Best Restaurants in Chicago 2026 by Chef Saul Ramos
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We asked Chef Saul Ramos to share his ultimate local checklist. From classic tavern-style pizza to his current top three obsessions, here is his definitive map: 🌮 Best Mexican: Buena Vista (Lakeview) 🍝 Best Italian: Quartino Ristorante (River North) 🇬🇷 Best Greek: Andros Taverna (Logan Square) 🍔 Best Burger: Au Cheval (West Loop) 🥞 Best Brunch: Dove's Luncheonette (Wicker Park) & Frances' Deli & Brunchery (Lincoln Park) 🍸 Best Late Night Spot: Love Street (Lincoln Park) 🍕 Best Pizza: Phil's Pizza (Bridgeport) 🔥 Current Top 3 Spots: Dave's Hot Chicken (Multiple Locations), Honey Butter Fried Chicken (Avondale), & Oiistar (Wicker Park)
About this guide
We asked Chef Saul Ramos to share his ultimate local checklist. From classic tavern-style pizza to his current top three obsessions, here is his definitive map: 🌮 Best Mexican: Buena Vista (Lakeview) 🍝 Best Italian: Quartino Ristorante (River North) 🇬🇷 Best Greek: Andros Taverna (Logan Square) 🍔 Best Burger: Au Cheval (West Loop) 🥞 Best Brunch: Dove's Luncheonette (Wicker Park) & Frances' Deli & Brunchery (Lincoln Park) 🍸 Best Late Night Spot: Love Street (Lincoln Park) 🍕 Best Pizza: Phil's Pizza (Bridgeport) 🔥 Current Top 3 Spots: Dave's Hot Chicken (Multiple Locations), Honey Butter Fried Chicken (Avondale), & Oiistar (Wicker Park)
Restaurants in this guide
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Dave’s Hot Chicken
Specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken tenders and sliders, offered in various spice levels from no spice to 'Reaper', served with crinkle-cut fries, kale slaw, and other classic sides.
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Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Specializing in crispy fried chicken served with signature honey butter, alongside a variety of comfort food sides, sandwiches, and salads.
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Oiistar
Oiistar specializes in a variety of ramen bowls, featuring rich broths, customizable toppings, and different noodle options, including gluten-free. The menu also includes appetizers such as gyoza and bao buns.