My favorite places in Chicago (or the Chicago area). Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this list has something for you. Noting I am bias because I'm a southsider!
Map
Sections
2
Food
Activities
Food
Taurus Steaks & Hoagies opened a Bronzeville location at 4355 S. Cottage Grove Ave (44th & Cottage Grove) in Chicago. It serves classic Chicago-style sweet steaks, hoagies, and loaded sandwiches.
Taurus Steak & Hoagie
Known for their beef burgers but honestly the turkey burgers are why I keep going back. They have great shakes too.
Top Notch Burgers
The iconic five-flavor ice cream stack that's been a South Side summer tradition for decades.
The Original Rainbow Cone
Quality soul food, eveyrthing I've tried from here is good. Just make sure you make a reservation.
Virtue Restaurant
The best steak that's actually seasoned! Also great for date nights, they do charge extra fees for the experience but the food is good.
Chemistry
I love their wraps and smoothies. This is my go to for lunch.
Ain't She Sweet Cafe
I'm a tea girl and they have great tea. But I know people like coffee and having a space to work or meet with people. They have multiple locations.
Sip & Savor
They have good food, but of course people go for the wine and the vibes. They often have good music or a dj present.
Bronzeville Winery
Best breakfast! My favorite is the banana bread french toast.
STACKED
I go here for the chicken tacos and chicken soup. They have multiple locations but I only trust the ones on 59th and Pulaski or 71st and Pulaski.
Zacatacos
If you want a good steak taco with homemade shells, go here! It's BYOB and cash only. Always crowded so prepare to wait but it's worth it.
Cantón Regio
Known for their caramel cake.
Brown Sugar Bakery
So I know Chicagoans have a big debate about the best pizza, but this is one of my favs and they have locations where you can sit down and eat.
Beggars Pizza
I knew I wanted to list a Jerk place but was torn on which one to highlight. I was going to provide one where you can sit down and eat but honestly the takeout ones are so much better. This is my favorite one!
St Bess Jerk
Activities
Get a city pass and choose what the fam wants to do: Shedd Aquarium, a boat tour, Skydeck, and more, all at a bundled disco
CityPass to Save on Top Chicago Attractions
Chicago's lakefront pier with free-to-stroll grounds, fireworks, and skyline views (rides and attractions cost extra).
Navy Pier
One of the few free zoos left in the country, with year-round animal exhibits and plenty of green space to wander.
Lincoln Park Zoo
A stunning indoor botanical garden on the, perfect for a warm escape from Chicago winters.
Garfield Park Conservatory
A downtown theater staging acclaimed plays and musicals, including family-friendly productions throughout the year.
Goodman Theatre
If you like live music they have great artist perform here.
Lazy Bird
Really a restaurant but they have live music here as well.
Untitled Supper Club
They have a brunch buffet on the weekends so if I’m getting together with friends we go here then go bowling.
