Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Illinois (Currently Open)
Discover the titans of dining—landmark restaurants that continue to thrive, delight, and define Illinois’s vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a curious tourist, a local foodie, or planning a special-occasion outing, this curated list unlocks the best places for iconic meals in the Prairie State.
Introduction
Illinois is not just cornfields and city skylines—it’s also a culinary destination. From time-honored institutions in Chicago’s Loop to trend-setting kitchens in the West Loop, the state offers an array of unforgettable dining experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 most famous restaurants in Illinois (currently open)—each with legacy, cachet, and still operating with full force.
We’ll dive into history, highlight signature dishes, describe who should go and when, and give you tips to make the most of your visit. These restaurants aren’t just “good” — they’re recognized, shared, talked about, and enduring. And because many visitors search for “best places for iconic dining in Illinois,” “famous restaurants in Illinois,” or “must-eat restaurants Chicago/Illinois,” this article is designed with SEO in mind to help you discover and plan.
Ready? Let’s dig into the list—there are ten standout spots you can visit right now.
1. The Berghoff (Chicago Loop)
One of Illinois’s true dining landmarks, The Berghoff opened in 1898 at 17 West Adams Street in Chicago’s Loop. Wikipedia+1
Why it’s famous
Established as a saloon in 1898 then transformed into a full-service restaurant with German roots. Wikipedia
Earned a James Beard “America’s Classics” award for its role in American dining culture. Wikipedia
Its signature dishes—sauerbraten, wiener schnitzel, root beer brewed in-house—ground it firmly in Chicago dining history.
What to expect
A historic yet welcoming dining room with old-school service style.
Located right in the heart of downtown—perfect for after theatre nights or city-center exploring.
Family-friendly and comfortable, but with a historic gravitas.
Why it made the list
Because when you think “famous restaurant in Illinois,” The Berghoff is a direct connection to over a century of dining tradition—still open, still relevant.
2. Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen (Chicago Near West Side)
A city institution: Manny’s Deli, founded in 1942, stands at 1141 South Jefferson Street in Chicago and is widely regarded as the “biggest, best-known and oldest deli” in the city. Wikipedia+1
What defines it
Classic deli staples: corned beef sandwich, pastrami, matzo ball soup—comfort food done with legacy. Wikipedia
A gathering place in Chicago nightlife, politics and local life—seen by locals and visitors alike.
Who should go
Lunch with colleagues, families looking for comfort fare, tourists wanting an authentic Chicago-deli experience.
No formal dress required; the vibe is casual but iconic.
Bonus tip
Get there early for lunch; the line may build but service moves steadily.
Why it’s top-10 material
Because this deli isn’t just good—it’s famous, enduring, and still offering what made it up-front; a true staple of Illinois’s food culture.
3. Alinea (Chicago Lincoln Park)
For those seeking a food-experience rather than just a dinner, Alinea stands in a league of its own. Opening in 2005, it earned three Michelin stars and has become a pilgrimage site for adventurous diners. Wikipedia
What sets it apart
Chef Grant Achatz leads with modernist, theatrical cuisine—“maximalist modernist cooking” is how it’s described. MICHELIN Guide
Three distinct dining experiences each night (Kitchen Table, The Gallery, The Salon) with multi-course tasting menus. The Alinea Group+1
Ideal for
A special occasion: anniversary, milestone dinner, food-lover’s bucket list.
Visitors willing to spend more and savour an all-in experience rather than a quick meal.
Pro tip
Reservations well in advance required. Dress smart-casual.
Why it’s on the list
Because a restaurant this globally renowned, still operating successfully in Illinois, deserves its spot among the most famous.
4. Girl & the Goat (Chicago West Loop)
Opened in 2010 under chef Stephanie Izard (winner of Top Chef Season 4), Girl & the Goat quickly became a hallmark of Chicago’s West Loop dining scene. girlandthegoat.com
What to know
Menu built on bold, shareable plates—wood-fired, globally inspired, playful. girlandthegoat.com+1
Vibrant, trendy ambiance—but still approachable and fun for groups and date nights alike.
Best for
Foodies seeking inventive but accessible dining.
Groups and friends who like sharing plates and lively atmosphere.
Why it qualifies
It changed Chicago’s dining momentum and continues to be a talked-about destination—making it one of the state’s most famous current restaurants.
5. Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab (Chicago River North)
When you want the classic steakhouse-and-seafood experience in Illinois, Joe’s delivers.
What stands out
Premium steaks, fresh seafood (stone crab when in season), refined yet traditional decor.
Ideal for business dinners, celebrations or upscale outings.
Visitor insight
Make a reservation if you can; dress smart-casual to smart.
Consider the stone crab when in season—it adds to the iconic reputation.
Why this name
It ticks the “most famous restaurants in Illinois” box for the upscale steak/seafood category—a space often dominated by Chicago legends.
6. The Wieners Circle (Chicago Lincoln Park)
Switching gears: here’s a more casual yet legendary experience. Wieners Circle is a hot-dog stand that has become infamous (in the best way) for its food and atmosphere. Atlas Obscura
Highlights
Char-grilled Vienna hot-dogs, Maxwell Street Polish, cheese fries—pure Chicago street-food with attitude.
Night-life energy late at night; a different kind of “famous restaurant” experience.
Best for
Night-owls, visitors seeking something fun and undefensive.
Change of pace from formal dining, but full of local flavor and legend.
Why include it
It may be casual, but it’s recognizably part of Illinois dining lore and remains open and popular.
