DineGuides

Cheap Eats in Uptown

6 restaurants in Uptown. Part of our Chicago Cheap Eats guide.

Rice & Noodles Thai Food
#1Cheap Eats

Rice & Noodles Thai Food

ThaiΒ·$$

Generous portions of authentic Thai flavors define this neighborhood spot. It's a BYOB establishment where friendly service and a casual atmosphere make it a go-to for weeknight dinners and casual outings.

🍽️93Food
πŸ’°95Value
πŸ‘‹90Service
✨75Vibe
πŸ’¬

β€œAmazing customer service. But even better food. Like wow. Fried bannanas are πŸ”₯. Egg rolls on point. Crab Rangoon is to die for. Pad see ewe is delicious.”

πŸ’¬

β€œThe Khao Soi was so delicious and had a generous serving of noodles and protein.”

πŸ’¬

β€œThe food is in huge portions and very delicious at an affordable price. Highly recommend.”

Ideal for
Date nightSolo diningFamilies with kids
Tweet
#2Cheap Eats
6 photos

Tweet

AmericanΒ·$$

Tweet is a Chicago institution, a cozy and eccentric diner that feels like a neighborhood living room. It's a place where the art on the walls is as vibrant as the conversations at the tables, offering a full bar and a menu that caters to nearly every dietary need.

🍽️95Food
πŸ’°88Value
πŸ‘‹96Service
πŸ”Š65Noise
πŸ’¬

β€œFood is always spot on. Probably the best breakfast in Chicago.”

πŸ’¬

β€œLike NYC lower east side, very cool place. Seams like a place full of artists.”

πŸ’¬

β€œService was beyond amazing from the moment I walked.”

Ideal for
Group brunches willing to waitDietary-conscious diners (GF, vegan, allergies)Those seeking artsy neighborhood charm
A Pizza Pie
#3Cheap Eats
3 photos

A Pizza Pie

PizzaΒ·$$

This Uptown pizza joint offers a nostalgic taste of classic Chicago pies, reminiscent of old-school bowling alley pizzas. It's a family-friendly spot that delivers on generous toppings and a satisfying, familiar flavor profile.

🍽️92Food
πŸ’°90Value
πŸ‘‹87Service
πŸ›‘οΈ68Safety
πŸ’¬

β€œOwner whipped it up in 8 minutes”

πŸ’¬

β€œI've tried a few. [implies repeat visits, consistent experience]”

πŸ’¬

β€œCrust that's perfectly crisp outside and soft inside”

Ideal for
Casual pizza lovers seeking quality and valueNeighborhood residents looking for quick lunchGroups wanting to order slices or whole pies
Marina's Bistro and Rum Bar
#4Cheap Eats
6 photos

Marina's Bistro and Rum Bar

Puerto RicanΒ·$

This unassuming strip mall spot transports diners straight to the island with its vibrant tropical decor and a massive rum collection. It's a place where the food tastes like home-cooked comfort, prepared with love and tradition, making it a favorite for authentic Puerto Rican flavors.

🍽️95Food
πŸ’°85Value
πŸ‘‹93Service
πŸ’¬

β€œThe food was amazing. Prices are fair. You can tell they put in a lot of work to make everything great.”

πŸ’¬

β€œThis is one of my go-to restaurants in the city. Everything on the menu is delicious - drinks, apps, entrees, desserts!!”

πŸ’¬

β€œThis unassuming spot in a strip mall of small spots is tiny but FIERCE. It’s BEAUTIFUL inside. Intimate. …”

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Taqueria Diamante
#5Cheap Eats

Taqueria Diamante

MexicanΒ·$$

This Uptown taqueria serves up authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions and a welcoming, casual atmosphere. It's a family-run spot where dishes like the mole enchiladas and al pastor tacos are made with care, often drawing comparisons to beloved former establishments.

🍽️92Food
πŸ’°88Value
πŸ‘‹90Service
πŸ›‘οΈ65Safety
πŸ’¬

β€œGreat atmosphere, excellent food, outstanding service πŸ‘Œ, if your looking for a great spot awesome food and drinks I highly recommend Taqueria Diamante.”

πŸ’¬

β€œThis place has the absolute best Mexican food I’ve had locally. Incredible burritos, salsa, chilaquiles and very friendly staff.”

πŸ’¬

β€œBest tacos on the Northside 🎯 tasty and fresh as ever, coming from the restaurant’s new spot in Uptown.”

Ideal for
Date nightFamilies with kidsGroup dining
Honeymoon Cafe
#6Cheap Eats

Honeymoon Cafe

ChineseΒ·$$

This family-owned spot serves up authentic Chinese dishes, with a particular talent for salt and pepper preparations. It's a casual, no-frills neighborhood favorite that prioritizes generous portions and fair prices over decor.

🍽️88Food
πŸ’°88Value
πŸ‘‹75Service
πŸ›‘οΈ65Safety
πŸ’¬

β€œThis place doesn't look like much, but it's my go-to Chinese place in the area, for sure.”

πŸ’¬

β€œWe clearly ordered shrimp and chicken ONLY - no pork - yet they served us noodles full of pork …”

πŸ’¬

β€œThe BEST. Quiet hole in the wall with amazing food.”

Ideal for
Group diningFamilies with kidsTakeout