By Lauren Brocato By Lauren Brocato | April 28, 2023 | Food & Drink Guides
We're lucky to have some of the most exciting culinary destinations here in Chicago, but a few of them are notoriously tough to snag a table at. Here, 13 of the most sought-after reservations in Chicago. Plan accordingly!
This 3-Michelin-starred Lincoln Park gem offers dining experiences so coveted that its usually completely booked months in advance. If you want a shot at getting a reservation for any of its innovative experiences, keep a keen eye on the Tock page, or join the wait list and cross your fingers. 1723 N. Halsted St.
Armitage Alehouse is an intimate, elevated pub that transports guests to 1920s London. Here, ales and cocktails pair with pub bites with Indian roots, and the wine list of French and American selects is thoughtful and extensive. Reservations become available 14 days in advance at 9 a.m. each day, so if you want in, we recommend setting an alarm. 1000 W. Armitage Ave.
This South Side spot celebrates the history that shaped the community through a revolving art collection, live music, and a rotating wine list and seasonal menus created with locally grown and produced ingredients. The dynamic destination encourages guests to relax, socialize and network in a space that's both refined and comfortable. Head to the winery's Tock page to book a coveted table. 4420 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
What started as a pop-up from seasoned Chicago chef Trevor Teich is now home to one of the most exciting (and sought-after) tasting experiences in the city. Some tastings last upwards of four hours, and surprises along the way are to be expected. Check out Claudia's Tock page to see what times—if any—are available. 1952 N. Damen Ave.
Another Lincoln Park hot spot, Michelin-starred Esmé levels up the typical tasting menu experience. Opened in summer of 2021 by chef Jenner Tomaska and his wife and partner Katrina Bravo, the fine-dining destination is worth the wait for a table. Head to Esmé's Resy page to book a tasting. 2200 N. Clark St.
Nestled in the East Ukrainian Village neighborhood, bakery and Filipino eatery Kasama's dinner reservations are hard to come by. New reservations are made available daily at midnight, 45 days in advance, and they can only be book via the restaurant's Resy page. But, daytime service is first come, first serve, so if you can't snag a spot for the 13-course tasting experience, then there's still a chance to get in on the goodness Kasama dishes up. 1001 N. Winchester Ave.
Head to the West Loop's Kumiko for some of the finest Japanese sips and bites. From sake and martinis to oysters and caviar, the fare by owner and mixologist Julia Momosé is just as impressive as the spot's reputation (Kumiko was named the fifth best bar in North America and best in the Midwest by The World’s 50 Best Bars this year). Head to its OpenTable page to see what all the fuss is about. 630 W. Lake St.
This splashy new spot is helmed by French chef Daniel Rose, who has earned two Michelin stars, and is already a highly desired destination. Designed to resemble a classic French train station, the brasserie specializes in authentic French cooking. The menu includes an extensive wine curation and traditional French fare infused with Rose’s dedication to home cooking. Reservations are hard to come by, and space is limited, so keep an eye on OpenTable to get a taste of this newcomer. 505 N. Wells St.
Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas' James Beard award-winning- and Michelin-starred restaurant Next completely changes its menu and experience multiple times each year. From experiences inspired by Hollywood to Tokyo to Ancient Rome and the World's Fair, Next always keep us on our toes. Head to their Tock page to experience the latest. 953 W. Fulton Market
Founded by brother-duo Oliver and Nicolas Poilevey, French eatery Obélix offers an authentic feel of a Parisi right here in River North. Traditional French fare mingles with Asian, Mexican, North African and American influences—a recipe for being lauded as one of the best new restaurants in Chicago. Check out the spot’s Resy page for a chance at scoring a coveted table at this hot spot. 700 N. Sedgwick St.
Oriole debuted in 2016, and has since earned two Michelin stars and the Jean Banchet Award for Restaurant of the Year. James Beard-nominated executive chef and owner Noah Sandoval serves an ever-evolving extended tasting menu to those lucky enough to covet a reservation. Check Oriole's Tock page, where reservations are opened on a 90-day rolling calendar to secure your seat. 661 W. Walnut St.
Michael Carlson, the chef and owner of cult favorite Schwa, quickly made a name for himself upon opening this not-so-ordinary fine-dining destination in 2005, and today, still sells the place out weeks, if not months, in advance. Foodies flock to the nationally recognized Wicker Park institution to experience the tasting menu, described on Schwa's Tock page as "Chef Carlson's f****** mind-blowing menu," which diners are encouraged to bring their own beverages to. 1466 N. Ashland Ave.
No, the chatter coming from Hotel Lincoln's Suite 202 is not from a rowdy group of hotel guests—that's the sound of the sushi speakeasy. Knock on the door to gain access to this low-key guest room-turned-speakeasy, and enjoy delectable cocktails and bites at the six-seat sushi bar where a chef creates and serves a 17-course omakase sushi meal. Space is extremely limited, so check Sushi Suite 202's OpenTable page to secure your spot. 1816 N. Clark St.
Photography by: Photo by Valeria Boltneva/Pexels
