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A restaurant painted turquoise and cream on a shady street corner
Le Sud is one of many neighborhood restaurants in North Center.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Where to Eat and Drink in North Center

Come up to the North Side neighborhood for beer, pizza, and great food from all over the world

by Brandon Summers-Miller
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Le Sud is one of many neighborhood restaurants in North Center.
| Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
by Brandon Summers-Miller

North Center, a sprawling and historic neighborhood on the city’s North Side, contains the communities of Roscoe Village, St. Ben’s, and Bricktown, and several major cultural corridors, including Lincoln Avenue and Roscoe Street. It’s also home to some of Chicago’s best neighborhood restaurants, live music venues, pizzerias, taquerias, Asian restaurants, German beer halls, kebabs, vegan brunches, and more. Here are 16 spots diners won’t want to miss.

As of January 3, the city has mandated that those ages 5 and up be fully vaccinated and masked at public places indoors while not actively eating or drinking. For updated information on coronavirus cases, please visit the city of Chicago’s COVID-19 dashboard. Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission. The latest CDC guidance is here; find a COVID-19 vaccination site here.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Taqueria El Asadero

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There’s a reason this neighborhood Mexican joint continues to draw praise. The flavor-packed menu features classic tacos like al pastor and lengua, as well as traditional staples like burritos, quesadillas, and tortas. With tacos priced at $3.25 and the most expensive menu options hovering around $12 before add-ons, it’s easy to chow down here.

2213 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 583-5563
(773) 583-5563

The Bad Apple

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Reliable American grub and a plethora of beers on tap make the Bad Apple a standby in North Center. With more than 15 gourmet burgers and dozens of beers, plus starters like fried cheese curds, this is a bar that means business.

4300 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 360-8406
(773) 360-8406

Also featured in:

Robert et Fils

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The hotly anticipated Robert et Fils was finally able to open its doors for a French tasting menu of seven to 10 courses in November 2021, and the preliminary reviews have been glowing. An intimate dining room of 20 seats, coupled with a meticulously curated menu and chic interior design, make Robert et Fils a destination.

4229 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 687-9179
(773) 687-9179
A dining room with green walls and wooden tables and a banquette in the foreground and a white-painted bar in the background and a chandelier overhead Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Cho Sun Ok Restaurant

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Cho Sun Ok has been a North Center staple since its debut in 1980 due to the quality of its food and the enduring popularity of the tabletop cooking option, which includes octopus, tripe, and sliced beef. Also on the menu are traditional Korean fare like bibimbap and a large selection of noodle dishes.

4200 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 549-5555
(773) 549-5555

Also featured in:

Sticky Rice

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A no-frills Thai cafe on the western edge of North Center, Sticky Rice is a smaller space with a jam-packed menu that includes all sorts of pad thai variations, curries, noodles, and more. While guests can find all the Thai classics Americans are accustomed to, Sticky Rice pays dedicated attention to the cuisine of northern Thailand, which adds a unique set of dishes to the menu such as nam prik nhum and ap pla.

4018 N Western Ave Ste 3727, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 588-0133
(773) 588-0133

Also featured in:

Laschet's Inn

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True to North Center’s German heritage, Laschet’s Inn is a great spot for huge steins of German and Austrian beer, as well as gigantic soft pretzels, currywurst, schnitzel, and so much more. This is a perfect spot to while away the hours with friends.

2119 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 478-7915
(773) 478-7915

Basant Modern Indian Restaurant

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Modern takes on classic Indian food in a smart, contemporary setting make Basant a North Center no-brainer. Don’t miss out on the modestly sized but impressive cocktail program, which pairs perfectly with the spacious outdoor patio on sunny days.

1939 W Byron St, Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 770-3616
(773) 770-3616

Also featured in:

Borinquen Lounge

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If you’ve been looking for Puerto Rican food that hits the spot, look no further than this inviting lounge filled with Puerto Rican flags and tons of natural light. Borinquen Lounge proudly markets itself as the home of the jibarito, and after trying one it’s easy to understand why.

3811 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 442-8001
(773) 442-8001

Also featured in:

Bartoli's Pizzeria

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Consistently named one of Chicago’s best pizzerias, Bartoli’s is as historic as it is delicious. Brian Tondryk, Bartoli’s owner, adapted his grandfather’s pizza recipe and knew Chicago had to try it. And Chicagoans keep coming back for more.

