It’s been a standout year for Chicago’s dining scene. From neighborhood newcomers to high-end openings, both locals and visitors have had no shortage of new places to try.
10 New Chicago Restaurants That Generated the Most Buzz
Chicago’s culinary scene has witnessed a wide range of openings in 2025. That diversity has fueled a wave of concepts that quickly gained a loyal following. Standing out are 10 openings that generated the most buzz this year, spanning concepts like Cafe Yaya, Dimmi Dimmi, Creepies, and Honey Butter Beach Club. Here’s the full list:
1. Cafe Yaya
The all-day café from the team behind Galit quickly became a go-to for Chicago diners. Cafe Yaya is designed as a neighborhood gathering spot centered on food, coffee, and wine. From house-made pastries all day to Mediterranean and French flavors taking over afternoons and nights, there’s not a moment of boredom at this place.
Standout menu items include the baklava, shakshuka bun, and merguez sandwich. Noted among the popular dishes at the restaurant, these are a must-try. Visitors have noted that the shakshuka, lamb burger, duck confit, malawach, and other dishes are their favorites.
When: March 12, 2025
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2. YooYee
YooYee has been one of the more talked-about Chinese openings of the year. It is mainly the Szechuan cuisine served at the restaurant that has made it popular among food lovers in Chicago. The restaurant blends traditional Sichuan flavors with a modern approach, making it a notable addition to the city’s dining scene.
The restaurant highlights popular dishes like the Dan Dan Noodles, Chongqing Popcorn Chicken, and Scallion Pancake. However, visitors have selected the Sliced Beef Tongue w/Chili Oil Soup, Sweet Skinned Duck, Hand Pulled Noodles, and other dishes among their favorites.
When: March 17, 2025
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3. Zarella
Located in the bustling heart of River North, Zarella brings a menu blending tavern-style and artisan pizzas. The thin-crust pizzas balance bold flavors with polished presentation. The cozy, timeless space has helped make it a neighborhood favorite.
Popular dishes here include the Spicy Vodka pizza, Sunday Salad, Brown Butter Cake, Carbonara, and more. Whereas, visitors have noted the tavern-style pizza, Radiatori Alla Vodka pasta, and soppressata among their favorites.
When: March 21, 2025
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4. Nadu
Nadu offers regional Indian cuisine in a contemporary setting that has resonated with Chicago diners. Its recognition by the MICHELIN Guide has further cemented its place in the neighborhood. Led by Michelin Star Chef Sujan Sarkar and Head Chef Sanchit Sahu, it brings a unique blend of culture, tradition, and authenticity to the city.
Popular dishes at the restaurant include Benne Masala Dosa, Apricot Delight, Butter Chicken Aritha Pundi, Dahi Bhalla, and other dishes. Meanwhile, visitors have highlighted the Jackfruit Shammi Kebab, Tangra Chili Fish, Murgh Makhani, and Meen Pollichathu as some of their favorites.
When: April 4, 2025
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5. Dimmi Dimmi
Dimmi Dimmi is a somewhat old-fashioned tavern located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park. The restaurant blends modern energy with classic Italian traditions; this restaurant’s popularity has been high since opening day.
The restaurant names Chicken Parm, Dimmi Dimmi Salad, Spicy Vodka Stuffed Shells, and Focaccia among its popular dishes. Meanwhile, visitors have loved the Sausage Pizza, Mozzarella Sticks, Meatballs, Gnudi Pomodoro, and other dishes.
When: August 13, 2025
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6. Creepies
Chefs David and Anna Posey, with Chef de Cuisine Tyler Ploshehanski, have brought a new bistro to Chicago’s West Loop. Creepies brings a blend of Midwestern and French influences that results in an irresistible funky vibe. The kitchen’s creativity has drawn steady crowds, while the atmosphere of the bistro is perfect for conversation.
Popular dishes here include the Saucisson, Parisian Gnocchi, Warm Brie Gougeres, Savoy Cabbage, and more. Meanwhile, visitors have noted the Tarte Flambée, Roasted Chicken, and Steamed Halibut among their favorites.
When: August 22, 2025
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7. Midosuji
This year, Chicago welcomed a new omakase concept blending Japanese and French techniques. Offering an unforgettable experience to eight guests at a time, Midosuji‘s intimate space is located in the historic Chicago Athletic Association. With every seating, this restaurant brings a luxurious and carefully crafted experience to its visitors.
The experience features a seasonal, chef-driven tasting menu with no fixed offerings.
When: September 5, 2025
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8. Ila’s
Ila’s aims to balance the city’s energy with a sense of refined comfort. The restaurant and bar that brings globally inspired flavors to the neighborhood is known for its unique fusion. Located in River North, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere to those who wish to indulge in its flavors.
Popular dishes at the restaurant include Paneer Kebab, Green Tea Panna Cotta, Chicken Katsu, Lamb Birria, Lamb Merguez, and more. Visitors have loved the restaurant’s Sweet Corn Agnolotti, Halibut, Ube Sour, Japanese Cheesecake, and other dishes.
When: September 10, 2025
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9. Honey Butter Beach Club
Located inside the pickleball venue, SPF Chicago is the Honey Butter Fried Chicken spin-off concept, Honey Butter Beach Club. Serving craveable shoreside delicacies, it brings comfort with a sunny, beachside twist. The concept leans into a beach-inspired atmosphere paired with familiar comfort food.
Popular dishes here include the lobster rolls, fried shrimp, and pimento cheese dip. Meanwhile, visitors have loved the shrimp tacos, chicken tostadas, fried shrimp, and other dishes.
When: September 16, 2025
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10. Crying Tiger
Rounding out the list is Crying Tiger, led by Chef Partner and James Beard finalist Thai Dang. Merging Southeast Asia’s night market energy with Chicago’s industrial heritage, Crying Tiger opened with an aim to leave anyone awestruck with its beauty. What comes after this is an array of flavors that are familiar yet entirely new.
The Khao Soi, Pork Belly, Crab Fried Rice, Hamachi, and Chicken Satay are some popular dishes at the restaurant. Meanwhile, the barbecue chicken, clay pot lobster pod Thai, and tuna tartare were among visitors’ favorites.
When: October 16, 2025
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The year has certainly been good to Chicago’s food scene, with new concepts and flavors entering the scene. As award-winning chefs lead these kitchens with their talent, the city is sure to see more changes in its culinary scene soon. Together, these openings reflect the continued evolution of Chicago’s dining landscape.
