Fulton Market, located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, has become a hotspot for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike. With a mix of trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes featuring everything from Texas-style barbecue take-out to elegant rooftop dining, there’s something for everyone in this bustling area.
Must-Visit Restaurants in Fulton Market
Gourmands will be happy here, too, the area is home to eateries with some Michelin stars, too.
In this article, we’ll explore these must-try Fulton Market restaurants that are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a fun group outing, or a solo adventure, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings and your mood. Use our carefully curated visitors guide to find 15 restaurants that you should try for your night out in Fulton Market.
EXPERT TIP: Fulton Market’s Restaurant Row is the bustling strip of Randolph Street between Halsted and Ogden Avenue, where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Chicago.
Carnivale
If you’re in the mood for a festive and colorful experience, head to Carnivale, a Latin fusion restaurant that celebrates the cuisine and culture of Mexico, South America, and Central America. This is one of my favorite spots to bring visiting family and friends; they have some of the best empanadas in the Windy City.
You can enjoy dishes like ceviche, paella, and churrasco, as well as exotic cocktails, wines, and sangrias. This West Loop restaurant also features live music, dancing, and entertainment on select nights, as well as a happening cocktail bar.
Address: 702 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60661
Time Out Market Chicago
This bustling food hall is more than just another Chicago restaurant. Time Out Market Chicago is a dining and cultural destination that brings together the best of the city under one roof. Featuring 18 top-rated eateries that showcase Chicago’s most outstanding chefs and cuisines, you can sample foods from pizza and burgers to sushi and ramen.
At 50,000 square feet, it’s a large space, but it doesn’t feel overwhelming. And even though there are a lot of restaurants from which to choose, with a selection like this, you can be sure you’ll eat well. Experience some classic Chicago cuisine, visit the wine bar or sample some craft beer from Chicago breweries, all under one roof.
You can also catch performances from local talent as you grab a drink in Chicago’s fastest growing neighborhoods.
Address: 916 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
EXPERT TIP: Time Out Market Chicago also hosts parties and private events.
Nobu
Located on the roof top of the Nobu Hotel, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Chicago skyline, making it a perfect spot for date night in Chicago. If you’re looking for a sophisticated and elegant night out, Nobu is the place to go.
This upscale Japanese restaurant from the renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa offers exquisite sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, as well as signature dishes like black cod miso, yellowtail jalapeño, and wagyu beef. You can also sip on sake, wine, or cocktails at the bar or lounge at Nobu, or enjoy the stunning views of the Chicago skyline at the rooftop terrace.
Address: 155 N Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60607
Fulton Market Kitchen
I’ll come right out with it: Fulton Market Kitchen is fun place to dine. Whether it’s the unique setting (you’ll feel a definite art gallery vibe), the local ingredients, or the inspired menu featuring one of my favorite salads (a kale-cranberry salad with roasted butternut squash and candied pepita seeds), this is a must on any visit to Fulton Market.
The menu here is small but wide-ranging: choose from large plates of crab gnocchi or grilled Waygu flank steak with tamari-roasted local mushrooms; or opt for smaller plates like their amazing whipped spicy feta served with a warm pita.
Address: 311 N. Sangamon St., Chicago, IL 60607
Au Cheval
If you’re craving a classic American diner fare with a gourmet twist, Au Cheval is a must-visit. This popular spot serves some of the best burgers in town, with juicy patties, melted cheese, thick-cut bacon, and a fried egg on top. You can also order other dishes like fried chicken, matzo ball soup, foie gras scrambled eggs, and bone marrow with toast. Be prepared to wait for a table though – this place is always busy.
Address: 800 W Randolph St., Chicago IL 60607
EXPERT TIP: Both Au Cheval and it’s Small Cheval outposts are home to the best burger in city, in my opinion. Try one for yourself and let us know in the comments what you think. Small Cheval has several locations throughout the city, including Lincoln Park, Old Town and Wicker Park.
Duck Duck Goat
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different, Duck Duck Goat is a fun and delicious option. This restaurant from Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard serves “reasonably authentic” Chinese food with a creative flair. You can find dishes like duck fried rice, goat slap noodles, shrimp toast spring rolls, and Peking duck. You can also enjoy cocktails inspired by Chinese ingredients and flavors.
