10 Chicago Institutions Worth Trying at Least Once

4.6 (1,331)

Mon – Sun, 07:30 – 13:00

401 N Franklin St

Doughnut Vault puts a pistachio twist on the old-fashioned at its narrow walk-up counter. Chandeliers light the brick hallway. I'd pair a doughnut with the strong, balanced coffee and leave time for the outdoor queue. The shop closes when doughnuts sell out. Platform reviewers give it 4.6 out of 5 across 1,331 ratings.

4.5 (5,938)

Mon – Fri, 09:00 – 14:30; Sat – Sun, 08:30 – 15:30

1112 S Wabash Ave

Eleven City Diner combines Jewish deli staples with diner classics. A vintage soda fountain anchors the room. The kitchen serves house-brined brisket with a rich dipping sauce. I'd order the pancakes for their crisp edges and fluffy centers. Reviewers rate it 4.5 out of 5 across 5,938 ratings.

4.2 (4,380)

Mon – Sun, 11:00 – 23:00

61 E Madison St

Pizano's Pizza & Pasta serves buttery deep-dish and ultra-thin cornmeal-crust pizzas in the Loop. I'd put both on the table for a Chicago crust comparison. Tin ceilings and red-checked tablecloths frame the dining room. Diners praise both pizza styles and the old-school Chicago setting.

4.5 (374)

Wed – Fri, 17:00 – 22:00; Sat, 16:00 – 22:00; Sun, 16:00 – 21:00

1215 W Grand Ave

Pizz'Amici makes cracker-crust tavern pies and Sicilian squares in West Town. Little curtains frame the window tables in its old-school dining room. I'd book ahead to avoid long waits and aim for a window table. Takeout is also available. Reviewers consistently praise the thin, crispy tavern-style crust.

4.6 (1,169)

Mon – Thu, 11:30 – 14:30, 17:00 – 22:00; Fri – Sat, 11:30 – 14:30, 17:00 – 23:00

1958 N Damen Ave Apt 3

Le Bouchon has served Lyonnais classics in Bucktown since 1993. The small dining room bustles. The menu includes trout en croûte, homemade bread and apple tart. I'd choose Monday for half-price wine bottles if wine suits the occasion. Patrons praise the French bistro setting, friendly service and classic dishes.

4.8 (2,074)

Mon – Sat, 09:00 – 21:00; Sun, 11:00 – 18:00

1720 N Marcey St

Binny's Beverage Depot - Lincoln Park makes bottle browsing feel like an exploration, with expansive wine, craft beer and spirits, informative varietal notes, knowledgeable staff and an orderly layout. I'd start with a varietal note, then ask staff to steer the next bottle. Tasting events pair wine and beer with live jazz. Platform reviewers give it 4.8 out of 5 across 2,074 ratings.

4.4 (257)

Mon – Tue, 16:00 – 00:00 (+1); Wed, 16:00 – 02:00 (+1); Thu – Fri, 14:00 – 02:00 (+1); Sat, 11:00 – 03:00 (+1); Sun, 11:00 – 00:00 (+1)

2158 N Halsted St

Guinness on tap and Greek food make an unexpected pairing at Glascott's Saloon. Four generations of the Glascott family have run this neighborhood Irish pub since 1937. I'd make it a stop for a pint and a catchup with friends. Reviewers give it 4.4 out of 5 across 257 ratings.

4.4 (79)

Wed – Thu, 16:00 – 00:00 (+1); Fri, 16:00 – 23:00 (+1); Sat, 12:00 – 23:00 (+1); Sun, 12:00 – 23:00

1357 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

Elston Electric combines pinball and giant-screen games with animatronic band performances. I'd play pinball before a nearby Salt Shed event. The bar serves cocktails. Children aren't allowed after 10 PM. Reviewers praise the games, drinks and friendly staff, while noting concerns about food quality.

4.6 (1,434)

Mon – Sun, 11:00 – 22:30

233 East Riverwalk

Benches line the water at this open-air Riverwalk stop. The bar offers an extensive draft cider list. I'd settle here for a fruit-forward pour and a conversation with the river in view. The kitchen serves soft pretzels and European fare. Reviewers rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 1,434 ratings.

4.3 (624)

Mon – Sun, 11:00 – 22:00

6259 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr

A deck overlooking Lake Michigan puts the shoreline at the center of Reggies on the Beach. Live music accompanies the beach scene. I'd pick a shaded patio seat for people-watching. Visitors praise the lakefront views and spacious patio, though some report slow food service at the carry-out stand.