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Top 13 Restaurants in Hyde Park

If you’re visiting Chicago and love parks and cultural landmarks, you can’t do better than Hyde Park. This fascinating neighborhood has a long history, with historic events happening there since the 19th century.

chef holding dish at hyde park chicago restaurant

Hyde Park is a famous Chicago neighborhood you’ll find to the south of the city’s central downtown area. A proud part of the South Side, Hyde Park always has much to offer.

Want to see a UNESCO World Heritage Site? You’ll find it at the Robie House, a creation of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

When I visited Hyde Park, one of the first things I noticed was that pretty much no matter where you look, there is something interesting to see or do.

The Museum of Science and University of Chicago are only two of a vast array of landmarks found in the vicinity of Hyde Park.

And as for Hyde Park’s impressive food scene, what can I say? I found several Hyde Park restaurants that I enthusiastically recommend. Check out my list of the best restaurants in Hyde Park below!


Ja’ Grill Hyde Park

1510 E Harper Ct, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-752-5375
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Without question, Ja’ Grill is the place to go in Hyde Park if you love Jamaican cuisine. You get the authentic Jamaican culinary experience here, so get your tastebuds ready!

There are traditional Jerk dishes here, with the Jerk Chicken being Ja’ Grill’s signature dish. Other Jerk dishes are Jerk Shrimp, Jerk Lamb, and Jerk Ribs.

If Curry is your thing, you will find this here too. Are you a vegetarian? Several vegetarian dishes are available here, including a Veggie Plate, Tofu served in various styles, and Ital Stew, which features mixed vegetables, onions, carrots, butter beans, and callaloo, all sauteed in delicious coconut cream.


Cedar’s Mediterranean Kitchen

1206 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-324-6227
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I don’t know about you, but I love Mediterranean food. Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, you should visit Cedar’s Mediterranean Kitchen at least once during your Hyde Park adventures.

When I went to Cedar’s Mediterranean Kitchen, I ordered the Lamb Kebob Plate, and I can assure you, it was delicious.

When it comes to appetizers, I highly recommend the Egyptian Lentil Soup. The Butternut Squash Soup is another popular option.

Cedar’s Mediterranean Kitchen is conveniently located, close-by fascinating attractions such as the Museum of Science and Industry.

If you’re looking for vegetarian-friendly and vegan options, Cedar’s Mediterranean Kitchen has you covered.


Valois Restaurant

1518 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-667-0647
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Anyone exploring Hyde Park will see the legendary Valois Restaurant. Don’t just walk by. Instead, head inside and enjoy some of the tasty meals this traditional American diner-style restaurant has in store.

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The number one dish here is N.Y. Steak & Eggs. I tried this, and it was delicious, just the hearty breakfast I needed before heading out on a long day of Chicago adventures.

It includes steak and eggs, as well as hashbrowns, grits, or rice, as well as biscuit, rye toast, or white toast.

If you have lunch at Valois, there is certainly a large menu to choose from. There are sandwiches, open-face sandwiches, wraps, salads, and more on offer.


Virtue Restaurant

1462 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-947-8831
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Virtue Restaurant has a laid-back yet chic and inviting atmosphere. It has a unique approach, with its Small Rations, Large Rations, and Extra Rations menus.

For dinner, I highly recommend the Lemon Chicken. This refreshing dish features chicken with lemon, roasted fennel, and green beans.

Check out the wine list, too. There are plenty of choices, so you can find the perfect wine to pair with your meal. Prefer a cocktail? Virtue Restaurant offers a list of exciting Southern Cocktails.

When it comes to dessert, you’re spoiled for choice at Virtue Restaurant. My favorite? The Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding. It comes with yummy bourbon butterscotch and vanilla ice cream.


Medici on 57th

1327-1331, 1327 E 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-667-7394
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With a Hyde Park history stretching back decades, Medici on 57th is known and well-loved by the locals.

This restaurant describes its culinary approach as American and eclectic. With great brunch, lunch, and dinner menus, Medici on 57th was an eating spot I was excited to visit.

Some popular dishes are the Quesadillas, Moroccan Ragout, Spicy Black Bean Burger, and Steak Sandwich.

Another is the Salmon Burger, which was my item of choice and one I definitely recommend. Medici on 57th is also known for its delicious pizzas. I certainly heard plenty of locals talk about them during my time in Chicago’s Hyde Park.


Nella Pizza & Pasta

1125 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-643-0603
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If Neapolitan pizza is what you crave, look no further than Nella Pizza & Pasta. This well-known Hyde Park restaurant is the creation of Nella Grassano, a Neopolitan pizza chef with years of experience.

You can visit Nella Pizza & Pasta for brunch, lunch, or dinner. And don’t forget dessert! This restaurant has won the Michelin Bib Gourmand award, so you know you are in safe hands. As you must expect, there is an extensive pizza menu here. There is pasta here, too.

When it comes to pizza at Nella Pizza & Pasta, the Margherita Pizza is my favorite. For dessert, I went with the yummy Tiramisu.


Plein Air Cafe

5751 S Woodlawn Ave, Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-966-7531
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An appropriately airy cafe with plain yet stylish decor, Plein Air Cafe offers a wide range of menu options.

