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Chicago's 1,656 Restaurants Span Budget Eats to Fine Dining

The city counts 1,656 restaurants as of July 14, 2026, spanning cheap eats to fine dining across established neighborhoods.

By Chicago Things-to-do Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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Chicago counted 1,656 restaurants as of July 14, 2026. Diners can choose from deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, the Chicago dog made with Vienna beef and seven toppings but no ketchup, and Garrett Popcorn.

The number reflects a food scene that draws both residents and visitors to neighborhoods with distinct offerings. West Loop focuses on farm-to-table high-end spots. Logan Square serves as the current center for urban farms and breweries. Little Village and Pilsen supply authentic Mexican dishes such as birria and tacos.

Top-rated spots this month

Kyoten stands out for sushi and omakase. Cariño holds a Michelin star for Latin cuisine. Creepies operates as a French neo-bistro. Pequod's ranks second for pizza. Mr. Beef remains a go-to for classic Italian beef sandwiches.

Long-running addresses

Jim's Original has served Maxwell Street Polish sausage since 1939 and stays open around the clock. Lou Mitchell's and Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder, known for pizza pot pies, continue to draw steady crowds.

The July 14 count of 1,656 restaurants comes from local listings that track both new openings and long-standing operations. This total covers the full range from quick counter service to multi-course tasting menus.

Visitors can start in the West Loop for higher-end plates, move to Logan Square for brewery pairings, then head south to Pilsen or Little Village for street tacos. Reservations at Kyoten or Cariño typically require advance booking, while Mr. Beef and Jim's Original operate on a walk-up basis.

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