Best of 19 restaurants in Lake View
Welcome to the world of culinary delights in Lake View! This bustling Chicago neighborhood is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide range of restaurants in Lake View to suit every taste and budget. From cozy cafes to upscale eateries, Lake View's dining scene is a reflection of the city's cultural diversity and gastronomic creativity. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, exotic Asian flavors, or authentic Italian cuisine, you'll find it all at the many restaurants in Lake View. So come and explore the best of Lake View's dining scene!
- 1. Wilde Bar & Restaurant
- 2. The Chicago Diner, Lakeview in Lake View
- 3. Drew's on Halsted
- 4. Wood
- 5. Mia Francesca
- 6. Farm Bar Lakeview
- 7. Coda di Volpe
- 8. Dear Margaret
- 9. Angelina Ristorante
- 10. Ella Elli
- 11. The Gundis Kurdish Kitchen
- 12. Crosby's Kitchen
- 13. Lowcountry Lakeview
- 14. mfk. Restaurant
- 15. Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar
- 16. ROCKS lakeview
- 17. El Nuevo Mexicano in Lake View
- 18. UncommonGround - Lakeview
- 19. Southport Grocery and Cafe in Lake View
1. Wilde Bar & Restaurant
Features a beautiful outdoor patio, supports local artists with weekly live music, and has a fireplace for the colder months.

The delivery service associated with this establishment has displayed inconsistency, with some drivers failing to ring doorbells or come to the door, while others have performed their duties correctly. This inconsistency can lead to customer dissatisfaction and a negative dining experience.
The menu offers a diverse selection of sandwiches, including the Blackened Chicken Club, Reuben, and various burgers. The food is prepared skillfully, resulting in dishes that are juicy, flavorful, and tender. This level of quality in the cooking impresses customers and contributes to a positive dining experience, assuming the delivery service can be relied upon.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. The Chicago Diner, Lakeview in Lake View
Known for its inventive and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes in a classic diner setting.

The food at this establishment is consistently described as delicious, with generous portions that are sure to satisfy. Both vegetarians and vegans, as well as meat eaters, will find plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular dishes include the smoked tofu club, radical reuben sandwich, thai chili wings, and spicy chicken caesar salad. The s'mores brownie sundae is another standout option, and is highly rated by customers.
In addition to the savory dishes, the dessert menu is not to be missed. The s'mores brownie sundae is a customer favorite, but there are also options for vegans and those looking for something a little lighter, such as the vegan dessert and chocolate mousse cake. No matter what you're in the mood for, the dessert options are sure to please.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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3. Drew's on Halsted
This restaurant features a heated patio, a variety of gluten-free options, and a popular weekend brunch.

Jack's American Blend, now known as Drew's, has been serving up eclectic American fusion dishes for years, gaining a reputation for delicious food that keeps customers coming back. From fish to pasta, everything on the menu is said to be amazing, making it a hidden gem in Chicago's Boystown neighborhood.
During a visit to Drew's, one can expect a casual yet elegant atmosphere, with a live pianist providing a sophisticated ambiance without being intrusive. The menu offers a wide variety of options and price ranges, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The staff is friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Wood
Wood in Chicago features a sustainable and locally-sourced menu, craft cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The pasta at this establishment is made from scratch and offers a range of options to suit various tastes. One noteworthy dish is the lamb pasta with a spicy sauce, as well as the shrimp pasta, which has received high praise for its quality.
The appetizers at this location are also worth mentioning, particularly the porchetta tonnato and the spicy Italian flatbread. Both have been described as delicious and innovative, providing a unique twist on classic dishes. The entrees offered are equally impressive, although specific details were not provided in the text.
TOPICS
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
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5. Mia Francesca
Offers gluten-free and vegetarian options, full bar with Italian wines and cocktails

Appetizers at this establishment are highly rated, with customers praising options such as the Bruschetta and Calamari Fritti. The appetizers are considered delicious and the overall atmosphere is described as relaxed and appetizing, making it an enjoyable start to the dining experience.
Pasta dishes are another highlight, with customers raving about the pasta's perfect tenderness and al dente texture. The portion size is also noted to be generous, providing good value for customers. Both the appetizers and pasta dishes have received high praise from customers, making the restaurant a great choice for those looking for delicious and satisfying food.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Mid-Range
6. Farm Bar Lakeview
Committed to sustainable and seasonal ingredients, rotating daily specials.

