Lookytasty Adventures in Food New York City Chicago: The Best Places to Eat in New York City and Chicago

When it comes to finding the best places to eat in New York City and Chicago, the options can be overwhelming. However, there are a few standout restaurants in each city that locals and tourists alike can agree are worth a visit.

In New York City, some of the best places to eat include:

• Di Fara Pizza: Known for its classic New York-style pizza, this Brooklyn institution is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
• Katz’s Delicatessen: This iconic deli has been serving up pastrami, corned beef, and other Jewish deli classics since 1888.
• Xi’an Famous Foods: This chain of Chinese restaurants serves up hand-pulled noodles and spicy, flavorful dishes that are perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

In Chicago, some of the best places to eat include:

• Alinea: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-sensory dining experience that is both innovative and delicious.
• Portillo’s: This chain of casual restaurants is known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake shakes.
• Girl & the Goat: This trendy restaurant offers a creative, globally-inspired menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and bold flavours.

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a good meal, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your appetite in New York City and Chicago.

Best Places to Eat in New York City

New York City is a foodie’s paradise, with an endless array of restaurants, cafes, bars, and more. Whether you’re looking for classic American cuisine or something more international, the Big Apple has it all.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to eat in New York City – from Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall eateries. Read on to find out where some of the city’s top foodies go for their meals.

Lookytasty Adventures in Food New York City Chicago

New York City is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous top-rated restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best places to eat in the city that never sleeps:

Restaurant	Description
Elea	Located in the Upper West Side, Elea is a Greek-inspired restaurant that specialises in fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu features classic dishes with a modern twist, such as grilled octopus and crispy artichokes.
Blue Hill	Blue Hill is a farm-to-table restaurant that uses fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from their own farm in upstate New York. Their menu changes frequently based on what is available, but their signature dish is the “pasture-raised chicken for two.”
Sushi Yasuda	Sushi Yasuda is a must-visit for sushi lovers, serving traditional Edomae-style sushi with only the freshest and highest quality fish. Their omakase menu is a feast for the senses, featuring an array of nigiri, sashimi, and other treats.

These restaurants offer a truly unique dining experience that is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to make a reservation before visiting these popular restaurants, as they tend to fill up quickly!

Best Cafes in NYC

New York City is renowned for its diverse selection of cafes, each offering a distinct atmosphere, menu, and coffee selection. Here are some of the best cafes in NYC to grab a cup of coffee, snack or meal with friends or family:

Café	Description
Café Grumpy	With six locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, this cafe is known for its high-quality coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches. Its cosy and modern interiors make it a popular spot for work and leisure.
Bluestone Lane	This Australian-inspired café boasts numerous locations throughout the city, offering a selection of premium espresso drinks, teas, and healthy breakfast, lunch, and brunch options. Its minimalist decor creates a serene and elegant atmosphere.
Joe Coffee Company	Joe Coffee Company proudly sources its coffee from direct-trade farmers, Roasting them in Brooklyn for distribution to eight cafes across the city. Their approach to coffee is a strong emphasis on sustainability and the environment.
Birch Coffee	Birch Coffee has multiple locations in Manhattan, offering customers a neighbourhood coffee experience with a range of bakery items, fresh juices, and infused water. They emphasise their eco-friendly approach and use of locally-sourced products.

Pro Tip: To experience the best of NYC’s cafe culture, go off the beaten path and try independent and locally-owned cafes that offer unique menus and community-focused atmospheres.

Best Food Trucks in NYC

New York City is a foodie’s paradise, and the best way to explore its vibrant street food culture is through food trucks. Here are five of the best food trucks in NYC that offer delicious and unique culinary experiences:

The Cinnamon Snail	This vegan food truck serves up a variety of sweet and savoury dishes, including their popular maple mustard tempeh sandwich.
Korilla BBQ	This Korean-inspired food truck serves up tasty burritos, tacos, and rice bowls filled with grilled meats, kimchi, and other classic Korean ingredients.
Wafels & Dinges	This Belgian Waffle truck offers a range of decadent toppings, from Nutella to bacon and maple syrup.
The Halal Guys	This food truck is renowned for its chicken and gyro platters, generously topped with white and hot sauces.
Red Hook Lobster Pound	This seafood truck offers fresh and succulent lobster rolls, packed with juicy chunks of lobster and served with butter and lemon dressing.

Best Places to Eat in Chicago

Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, and when it comes to where to eat in Chicago, the choices are nearly endless. From the classic Chicago pizzas to the array of international cuisines, there are plenty of options for food lovers to explore in the Windy City.

