Brian Nagele
If you’re spending your vacation in Chicago, Illinois, one of the neighborhoods you should consider visiting is Lincoln Park.
Although it’s home to many shopping centers and music venues, tourists and locals alike love spending their time at the park of the same name.
I recommend reworking your schedule so you can visit the area and check out the Lincoln Park Zoo, Conservatory, and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.
Suppose you’re craving Chicago-style pizza, hot dogs, or other international dishes. In that case, you can find many restaurants within the park or the surrounding streets to keep you energized throughout the day or help you unwind after a long, fun outing.
Are you having trouble deciding where to eat? Then, check out my list of the best restaurants in Lincoln Park to help you narrow down your dining options while exploring this section of Windy City.
After all, knowing where to go is less stressful than wandering around aimlessly without a plan.
Boka
1729 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 312-337-6070
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First up on my list of the top restaurants in Lincoln Park is Boka, a stylish, modern eatery located near Steppenwolf Theater and The Garage Theater.
Their sleek lounge and candlelit courtyard provide the perfect setting for a romantic date, and their private terrace is ideal for any sizable party.
Executive Chef Lee Wolen’s seasonal tasting menus offer unique flavors and an engaging experience for anyone craving Lincoln Park’s best specialties.
You can choose between a wide selection of five or eight-course tasting menus with or without wine pairings. I enjoyed their salmon and paired it with a Rule of Thirds cocktail during my last visit to Boka.
Alinea
1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
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Next up on my list of the top restaurants in Lincoln Park is Alinea. This sleek and modern restaurant offers quality tasting menus prepared by Chef Grant Achatz for anyone interested in multi-course goodness. Their stylish artwork also pops out with the restaurant’s minimalist aesthetic.
I loved their Smoked Char Roe, Alaskan King Crab, and Venison during my last trip to Lincoln Park. If you’re in the mood to pay extra for an enhanced dining experience, they offer a menu with signature global wine pairings with each course.
Although this restaurant might be pricer than others you may have visited, I think the cost is worth the quality plates and service.
North Pond
2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-477-5845
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If you prefer dining inside the park, North Pond is one of the top places to eat in the neighborhood after exploring Lincoln Park’s most popular attractions.
It’s near the Oglesby Monument and Diversity Harbor. It has a lovely view of the city’s skyline from the nearby pond and has a warm and peaceful atmosphere for anyone who’s feeling hungry.
North Pond’s seasonal farm-to-table tasting menu offers a diverse selection of dishes to choose from. I recommend ordering their Lamb Tartare, Crab Crepe, Grilled Wagyu Striploin, and Yuzu Coffee.
They also have an extensive wine and cocktail list to enhance your meal and offer a multi-course brunch every Sunday.
Del Seoul
2568 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-248-4227
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Are you interested in sampling Lincoln Park’s finest Asian fare? Then, look no further than Del Seoul, a short walk away from the Wrightwood 659 art gallery.
This casual Korean BBQ restaurant fuses traditional fare with a fusion twist to give guests quality flavor whenever they stay for dinner or take their food to-go when they’re short on time.
Del Seoul’s fast-food menu is available all week. Consider trying their Sesame-Chili Shrimp Sandwich, BBQ Chicken Taco, Bulgogi Bento, or Veggie Bibimbap with one of their specialty wines or beer and a side of Seasoned Gamja Fries, Miso Soup, or Kimchi. Many of these dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
2024 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-935-5000
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After spending the afternoon with your kids at Oz Park, the best Lincoln Park restaurant I recommend for nearby dining is Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
This lively eatery offers Spanish tapas with a signature Chicago twist to spice up your night. They also offer private and semi-private dining spaces for parties of any size or occasion.
You can find several gluten-free dishes on their menu. In my opinion, their best dishes are Paella De Mariscos with Shrimp, Squid, Cod & Fennel, Roasted Chicken Empanada, Grilled Spanish Octopus, and Warm Potato & Onion Omelet. Try their Butterscotch Custard or Chocolate Truffle if you’re interested in dessert.
Pequod’s Pizza
2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-327-1512
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Enjoy the best Chicago-style pizza before watching a movie at Regal Webster Place Theater by visiting Pequod’s Pizza.