Farm Bar is a restaurant with locations in Ravenswood and Lakeview, known for its neighborhood farm-to-table concept. The restaurant prides itself on serving midwestern fare made with local, organic ingredients from its own Brown Dog Farm in Mineral Point, Wisconsin.
The burgers at Farm Bar are a popular menu item, with some reviewers praising their delicious flavor. However, there are others who find the food to be overpriced, despite the use of high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Overall, Farm Bar offers a unique dining experience that emphasizes sustainability and supports local farmers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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7. Coda di Volpe
Live music on weekends, extensive wine list, pet-friendly patio

Coda Di Volpe, an Italian restaurant, offers food that is superior to typical chain fare, particularly their Neapolitan pizzas. These pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, which is located at the back of the restaurant and has counter seats for those who wish to watch the process. The restaurant has a casual yet well-designed atmosphere and is staffed by attentive employees who provide excellent service.
My group of three shared an appetizer, a pasta dish, and a pizza, and we also treated ourselves to gelato and sorbet for dessert. Every item we ordered was thoroughly enjoyed, demonstrating the high quality of the food served at Coda Di Volpe.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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8. Dear Margaret
Serving Chicago classics since 1950 with a family-owned feel

Dear Margaret, a restaurant by Chef Ryan Brosseau, is a tribute to his French-Canadian grandmother, Margaret. The cozy establishment has a homey atmosphere, reminiscent of a grandmother's house. The menu features decadent and comforting shareable plates.
The latest reviews, photos, and ratings for Dear Margaret, located at 2965 N Lincoln Ave in Chicago, can be found online. The restaurant's offerings include a variety of dishes, which can be viewed on their menu. Additional information such as hours, phone number, address and a map are also available for potential patrons.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Kosher Options
- Mid-Range
9. Angelina Ristorante
Unique wine list, homemade pasta, Detroit-style pizza

Angelina's is a delightful Italian restaurant, recognized for its warm ambiance and romantic atmosphere. Its service has been described as generally good, although a few customers have noted that it may be slower than usual due to staffing issues.
Despite occasional lapses in service speed, Angelina's remains a popular choice for those seeking an authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant's charming atmosphere and attentive service continue to attract patrons looking for a romantic dinner destination.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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10. Ella Elli
A hidden gem in the heart of Chicago with a beautiful patio and a commitment to sustainable dining practices.

The food at this establishment is highly regarded for its delicious taste and carefully selected ingredients. The chef's meticulous preparation methods are evident in every dish, resulting in a truly exceptional dining experience. Although the portions are on the smaller side, the prices are reasonable and reflect the quality of the food.
The restaurant's staff is another highlight, known for their friendliness and attentiveness. From the moment you enter, you are made to feel welcome and well taken care of. The level of service is consistently high, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Whether you are looking for a quiet dinner or a place to celebrate a special occasion, this restaurant is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Dinner
11. The Gundis Kurdish Kitchen
Family-owned and operated restaurant serving authentic Kurdish cuisine

The service at this establishment is highly rated by guests, who consistently praise the staff's attentiveness and friendliness. It creates a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for all visitors.
The Kurdish breakfast is a standout feature of the menu, offering a wide variety of items such as eggs, cheese cigars, bread with jams, butter & honey, cheeses, chocolate tahini spread, olives, and Kurdish coffee. This generous spread is designed to satisfy two people, making it an excellent option for sharing and trying a range of flavors.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
12. Crosby's Kitchen
Family-friendly restaurant with a beautiful patio and private parking.

