A Chicago-based restaurant known for its ingredient-driven approach and creative techniques has been named the Best Restaurant in North America for 2026. The restaurant has been serving guests since 2016 under the leadership of John Shields and his wife, Karen Urie Shields.
Smyth Named No. 1 Restaurant in North America
The Midwest dining scene saw a major milestone on May 28, 2026, during the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 awards. At the event, Smyth was ranked No. 1 among North America’s best restaurants this year.
The Chicago diner’s ranking has been attributed to local ingredients and creative food offerings. Strong leadership from chefs with nearly three decades of experience also contributed to the recognition.
Smyth finds its name on the list in the same year when it marks its 10 years of operations in Chicago. The restaurant is also a three-time winner of Michelin star.
The restaurant also thanked diners on Instagram. Chef John Shields shared his views on the recent recognition, stating that the feeling is “incredible” as the ranking came just at a time when it completed a decade in the city.
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According to PR Newswire, the ceremony, which arrived with its second-edition, took place at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel. Several well-known restaurants and industry professionals attended the annual event.
The ranking is based on voting by North America’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy. This group of people includes a 300-member panel featuring chefs, restaurateurs, food journalists, and dining experts from the U.S., the Caribbean, and Canada.
About the Restaurant
Karen Urie Shields and John Shields are at the forefront of the culinary offerings of Smyth. The husband and wife particularly take the responsibility of savory and pastry items, respectively. The duo, who had earlier worked at Alinea, Tru, and Charlie Trotter’s, bring together almost three decades of their expertise to the restaurant. Their inputs shape a menu that presents patrons with technically prepared dishes featuring seasonal ingredients.
Smyth offers diners with a selection of traditional bistro favorites. This includes burgers, trout à la Grenobloise and French onion soup.
By pairing a Michelin-starred tasting menu with classic French comfort dishes, the restaurant offers a sneak peek into Chicago’s food scene.
The warm bittersweet chocolate and maitake mushroom tart is a menu highlight as well.
With this latest ranking, Smyth continues to solidify its place among the U.S.’s most acclaimed restaurants, known for its focus on local sourcing and culinary innovation.