Let’s take a look at some of the top restaurants Chicago has to offer.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world, serving cuisines from all over the world. Here are the top-rated restaurants in Chicago that you must visit to satisfy your cravings for delicious food.

Restaurant	Description
Alinea	Known for its innovative and avant-garde cuisine, Alinea offers a multi-course tasting menu that is a must-try for foodies.
Girl & the Goat	With a menu that focuses on hearty, rustic cooking with a creative twist, Girl & the Goat has something for everyone.
The Publican	The Publican is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant that specialises in farm-to-table cuisine and has an extensive selection of craft beers to complement your meal.
Avec	Avec is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that features small plates, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Oriole	Oriole is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a multi-course tasting menu of contemporary American cuisine. It features an open kitchen that lets guests watch the chefs at work.

Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, these restaurants are sure to delight your taste buds and provide a memorable dining experience.

Best Cafes in Chicago

Chicago is teeming with cafes that offer a unique ambiance and a diverse menu. Here are five of the best cafes in the city that you must visit:

1. The Wormhole Coffee	– This cafe in Wicker Park is known for its retro decor, nerd-themed drinks, and handmade pastries.
2. Intelligentsia Coffee	– This chic cafe in Logan Square is popular for its delicious coffee, house-made baked goods, and modern interiors.
3. Cafe Robey	– Located in Wicker Park, this cafe offers a Parisian-style bistro atmosphere and serves American cuisine.
4. Goddess and the Baker	– This trendy cafe in River North serves coffee, breakfast, and bakery items that are Instagram-worthy.
5. Sawada Coffee	– This Japanese-inspired cafe in West Loop is famous for its signature military latte, a blend of matcha, espresso, and milk.

Pro Tip: Be sure to try the signature drinks and house-made pastries at each of these cafes for a complete experience.

Best Food Trucks in Chicago

When in Chicago, you can’t miss out on trying some of the city’s best food trucks. Here are some of the top food trucks you should definitely check out:

The Fat Shallot:	This truck offers gourmet sandwiches and classic comfort food with a spin. You can’t miss their famous truffle BLT.
The Happy Lobster Truck:	As the name suggests, this truck serves up delicious lobster rolls alongside other seafood delicacies.
Jerk:	This food truck specialises in Caribbean and Jamaican-style jerk meats and vegetarian options. The jerk chicken tacos are a must-have.
Yum Dum Truck:	You will love their fusion of Asian and Latin flavours, especially their steamed buns and tacos.
The DonerMen:	You can indulge in some authentic Turkish cuisine served by this truck, with their specialty being lamb and beef doner kebabs.

These food trucks offer a variety of foods that are sure to satisfy any foodie’s craving.

Must-Try Dishes in New York City

New York City is a bustling metropolis filled with different cuisines from around the world. With a variety of restaurants to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down which ones to try. In this article, we’ll explore some of the must-try dishes in NYC. From classic Italian food to exotic dishes, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste buds. Read on to discover the best places to eat in New York City.

Pizza Places to Try in NYC

If you’re a pizza lover, New York City is the place to be with a plethora of pizza places to satisfy your cravings. Here are some pizza places to try in NYC that offer different types of pizza styles and flavours:

Pizzeria	Style
Di Fara Pizza	Crispy thin-crust pies with fresh ingredients
Lombardi’s	Coal-fired brick oven pizzas with a chewy and flavorful crust
Prince Street Pizza	Spicy pepperoni slice called “The Prince” with a crispy crust and tangy sauce
Lucali’s	Thin-crust pizzas with fresh toppings
Patsy’s Pizzeria	Neapolitan-style pies with a chewy crust and San Marzano tomato sauce

Pro tip: Get to these pizza places early in the day to beat the long lines and have your pick of the best slices.

Best Food Tours in NYC

New York City is known for its diverse and colourful food scene, and a food tour is an excellent way to experience some of the city’s best dishes. Here are some of the best food tours in NYC:

1. Greenwich Village Food Tour:	This tour takes you through the quaint streets of Greenwich Village, where you’ll sample various Italian dishes, pizza, and artisanal cheeses.
2. Brooklyn Pizza Walk:	This tour is a great way to explore one of NYC’s iconic foods – pizza. You’ll visit some of the best pizzerias in Brooklyn and learn about the history of pizza making in NYC.
3. Foods of NY Tours:	This company offers a variety of food tours that focus on different neighbourhoods and cuisines.
4. Chinatown Food Tour:	You’ll experience the vibrant culture of Chinatown while sampling authentic Chinese food, such as dumplings, scallion pancakes, and bubble tea.
5. Harlem Food Tour:	This tour explores the rich history and culinary traditions of Harlem. You’ll sample soul food, Caribbean cuisine, and African dishes.

