Best of 28 caesar salad in Chicago
Chicago is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, and the Caesar salad is no exception. This classic dish, made famous by Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico, has been embraced and elevated in Chicago. From upscale restaurants to casual eateries, you can find a Caesar salad in Chicago that suits your taste. Whether you prefer it traditional or with a unique Chicago twist, this salad is a must-try when visiting the Windy City.
- 1. Salad House
- 2. sweetgreen
- 3. Just Salad
- 4. Mixed Greens
- 5. Mixed Greens
- 6. sweetgreen
- 7. Chicken Works & Salad Company
- 8. Luke's Italian Beef
- 9. sweetgreen
- 10. Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
- 11. sweetgreen
- 12. sweetgreen
- 13. Just Salad
- 14. sweetgreen
- 15. sweetgreen
- 16. Just Salad
- 17. Simplys Soups Salads & Sandwiches
- 18. Beatrix Market
- 19. Gino’s East - South Loop
- 20. Noodles and Company
- 21. Salad Club
- 22. sweetgreen
- 23. sweetgreen
- 24. Zoup!
- 25. sweetgreen
- 26. Just Salad
- 27. sweetgreen
- 28. Salads UP
1. Salad House
Uses locally sourced and organic ingredients, offers homemade dressings

The Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is a highly recommended dish that boasts fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing. Its affordability, quick service, and clean environment make it an attractive option for those seeking a delicious meal.
The salad features fresh ingredients and a well-balanced dressing that perfectly complement each other. The portion size is just right, making it a satisfying and enjoyable meal. The restaurant's focus on speed, cleanliness, and affordability, without compromising on taste, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
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2. sweetgreen
Seasonal menus, sustainable sourcing, healthy options.

The Caesar salad served at this location is a popular choice, thanks to its standout parmesan crisps that provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.
In a similar vein, the Kale Caesar salad is also enjoyable, characterized by its freshness and rich flavors. However, the salad could have been improved with a more generous portion of chicken.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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3. Just Salad
Sustainable salads with reusable bowls, rewards program available

The Caesar salad served was fresh and flavorful, earning praise for its taste. The staff at the establishment where the salad was enjoyed demonstrated friendly and welcoming behavior. The speed of the service was also noteworthy, as it was delivered in a timely manner.
Regarding the soup, there was a desire to order it alongside the salad. However, the soup was not ready for service at the time of ordering. Despite this, the salad itself was still a satisfying and enjoyable dish. It was a positive dining experience, with the exception of the unavailable soup.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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4. Mixed Greens
Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, homemade dressings

The restaurant offers a wide variety of salads, allowing customers to either create their own custom salad or choose from a list of pre-made options. The salads are made with fresh ingredients, ensuring that each one is large, flavorful, and satisfying.
Despite the popularity of the restaurant, especially during the lunch rush, the lines move quickly. Many customers consider this salad shop to have the best salad in the business district, making it a worthwhile wait. The fast-moving lines ensure that even during peak times, customers don't have to wait too long to enjoy a delicious and fresh salad.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Downtown Spots
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5. Mixed Greens
Charming ambiance with outdoor seating and excellent cocktails

If you're in the River North area and looking for a place to have lunch, Chicago Cutting Board is a great option. They offer a variety of tasty dishes, including salads, paninis, and pizza. One standout menu item is the Parlez Vous Francais salad, a signature dish that is sure to satisfy.
For a reasonable price, you'll receive a generous portion of salad that is packed with fresh ingredients. The Parlez Vous Francais includes mixed greens, goat cheese, dried cranberries, spiced pecans, and apple slices, all tossed in a house-made balsamic fig vinaigrette. You can also choose to add an optional piece of white or wheat pita bread on the side.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. sweetgreen
Seasonal ingredients, eco-friendly practices, and a commitment to local communities.

The salad selection at this Chicago establishment is exceptional, offering fresh and delicious options that make for a satisfying lunch. One standout choice is the kale Caesar salad, which has gained a reputation for its delightful taste and presentation.
The kale Caesar salad is a must-try for salad enthusiasts. Its fresh and carefully selected ingredients, combined with a perfectly balanced dressing, result in a dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. My husband thoroughly enjoyed this salad, savoring each bite and expressing his satisfaction with the meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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7. Chicken Works & Salad Company
Family-owned business since 1985, offers catering and delivery services

The Caesar salad that was tried was fresh and had a delicious taste. A notable feature of the salad was its ample portion size, which was generously filled with high-quality ingredients.
In addition to the salad, the Chicken Caesar Wrap was tried and it was a delight. The chicken in the wrap was perfectly cooked, with a texture that was tender and juicy. Furthermore, the wrap was coated with a generous amount of Caesar dressing that complemented the taste of the chicken and other ingredients, making for an overall satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Luke's Italian Beef
Family-owned since 1975, delicious dipped sandwiches, drive-thru window available

The Caesar salad, when ordered for delivery, arrives in excellent condition, maintaining its freshness. The portion size of the salad is generously satisfying. It is a salad worth ordering again.
The Caesar salad is a crisp and flavorful dish, making it a great option for those seeking a lighter meal. The dressing on the salad is delicious and elevates the overall taste of the dish.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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9. sweetgreen
Sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients; tech-enabled ordering system; seasonal menus

