Top 23 restaurants in Wicker Park
Wicker Park, a vibrant Chicago neighborhood, is known for its diverse and exciting dining scene. From upscale eateries to cozy cafes, "restaurants in Wicker Park" offer a wide variety of cuisines and atmospheres. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, authentic ethnic flavors, or vegan-friendly options, you'll find it all at the "restaurants in Wicker Park." Discover your new favorite spot today.
- 1. Amaru
- 2. Schwa Restaurant
- 3. Folklore | Argentine Restaurant
- 4. The Perch Kitchen and Tap
- 5. Handlebar
- 6. Etta Bucktown
- 7. Club Lucky
- 8. Ina Mae
- 9. Taxim in Wicker Park
- 10. Bongo Room in Wicker Park
- 11. Big Star
- 12. Dove's Luncheonette
- 13. Antique Taco Wicker Park
- 14. Cafe Istanbul in Wicker Park
- 15. Via Carducci La Sorella
- 16. Small Cheval- Wicker Park
- 17. Enoteca Roma
- 18. The Pasta Bowl - Wicker Park
- 19. Elia Chicago
- 20. Lucia's
- 21. urbanbelly
- 22. Cafe Robey
- 23. Phodega in Wicker Park
1. Amaru
Rotisserie chicken and lively atmosphere

The staff at this establishment are consistently praised for their gentle, authentic, and knowledgeable demeanor. They are approachable and humble, adding to the overall positive atmosphere. The kitchen staff, in particular, is commended for their consistency in preparing dishes.
One standout dish is the seasoned steak, cooked to a perfect medium rare and bursting with flavor. The chimichurri sauce provided the ideal accompaniment, elevating the dish to new heights. Diners are sure to be delighted by this delicious and expertly prepared meal.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
2. Schwa Restaurant
Schwa is known for its experimental and innovative approach to modern American cuisine, as well as its intimate setting with only 12 seats.

Schwa Restaurant is known for its exceptional food and relaxed atmosphere. The menu, while limited, is carefully curated and features meticulously prepared dishes. The restaurant's minimalist aesthetic consists of only fourteen tables, creating a cozy and intimate environment.
From the moment you enter Schwa Restaurant, you are treated to an incredible dining experience. The exterior may be unassuming, but once inside, you are greeted by knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to explain each course. The dishes themselves are creative and delicious, making each bite a true joy. Overall, Schwa Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch food experience in a laid-back setting.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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3. Folklore | Argentine Restaurant
Live music on weekends, Outdoor seating, Full bar with Argentine wines

This location offers an incredible dining experience, with delicious food and generous portion sizes that are sure to leave you feeling satisfied. The steak is a standout menu item, cooked well and full of flavor, although some diners found it to be a touch too sweet. Despite this, the steaks are reasonably priced and offer substantial portions.
The service at this restaurant is top-notch, with waitstaff who are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. Oscar, in particular, was mentioned as providing excellent service, offering recommendations and background information on the food and wine. Diners are sure to appreciate the level of care and attention to detail provided by the staff.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. The Perch Kitchen and Tap
Committed to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients

The Perch Kitchen + Tap is a standout restaurant in Chicago, offering fantastic food and a casual, enjoyable atmosphere. Its reputation is well-deserved, as the quality of service consistently matches the quality of the menu. From friendly greetings to attentive and helpful recommendations, the staff adds significantly to the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Handlebar
Handlbare is a bike-themed cafe with a wide selection of craft beers and breakfast all day.

I stopped by Handlebar for a late-night dinner on a weeknight and had an excellent dining experience. The service was top-notch, with attentive staff who made me feel welcome. I was impressed with the menu, which featured a wide array of creative and mostly vegan options. Vegetarians who think they have limited choices should certainly pay Handlebar a visit.
Handlebar is a basic and cozy restaurant with a very familiar and homey vibe. It offers a diverse range of vegetarian and vegan options, all made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to using high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish is flavorful and satisfying, even for non-vegetarians.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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6. Etta Bucktown
They offer a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a popular brunch menu.

Etta is a restaurant that aims to improve upon existing concepts rather than reinventing them. It offers a casually elegant dining experience, suitable for a neighborhood spot in Bucktown and Wicker Park. The restaurant has received positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 on Yelp based on 140 reviews.
The menu at Etta features pizza and American/New American cuisine. Diners can enjoy the restaurant's offerings during lunch and dinner hours, which run from 12 PM to 10 PM. Etta is located at 1840 W North Ave in Chicago, and reservations can be made by calling (312) 847-4614. The restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a night out or a casual meal with friends.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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7. Club Lucky
Club Lucky is known for its vintage decor, live music, and long history in the Chicago community.