These tours are sure to give you a taste of some of the best food NYC has to offer!

Famous NYC Desserts to Try

New York City is famous for its dessert scene, with a wide variety of sweet treats to satisfy any sweet tooth. Here are some famous NYC desserts to try:

Dessert	Description
Cronut	This sweet pastry is a hybrid of a croissant and a donut, created by Dominique Ansel in 2013. Be prepared to wait in line for this popular pastry, which has become a must-try dessert for tourists and locals alike.
Cheesecake	A classic New York-style cheesecake is a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar on a graham cracker crust. Some popular places to try this dessert are Junior’s, Eileen’s Special Cheesecake, and Two Little Red Hens.
Black and White Cookies	These large, cake-like cookies are half vanilla icing and half chocolate icing, making them a popular dessert for those who can’t decide which flavour they prefer. You can find them in many bakeries and coffee shops throughout the city.
Rainbow Cake	This colourful cake is a layered vanilla cake with rainbow coloured frosting. It’s a popular dessert at The Flour Shop, a bakery that has become famous for its rainbow cakes and other colourful desserts.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time and want to try multiple desserts, head to Chelsea Market or the food hall at The Plaza Hotel, both of which offer a wide range of dessert options from various vendors.

Must-Try Dishes in Chicago

When it comes to food, Chicago offers a wide variety of great restaurants, each with its own unique dishes. From classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza to delicious Italian beef sandwiches, it can be hard to know where to start.

This article will provide an overview of some of the must-try dishes in Chicago that you won’t want to miss.

Dish	Restaurant
Deep Dish Pizza	Lou Malnati’s
Italian Beef Sandwich	Al’s Beef

Famous Deep Dish Pizza Places in Chicago

When it comes to famous deep-dish pizza places in Chicago, Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s are the top contenders.

Giordano’s:	This iconic pizzeria, founded in 1974, boasts a signature buttery crust, a thick layer of cheese, and rich tomato sauce. Pro tip: Try the “stuffed” version of the deep dish pizza to relish the ultimate cheese experience.
Lou Malnati’s:	This family-owned business is known for its flaky butter crust, savoury sausage topping, and chunky tomato sauce. Pro tip: Order the “Malnati Chicago Classic” for an authentic taste of Chicago’s deep dish pizza scene.

These top-rated pizza places offer a unique and unforgettable experience for both tourists and locals alike, making them a must-try on your list of dishes in Chicago.

Best Food Tours in Chicago

Chicago is known for its diverse food scene ranging from deep-dish pizza to hot dogs to Italian beef sandwiches. If you’re a foodie looking to explore the local cuisine, here are some of the best food tours in Chicago to try:

1. Chicago Food Planet Food Tours:	This company offers a variety of food tours, including a pizza tour, a Chinatown tour, and a sweets and chocolate tour.
2. Sidewalk Food Tours of Chicago:	This tour company offers a variety of walking tours, including a Best of Chicago Food Tour, a River North Food Tour, and a Gold Coast and Old Town Food Tour.
3. Tastebud Tours:	This tour company offers a variety of tours, including a Classic Chicago Food Tour and a Pilsen Neighborhood Food Tour.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to try Chicago’s iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches during your food tour!

Famous Chicago Desserts to Try

Chicago is known for its famous desserts, and here are a few of the must-try ones during your visit:

Deep Dish Pizza:	This savoury pie-like pizza is a Chicago staple and is famous for its crispy crust, chunky tomato sauce, and melted cheese.
Garrett Popcorn:	This sweet and salty snack is a mix of caramel and cheese popcorn and is loved by locals and tourists alike.
Rainbow Cone:	This five-layered ice cream cone consists of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet flavours.
Italian Beef Sandwich:	This sandwich features thinly sliced beef soaked in flavorful juices and is topped with giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix.
Chocolate Cake Shake:	This indulgent shake is made by blending chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream together, creating a deliciously decadent dessert.

Pro Tip: Try these desserts at multiple locations to see who has the best version!

Best Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurants

Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or plant-based eater, you’re in luck travelling to either New York City or Chicago. Both cities offer a plethora of delicious vegan and vegetarian restaurants.

This section will cover all the best places to eat vegan or vegetarian food in both New York City and Chicago.