This casual pizzeria serves tempting deep-dish pizza every day, including late-night hours for anyone enjoying the city’s nightlife. They also offer carryout and delivery services.
I recommend starting with their Mozzarella Sticks, Jalapeño Poppers, or Cheese Fries. Then, consider trying their Meatball Sandwich, TriColor Tortellini, Spinach & Cheese Ravioli, or personal pizza topped with spinach, ground beef, and black olives.
Are you still craving more after enjoying Pequod’s cheesy goodness? If so, order their chocolate chip cheesecake, tiramisu, or peanut butter & chocolate chip cookie for dessert.
Athenian Room
807 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-348-5155
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One of the best Greek restaurants in Lincoln Park you should consider visiting is Athenian Room, located near DePaul University.
This casual, family-owned establishment offers quality Greek specialties for anyone eager to try something new during their visit to the neighborhood.
After starting with their Feta Cheese or Spanakopita, consider trying their Gyro Dinner, Chicken Breast on Pita Bread, Skirt Steak Alexandros-Style, or Charburger with Feta Cheese.
I typically order their Greek or French Fries on the side. Finally, be sure to try your dinner with their cinnamon-brewed iced tea or camomile tea. If you have room for a traditional Greek dessert, they offer Baklava.
Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Co.
2121 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-248-2570
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If you’re looking for restaurants in Lincoln Park offering unique dishes, Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Co.’s scratch-made pizza pot pies and Italian cuisine are some dishes you don’t want to miss out on during your visit. It’s to the west of Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo.
Their casual, historic atmosphere is an excellent place to enjoy dinner during the weekdays or lunch on the weekends.
I’m a fan of their Half-Pounder Pizza Pot Pie, Italian Ham Oven Grinder, Italian Festa Salad Dinner, and Meatball Oven Grinder.
You can also take their frozen pizza pot pies to go if you’re interested in enjoying them in the comfort of your home.
Floriole Cafe & Bakery
1220 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-883-1313
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Blocks away from Trebes Park stands the Floriole Cafe & Bakery, a bright and lively Lincoln Park restaurant.
They’re open Thursday through Sunday, making it an ideal option for anyone craving carryout European-style pastries, sandwiches, and other tasty dishes for breakfast or lunch.
My favorite menu options are their Honey Pecan Sticky Bun, Pain Au Chocolat Croissant, Deep-Dish Quiche, and Ham & Cheese Croissant.
If you’re looking for an extra energy boost to start your day, pair your meal with a hot chocolate, latte, or drip coffee.
They also sell frozen take-and-bake treats for home preparation, so feel free to take home their frozen Croissant Dogs or Turkey Pot Pie.
Juno Sushi Chicago
2638 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-935-2000
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If you’re having trouble finding restaurants in Lincoln Park offering quality Japanese cuisine, Juno Sushi Chicago is one destination you should consider visiting at least once.
It has a stylish, modern vibe and is a great place to take someone for sushi. You can find it near Jonquil Park and Wiggly Field Dog Park.
Don’t miss out on their Eel Trio Dinner, Smoked Hamachi, Spicy Tako Hand Roll, or Black Tobiko Nigiri.
They also have an extensive list of sake, wine, cocktails, craft beer, and Japanese whiskey to complete any dish. Finally, treat yourself to their sweet mochi ice cream.
Summer House Santa Monica
1954 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-634-4100
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Located northeast of the North Branch Chicago River, Summer House Santa Monica is your best option for seasonal New American dishes in an airy and spacious environment.
Its white walls and hanging plants give it a summertime ambiance to help you relax after a busy day of touring Lincoln Park and the other surrounding neighborhoods.
Whenever I have time in my schedule, I like booking ticket reservations for their private wine dinners. However, my favorite dishes are their Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Bucatini Pomodoro, Prosciutto & Egg Pizza, and Skirt Steak Frites with a side of sweet potato waffle fries and a fruity Pineapple Kick or Strawberry Fields mocktail.
Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern
1655 N Sedgwick St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 312-266-1616
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Nestled within a historic Old Town building, half a mile away from Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago, Twin Anchors Restaurant and Tavern is a Lincoln Park restaurant for anyone craving tender baby back pork ribs and other BBQ favorites.
