Best Lunch Spots in Chicago (2025)

Daytime brings a beloved Filipino bakery-and-lunch counter from James Beard winners Tim Flores and Genie Kwon. Expect long lines for savory rice plates and standout pastries. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and praised widely by local critics.

Fourth-generation Italian grocer turned sandwich institution; the Mr. G sub and house giardiniera define West Loop lunch. Frequently cited by Eater Chicago and crowned Best Sandwich by Chicago Reader readers.

The Zaragoza family’s goat birria—handmade tortillas, rich consomé—remains a Chicago essential. A Bib Gourmand favorite and Netflix Taco Chronicles alum; the Uptown location is currently operating.

Family-run since the 1980s and honored as a James Beard America’s Classics winner, Sun Wah anchors Argyle with Hong Kong–style barbecue and the lunchtime Beijing Duck feast. Celebrated by Eater and local press.

A neighborhood stalwart for brisket, ribs, and pulled pork—lunch lines move swiftly. Lauded by critics and noted by Michelin’s inspectors; the independent spirit shows in the craft and community ties.

By day, Ethan Lim’s Cambodian-influenced sandwich shop turns bold Southeast Asian flavors into craveable handhelds; often pre-order for lunch. Profiled by Eater Chicago and featured on PBS American Masters.

Inside a Little Village grocery, César “El Molusco” Castillo serves Mexico City–style tacos—suadero, tripa, cabeza—off a comal con sombrero. Frequently featured on Eater Chicago maps and Taco Chronicles.

Historic riverside shack famous for smoked fish and fried shrimp; cash-only, takeout, and perfect for a lakeside picnic. A James Beard America’s Classics honoree and recently confirmed reopened by local news.

River North’s classic Italian beef stand—no frills, plenty of juice, and Chicago attitude. A frequent pick on Italian beef roundups and the real-life inspiration behind the TV show everyone talks about.

Butcher shop, market, and café turning stellar bread and responsibly raised meats into destination sandwiches. Lunch on weekdays and brunch on weekends; admired by critics and Chicago’s chef community.

An Avondale bakery-café with real lunch chops—stacked sandwiches, superb breads, and the much-loved chocolate cake from The Bear. Recognized by The New York Times among standout U.S. bakeries.

Since 1942, a Chicago deli landmark for corned beef, matzo ball soup, and cafeteria-line charm. Family-run, media-beloved, and ideal for a hearty midday plate near the South Loop.

A chef-driven taquería reborn in a larger West Loop space with al pastor, duck carnitas, and seasonal specials. Added to the 2025 Michelin Guide selection and praised by local editors for lunch.