Top-Rated Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurants in NYC

New York City has a thriving vegan/vegetarian food scene, with a variety of restaurants that offer delicious and healthy options for plant-based eaters. Here are the top-rated vegan/vegetarian restaurants in NYC:

Restaurant	Description
Avant Garden	Offering a seasonal rotation of vegetable-focused plates, Avant Garden is the go-to spot for elegant and creative vegan cuisine.
Superiority Burger	Known for its famous veggie burger, Superiority Burger offers flavorful and affordable vegetarian options in a casual setting.
Candle 79	With a gourmet menu featuring dishes like seitan piccata and wild mushroom crepes, Candle 79 is a favourite among vegans and non-vegans alike.
Jajaja Plantas Mexicana	This colourful and lively restaurant serves vegan Mexican cuisine, including tacos, nachos, and plant-based meat dishes.
Nix	Led by renowned chef John Fraser, Nix offers an upscale vegetarian menu that showcases the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based eating.

Whether you are a vegetarian or just looking to try something new, these top-rated vegan/vegetarian restaurants in NYC are sure to satisfy.

Top-Rated Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago’s dining scene is full of vegan and vegetarian options that cater to the growing demand for plant-based cuisine. Here are some top-rated vegan/vegetarian restaurants in Chicago that offer delicious and creative dishes to satisfy any palette.

1. The Chicago Diner:	This iconic restaurant has been serving creative meat-free dishes in Chicago for over 30 years, featuring dishes such as seitan steak and BBQ wings.
2. Handlebar:	This casual eatery serves a wide array of classic and globally inspired vegetarian dishes, including a vegan breakfast sandwich and Korean BBQ bowl.
3. Green Zebra:	This upscale vegetarian restaurant focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and features a tasting menu with dishes such as roasted beet tartare and cashew cheese ravioli.
4. Demera Ethiopian Restaurant:	This Ethiopian spot has a lot of vegan and vegetarian options on their menu including lentils and vegetable dishes. They have very authentic veggie platters.

Chicago takes pride in its vegan and vegetarian food scene, ensuring that there will always be a restaurant to cater to plant-based eaters.

Hidden Gems

With so many great dining options in both New York City and Chicago, it can be hard to decide where to eat. But this article highlights some of the hidden gems in both cities that you might not have heard of before. From seafood restaurants in New York City to Mexican eateries in Chicago, these places are definitely worth checking out.

Keep reading to get a taste of the best places to eat in New York City and Chicago.

Hidden Gem Restaurants in NYC

If you’re tired of the same old tourist traps and overcrowded restaurants, here are some hidden gem restaurants in NYC that you must visit.

Cervo’s:	This is a popular seafood restaurant that serves exquisite Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are made using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
Bunker:	This Vietnamese restaurant is located in the bustling neighbourhood of Ridgewood and has quickly become a favourite among locals. Its menu is packed with flavorful dishes like pho, bánh mì, and spring rolls.
Joe’s Pizza:	Joe’s Pizza has been serving up delicious slices of pizza in Greenwich Village since 1975. It’s a tried-and-true classic that continues to charm both locals and tourists.
Zabb Elee:	This gem is located in the East Village and serves delicious and affordable Thai food. Their dishes have a lot of spices and are a must-try for those who love spicy food.
L’Artusi:	This Italian restaurant is located in the West Village and is known for its impeccably crafted pasta dishes and extensive wine list.

These hidden gem restaurants in NYC offer a unique dining experience that is sure to leave you satisfied and impressed.

Hidden Gem Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is home to some of the most sought-after restaurants in the world, but some of the best dining experiences can be found in the city’s undiscovered culinary destinations.

Here are some hidden gem restaurants in Chicago that should be on every foodie’s radar:

Split-Rail:	Located in West Town, Split-Rail is a small restaurant that offers a unique twist on classic American dishes. Try the fried chicken sandwich with honey butter hot sauce.
Pleasant House Pub:	Perfect for a cosy evening, Pleasant House Pub in Bridgeport that serves British-style savoury pies and pints of beer on tap.
Birrieria Zaragoza:	For something savoury and hearty, head to Birrieria Zaragoza in Archer Heights, known for its mouthwatering birria.
Taqueria El Asadero:	This hidden gem located in Albany Park dishes out some of the best tacos in the city.
Roister:	A fine dining experience with a relaxed atmosphere, Roister is located in the West Loop and serves dishes like aged beef with ramp pesto and more.

These are some of Chicago’s best-kept food secrets that locals love and tourists often overlook.

Pro-tip: Make reservations in advance for some of these spots as they tend to fill up quickly.