The service at this establishment is highly regarded by guests for its impeccable, friendly, and prompt nature. Praise has been consistently high for the level of excellence provided by the staff.
Diners particularly enjoy the rotisserie chicken and comfort food offered on the menu. The restaurant's family-friendly atmosphere has also been well-received, adding to its popularity among patrons.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
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13. Lowcountry Lakeview
Offers a unique Lowcountry cuisine experience in Chicago with a beautiful lake view

Lowcountry offers a variety of seafood options with customizable sauces and spice levels. The restaurant is known for its generous portions, with particular praise for the large mussels, shrimps, and crab legs that contain a significant amount of meat. Among the popular choices on the menu are crab legs and shrimps, which have received positive feedback for their delicious taste and generous size. Diners often order snow crab legs with Cajun, lemon pepper, or garlic sauces to enhance their flavor.
In summary, Lowcountry specializes in seafood boils with a range of sauces and spice levels, and the restaurant is known for its plentiful portions. Standout menu items include the large sized and flavorful crab legs and shrimps, with snow crab legs being a common choice and often ordered with Cajun, lemon pepper, or garlic sauces for added flavor.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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14. mfk. Restaurant
Unique fusion of Korean and other international flavors

MFK, a seafood restaurant located below street level on Diversey, offers a tranquil dining experience with a focus on coastal Spanish cuisine. The simple fish dishes are a highlight, featuring fresh, fish flown in from Japan twice weekly. The menu changes regularly and features incredible flavors and beautiful presentations. Standout dishes include the fish of the day, quail, and pork belly.
The intimate setting of mfk. restaurant provides a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for guests. The menu offers a variety of delicious dishes, such as potato and smoked piquillo croquettes, skate and chips, and fideo with saffron cream sauce. The service is top-notch, adding to the overall dining experience. To finish off the meal, the burnt basque cheesecake is a must-try. Overall, MFK is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious seafood and intimate dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
15. Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Extensive wine list, Wood-fired pizzas, Homemade pasta

Frasca is a neighborhood Italian restaurant that offers a variety of specialty pizzas and hearty pastas, accompanied by an extensive wine selection. The main dining area is open and inviting, featuring comfortable leather banquets, wood tables, and large retractable windows. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal.
The food at Frasca is not only delicious but also generously portioned, providing a good value for diners. Specializing in Italian cuisine, the menu features a variety of pizzas and pastas that are sure to satisfy. With its inviting ambiance and tasty dishes, Frasca Pizzeria and Wine Bar is a great choice for a night out in the neighborhood.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
16. ROCKS lakeview
Live music on weekends, lakeview location, dog-friendly patio

The restaurant is known for serving delicious burgers and offering a great selection of beer. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal before or after a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, but not too close to the stadium, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere away from the noise. The beer menu is especially noteworthy, with a variety of options to choose from.
In summary, this establishment offers excellent burgers and a wide range of beers to choose from, making it an ideal location for beer enthusiasts and burger lovers alike. Its proximity to Wrigley Field provides a convenient option for fans looking for a place to eat, while still being far enough away to avoid the crowds and noise.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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17. El Nuevo Mexicano in Lake View
Family-owned restaurant with authentic recipes

The establishment offers excellent food and speedy service, making for a satisfying dining experience. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Prices are reasonable, adding to the overall value of the restaurant.
In addition to the food, the venue boasts a pleasant atmosphere and a well-stocked bar. The selection of drinks caters to various preferences, and the bartenders demonstrate expertise in their craft. The wait staff is attentive and friendly, further enhancing the establishment's positive reputation.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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18. UncommonGround - Lakeview
Live Music on Weekends, Heated Patio, Pet-Friendly

The food at the establishment received mixed reviews from visitors. Some guests praised the bacon-wrapped meatloaf and salad, commenting on their freshness and delicious taste. However, other visitors had a different opinion about the steak and potatoes. They found the steak to be lacking in seasoning and the potatoes flavorless. The chimichurri sauce, in particular, was criticized for being unsatisfactory.
In terms of service, the staff was generally described as friendly, quick, and efficient. Guests appreciated the fast and prompt service they received. However, there were some reviewers who experienced slow service due to the restaurant's busyness. Despite these occasional delays, the overall impression of the service was positive.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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19. Southport Grocery and Cafe in Lake View
Local ingredients, focus on sustainability, community-oriented

Southport Grocery and Cafe is a charming restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. During the day, it is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. The brunch options are a standout, offering a variety of dishes that are both fresh and flavorful.
The staff at Southport Grocery and Cafe are friendly and help to create a welcoming ambiance. They are dedicated to providing excellent service and ensuring that every guest has a positive dining experience. The food is always fresh and skillfully prepared, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients to create dishes that are full of taste and character.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options