1955 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 248-0455
(773) 248-0455

Also featured in:

Lucy’s Cafe

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Lucy’s has a vegetarian and vegan menu everyone can enjoy. Gorgeous French toasts and a smorgasbord of pancake options are just the beginning of a wonderful brunch at this breezy Roscoe Village spot.

2100 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 665-0227
(773) 665-0227

Volo Restaurant Wine Bar

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Roscoe Village’s Volo is more than a wine bar: It’s built a reputation for both having impressive share plates and generous mains as well as one of Chicago’s best patios for crushing bottles in good company. Look no further if you seek oysters on the half shell, wine on tap, housemade desserts, and a great happy hour.

2008 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 348-4600
(773) 348-4600

Also featured in:

Piazza Bella

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A Roscoe Village standby, Piazza Bella has been serving handmade pastas in a relaxed and inviting Tuscan-inspired space for nearly two decades. Be sure to try the homemade burrata, which is true to the traditional incarnation with a solid outer casing of mozzarella stuffed with curds of creamy stracciatella di bufala. The menu is marked with chef’s recommendations, but even if it weren’t it would be difficult to make a wrong choice.

2114 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 477-7330
(773) 477-7330

Turquoise Cafe & Restaurant

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This Turkish restaurant serves classic dishes, including mucver, imam bayildi, lahmacun, and more. The space itself has a timeless cafe ambience, with doors that open onto a large and inviting patio. And yes, there are plenty of delicious kebabs.

2147 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 549-3523
(773) 549-3523

Also featured in:

Le Sud

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The only thing that could possibly make a Mediterranean French restaurant with a contemporary menu, tin ceiling, sleek bar, and solid wine list even better is an open-air rooftop patio. Luckily, Le Sud has that too, and it’s open year-round with a winterized, infrared heating enclosure.

2301 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 857-1985
(773) 857-1985

Also featured in:

Sinya Mediterranean

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Sinya prides itself on using fresh ingredients, and the difference in quality is apparent. The falafel is an obvious and popular favorite, but just as delicious are the shawarma, kebabs, and traditional Mediterranean salads.

3224 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 897-5700
(773) 897-5700

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90 Miles Cuban Cafe

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With a stacked menu featuring Cuban classics, it’s no wonder why 90 Miles Cuban Cafe is so beloved. The sandwich menu alone features the Cubano, pan con lechon, and frita Cubana. The sunny patio and intimate indoor bar make this small-but-mighty counter service spot in Bricktown an excellent option for great Cuban food in an intimate setting. There are two other locations in Logan Square and West Town.

3101 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 248-2822
(773) 248-2822

Also featured in:

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Taqueria El Asadero

2213 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

There’s a reason this neighborhood Mexican joint continues to draw praise. The flavor-packed menu features classic tacos like al pastor and lengua, as well as traditional staples like burritos, quesadillas, and tortas. With tacos priced at $3.25 and the most expensive menu options hovering around $12 before add-ons, it’s easy to chow down here.

2213 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 583-5563
(773) 583-5563

The Bad Apple

4300 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Reliable American grub and a plethora of beers on tap make the Bad Apple a standby in North Center. With more than 15 gourmet burgers and dozens of beers, plus starters like fried cheese curds, this is a bar that means business.

4300 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 360-8406
(773) 360-8406

Robert et Fils

4229 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

The hotly anticipated Robert et Fils was finally able to open its doors for a French tasting menu of seven to 10 courses in November 2021, and the preliminary reviews have been glowing. An intimate dining room of 20 seats, coupled with a meticulously curated menu and chic interior design, make Robert et Fils a destination.

4229 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 687-9179
(773) 687-9179
A dining room with green walls and wooden tables and a banquette in the foreground and a white-painted bar in the background and a chandelier overhead Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Cho Sun Ok Restaurant

4200 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Cho Sun Ok has been a North Center staple since its debut in 1980 due to the quality of its food and the enduring popularity of the tabletop cooking option, which includes octopus, tripe, and sliced beef. Also on the menu are traditional Korean fare like bibimbap and a large selection of noodle dishes.