The atmosphere at this establishment is exceptional, known for its lively supper club vibe, chill ambient setting, and cool old-school vibes. It has gained a reputation for its excellent overall ambiance.
The food here is consistently high-quality and well-prepared, with a strong focus on Italian cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include various types of pasta, flavorful meatballs, tender chicken parmigiana, delicious eggplant parmigiana, and the ever-popular tiramisu.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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8. Ina Mae
Family-owned, carefully sourced ingredients, daily specials

The Nashville chicken po boy was a delicious meal, with a generous portion of seasoned chicken that was well-cooked and flavorful. The bread could have been softer, as it was a bit tough. My friend's order of chicken wings was also a hit, with a delicious sweet syrup that complemented the meat well. The side of biscuit was a tasty addition to the meal.
The establishment offered a great atmosphere and an enjoyable dining experience. The quality of food was high, with each dish prepared carefully and served promptly. The service was excellent, with amiable and attentive staff who made sure we had everything we needed. Overall, the restaurant offered great food, great service, and a wonderful ambiance that made it a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
9. Taxim in Wicker Park
Live music on weekends and hookah lounge

The food at this establishment is consistently praised for its freshness, delicious taste, and authenticity, featuring a variety of Anatolian, Greek, and Pontus dishes. Popular menu items include tzatziki, a roasted eggplant spread, Halloumi Saganaki, and lemon chicken.
Customers have given high marks for the service, which is often described as accommodating and helpful. The rooftop seating area is particularly noteworthy, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere that adds to the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. Bongo Room in Wicker Park
Offers a variety of unique and indulgent brunch options

A buzzing atmosphere and quick-moving lines greet customers at this popular establishment. The French toast stands out as a consistent menu favorite, known for its consistent deliciousness.
When it comes to pancakes, this place is a must-visit. They offer unique and delicious flavor options such as ube and red velvet, taking pancakes to a whole new level of delight.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. Big Star
Live music on weekends, extensive liquor selection

The dining experience was enjoyable, but the wait time for food was a bit prolonged. The bartender, despite being busy, was kind and managed to prepare delicious drinks.
The al pastor taco featured grilled pineapple, which complemented the dark, smoky taste of the al pastor. The fish tacos were exceptional, making the meal worth the wait.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Mid-Range
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12. Dove's Luncheonette
Cash-only diner with a 1950s aesthetic

The drinks at this establishment are highly rated, with one customer particularly enjoying the La Lechuza cocktail, while another expressed a preference for the drinks over the food. Overall, the drink selection has received positive feedback.
Moving on to the food, it is described as delicious, tasty, and great, with options available for those with gluten-free diets. Despite some reviews mentioning slow service, the food itself has received predominantly positive reviews. It seems that the quality of the food is a standout aspect of this establishment.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Antique Taco Wicker Park
Features an antique taco truck inside, sustainable and locally sourced ingredients

A food enthusiast from the Southwest, known for its delicious tacos, was pleasantly surprised to discover a remarkable taco place in an unlikely location - Chicago. The quality of the tacos was so impressive that a second visit was necessary to savor more of their offerings.
The fish taco, in particular, stood out due to its perfectly battered fish that retained its natural flavor. Meanwhile, the sweet potato taco proved to be an excellent vegetarian option, exploding with delectable taste, making it a must-try for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Gluten-Free
14. Cafe Istanbul in Wicker Park
Authentic Turkish cuisine in the heart of Chicago

The service at this establishment is highly regarded by guests for its attentiveness, friendliness, and promptness. It is often described as exceptional, never missing a beat and providing a memorable dining experience.
The ambiance of the establishment is another aspect that guests enjoy. Many describe it as unique and wonderful, contributing to an enjoyable meal experience. The atmosphere is carefully crafted to provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for all guests.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
15. Via Carducci La Sorella
Authentic family-owned trattoria, serving classic dishes since 1928

Via Carducci La Sorella is an Italian restaurant with a wide range of edible dishes, although it may not compare to other excellent Italian options available in the city. The ambiance of the restaurant is a mix of a cozy family eatery and a lively sports bar. Another restaurant, Jerry's, known for its sandwiches, had its outdoor seating unavailable during the weekend, so the decision was made to try the new Italian place located in the old Jinx spot.
The new Italian restaurant on Division serves plentiful antipasti and has a decent selection of pasta dishes. The service is steady, pleasant and the wine list is reasonably priced. While it may not offer the best Italian food ever, it is worth trying due to its convenient location, good service, and reasonable pricing. Although the authors were initially planning to visit Jerry's for sandwiches, they were satisfied with their decision to give the new Italian place a try instead.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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16. Small Cheval- Wicker Park
Charming Parisian-style cafe with a relaxed vibe and hidden patio

This option is a strong alternative to the traditional burger experience, offering similar quality without the long waits. The restaurant's pricing is generally considered to be average by reviewers, making it a reasonable choice for those looking for a good burger without breaking the bank.
reviewers have praised this alternative for its high-quality burgers and reasonable prices. It offers a similar experience to traditional burger restaurants, but without the long wait times. Instead, customers can enjoy their meals without the stress of extensive delays, making it a convenient choice for burger lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
17. Enoteca Roma
Family-owned since 1996, extensive Italian wine selection, live music on weekends

