Where to Eat in Streeterville: My 7 Favorite Restaurants
As one of the busiest neighborhoods in downtown Chicago, there is no wonder why there is never shortage of amazing options when it comes to Streeterville restaurants. Streeterville is packed with great places to eat, and that’s handy because there is so much activity packed into this small neighborhood: Northwestern Hospital is here, as are the headquarters of global companies like Hewlett Packard, ADM and Leo Burnett; the fabulous Museum of Contemporary Art is here, too.
Whether I’m grabbing breakfast before a busy day, meeting friends for lunch, or sitting down for a nice dinner, there’s always a solid spot nearby. Here are my top recommendations for places I actually go to in Streeterville.
Beatrix – My Favorite Spot for Brunch & Cocktails
Address: 671 N St Clair St, Chicago, IL 60611
Beatrix is one of my go-to restaurants when I want something fresh and flavorful. The coffee is strong, the brunch menu is always good, and they serve some of the best cocktails in the area. It’s right near Michigan Avenue, so it’s a great stop before or after shopping.
Try this: Their honey butter cinnamon roll and a cold brew coffee.
EXPERT TIP: After your meal, hit the top floor of the Hancock and uncover palatial views of the beautiful Chicago skyline with 360Chicago.
Yolk: The Best Breakfast Spot in Streeterville
Address: 355 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611
If you love breakfast, Yolk should be on your list. This beloved local chain just whips up the classics SO well, and has their own set of die-hard fans. The portions are huge, and they have everything from sweet to savory options. Their red velvet French toast is amazing, and the breakfast burrito is packed with flavor. Get here early on weekends—it fills up fast!
EXPERT TIP: Their Ohio Street location is ultra-convenient for fueling up before exploring Michigan Avenue shops or taking a stroll along the riverfront.
The Hampton Social – Great Food & a Fun Atmosphere
Address: 164 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
The Hampton Social is one of my favorite places for brunch or dinner. The vibe is laid-back, and they serve everything from seafood to wood-fired pizzas. If the weather’s nice, I love grabbing a seat by the windows and don’t miss their frosé (frozen rosé) and lobster roll.
EXPERT TIP: The Hampton Social features a “Rosé All Day” lounge, a vibrant bar, and a covered outdoor terrace on the second floor.
Authentic Flavors & Classics Done Right: Exploring Chinese & American Cuisine
Shang Noodle – The Best Noodles & Dumplings
Address: 215 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
When I’m craving noodles, this is where I go. They make their noodles fresh, and the dumplings are top-notch. It’s a great place to warm up in the winter or grab a quick meal after a long day. My go-to is the spicy miso ramen and pork dumplings, which are some of the best in the city, in my opinion.
MingHin Cuisine – Dim Sum Done Right
Address: 333 E Benton Pl #300, Chicago, IL 60601
Dim sum is life, and Ming Hin does it righ. MingHin is my go-to for dim sum in Streeterville. The food is always very fresh, and they have a ton of options, but my favorite is the tender BBQ pork buns and shrimp dumplings. The location right on the Magnificent Mile can’t be beat, especially if you’re craving an authentic, elevated dim sum experience beyond the casual corner spot. If you’ve never tried dim sum, this is a great place to start.
EXPERT TIP: I like to make it a fun outing by combining a visit with exploring the Art Institute or strolling through Millennium Park.
Buona – A Must for Chicago’s Famous Italian Beef
Address: 613 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611
No trip to Chicago is complete without indulging in the city’s iconic Italian beef sandwich. Sure, Portillo’s is amazing and Al’s has a following all of its own, but Buona Beef deserves its own accolades. The beef is tender and juicy, the bread is perfect (not to soft amd not too hard), and you can get it as mild or spicy as you like. It’s a quick and easy stop, especially if you’re exploring Michigan Avenue. Whether you like it dipped or not; with or without peppers or covered in hot giardiniera, don’t miss Buona. The best beef is a very controversial subject: tell us your thoughts in the comments. We may or may not argue with you!
Sweetgreen – A Healthy Option That’s Actually Good
Address: 676 N St Clair St, Chicago, IL 60611
Yes, it’s a chain, but with Sweetgreen, I’m okay with it. On days when I don’t feel like something heavy, Sweetgreen is my go-to. They make fresh salads and grain bowls that taste great and don’t leave you feeling weighed down. My favorite bowl is the hot honey chicken quinoa, cabbage and sweet potatos. The Harvest Bowl with chicken, sweet potatoes, and goat cheese is pretty amazing, too.
Exploring 7 Top Restaurants in Streeterville Chicago: From Casual to Upscale Dining
Streeterville has some of the best restaurants in Chicago, and these are my personal favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a casual lunch, or a great dinner, you’ll find a place that hits the spot.
Have a favorite spot in Streeterville? Let me know—I’m always looking for new places to try!