North Chicago, Illinois
As local expert and food enthusiast, I'll recommend some fantastic places to eat in North Chicago, Illinois. I'll also provide tips on searching online for food reviews for pickup, delivery, or dine-in, along with advice for locals and visitors.
Locals' Favorite Restaurants in North Chicago:
1. 2601 Bar and Grill: Located in the trendy neighborhood of Evanston, 2601 Bar and Grill serves up mouth-watering American cuisine with creative twists. Try their famous Mac 'n Cheese Burger or their delectable brunch options. It's a local favorite, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere!
2. Edzo's Burger Shop: This casual eatery is a go-to for juicy, flavorful burgers and crispy fries. Their menu features creative burger combinations, milkshakes, and tasty sides. It's a perfect spot for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends.
3. Blind Joe's Restaurant & Bar: Blind Joe's is a local staple with friendly service, a cozy ambiance, and an incredible menu featuring prime rib, seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. It's an excellent spot for a family dinner or special occasion.
Places to Eat in North Chicago for Visitors:
1. On the bustlingDevon Avenue, you'll find a variety of international cuisines, including Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern restaurants.
2. For a unique dining experience, visit the North Shore's only Albanian restaurant, The Shaking Crab. Their seafood dishes are flavorsome, and the atmosphere is lively.
3. Taste the richness of Greek cuisine at Ouzeri, a cozy restaurant with authentic dishes like Moussaka, Souvlaki, and delicious appetizers.
Online Food Review and Search Tips:
1. Google Reviews: Google Reviews is an excellent resource for locals and visitors alike. Search for restaurants based on location, cuisine, price, or dietary restrictions. Look for places with a high rating (4-5 stars) and read recent reviews to get an idea of the current quality of food and service.
2. Food Blogs: Follow local food bloggers or websites like The infatuation, Thrillist, or Eater Chicago for up-to-date recommendations, reviews, and news about the Chicago food scene.
3. YELP: YELP is another valuable resource for searching and filtering restaurants. Use the " sorts by" feature to prioritize "highest rated" or "most reviewed" options.
4. Menu and Prices: Check menus and prices online before visiting a restaurant. Many eateries post their menus on their websites, third-party delivery services like Grubhub, or on the KwickMENU.
5. Delivery and Pickup: Use online ordering platforms like KwickMENU, Grubhub, Caviar, or DoorDash to order from local favorites like Edzo's Burger Shop or Blind Joe's for a night in or a quick lunch.
6. Local Facebook Groups or Food Communities: Join local food communities on Facebook or Reddit to ask locals for recommendations, share experiences, and discover hidden gems. Lake-Shore-Eats is a popular Facebook group for North Shore food enthusiasts.
Tips for Locals and Visitors:
Locals:
1. Explore neighborhoods nearby, like Evanston, Wilmette, or Skokie, for more dining options.
2. Keep up with food festivals and events in the area such as the annual Taste of Chicago or Evanston's Restaurant Week.
3. Consider joining local Facebook groups or food communities to stay informed about new restaurants and recommendations.
Visitors:
1. Research neighborhoods like Wrigleyville or Lincoln Park for a variety of dining options, including popular tourist spots.
2. Plan ahead for popular restaurants that may require reservations, especially on weekends or during peak tourist season.
3. Be prepared for a 15% to 20% tip at most restaurants, and consider tipping for pickup or delivery orders, as well.
In summary, North Chicago offers a diverse culinary scene with local favorites and international cuisines. For the best experience, utilize online resources, join local food communities, and explore nearby neighborhoods. Enjoy your culinary adventures in North Chicago!