spot to sample diverse vegan dishes in a single visit.
Another local favorite is Pick Me Up Cafe, known for its eclectic menu packed with vegan and vegetarian dishes. Highlights include vegan "chicken" sandwiches, tofu scrambles, and indulgent vegan milkshakes.
Even at restaurants not strictly vegetarian, you'll find plenty of plant-based choices. Demera Ethiopian Restaurant offers a vibrant vegetarian combo platter, showcasing the naturally plant-based dishes common in Ethiopian cooking. Ba Le Sandwiches serves a delicious lemongrass tofu banh mi that's perfect for vegetarians.
Don't overlook VN Tofu either—this unassuming spot specializes in fresh, house-made tofu and vegan-friendly Vietnamese snacks, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
At places like Sun Wah BBQ and Kie-Gol-Lanee, vegetarian diners can find flavorful tofu and vegetable options alongside their signature meaty dishes.
The bottom line? Whether you're fully plant-based or just looking for healthier, meatless alternatives, Uptown's diverse restaurants have you covered. Plus, most restaurants are very accommodating if you have other dietary restrictions—just ask your server for recommendations!
Conclusion
Uptown Chicago is undeniably one of the city's top culinary hotspots, home to some of the best restaurants in Uptown Chicago. From the award-winning Peking duck at Sun Wah BBQ, to the authentic Oaxacan dishes at Kie-Gol-Lanee, and the modern artisan pizzas at Milly's Pizza In The Pan, the neighborhood offers an incredible range of dining options to suit every taste.
What really makes dining in Uptown special is the way the food reflects the community's rich cultural diversity. Long-established favorites like Pho 777 and Demera Ethiopian Restaurant proudly carry on authentic culinary traditions passed down through generations. Meanwhile, newer spots like Ragadan and the vibrant XMarket Foodhall are shaking things up with creative takes on classic dishes and bold new flavors.
Whether you're exploring mouthwatering banh mi sandwiches at Ba Le, savoring deeply flavorful vegan dishes at Pick Me Up Cafe, or finding the fresh-made tofu at VN Tofu, there's always something delicious and unexpected waiting around the corner.
Dining in Uptown isn't just about the food—it's also about the experience. Here, you can share a communal Ethiopian platter at Demera, watch the spectacle of Sun Wah BBQ's tableside duck carving, or stroll through the Argyle Night Market, tasting your way through street food vendors and enjoying live entertainment.
For residents at The Sally Apartments, Uptown's fantastic food scene is literally steps away. Imagine ending your day exploring these incredible restaurants before heading back to your luxury home, complete with modern comforts like in-unit laundry and a rooftop terrace to unwind and take in the city views. And since The Sally is pet-friendly—with amenities like a dog run and pet spa—your furry friend is just as much at home in this culinary neighborhood as you are.
Uptown's restaurants are always evolving, but one thing remains constant—the neighborhood's passionate commitment to authentic, delicious food and vibrant community experiences. Come visit, explore, and taste what makes Uptown Chicago such an unforgettable place to live and dine.