The Kale Caesar salad I ordered was a standout dish. Its delicious taste was thanks to the perfectly cooked steak and the refreshing touch of lime squeezed on top. The salad was elevated to a new level with the addition of parmesan crisps, which provided a satisfying crunch.
In summary, the Kale Caesar salad with steak was a delicious and enjoyable dish. The lime squeeze and parmesan crisps added unique and complementary flavors and textures, making for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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10. Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
Drive-thru and online ordering services, family-friendly atmosphere, local chain with Midwest values

The author had a disappointing experience when they ordered a Caesar salad from a restaurant. The salad they received was not what they expected, and they described it as a mess. The salad consisted of lettuce, a halved egg, grated parmesan cheese, and dry, cold chicken. The appearance and quality of the dish were so unappealing that the customer decided they would not order from there again. They even compared the experience to something they might find at a grocery store, implying that the salad they received was not worth the money they paid.
In addition to being disappointed with the quality of their salad, the customer also had issues with the portions. They were surprised to find only a half of an egg included in their Caesar salad. Moreover, the chicken in the salad was burnt, which added to the overall negative experience. As a result of this incident, the customer has decided to avoid that particular Portillo's location and is hesitant to visit any other location. Clearly, the poor quality of the meal had a significant impact on the customer's perception of the restaurant as a whole.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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11. sweetgreen
Upscale fast-casual dining with a focus on sustainability and health

The Kale Caesar with chicken was ordered and enjoyed, but it was noted that the portion size could be more generous. The Kale Caesar salad is a regular choice, and it consistently delivers with fresh ingredients and a well-balanced, delicious dressing.
If you're a fan of Caesar salads, the Kale Caesar is a must-try. It features fresh kale and a perfectly seasoned dressing that will leave you craving more. However, the portion size leaves something to be desired, as it could be larger to satisfy hunger fully. Nonetheless, the combination of fresh ingredients and savory dressing makes this salad a reliable choice.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. sweetgreen
Seasonally-rotating ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and community-focused events.

The Caesar salad I ordered was delightful with a satisfying portion size. The ingredients were fresh and added great flavor to the dish. Among the salads, the Kale Caesar Salad stands out as my favorite. Its fresh ingredients and well-seasoned dressing make it a reliable choice.
In both salads, freshness is a common factor that contributes to their delicious taste. The dressings in each salad are also noteworthy, with the Kale Caesar Salad's dressing being particularly perfect. The portion sizes of both salads are adequate, providing a filling and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
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13. Just Salad

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. sweetgreen
Sustainable, local sourcing and scratch cooking.

The dish in question consists of chopped romaine and shredded kale, accompanied by tomatoes and two types of parmesan - crisps and shavings. Another key component is the caramelized garlic steak, which adds a savory element to the salad. Finally, a squeeze of lime and caesar dressing tie all the flavors together, resulting in a truly delicious and refreshing meal.
One standout option on the menu is the Kale Caesar salad. What sets this salad apart is the combination of parmesan crisps and a squeeze of lime, which adds a unique and refreshing twist to the classic Caesar dressing. It's no wonder that this dish is a regular choice for those looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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15. sweetgreen
Sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients, fast and healthy customizable meals, digital ordering and pick-up options.

The Caesar salad available at this location is a standout dish, characterized by its freshness and delightful taste. The dressing is creamy, contributing to a satisfying and indulgent experience. A notable feature of the salad is the inclusion of parmesan crisps, which provide a welcome contrast in texture and elevate the overall enjoyment of the dish.
My experience with the Caesar salad at Sweetgreen was highly enjoyable. The ingredients were fresh, and the quality of the salad was evident in every bite. The portion size was suitable, offering a satisfying quantity without overwhelming the diner. Overall, the salad was a success, showcasing Sweetgreen's commitment to providing delicious and well-prepared dishes.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
16. Just Salad
Sustainable sourcing, bowl customization, grab-and-go options

The restaurant offers a variety of solid food options with quick and efficient service. While the dining area is small, consisting only of a counter, it is sufficient for a quick meal. Notably, the restaurant has a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Each bowl can be customized to the customer's liking, with ingredients clearly labeled for easy identification.
In particular, the Chicken Caesar salad is a standout dish. The chicken is cooked to perfection, with a fresh and crisp salad to match. The balance of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience. Overall, the restaurant's commitment to quality and customization is evident in every dish, making it a great choice for those seeking a delicious and healthy meal.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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17. Simplys Soups Salads & Sandwiches
Uses homemade dressings and breads, Offers catering services