4200 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 549-5555
(773) 549-5555

Sticky Rice

4018 N Western Ave Ste 3727, Chicago, IL 60618

A no-frills Thai cafe on the western edge of North Center, Sticky Rice is a smaller space with a jam-packed menu that includes all sorts of pad thai variations, curries, noodles, and more. While guests can find all the Thai classics Americans are accustomed to, Sticky Rice pays dedicated attention to the cuisine of northern Thailand, which adds a unique set of dishes to the menu such as nam prik nhum and ap pla.

4018 N Western Ave Ste 3727, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 588-0133
(773) 588-0133

Laschet's Inn

2119 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60618

True to North Center’s German heritage, Laschet’s Inn is a great spot for huge steins of German and Austrian beer, as well as gigantic soft pretzels, currywurst, schnitzel, and so much more. This is a perfect spot to while away the hours with friends.

2119 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 478-7915
(773) 478-7915

Basant Modern Indian Restaurant

1939 W Byron St, Chicago, IL 60613

Modern takes on classic Indian food in a smart, contemporary setting make Basant a North Center no-brainer. Don’t miss out on the modestly sized but impressive cocktail program, which pairs perfectly with the spacious outdoor patio on sunny days.

1939 W Byron St, Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 770-3616
(773) 770-3616

Borinquen Lounge

3811 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

If you’ve been looking for Puerto Rican food that hits the spot, look no further than this inviting lounge filled with Puerto Rican flags and tons of natural light. Borinquen Lounge proudly markets itself as the home of the jibarito, and after trying one it’s easy to understand why.

3811 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 442-8001
(773) 442-8001

Bartoli's Pizzeria

1955 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613

Consistently named one of Chicago’s best pizzerias, Bartoli’s is as historic as it is delicious. Brian Tondryk, Bartoli’s owner, adapted his grandfather’s pizza recipe and knew Chicago had to try it. And Chicagoans keep coming back for more.

1955 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 248-0455
(773) 248-0455

Lucy’s Cafe

2100 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

Lucy’s has a vegetarian and vegan menu everyone can enjoy. Gorgeous French toasts and a smorgasbord of pancake options are just the beginning of a wonderful brunch at this breezy Roscoe Village spot.

2100 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 665-0227
(773) 665-0227

Volo Restaurant Wine Bar

2008 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

Roscoe Village’s Volo is more than a wine bar: It’s built a reputation for both having impressive share plates and generous mains as well as one of Chicago’s best patios for crushing bottles in good company. Look no further if you seek oysters on the half shell, wine on tap, housemade desserts, and a great happy hour.

2008 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 348-4600
(773) 348-4600

Piazza Bella

2114 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

A Roscoe Village standby, Piazza Bella has been serving handmade pastas in a relaxed and inviting Tuscan-inspired space for nearly two decades. Be sure to try the homemade burrata, which is true to the traditional incarnation with a solid outer casing of mozzarella stuffed with curds of creamy stracciatella di bufala. The menu is marked with chef’s recommendations, but even if it weren’t it would be difficult to make a wrong choice.

2114 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 477-7330
(773) 477-7330

Turquoise Cafe & Restaurant

2147 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

This Turkish restaurant serves classic dishes, including mucver, imam bayildi, lahmacun, and more. The space itself has a timeless cafe ambience, with doors that open onto a large and inviting patio. And yes, there are plenty of delicious kebabs.

2147 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 549-3523
(773) 549-3523

Le Sud

2301 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618

The only thing that could possibly make a Mediterranean French restaurant with a contemporary menu, tin ceiling, sleek bar, and solid wine list even better is an open-air rooftop patio. Luckily, Le Sud has that too, and it’s open year-round with a winterized, infrared heating enclosure.

2301 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 857-1985
(773) 857-1985

Sinya Mediterranean

3224 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Sinya prides itself on using fresh ingredients, and the difference in quality is apparent. The falafel is an obvious and popular favorite, but just as delicious are the shawarma, kebabs, and traditional Mediterranean salads.

3224 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 897-5700
(773) 897-5700

Related Maps

90 Miles Cuban Cafe

3101 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

With a stacked menu featuring Cuban classics, it’s no wonder why 90 Miles Cuban Cafe is so beloved. The sandwich menu alone features the Cubano, pan con lechon, and frita Cubana. The sunny patio and intimate indoor bar make this small-but-mighty counter service spot in Bricktown an excellent option for great Cuban food in an intimate setting. There are two other locations in Logan Square and West Town.

3101 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 248-2822
(773) 248-2822

Related Maps