21 Michelin Star Restaurants in Chicago To Dine at in 2024
If you're looking for top-notch dining in the Windy City, there are a host of Michelin star restaurants in Chicago you should try. The prestigious dining guide has awarded several restaurants here with Michelin star honors, each well worth the visit, and today, it has become a premier stop in the U.S. to experience delicious food and rich culture. In short, Chicago’s Michelin star restaurant scene is thriving.
Since Chicago is a nexus for fine dining, options are endless with an array of global cuisine, traditional classics and fusion creations. From upscale lounges and wine bars to first-class steakhouses, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never feel hungry in Chicago. Explore this list of the 21 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago and make it your guide to exploring food in the Windy City.
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- How Many Michelin Star Restaurants Are in Chicago?
- 21 Chicago Michelin Star Restaurants To Dine At
- Enjoy Michelin Star-Quality Foods in Chicago
How Many Michelin Star Restaurants Are in Chicago?
There are currently 20 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago, making this bustling city a hub for prestigious dining. These 20 include two 3 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago and three 2 Michelin star eateries. Add to these a whopping sixteen 1 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago, and this city has much to offer even the most discerning gourmand!
21 Chicago Michelin Star Restaurants To Dine At
1. Ever
One of America’s most honored chefs, Curtis Duffy, and business partner, Michael Muser, have put together an immensely creative dining experience at Ever. Featuring an eight to 10-course tasting menu, this 2 Michelin star restaurant in Chicago always leaves guests with memories to last a lifetime.
The Vibe
Guests might enjoy a humbling kitchen walkthrough at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago before being served. The atmosphere is classy, contemporary and spacious. Based on ecstatic reviews, Ever is one of the finest Michelin-star restaurants in Chicago.
What to Order
The wagyu at Ever tastes superb and the scallops are simply unbeatable. The food is presented with extreme care and artistry, and each dish bursts with incredible flavor.
Ever | 1340 W. Fulton St., Chicago, IL 60607 | $$$$
2. Atelier
Led by Executive Chef Christian Hunter, Atelier is one of eighteen 1 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago. Atelier focuses on fine dining folk cuisine, highlighting global dishes fused with New American flair. Christian is passionate about illuminating the outstanding abilities of African American chefs and loves creating food for the people based on how he’s observed them enjoying it on his travels.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is down to earth and “for the people,” with guests feeling at home immediately. Often described as "cozy and comforting with sexy lighting," it’s one of the most highly favored Michelin star restaurants in Chicago.
What to Order
Enjoy the rich and savory chowder at this Michelin star Chicago restaurant, followed by the homemade churro for dessert.
Atelier | 4835 N. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60625 | $$$$
3. Alinea
Arguably the best restaurant on this list, Alinea is a Michelin star restaurant in Chicago that is unanimously praised for its innovative approach to modern European cuisine. It's been named the best restaurant in the world by several sources, including Elite Traveller, Gourmet and Business Insider. It is one of only two 3 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago.
The Vibe
The ambiance at Alinea is ornate and beautiful and its décor is minimalistic and neutral. The service is cheerful and meals are presented as if they tell a story. A visit to this Michelin-star restaurant in Chicago is truly a magical one.
What to Order
The Explosion is a signature dish described as "breathtaking" by celebrity chefs and guests alike, making it one of the best meals from Chicago’s Michelin star restaurants. The French onion soup is theatrically prepared at the table on a copper fire stove and tastes as amazing as the extraordinary performance looks.
Alinea | 1723 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614 | $$$$
4. Smyth
Having officially been named number 90 of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, Smyth is a must-visit. With a combination of artistry, warmth and vitality, this is the second of two 3 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago. Apart from its worldwide status, the thoughtful and imaginative dishes crafted here make it one of the best restaurants in Chicago.
The Vibe
Focused on warm greetings and friendly vibes, the open kitchen at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago promises an exceptional experience that bestows excellence and pride. Intimate tables and a cozy lounge surround the kitchen.