Address: 857 W Fulton Market., Chicago IL 60607
Aba
If you’re looking for a light and fresh meal with Mediterranean influences, Aba is a great choice. This restaurant from chef CJ Jacobson and Lettuce Entertain You focuses on meat-centric dishes like lamb chops, skirt steak, chicken kefta, and shawarma spice salmon. You can also enjoy salads, spreads, hummus, and pita breads. The restaurant has a beautiful rooftop patio where you can relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail.
Address: 302 N Green St., Chicago IL 60607
Gaijin
If you’re a fan of okonomiyaki – the savory Japanese cabbage pancake – you’ll love Gaijin. This restaurant from chef Paul Virant specializes in this dish that comes in different varieties like pork belly, shrimp tempura, mushroom truffle butter, and cheeseburger.
You can also order other Japanese snacks like takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), karaage (fried chicken), and mochi (rice cakes). Don’t forget to try their sake slushies or cocktails too.
Address: 950 W Lake St., Chicago IL 60607
Rose Mary
This Croatian- Italian restaurant, inspired by the chef/owner’s heritage, is a refreshingly light and airy setting that makes it very pleasant spot to dine. There’s a large open kitchen featuring a custom-built charcoal-fired hearth. It’s such a friendly vibe here.
I love the menu at Rose Mary, too. It’s very unique, offering everything from Stracciatella with smoked pear butter and zucchini fritters (very popular) to Cevapi (grilled sausages) with lepinja, ajvar, kajmak, and red onion. You’ll also find a diverse list of Eastern European wines to complement your meal.
Address: 932 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607
Bar Siena
The little sister of the popular Siena Tavern in River North, this fun spot along Restaurant Row offers a full menu of regional Italian fare ranging from gnocchi with prosciutto sausage and rapini to an amazing truffle mushroom pizza.
The seasonal menu changes every few months at Bar Siena, so it’s fun to visit and see what’s new. This is an casual upscale eatery with a unique and pretty interior: two stories with a large opening in the center of the bar, with a pretty tree sculpture lighting up the entire room.
This is a very popular destination, but there’s a lot of room, too, including a sprawling outdoor patio with plenty of comfortable seating.
EXPERT TIP: Bar Siena is also a popular spot for private dining events if you’re looking for somewhere to hosting a party. The private dining events are held on the second floor.
Address: 832 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
More Amazing Fulton Market Restaurants
Fulton Market is a neighborhood that offers a variety of dining options for every taste and occasion. Whether you want to enjoy a casual bite, a fancy dinner, or a lively night out, you’ll find something to suit your mood and budget.
From Latin fusion to Japanese sushi, from American burgers to Mediterranean salads, from Chinese pancakes to sake slushies, you’ll never run out of choices in Fulton Market. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends, your date, or yourself, and head to one of these amazing restaurants for your night out in Fulton Market.
The Publican
The Publican is a popular spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The menu features a mix of seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes, all with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss out on their famous oysters and craft beer selection, or their sister cafe, Publican Quality Meats, located across the side street.
Address: 837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
The Allis
Located inside the trendy Soho House, The Allis is a great spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The menu features a mix of American and European dishes, as well as a variety of craft cocktails. Plus, the chic atmosphere and cozy seating make it the perfect spot for a date or a catch-up with friends.
Address: 113-125 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Monteverde
Craving Italian? Head to Monteverde for some of the best pasta in the city. This cozy spot offers a variety of handmade pastas, as well as other Italian dishes. Don’t miss out on their famous cacio e pepe, made with fresh bucatini and pecorino cheese.
Address: 1020 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607
Green Street Smoked Meats
You can mosey up to counter yourself at this Texas-style BBQ house featuring one of the best pulled pork sandwiches in the city. Be sure to head to the basement of Green Street Smoked Meats, where you’ll happily discover High Five Ramen, one of the hottest ramen spots in the city.
Address: 112 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Lena Brava
One of the most inspired Mexican restaurants in the city, Lena Brava features live fire cooking and Mexican coastal cuisine.
Address: 900 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Boqueria Fulton Market
This Spanish tapas bar and restaurant offers a seasonal menu of small plates. Do not miss the the Tarta Vasca De Queso, a Basque cheesecake served with apple compote.
Address: 807 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Conclusion
Fulton Market is a must-visit for any food lover or cocktail enthusiast. Next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to check out these top 15 must-try Fulton Market restaurants for a truly unforgettable dining experience.