DineGuides

What's Hot in Lincoln Square

10 restaurants in Lincoln Square. Part of our Chicago What's Hot guide.

Slim's
#1What's Hot
6 photos

Slim's

American·$$

Slim's serves up halal Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches with a casual, laid-back vibe. This neighborhood spot is a go-to for quick, flavorful meals and friendly service.

🍽️95Food
88Vibe
💰80Value
💬

Been to Slim’s three times now, and the food was excellent every time!

💬

From the moment I walked in, the vibe was cool, laid-back, and inviting - perfect for a casual meal that still delivers on flavor.

💬

The cheeseburger special is such a reasonable price! I got a good juicy burger, good amount of fries, and large fountain soda!

Ideal for
Halal Chicago-style hot dogsCasual weeknight dinnerWatching the game
Bai Ordo
#2What's Hot
6 photos

Bai Ordo

Central Asian·$$

Bai Ordo offers a comforting taste of Central Asia, with standout lamb shank soup and hearty plov that transport diners. This family-run spot provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for both solo adventurers and families seeking authentic flavors.

🍽️95Food
88Vibe
💰85Value
75Wait
💬

Had nothing, just a regular empty soup

💬

Easy parking near KoMex Town

💬

Family that runs it is absolutely sweet

Ideal for
Central Asian food enthusiasts and meat-loversFamily dinners seeking warm, welcoming atmosphereValue-conscious diners wanting authentic cuisine
The Warbler
#3What's Hot

The Warbler

American·$

The Warbler offers a trifecta of consistently good food, fair prices, and great service, making it a neighborhood favorite. Its menu features creative, seasonally inspired dishes with thoughtful vegetarian and vegan options, all served in a modern yet cozy atmosphere. The staff's genuine hospitality ensures a welcoming experience for any occasion.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰88Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Overall looks like a great addition to Lincoln Square with more of a casual energy

💬

There was a good cocktail selection and plenty of thoughtfully created vegetarian options!

💬

The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with cozy booths, natural textures, and soft lighting that immediately puts you at ease.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSolo dining
Pollo Express Ravenswood
#4What's Hot

Pollo Express Ravenswood

Mexican·$$

This no-frills spot serves up incredibly flavorful, authentic Mexican rotisserie chicken that tastes like a homemade cookout. Portions are generous, making it a great value for families or solo diners alike. The friendly, casual atmosphere makes it a welcome neighborhood addition.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰90Value
💬

The chicken bowl is incredibly good. It features lots of vegetables rice, and their amazing chicken.

💬

BEST charbroiled Adobo chicken in Chicago!!! Well seasoned chicken and great salsas.

💬

This spot has by far been my favorite chicken in the city.

Ideal for
FamiliesSolo diningTakeout
Luna Cafe
#5What's Hot
6 photos

Luna Cafe

American·$$

Luna Cafe is a neighborhood spot that shines with its remarkably friendly service and a menu featuring fresh, flavorful options like the vegetarian breakfast burrito and pesto pasta. The horchata latte is a particular standout, often described as the best in the area. It's a welcoming place to grab a coffee, a bite, or settle in to work.

🍽️95Food
78Vibe
💰85Value
🔊65Noise
💬

I wouldn’t have spotted it driving by, but I did walking by and I think it’s the best breakfast place around Lincoln Square.

💬

The customer service was amazing, the food was so good and a chicken sandwich and an American breakfast.

💬

Best customer service and delicious breakfast sandwich with chicken sausage on a croissant!

Ideal for
Weekend brunchCasual coffee datesRemote work
Mix Mex Cue
#6What's Hot

Mix Mex Cue

Mexican·$$

This neighborhood spot is a true find, serving up authentic Mexican flavors with a focus on fresh ingredients. It's a casual cafe that welcomes everyone, from solo diners to large groups, and even furry friends on the patio.

🍽️92Food
85Vibe
💰75Value
💬

The chile relleno had a delicious light batter. The torta bread was so fresh and yummy.

💬

I eat here at least once a week, and the food is always reliably delicious and freshly made.

💬

Came by for some tacos and an agua fresca and stayed for the amazing environment.

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnersFamily mealsLunch with friends
Pueblito Viejo
#7What's Hot

Pueblito Viejo

Colombian·$$

Pueblito Viejo transforms into a vibrant Colombian village, complete with lively music and a dance floor that beckons guests to move. This maximalist spot offers a festive atmosphere perfect for celebrations, with flavorful, authentic dishes that transport you far from Chicago.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰70Value
👋68Service
💬

Everything on the menu looked so good. Everything we ordered was authentic and delicious.

💬

This place has great food, great service and a great atmosphere, with music playing and fun decor everywhere. Very maximalist and I love that!

💬

The steak was cooked more than the doneness I wanted but the marinade and the tenderness more than compensated for it!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningFamilies with kids
Garcia's Restaurant
#8What's Hot

Garcia's Restaurant

Mexican·$$

Garcia's is a lively neighborhood staple that consistently delivers generous portions of authentic Mexican fare. It's a go-to spot for families and groups, offering a full bar and a welcoming, festive atmosphere.

🍽️88Food
85Vibe
💰82Value
🔊65Noise
💬

First time at Garcia’s. The best, and I mean THE BEST Chicken Tortilla Soup I’ve ever had!

💬

The food was fantastic and the service was the fastest I’ve ever had!

💬

Came in without a reservation for dinner and we were given a table right away.

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningCasual weeknight dinner
Bel Ami Lounge
#9What's Hot

Bel Ami Lounge

European·$$

Bel Ami Lounge is a European-style cafe that transforms into a lively bar and restaurant after 9 PM. It's a versatile spot, equally suited for a casual coffee and homework session or a night out with friends, offering a full bar and a welcoming atmosphere.

🍽️85Food
90Vibe
💰75Value
💬

I gave my best to find burger and chop in combination grill plate but I couldn’t.

💬

I was here last night and the bartender Anna was wonderful.

💬

We sat down and the waitress said without even looking at us "do you need the menu?"

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSolo dining
Farm Bar Ravenswood
#10What's Hot

Farm Bar Ravenswood

American·$$

Farm Bar Ravenswood shines with its creative, vegetable-forward dishes sourced from its own farm. The lively atmosphere, complete with a full bar, makes it a great spot for groups and casual nights out.

🍽️90Food
80Vibe
💰75Value
🔊60Noise
💬

Best place to go if you want a creative serving of seasonal vegetables.

💬

Everyone at my table loved their entree 2 of which were vegetarian.

💬

I would classify as a high-end sports bar (with an option for booths tables and a bar)

Ideal for
Weekend brunchGroup diningCasual nights out