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This is a great cafe to stop at as you make your way around Chicago’s Hyde Park area. Enjoy breakfast or lunch here during your time in the area.

I headed to the Plein Air Cafe for breakfast and enjoyed the Spinach Royal Pie. This dish features farm-fresh eggs with cheddar. It’s accompanied by salad.

Other delicious breakfast options include the Quiche of the Day, Veggie Burrito, Breakfast Croissant Sandwich, and more. I also enjoyed two pieces of delectable veggie sausage.


The Promontory

5311 S Lake Park Ave W, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 312-801-2100
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The Promontory is a key part of Hyde Park’s legendary nightlife. This iconic spot is well-known for its cocktails, but its food is another impressive attraction.

The juicy fried Chicken Sandwich is one of the most popular menu items. When it comes to food, The Promontory offers a range of American cuisine items, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

The Promontory is a proud fixture in South Chicago, and if you’re exploring this part of the city and Hyde Park, make sure you head over here at least once.

Music is a huge part of life at The Promontory, and you should see a musical performance here at least once.


Chant Restaurant In Hyde Park

1509 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-324-1999
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A well-known local destination for live music, Chant Restaurant in Hyde Park offers an exciting menu of Asian fusion and Thai food. The cocktail bar here is something you won’t want to miss out on, either.

When it comes to food, a few of the most popular dishes here are the Duck Tacos, Lobster Rangoon, and Paid Thai. Chant Restaurant offers Small Plates, Soup & Salad, Big Plates, and Sweets menus in addition to its famous cocktails.

Chant describes itself as a mixture of upscale and trendy, and I’ve got to agree. Global cuisine is this restaurant’s primary culinary focus, while entertainment and impressive cocktails are the features that make Chant such an important part of the local nightlife.


Ascione Bistro

1500 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-363-8161
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One of the most stylish restaurants in Hyde Park, Ascione Bistro has been named one of the best restaurants in Chicago by Thrillist.

Ascione Bistro is a must-visit Hyde Park attraction with top-notch dishes, including handmade pastas and much more.

Head to Ascione Bistro for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Brunch was my choice of meal at Ascione Bistro. As the unabashed owner of a major sweet tooth, I ordered the Nutella French Toast.

This brunch selection was delectable, adorned with Nutella, Maine maple syrup, and strawberries. Love brunch drinks? You can get Unlimited Mimosas with fresh fruit garnishes.

If you have dinner at Ascione Bistro, ensure you pair your meal with the perfect wine. This restaurant has an impressive wine menu.

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14 Parish

1644 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 312-291-8379
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14 Parish offers a plethora of exciting Caribbean dishes, such as Red Beans and Rice, Jerk Chicken, Coconut Shrimp, Beef Patty, and Coconut Shrimp. This Hyde Park restaurant has a laidback and welcoming atmosphere, and the food is beautifully presented.

Taking part in Hyde Park’s vibrant nightlife. Check out 14 Parish’s Late Night Menu. It’s available on Thursdays and Saturdays.

14 Parish is also a great spot for brunch. Order one of the entrees, like the Yankee Breakfast or Sweet & Spicy Short Omelet.

If you love waffles and cakes, take a look at the Belgian Waffles or Buttermilk Stack. There are Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and other drinks available, too.


Snail Thai Cuisine

1649 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-667-5423
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Snail Thai Cuisine is the Hyde Park destination for Thai cuisine. Conveniently located, this restaurant is perfect for a visit during your time in the area.

I’m personally a huge fan of Thai food, and Snail Thai Cuisine was one of the first Hyde Park restaurants I visited during my time in the area.

While Snail Thai Cuisine is a small establishment, it became a community fixture when it opened in 1993.

This restaurant makes all its dishes with fresh and top-quality meat, seafood, and produce. Always welcoming, Snail Thai Cuisine values each and every customer.

I highly recommend the Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles at Snail Thai Cuisine. Other popular dishes include the Crab Rangoon and Red Curry.


The Sit Down Cafe & Sushi Bar

1312 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: 773-324-3700
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If you’re looking for a sushi bar with additional offerings to suit everyone, head over to The Sit Down Cafe & Sushi Bar.

This well-known local eatery offers a wide range of popular dishes. Some of these include the Jambalaya, Chicago Fire, Blue Apple Salad, and Chicken Pesto sandwich. I highly recommend the Drunken Tiger sushi rolls when it comes to the sushi offerings.

This is some of the best sushi you will find anywhere, in my opinion. If you’re a big fan of classic American-inspired food, check out the Steak Sandwich.

The Sit Down Cafe & Sushi Bar has a great Hyde Park location, just a couple of miles from the Museum of Science and Industry.


As one of the most popular and vibrant communities in Chicago’s South Side, Hyde Park clearly has a lot to offer.

While you’re in the area, make sure to learn about its history and visit its many cultural attractions.

Looking to get into healthy Indian cuisine? We recommend you visit one of these restaurants and try their vegetarian friendly menus.

As we’ve seen here, Hyde Park’s culinary scene is not to be missed. Make time in your itinerary to eat at least a few of the restaurants I’ve talked about here. I visited them all, and I recommend them without hesitation.

Did we leave a restaurant out of this list? Make sure you leave us a comment, and we’ll check it out!

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Quora, Google Guide and Facebook.