In a city better known for stick-to-your-ribs fare than lighter dining, Chicago chefs have been steadily redefining the salad. From fine dining to neighborhood favorites, these refreshing plates of greens stand out as serious culinary statements, showcasing thoughtful textures, seasonal ingredients and bold flavor combinations.
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This beloved Mediterranean spot’s chorizo-stuffed dates are deservedly famous, but don’t overlook Avec’s marinated lentil salad. The culinary creation delivers bright, balanced flavor in a light, satisfying format with protein-packed lentils, fresh cucumbers, onions and radishes. 615 W. Randolph St.; 141 W. Erie St.
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Start the day right with freekeh salad, a hearty, feel-good specialty from Beatrix Market. This balanced meal is packed with grains, veggies, herbs, roasted apples, butternut squash, kale and freekeh (a Middle Eastern ancient whole grain) and drizzled with tangy balsamic-maple dressing. Multiple locations
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If you’re looking for a crisp bite with bold flavors, the chef's salad at this Chicago Athletic Association favorite has got you covered. It features a vibrant mix of baby iceberg lettuce, hard-boiled egg, radish, cucumber, tomato, bacon, pickled shallot and cotija cheese, topped with zesty Tajín breadcrumbs and a smoky chipotle ranch dressing. 12 S. Michigan Ave.
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With a menu of fan favorites like hummus, hot honey halloumi and chicken kafta kebab, Ema is known for its delicious Mediterranean fare—and its Brussels sprouts and Honeycrisp apple salad is no exception. The fresh, refreshing staple is crafted with an indulgent combination of pomegranate seeds, Marcona almonds and creamy honey dijon vinaigrette. 74 W. Illinois St.
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Give your go-to lunch combo an Italian-inspired upgrade with Gene & Georgetti’s classic wedge salad. Topped with house-cut bacon and blue cheese dressing, the specialty pairs exceptionally well with the spot’s housemade tortellini in brodo—a soul-warming soup with fresh pasta and rich, savory broth—that will no doubt leave your tastebuds satisfied. 500 N. Franklin St.
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Situated within Gold Coast concept shop Space 519, this 40-seat restaurant and café is the spot to go for assorted Californian fare and craft coffee. Grab a seat on the dog-friendly patio, snag a latte and dig into The Lunchroom’s crowd-pleasing Green & White salad with shredded Brussels sprouts, shaved cauliflower, apple slices, hearts of palm, parmesan reggiano, green pumpkin seeds and a generous serving of zesty citrus vinaigrette. 200 E. Chestnut St.
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At Planta, Lee’s chopped salad has quickly become a lunchtime favorite. With a combination of tomatoes, corn, sprouts, cabbage, peanuts, goji berries and a bright turmeric vinaigrette, this can’t-miss meal is nothing short of flavor-packed. 413 N. Clark St.
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Take lunch and dinner to the next level with Somerset’s light-yet-satisfying ahi tuna salad. The small plate combines seared sesame-crusted tuna with briny olives, crisp cucumbers, green beans, soft-boiled eggs and tender potatoes. A touch of Dijonnaise heightens the flavor, providing a balanced, protein-rich payoff with every bite. 1112 N. State St.
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RL Restaurant’s crab and avocado salad is a refined take on a classic. This salad pairs sweet lump crab with creamy avocado, heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers and petit mesclun greens, all topped off with a bright lime-espelette vinaigrette. 115 E. Chicago Ave.
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This upscale institution impresses with its grilled shrimp and vegetable salad. The light yet satisfying menu standout showcases grilled shrimp alongside asparagus, zucchini, corn, avocado, tomatoes and scallions. 1300 N. Dearborn St.
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For a bold, Vietnamese-inspired start to your meal, opt for Le Colonial’s Goi Bo spicy beef carpaccio salad. A bed of fresh farm greens and a sweet chili and agave dressing set the scene for mouthwatering, thinly sliced heritage Angus prime beef tenderloin. 57 E. Oak St.
See also: The 10 Best Patios For Outdoor Dining In Chicago
Photography by: Photography courtesy of Getty Images
