Swing by Wolf & Company for a one-of-a-kind all-day spot that’s a cafe, full-service restaurant, and bar—all under one roof. Led by chef Graham Akroyd, this two-story destination delivers American comfort food like pizzas, signature burgers, housemade pastas, steaks, and seafood in a warm, industrial-chic space. Meanwhile, coffee lovers and casual breakfast-goers can grab quick bites from the cafe. Or sit at the 20-seat bar and lounge, which overlooks the 606 elevated trail.

Abrah Bakery & Daily Bistro is a charming, Ukrainian-style bakery. Takeaway options include sweet and savory pastries and a full selection of coffees and signature drinks. The all-day menu includes creme brulee French toast with pistachio sauce, brunch plates, and evening small plates like chicken Kyiv paired with wine or cocktails. The compact dining room displays hand-drawn artwork and has a cozy feeling, ranking it amongst the cool restaurants in Chicago for Ukrainian food.

Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna from the premier chef-driven Boka Restaurant Group is where you go for artisan thin-crust pies and classic Chicago-style pizzas. Load them up with your favorite toppings (and house garlic ranch dip, of course), or choose from specialty pies and Italian favorites like chicken parm. The two-level space has tufted leather booths, vintage-style lighting, and a downstairs taverna, making it one of the cool new restaurants in Chicago.

Matilda blends the culinary traditions of Mexico and Peru with bold creativity. MICHELIN-pedigreed chef José Luis Chávez co-founded the restaurant as an ode to Latin American cuisine, featuring standout dishes such as paella, ceviche, and birria. Pair your meal with a pisco- or mezcal-forward cocktail, or head to Clandestino, the restaurant’s cocktail lounge, for a post-dinner nightcap. Matilda is one of the best trendy restaurants in Chicago for a lively night out.

Founded by chefs Sanchit Sahu and Sujan Sarkar of MICHELIN-Starred Indienne, this Lincoln Park restaurant is a go-to for refined, modern Indian cuisine. The menu includes favorites from regions across the country, from Keralan dishes like pork ribs coated with tamarind and ginger to northern specialties like dahi bhalla (soft lentil dumplings). You can also opt for the tasting menu. Don’t miss the clever cocktails, including stellar non-alcoholic options like a refreshing rose-basil soda.

Washington, DC import Ambar brings its award-winning Balkan cuisine to the Windy City. Get the unlimited tasting experience, a lavish feast starring freshly baked pita and spreads, hearth-cooked chicken skewers, and housemade beef ćevapi. Small-batch Balkan wines and rakia, a traditional handcrafted fruit brandy, round out the menu. Brightly patterned wallpaper and colorful chairs give the space a cozy, living room feeling, earning it a spot on the list of the best restaurants in Chicago.

Hiro Izakaya presents live-fire robata grilled dishes, inventive hand rolls, and Japanese small plates in a stylish yet lively setting. Inspired by Tokyo izakayas, the menu highlights both hot and cold dishes like pork belly bao and green tea soba noodles. Enjoy a creative cocktail made with shochu or Japanese whisky. The moody dining room is welcoming with a swanky vibe, making it a cool restaurant in Chicago worth experiencing.

This ultra-luxe steakhouse, from culinary powerhouses Jenner Tomaska of MICHELIN-starred Esmé and the Fifty/50 Group, goes all in on fancy French-meets-Midwestern fare. Choose from rustic wood-fired dishes, such as filet mignon, and showstopping mains like duck à la presse, carved tableside. Pair them with one of 500 wines or pours from the large French whisky selection. The Alston’s swanky interiors—complete with an Art Deco-inspired main dining room—mirror its upscale menu.

Class Act is a destination for its globally inspired, boundary-pushing tasting menu. Chef Nicolai Mlodinow whips up bold, whimsical dishes paired with imaginative cocktails or spirit-free options. It’s all served in a sleek, modern dining room anchored by a large communal table. Don’t miss playful desserts like shaved ice and ice creams inspired by childhood classics.

La Lunita is one of the cool new restaurants in Chicago and blends modern Mexican dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Dig into upscale twists on favorites like yellow fin crudo and lamb quesabirria tacos. Pair them with mezcal and tequila cocktails or a glass of Mexican wine. Street-facing bifold doors and Latin vinyl spun by a live DJ complete the buzzy vibe.