7. Smoque BBQ (Chicago Irving Park)
For lovers of smoked meats, Smoque BBQ is often cited among Chicago’s best barbecue joints—and yes, Illinois is lucky to have serious BBQ too. This Darling World+1
What you’ll find
Smoked brisket, ribs, hearty platters with sides—comfort meets craft.
More relaxed than formal fine dining; great for families, friends, casual celebrations.
Why it’s famous
Consistently named in “must-eat in Chicago” guides and local favorite lists.
Adds a flavour-rich dimension to Illinois’s “most famous restaurants” beyond fine dining.
Tip
Try to get there for dinner early or expect a wait; BBQ draws the crowds.
8. Cariño (Chicago)
Here’s a modern, elevated restaurant that has gained strong recognition—offering contemporary Mexican cuisine in Illinois.
What to know
Sleek dining room, elevated execution of dishes rooted in Mexican flavors—bringing a fresh face to the “famous restaurant” list.
Part of Illinois’s evolving dining scene—shows that “famous” isn’t just historic houses but also new icons.
Best for
Couples, groups looking for trend-setting menus and a slightly more upscale night out.
Why it fits
It proves that the state’s famous-restaurant list isn’t confined to century-old establishments—fresh legends are still being made.
9. Twin Anchors “Blue Anchor” Bar & Grill (Chicago Old Town)
A bit of a hidden gem in terms of mainstream lists—but this bar & grill boasts true legacy and fame.
The story
Located at 1655 N Sedgwick Street in Old Town, this spot has been a fixture and is tied to Chicago lore.
Known for burgers, ribs, and the fact that legends like Frank Sinatra reportedly frequented it.
Audience
Suitable for those who appreciate history, comfortable dining spaces, and something local but iconic.
Why marked as “famous”
It offers a different flavour—historical, classic, yet still in operation—balancing the list away from only high-end fine dining.
10. Kasama (Chicago Ukrainian Village)
Rounding out the list is a somewhat newer entrant—Kasama, a Filipino-inspired restaurant in Illinois that has achieved international acclaim (including a Michelin star). Wikipedia
Why it matters
It’s evidence that “famous” doesn’t have to mean decades old; fresh, buzz-worthy restaurants count too.
The world’s first Filipino-starred restaurant (via Michelin) located in Chicago, Illinois.
Good for
Food adventurers, diners looking to experience “what’s new” in Illinois, high-quality meals with a twist.
Inclusion rationale
Adds modernity and diversity to the list—ensuring we highlight a range of cuisines, ages of establishments, and dining experiences.
Summary of the List
Here’s a quick snapshot of the ten restaurants and what they bring:
The Berghoff – historic German-American icon
Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen – classic Chicago deli institution
Alinea – avant-garde fine dining, globally famous
Girl & the Goat – trend-setting, shareable global plates
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab – premium steak & seafood classic
The Wieners Circle – legendary hot-dog stand with local flavour
Smoque BBQ – top-tier smoked meats in Chicago
Cariño – modern elevated Mexican dining
Twin Anchors “Blue Anchor” Bar & Grill – old-school bar & grill with story
Kasama – modern dining with Michelin-starred Filipino cuisine
This list spans styles (fine dining, casual, BBQ, street-food) and eras (100-year-old houses through to new stars). It ensures that when someone searches “best places for famous dining in Illinois” or “famous restaurants Illinois still open,” they find diversity, relevance and quality.
How to Plan Your Visit & Get the Most Out of These Restaurants
Reservations & Timing
For high-end spots like Alinea, Cariño, and Kasama — book well in advance.
For casual places (Manny’s, The Wieners Circle, Smoque BBQ) arrive early or prepare for possible waits.
Dress Code & Atmosphere
Alinea: smart-casual or better; expect formal service.
Manny’s, Smoque, The Wieners Circle: relaxed, local-friendly.
Joe’s, Girl & the Goat: upscale casual.
What to Order
At The Berghoff: sauerbraten or schnitzel plus root beer.
At Manny’s: corned beef sandwich or matzo ball soup.
At Alinea: trust the tasting menu—it’s an experience.
At Smoque BBQ: brisket platter with two sides.
At Kasama: try the tasting menu for full impact.
Geographic Note
Though many of these restaurants are in Chicago (as is expected given its dense restaurant scene), they each occupy different neighborhoods: Loop, Lincoln Park, West Loop, River North, Irving Park, Ukrainian Village. If you’re visiting regionally in Illinois, consider splurging in Chicago as a food hub and exploring similarly special spots outside the city when you have more time.
Shareable Moments
These restaurants are “insta-worthy” and worth sharing on social media—plate presentation, legacy signage, iconic interiors.
Great for food-enthusiasts wanting to check off “famous restaurants in Illinois” from their list.
Conclusion
Illinois is a mighty state for dining, and this list of top 10 most famous restaurants in Illinois (currently open) reflects how rich, varied and enduring its culinary landscape is. From the century-old Berghoff to the cutting-edge Kasama, from comfort delis to tasting-menu temples, there’s something here for every kind of diner—tourist, family, local, or food-traveller.
Summary & Call to Action: If you’re planning a trip to Illinois, especially the Chicago area, pick at least one or two of these unforgettable restaurants. Make a reservation, plan your budget, and bring your appetite. Tell your friends, share your photos, and savour a truly memorable meal. After all, dining at one of these legendary spots isn’t just eating—it’s experiencing a piece of Illinois food history. Enjoy every bite—and happy exploring!