What to Order
Some favored dishes to indulge in are the BBQ king crab and rice koji, and the aged duck.
Smyth | 177 N. Ada St. #101, Chicago, IL 60607 | $$$$
5. Moody Tongue
One of only three Michelin star restaurants in Chicago to be awarded two stars, Moody Tongue was founded in 2014 and built on a philosophy of culinary brewing for those with a picky palate.
The Vibe
The ambiance is dark and somewhat mysterious, featuring an intimate 28-seating arrangement inside the dining room, complete with warm lighting and cozy fireplaces.
What to Order
You’ll enjoy tucking into the scrumptious tortellini and beet salad. A must-try dessert at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago is the 12-layer chocolate cake, made fresh and in-house.
Moody Tongue | 2515 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60616 | $$$
6. Oriole
Oriole is a contemporary American restaurant featuring an award-winning menu by Chef and owner Noah Sandoval, highlighting some of the best Chicago foods. This 2 Michelin star restaurant in Chicago recently received the Jean Banchet Award for Restaurant of the Year. The entire experience at Oriole is upscale and unforgettable.
The Vibe
Boasting a mystical vibe upon entry, you'll know you’re in for a magical time immediately. You'll be welcomed by a large open space with high ceilings and a visible kitchen. The service is fantastic and you’ll never find yourself waiting for more food, however, it’s not overbearing and the staff is friendly.
What to Order
The sablefish with golden kaluga caviar is a popular dish here, as is the capellini and Alaskan king crab. Each is presented exquisitely, bursting with flavor and richness on every sensational bite.
Oriole | 661 W. Walnut St., Chicago, IL 60661 | $$$$
7. Indienne
If you’re craving Indian cuisine, Indienne is a worthy upscale establishment that makes the list of Michelin star restaurants in Chicago. It’s located inside a 19th-century printing warehouse and is the latest new restaurant in Chicago to earn a Michelin star.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is uncomplicated and fresh, with minimal décor and a relaxed and comfortable feel. The brilliant reviews by guests who have visited this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago are a testament to the outstanding hospitality provided by the staff.
What to Order
The butter chicken is definitely worth trying at this 1 Michelin star restaurant in Chicago. Another popular dish is the lamb chop, served on a stew with savory, buttery naan bread.
Indienne | 217 W. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60654 | $$$$
8. Topolobampo
Having been around since 1989, Topolombampo is a Mexican Michelin star restaurant in Chicago complete with award-winning wine pairings and a reserve spirits list. It strives to bring the authentic flavors and cultures of Mexico to its guests thanks to the expertise of veteran Chef Meagan O’Connor and pastry Chef Jennifer Enyart.
The Vibe
The staff is professional and friendly, and the vibe gives a touch of sassy and classy inside an intimate space that screams Mexico, complete with a mariachi for a truly authentic experience.
What to Order
The king crab fideos here are superb and come smothered in a smokey morita chili sauce with sweet potatoes and herbs. Another popular authentic dish is the mole, complete with hand-pressed tortillas.
Topolobampo | 445 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60654 | $$$$
9. Sepia
A stand-out amongst the various Michelin star restaurants in Chicago, Sepia is focused on tradition with modern flair, featuring new American cuisine in a vintage setting. It was built from an 1890s print shop and captures the memorabilia from the Windy City’s iconic bygone era.
The Vibe
The space makes every effort to portray Chicago’s distant past and you’ll be taken aback by the acute attention to detail. Custom tile art graces the floors, crafted millwork splays throughout and even the stemware is vintage. The dining room elegantly radiates a calm and relaxed feel.
What to Order
Some of the most beloved dishes at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago are the flat iron steak, the ricotta cavatelli and the pork porterhouse.
Sepia | 123 N. Jefferson St., Chicago, IL 60661 | $$$$
10. Boka
This iconic establishment has served guests since 2003 and now joins the list of 1 Michelin star restaurants in Chicago. The emphasis at Boka is on serving seasonal American cuisine, with timeless design and warm hospitality.