Enoteca Roma Ristorante is a charming Italian restaurant with a cozy interior and a relaxing patio, giving the impression of dining in Italy. The menu features various dishes, such as pear ravioli and panna cotta trio. This establishment is located at 2146 West Division Street in the Wicker Park neighborhood and is known as a popular Italian wine bar, serving Roman cuisine with a focus on bruschetta, pasta, and pizza in rustic rooms.
At Enoteca Roma Ristorante, patrons can enjoy a wide selection of Roman cuisine, including delicious bruschetta, pasta, and pizza, in a comfortable and inviting setting. Whether dining inside or on the patio, the atmosphere is reminiscent of a traditional Italian eatery. Located on West Division Street in the Wicker Park neighborhood, this charming restaurant is a must-visit for fans of Italian food and wine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Happy Hours
18. The Pasta Bowl - Wicker Park
Handmade pasta, locally sourced ingredients

Pasta dishes at this establishment are widely admired for their exceptional taste and high quality. Guests have commented on the immaculate and delicious pasta, making it a popular choice for pasta lovers. The pasta dishes are a standout feature, and a must-try for those looking for a generous and tasty bowl of pasta.
The service at this restaurant is noteworthy, with staff praised for their swift and friendly assistance. Customers have highlighted the kindness of the staff, who make the dining experience even more enjoyable. The portion sizes are large, and the speedy service ensures that guests are satisfied in a timely manner. This creates a positive dining experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the delicious pasta dishes.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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19. Elia Chicago
Established in 1902, historic architecture, live music on weekends

For our date night, my partner and I decided to try Elia Chicago, known for its Mediterranean cuisine. We were delighted with our choice, as both the Chicken Thigh and Salmon dishes were incredibly juicy and tender. The meal was a resounding success, leaving us satisfied and looking forward to our next visit.
During our early dinner, we had the pleasure of dining outdoors, which added to the pleasant atmosphere of the restaurant. The food offerings were diverse and delicious, with the seafood appetizers, Salmon, and Sea Bass standing out as particular highlights. Overall, Elia Chicago provided a great dining experience at an excellent value.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
20. Lucia's
Family-owned and operated, focus on fresh, local ingredients

Lucia's is a delightful Italian restaurant, well-known for its authentic cuisine and outstanding service. The menu features popular dishes such as the Lucia sandwich and chicken parmesan, which have received much appreciation from patrons. The welcoming and accommodating staff at Lucia's contributes to the overall positive dining experience.
Lucia's Gourmet Italian Cuisine offers a BYOB policy, allowing customers to bring their own alcoholic beverages, and provides outdoor seating for those who prefer dining in the fresh air. Moreover, Lucia's is an excellent spot for groups, making it a great option for family gatherings or celebrations with friends.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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21. urbanbelly
Features a rotating menu with seasonal ingredients

The food offered at the establishment is varied, with options including Asian cuisine. Some guests have raved about the delicious flavors and high-quality ingredients, while others found it to be average or lacking in taste.
In terms of service, guests have consistently reported fast and friendly service. The speed of service has been praised, with staff going out of their way to ensure that guests are satisfied in a timely manner. Additionally, the kindness of the staff has been noted, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for all.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
22. Cafe Robey
Located in a 1905 building with unique architecture

Cafe Robey is a popular brunch spot located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, situated inside the Robey Hotel. The spacious dining room is often busy on weekends, but it is relatively easy to find a seat on weekdays. The cafe, which serves new American, French-inspired fare, is known for its delicious food and excellent service.
The Robey Hotel's first floor is home to Cafe Robey, located at the intersection of North, Damen, and Milwaukee. During its soft opening, the cafe's food received positive reviews, with standout dishes including the duck confit hash and the eggs Benedict. The knowledgeable and attentive staff provided excellent service, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience for all who visited.
TOPICS
- Rooftop
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
23. Phodega in Wicker Park
Family-owned and operated since 1915, serving the local community for over a century.

Phodega Wicker Park in Bucktown, Chicago, is a Vietnamese restaurant that has impressed diners with its delicious food and friendly service. The menu offers a variety of traditional and creative dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. One such dish is the Pho, a popular Vietnamese soup that is known for its rich and flavorful broth. Diners can also try the Pho fries, a unique twist on the classic dish, as well as other menu items that showcase the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine.
Apart from the food, the staff at Phodega Wicker Park are commended for their excellent service, making every dining experience pleasant and enjoyable. Indeed, the combination of great food and a welcoming atmosphere has made Phodega Wicker Park a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, leaving diners satisfied and impressed, and eager to come back for more. Overall, Phodega Wicker Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Vietnamese cuisine in Chicago.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots