There are many different restaurants in Chicago, offering everything from fine dining to fast food. Here are some of the best areas to find them.

West Loop

If you enjoy dining out at luxury establishments, the West Loop is the area to be in. Due in large part to the numerous bars and restaurants that line Randolph Street and the area around the historic Fulton Market, this up-and-coming neighborhood is home to a wealth of culinary delights. Formerly a significant packing and industrial area, these West Loop locations are now home to some of Chicago’s most talked-about eateries. A trio of establishments run by Iron Chef Stephanie Izard that are widely regarded as neighborhood gems.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is perhaps the Chicago neighborhood that most fully captures both the city’s historical and modern allure. It is not only a beautiful location but for someone who is a true foodie, there is much to offer. One such restaurant Alinea is often described as one of the most progressive fine dining establishments in the world. It treats food like an art exhibit and was named the greatest restaurant in the world by Elite Traveler magazine.

Near North

The Near North Side is home to some of Chicago’s most stunning attractions, including the Chicago River and a number of magnificent buildings. It would be impossible to name all of the fantastic restaurants in this popular tourist destination. Restaurants like RPM Italian and RPM Steak are perfect for people who enjoy fine dining. Mexican food is served both traditionally and creatively in Rick Bayless’ many restaurants, including Frontera Grill and Topolobampo. Looking for a romantic restaurant for two? The food at Bavette’s and Gilt Bar, two of the best restaurants in Chicago, are highly regarded.

Logan Square

A great place to explore Chicago’s past, present, and future is Logan Square. When it comes to the selection of food and cuisines, Logan Square is like a miniature version of Chicago. Try the New American cuisine at Longman and Eagle or the magnificent dishes at 90 Miles Cuban Café. And definitely don’t miss out on the delectable desserts at Bang Bang Pie and Biscuits.

West Town

West Town includes a number of neighborhoods such as Wicker Park, Ukrainian Village, and Bucktown. These are the places in fashion right now. West Town, which is teeming with art galleries, boutiques, and, restaurants, is the destination where people go to discover the next big thing before it becomes popular. One can choose from restaurants such as Split-Rail, Homestead on the Roof, WHISK and Big Star, which is renowned for its tacos and outdoor seating area. The city also has a ton of fantastic bars, including the renowned speakeasy Violet Hour. For those gourmets who prefer coffee, there are plenty of wonderful places like Wormhole and Dark Matter.

Pilsen

Although Pilsen, a Latino neighborhood in Chicago, is best known for its great tacos, there is other great food to enjoy there as well. The Pilsen restaurant scene is a vibrant fusion of modern and traditional cuisine that is influenced by many different nationalities and generations. Envision a lively area where mom-and-pop taquerias and fashionable fusion restaurants coexist alongside historic buildings housing modern, multi-concept cafes. Some restaurants in Pilsen that are representative of the neighborhood include HaiSous, a hip Vietnamese restaurant with a fantastic tasting menu; Taqueria El Milagro, a tortilla factory serving some of the best tacos in the city and Dusek’s Board and Beer, an old-fashioned pub located in the historic Thalia Hall.

Bronzeville

An interesting neighborhood with a strong African American background is Bronzeville. It also has a vibrant restaurant scene that attracts foodies from all across the city. A remarkable fusion of the old and the new is emerging, with both venerable institutions and hip new additions. When in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago, stop by the Bronzeville Winery, Norman’s Cafe (famous for its Sunday jazz and Cajun-Creole cuisine), and Yassa African Restaurant.

River North

Just north of the river and near to the Loop, River North is a well-known location for fine eating. Once an industrial area, the neighborhood has been turned into an established hotspot for eating and drinking. Its bustling streets are lined with chic steakhouses, award-winning cocktail bars, chic restaurants, and many other establishments where visitors may satisfy their need for fine dining. It’s the perfect setting for a special night out on the town, a celebratory meal, or a great cocktail.

Chinatown

There are now more options than just Chinese food, including Korean, Thai, and ramen. Family-owned restaurants, charming shops and historic buildings characterize this region, which serve dishes that guests will long for when they return home.

Avondale

Following the closing of Hot Doug’s, Avondale’s dining scene might have vanished from sight if not for the inclusion of the Asian fusion sensation Parachute and the meteoric ascent of Honey Butter Fried Chicken. But this previously peaceful section of Elston has suddenly turned into a restaurant hotspot. Logan Square is home to eateries like Kuma’s and Yusho as well as excellent pastries at Cellar Door Provisions. 

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Affordable Housing

Related Midwest have hinted they may use the incentive package to start construction at former Chicago Spire. The site at 400 North Lake Shore Drive.

As it completes Chicago’s first residential tower development with on-site units. President, Curt Bailey confirmed that the majority of their Chicago projects will feature a 20 percent affordable housing component.

The new regulation instructs developers that they must maintain 20 percent of residential units at affordable prices. for at least 30 years in new construction in high-income zones like Fulton Market.

The rule specifies that affordable housing must be constructed on-site, closing a current loophole. Taking away the permission for developers to build cheap housing elsewhere. Developers were using this loophole to buid this affordable housing outside the proximity of the districts designated for market-rate housing.

This incentive package signed into state law in 2021 has lessened the effects on developers of revising the city’s affordable housing legislation.

This law has increased the proportion of affordable housing units that must be built in all new projects. Increasing the number now typically to 20 percent of all units as opposed to the current 10 percent.

Expected development projects

The first significant project to be built under the new incentive program is being completed by Related Midwest. 60 affordable units will be available in The Row Fulton Market, a 300-unit rental tower at 164 North Peoria Street. Related Midwest had taken over the Chicago Spire site in 2014.

In the midst of the 2000s, developers had planned for the site to provide a 150-story, 2,000-foot tall skyscraper; the developers eventually abandoned the Project. In 2020, Related Midwest unveiled a two-tower plan for the site, promising structures rising to 875 and 765 feet tall; construction has not commenced

According to Shapack Partners, they are building a 28-story residential tower at 1353 West Fulton Street. Five new apartment complexes supported by the program have started construction since Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the legislation. Subsequently, the developer firm are expected to add a total of 1,612 apartments to the city. The real estate development project based at 225 North Elizabeth Street, Sterling Bay is also developing a $155 million, 350-unit tower.

Developer, Jeff Shapack, he believes that the Affordable Illinois incentive package will become a major driver in the production of a significant number of affordable homes.

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