The Vibe
The ambiance inside the dining room is lovely, with perfect lighting and background music that plays at a soft volume to allow for comfortable conversation. Attention to detail here is impeccable, and guests leave feeling well taken care of.
What to Order
The ocean trout is a popular choice, served on a bed of delectable sauce. The duck leg ravioli is another superb dish to devour.
Boka | 1729 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614 | $$$$
11. Temporis
With only 20 seats, Temporis is a lovely intimate Michelin restaurant in Chicago perfect for a date night. It offers a 10-course tasting menu that evolves, serving progressive American cuisine with ingredients grown in its hydroponic garden.
The Vibe
Small, modern and sleek, with tables dressed in white linens, the intimate space inside this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago is intended for you to feel pampered.
What to Order
If they're available, try the white pumpkin soup or the black cod — both are equally divine.
Temporis | 933 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 | $$$$
12. EL Ideas
What does EL Ideas stand for? “Elevated ideas,” and that’s exactly what you’ll experience inside this exquisite Michelin star restaurant in Chicago. Chef Phillip Foss takes fine dining to another level by allowing guests to bring their own beer and mingle with the chefs. Book your next celebration here for an unforgettable birthday dinner in Chicago.
The Vibe
An experience at EL Ideas is intended to be fun and relaxed. Every seat in a cozy and casual atmosphere allows guests to observe the wizards work their magic inside the open kitchen.
What to Order
Some highly favored menu choices are the shrimp and lamb dishes, both described as "out of this world."
EL Ideas | 2419 W. 14th St., Chicago, IL 60608 | $$$$
13. Next
Get ready to experience a changing menu several times a year at Next, reflecting a new culinary region, theme or moment in time. This Michelin-star restaurant in Chicago has received 32 four-star reviews from the Chicago Tribune, a James Beard Award as Best New Restaurant in America and a Michelin star for four years in a row.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is energetic and upbeat at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago, with super friendly staff and simple, unpretentious décor.
What to Order
Guests have great things to say about the duck egg salad and the roasted banana, which are both cooked to perfection and presented beautifully.
Next | 953 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 | $$$$
14. Omakase Yume
“Omakase” means “I’ll leave it up to you,” and typically refers to placing one’s trust in the chef. This is the exact spirit Chef Sangtae strives to bring to the table at Omakase Yume. He enjoys offering new foods and creations for his guests to try, evoking a sense of community and trust at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago.
The Vibe
Hip and fresh with an elite and upscale vibe, it has soft, modern lighting and décor in a small, intimate space that doesn’t feel too crowded. The chefs interact with the guests and the staff is super friendly and warm.
What to Order
All plates at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago are presented in an exceptionally pristine condition, with some favored orders being the smoked salmon sushi, the misoyaki and the chawanmushi, which is a savory steamed custard topped with crab and mushrooms.
Omakase Yume | 651 W. Washington Blvd. Ste. 101, Chicago, IL 60661 | $$$$
15. Porto
Injecting delightful European traditions into each unforgettable dish, Porto is a Michelin star restaurant in Chicago that cooks up delicious cuisine from Portugal and Spain. It features a wood-burning kitchen, the best imported wines and top-notch seafood that’s flown in fresh from Galicia.
The Vibe
The atmosphere inside this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago reflects the restaurant's love for Portugal and Spain. You’ll feel as if you’ve landed in an authentic European restaurant with pretty décor and a romantic ambiance.
What to Order
Some beloved dishes at this unique Michelin star restaurant in Chicago are the charcoal-grilled Galician octopus, uni toast and the bacalhau dumplings.
Porto | 1600 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 | $$$$
16. Elske
Another restaurant with charming significance radiating from its name, Elske is a modern American Michelin star restaurant in Chicago named after the Danish word meaning “to love.” It combines contemporary and classic techniques, showcasing local and seasonal ingredients.