It’s received recognition from several national publications and has an outdoor area for people who prefer fresh air.
Whenever I book a reservation here, I start with their Chicken Tenders or Onion Rings and have their Barbeque Pork Sandwich, Rib & Chicken Combo, or Anchor Burger.
I also top my main course with their signature Zesty Sauce. They also offer a kid’s menu for children ages eight and under and a gluten-free menu.
Mon Ami Gabi
2300 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-348-8886
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You can find Mon Ami Gabi in The Belden-Stratford Hotel, overlooking the Lincoln Park Zoo. This refined bistro has an excellent view of the Lincoln Park area and serves traditional French cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Nelli Maltezos and wine via a rolling cart.
If you’re interested in an authentic French dining experience, order their Steak Roquefort or Trout Almondine with a side of Garlic Spinach or Macaroni Gratin.
They also have weekly specials and Prix-Fixe menus you can browse through if you want to treat yourself to something different, like Duck A L’Orange. Don’t forget to try their Classic Profiteroles or Chocolate Mousse for dessert.
Galit
2429 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-360-8755
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Galit is a chef-driven Middle Eastern restaurant nestled next to Victory Gardens Theater. Executive Chef Zachary Engel prepares seasonal fare in a hip setting.
If you love exploring new international flavors, you can select from regular and shareable plates if you prefer larger portions or dining with others.
Galit has a fantastic multi-course dinner menu that you can choose to match your dining preferences. For example, during my last dinner outing with my friends, I had Masabacha, Pumpkin Tershi, Kale Tabouli, Tangier Sausage, and Chocolate Trifle.
I also recommend ordering their Pomegranate Gazoz, Flowering Fox, or Clarified Milk Punch to quench your thirst.
Riccardo Trattoria
2119 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-549-0038
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One of the best restaurants in Lincoln Park I recommend for a relaxing night out is Riccardo Trattoria. After a long day at the zoo, this eatery’s intimate atmosphere is a nice change of pace to the excitement outdoors. They use a wood-burning oven for cooking their Northern Italian dishes to perfection.
They serve the neighborhood’s best Galletto Alla Diavola, Spaghetti Allo Scoglio, Tagliolini Al Limone, and Pappardelle Fiorentina.
Don’t forget to ask your server about their best wine pairings to enhance your pasta’s flavor. Then, end your night with a refreshing Panna Cotta or Lemon Sorbet as a well-deserved treat.
Batter & Berries
2748 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-248-7710
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Batter & Berries is a breakfast restaurant almost a mile away from Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema. I recommend this vibrant and homey restaurant for tourists who might have trouble finding restaurants in Lincoln Park offering delicious breakfast, lunch, and brunch options.
Their signature French Toast Flight is an excellent choice if you can’t decide between strawberry or blueberry French toast.
I also enjoy ordering their Spinach Omelet, Cider Pulled Pork Sandwich, Cluck-N-Gaufre, or Apple Belgique with a side of sweet potato fries, fresh fruit, or mixed veggies. Be sure to order a refreshing hot chocolate, iced tea, or a carafe of juice to wash everything down.
Geja’s Cafe
340 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 773-281-9101
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Last but not least on this list of the best restaurants in Lincoln Park is Geja’s Cafe, six minutes away from the heart of Lincoln Park Zoo.
This restaurant has an intimate vibe and offers an interactive dining experience through its high-quality fondue dishes. Their dining rooms also have live flamenco and classical guitar music to keep the atmosphere lively.
Their Premier Fondue Dinners include a wide selection of surf and turf to coat in Swiss Gruyere cheese or Belgian chocolate.
In addition, I recommend their Deluxe Seafood (scallops, white shrimp, and Australian lobster tail), Beef Tenderloin, or Vegetarian Delight dinners if you’re dining with others.
Lincoln Park offers plenty of dining options for anyone interested in exploring its top attractions in its aptly-named park or scattered streets. Hopefully, this list can help you plan out where to eat next time you decide on treating your friends or family to a meal at any time of the day.
Did we miss any restaurants on this list? Then, leave a comment belowabout your go-to dining options, and we’ll check them out.
