A Foodie's Guide to Chicago's Fulton Market

Brunch

Parlor: Parlor Chicago's brunch offers a diverse menu featuring creative twists on classic dishes, inviting guests to savor delicious flavors in a stylish and vibrant atmosphere (and they have really yummy Prickly Pear Margaritas!)

Beatrix: Beatrix Chicago's brunch is a culinary delight, featuring a menu that seamlessly blends health-conscious options with indulgent treats, all served in a trendy and inviting atmosphere.

Lou Mitchell’s: Lou Mitchell's is a Chicago staple that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1923, offering a classic American breakfast experience with hearty portions, complimentary orange slices, and Milk Duds for a sweet finish, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.

Coffee & Pastries

Sawada Coffee: Sawada Coffee is a popular coffee shop known for its innovative and high-quality coffee creations. With a stylish and modern ambiance, Sawada Coffee offers a unique menu featuring signature drinks like the Military Latte, a blend of matcha, espresso and vanilla, providing a distinctive and flavorful coffee experience.

Good Ambler : A quaint coffee shop with fresh pastries baked in house, Good Ambler is a great study/WFH spot!

Lunch

JP Graziano’s: JP Graziano Grocery Co. is a renowned Italian grocery store and deli. Established in 1937, JP Graziano's has become a beloved institution known for its high-quality Italian and imported goods, as well as its delicious sandwiches (I love the Caprese sandwich!)

Time Out Market: a popular food and cultural market found in various cities across the world, Time Out is a unique concept that brings together some of Chicago's top chefs, restaurants, and cultural experiences under one roof.

Au Cheval: Au Cheval is renowned for its indulgent yet meticulously crafted burgers, featuring a perfect blend of high-quality ingredients, creating a culinary experience that consistently earns it a spot among the city's best. (Arguably the best burger in Chicago!)

Happy Hour

Trivoli Tavern: With one of the most iconic happy hours in Chicago, this ambient restaurant offers delicious drinks and appetizers at an affordable price.

Boqueria: Boqueria is a lively Spanish tapas bar and restaurant with locations in various cities. Known for its vibrant and social atmosphere, Boqueria Chicago offers an authentic Spanish dining experience with a menu featuring a wide array of tapas, paellas, and other Spanish-inspired dishes (Their red sangria is soooooo yummy!)

La Josie: La Josie is a Mexican restaurant known for its contemporary take on traditional Mexican cuisine. La Josie has been praised for its stylish and vibrant ambiance, creative cocktails, and a menu featuring a variety of dishes inspired by the rich flavors of Mexico. (I am a huge fan of their mezcal margaritas!)

Dinner

Aba: Aba is a Mediterranean restaurant known for its chic and contemporary ambiance. Aba's menu typically includes a variety of mezze, small plates, and grilled dishes, showcasing flavors from regions such as Turkey, Lebanon and Greece. The rooftop setting provides a trendy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy both the food and the city views. (Aba is my favorite restaurant in the city! The muhammara is to die for!!!)

Lyra: Lyra is a, upscale modern Greek restaurant with delicious food, but the most notable item (in my book) is their bougatsa: a cinnamon sugar-coated phyllo dough dessert that turns into a spectacle when brought to the table.

Bar Siena: Bar Siena is recognized for its modern and vibrant atmosphere, featuring a stylish interior and an inviting outdoor patio. The restaurant offers a menu that includes a variety of Italian-inspired dishes, including pizzas, pasta and small plates. (Best espresso martinis in the city, but be careful because I was up all night after having three! LOL)

Girl & the Goat: Girl & the Goat is a restaurant known for its inventive and bold menu created by chef Stephanie Izard, who gained fame as the first female winner of Bravo's "Top Chef." They place emphasis on a farm to table approach and reservations are definitely recommended!

Black Barrel: With delicious food and a great drink selection, this bar is a great place to stop on your way to a Blackhawks or Bulls game as it is only a few blocks away from the United Center!

Dessert

Levain: Levain Bakery is known for its delicious oversized cookies, and it originally started in New York City. (I love their Caramel Coconut Chocolate Chip cookie!)

Jeni’s: Jeni's Ice Cream has been praised for its unique flavors, made with high-quality ingredients and a commitment to sustainability. The menu typically features a rotating selection of flavors, including both classic options and innovative, seasonal creations.

Bombobar: Bombobar is a popular dessert spot known for its delightful and creative doughnuts. Bombobar is part of the Bar Siena restaurant and Bombobar serves as its walk-up window specializing in sweet treats.

Drinks

Lazy Bird: Lazy Bird is a cocktail bar located within the Hoxton hotel. Lazy Bird is known for its sophisticated and stylish ambiance, offering a curated selection of craft cocktails in a comfortable and intimate setting, often with live music.

Selva: located on the rooftop of The Emily Hotel, Selva offers great cocktails and views.

Nightlife

Blind Barber Blind Barber is a speakeasy-style bar experience, as it is hidden behind a barbershop. Known for craft cocktails, this hip-hop bar is a must visit. (The DJ can be hit or miss some days, but when the DJ is good, the bar is a lot of fun!)

EscoBar: A Latin bar known for its lively atmosphere, dancing, and lots of Bad Bunny music!

Goodnight John Boy: starting in Cleveland, this modern disco club is a must visit! Goodnight John Boy has a great mix of classic oldies mixed with the newer hits, making it a place that everyone can enjoy! (No seriously, I went with a group of people aged 22-60 and everyone had a really good time!)

Lone Wolf: Lone Wolf is a bar and restaurant known for its laid-back atmosphere and diverse menu, which often features a mix of comfort food and creative dishes. The establishment may have a focus on craft beers, cocktails, and a variety of pub-style offerings.

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Erin Bradley’s guide, 3-Day Itinerary for a Couples Trip to Chicago for a Bulls Game.