The Caesar salad served at this location is a standout dish. The croutons are crispy and add a satisfying crunch to every bite. The lettuce used in the salad is fresh, contributing to its overall fresh taste.
The salad has a great balance of flavors, ensuring that no single ingredient overpowers the others. The dressing, in particular, is not too heavy or rich, allowing the natural taste of the other ingredients to shine through. This results in a delicious and well-rounded salad that is sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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18. Beatrix Market
Cash-only policy, Small and cozy environment, Family-owned business
The enlightened Caesar salad, found in Chicago, is a delicious and tangy dish. Its unique combination of capers, lemon zest, and cheese creates an enjoyable flavor that is sure to satisfy. However, there is a noticeable discrepancy in portion size when ordering for pickup.
Instead of the typical entree-sized salad, customers receive a portion closer to a side salad when ordering the enlightened Caesar salad for pickup. This reduction in size can be disappointing for those expecting a full entree, especially given the salad's reputation as one of the best in the city. Despite the smaller portion, the salad's flavor remains delicious and satisfying.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
19. Gino’s East - South Loop
Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, cozy atmosphere, friendly service

The Caesar salad arrived at our table, fresh and appetizing. The dressing was generously distributed, adding a tangy and creamy touch to the dish. However, one member of our party found the salad to be merely satisfactory. The lettuce seemed a little limp, and the croutons lacked the desired crunch.
Despite some variations in perspective, we could agree that the Caesar salad was a part of our meal. While one person found the salad to be fresh and adequately dressed, another experienced wilted lettuce and overly hard croutons. Overall, it served as a beginning course for our dinner.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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20. Noodles and Company
Fast-casual dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and international flavors.

The Caesar salad served for lunch was decent but not exceptional. Its quality was just average, and it wasn't the best one the diners had ever tasted. There was a noticeable issue with the staleness of the croutons, which affected the overall eating experience.
On a positive note, the portion size of the Caesar salad was reasonable and appropriate for its cost. It provided a good value, despite not delivering an outstanding taste. The salad was a satisfactory choice for those looking for a fair-sized meal at a fair price.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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21. Salad Club

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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22. sweetgreen
Sustainable, locally sourced, and health-focused options

Sweetgreen is a well-known restaurant chain that offers quick, fresh, and tasty meal options. Some of their most popular dishes include the buffalo chicken salad, guacamole greens, kale Caesar salad, and crispy rice bowl with miso ginger dressing. These meals are made with high-quality ingredients and are full of flavor, making Sweetgreen a great choice for those seeking healthy and delicious food on-the-go.
A particularly noteworthy option on Sweetgreen's menu is the chicken Caesar salad. The chicken in this salad is cooked to perfection, with a juicy and tender texture that is sure to satisfy. One unique aspect of this salad is the addition of lime juice, which adds a fun and appetizing twist to the classic Caesar flavor profile. This citrusy kick helps to balance out the richness of the salad and brings all of the flavors together in a harmonious way. Overall, the chicken Caesar salad at Sweetgreen is a standout dish that is definitely worth trying.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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23. sweetgreen
Sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients; mobile ordering available; nutrient-packed bowls; community-focused

The Kale Caesar is a renowned salad option, valued for its combination of fresh ingredients and delicious dressing. When ordering for delivery, the Caesar salad arrives in a fresh and tasty state, but it comes with a higher price point.
In summary, the Kale Caesar salad is highly recommended for its freshness and delightful dressing. Although it is on the pricier side, the salad is worth trying for its high-quality ingredients, especially when dining in.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
24. Zoup!
Made-to-order soup selection, gluten-free and vegetarian options

The Caesar salad served at this establishment is a satisfying option for those looking for a flavorful yet healthy dish. The portion size is reasonable, and the ingredients used are fresh, which enhances the overall taste.
In particular, the Lively Chicken Caesar Salad is a standout option. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the dressing is well-balanced, neither too overpowering nor too bland. The freshness of the ingredients is evident in every bite, making this salad a delicious and enjoyable choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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25. sweetgreen
Seasonal menus, sustainable sourcing, salad bowls made to order.

Sweetgreen's Caesar salad is a standout option for those seeking a fresh and delicious salad in Chicago. The salad is made with high-quality ingredients, including crisp romaine lettuce, generous shavings of parmesan cheese, and homemade croutons. The dressing is creamy and flavorful, with just the right amount of tanginess to balance out the richness of the cheese and croutons.
One of the things that sets Sweetgreen's Caesar salad apart is the use of parmesan crisps. These crispy, cheesy bits add a delightful crunch to every bite, elevating the salad to a whole new level. The portion size is also perfect, providing a satisfying meal without leaving you feeling overly full. Overall, Sweetgreen's Caesar salad is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious meal in Chicago.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
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26. Just Salad

TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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27. sweetgreen
Sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients, health-focused options, seasonal menus

The Caesar salad at this location is a standout, featuring delightful parmesan crisps that add a satisfying crunch to every bite. Another excellent choice is the Kale Caesar Salad with Chicken, which features fresh and top-quality ingredients, making it a must-try dish for any visitor.
This Caesar salad is particularly noteworthy due to the inclusion of parmesan crisps, which elevate the dish with their delightful texture. Meanwhile, the Kale Caesar Salad with Chicken is a must-try for those seeking fresh, high-quality ingredients and a delicious flavor profile. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Caesar or something a bit more adventurous, these salads are sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
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28. Salads UP

TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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