Here's the highly debatable and much anticipated list of the ten best restaurants in Lakeview. From a restaurant boosting chili one, two, three, even five ways, to the number one Italian Beef in the city, here is a list of some of my personal favorites:
- Mia Francesca – A quaint Italian restaurant that has been around for ages. The menu is always rotating with different specials and the staff is always treating you like family.
- Chili Mac’s – Looks unassuming from the outside, but is a must-visit. Their “five-way” chili is a specialty, featuring chili over spaghetti with cheddar cheese, beans, and onions.
- Tango Sur - Between the enormous portion sizes (order the steak, and you'll get two!) and the inviting European atmosphere, this is a can't-miss. And the empanadas are a heaven send!
- PS Bangkok - A Thai spin on cheers. You'll take comfort in the fact that owner Sue will remember your name and order each time you return for her time-tested classics (some spicy!) on Clark Street.
- Pie Hole Pizza Joint- The name says it all. This hole-in-the-wall pizza place has an “All You Can Shovel” special on Wednesdays for $8.99. And with pizza tasting this good, it is easy to “shovel” a lot!
- Panes Bread Cafe - You haven't lived until you've had a sandwich from Panes, especially the Turkey Turkey (if we're getting specific.) Their soft and fresh bread is as otherworldly as all of the delicious flavor combos that go between it.
- Al's Beef – A Chicago’s staple, featuring the best Italian beef in the city. For a true Chicago experience, get the beef dipped in gravy and topped with homemade Giardiniera. They call it number one in the city for a reason.
- Socca – Great French Italian bistro to take that special someone for date night. Their hanger steak frites is out of the world (insider tip – they have recently been randomly announcing $5 steak night promotions through social media. Let the Facebook/Twitter stalking commence.)
- Wilde's – The local Irish pub on the “corner” (even though it is not actually on the corner) featuring beautiful wood décor and a great beer list. A cozy place during the winter and one of the best patio’s for the warmer months, Wilde’s is a neighborhood favorite for after-work drinks.
- El Mariachi – There is no better way to let loose than with a “Skinny” margarita and a few of your closest friends. Be sure to try all seven (yes, seven) of the salsas and the tableside guacamole, literally made next to your table, so you can customize it any way you want.
Up next….my favorite Lakeview bars, which includes one of the best blues bars in the city (doesn’t hurt that it stays open ‘til 5am on Saturdays)
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Some real winners on your list. Zad Mediterranean, Byron's Hot Dogs, Paciugo Gelato and Crisp Korean Fried Chicken are the best at what they do not only in Lakeview but the city. Hope you try them so you can include them in your next list.
Agree with Mia Francesca's & Tango Sur, although Lakeview isn't one of my favorite places to eat in Chicago- there's still a few gems.
Interesting list. The only place I've been to on your list is Wilde's, which does have great decor and food.
But one place is missing: Buena Vista Restaurant. Located at 3147 N. Broadway (South of Belmont), this is the best Mexican food I've ever had. Period. I lived for a year on Belmont in a studio, and ate there almost daily. 773-871-5782 http://www.buenachicago.com/
No Stella's or The Bagel? Fail.