The Vibe
Guests are beckoned with an enchanting doorway lit with candles and a beautiful courtyard fireplace. It boasts a remarkable open kitchen so guests can view the loving care that goes into preparing each masterful dish.
What to Order
Some of the most popular dishes from the à la carte menu at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago are the fermented black bean agnolotti, the duck liver tart and the confit maitake.
Elske | 1350 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60607 | $$$$
17. Galit
Offering Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and vegetarian meals, amongst others, Galit is a reputable Michelin star restaurant in Chicago that values and honors the hard work of its team.
The Vibe
Relaxing and comfortable, it’s kept very clean and the staff are friendly and accommodating. Kitchen counter seating is offered if you'd like to view the action.
What to Order
Guests have thoroughly enjoyed the pastrami shawarma. It has a symphony of harmonious flavors that simply explode in your mouth. You may also love the chicken thigh for its juicy tenderness and flavor.
Galit | 2429 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60614 | $$$$
18. Esmé
With each tasting menu change at this constantly evolving fine dining Michelin star restaurant in Chicago, Esmé strives to tell a story encompassed in art, culture and thoughtfully composed presentation.
The Vibe
This restaurant is a must-visit for culinary and art enthusiasts alike. Some guests have described it as a "portal to the divine." In support of local artists, the modern and bright artwork gives its overall appeal an eclectic vibe.
What to Order
Try the Flower Boy, which is a kombu croquant filled with wagyu tartar and topped with shaved radish and truffle. For dessert, you’ll love the banana-glazed doughnut.
Esmé | 2200 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614 | $$$$
19. Mako
Another Japanese Michelin star restaurant in Chicago presents itself wonderfully in the form of Mako, led by Chef B.K Park, who is known for having more than 20 years of experience crafting delightful sushi. This top restaurant has also won a four-star review by the Chicago Tribune.
The Vibe
The ambiance at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago is extremely intimate and calming. Its minimalistic décor is elegant and inviting.
What to Order
Some tasty dishes to try are the black cod and the kaiso salad.
Mako | 731 W. Lake St., Chicago, IL 60661 | $$$$
20. Kasama
Of all the Michelin star restaurants in Chicago, Kasama is the most affordable. This Philipino restaurant and bakery offers a unique concept whereby you can order your food online for takeout.
The Vibe
If you don’t order your food ahead, you’ll likely have to wait in line. If that is the case, however, the delightful meals, together with the aesthetic vibe and service, are worth the wait at this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago.
What to Order
The corned beef is incredibly tasty. Some other delectable items to try are the mushroom adobo and the Philipino breakfast.
Kasama | 1001 N. Winchester Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 | $$
21. Schwa
For those longing for an epicurean love story, this Michelin star restaurant in Chicago will deliver. Focused on awakening all the senses and dissolving the barrier between patron and chef, Schwa promises an epic fine dining escapade.
The Vibe
Schwa is a very tiny space that only seats about 10 people. The ambiance is dimly lit; black linens dress the tables and hip-hop music plays in the background.
What to Order
Favorites at Schwa are the quail egg ravioli and delectable sablefish.
Schwa | 1466 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 | $$$$
Enjoy Michelin Star-Quality Foods in Chicago
If you’re curious about taking your dining experience to a whole new level, your exploration doesn’t need to stop at Michelin star restaurants in Chicago. To get up close and personal, consider taking a Chicago food tour. During this extraordinary deep dive, an experienced tour guide will take you through the various traditions and local hot spots that make Chicago famous for its rich food and art scene. Another fun way to enjoy Michelin star-quality foods is through a private chef experience. For an intimate and personal evening, a private chef in Chicago will come to your home and curate an elaborate event complete with gourmet food and pampered service for you and your guests.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Chicago is an epicenter for Michelin star restaurants. Home to many exciting fine dining establishments and world-renowned chefs, you'll be wowed by wonderful culinary experiences and exciting entertainment. So, whether you’re a resident or simply paying a visit, be sure to reserve a table at one of the superior Michelin star restaurants in Chicago.
For even more ways to explore Chicago and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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