Chicago Restaurants with a Delicious History
Though the Chicago food world has grown in size and influence in recent years, we actually have a long history of creating amazing food for our citizens and tourists. Long before Instagram took over food media and celebrity chefs were well-known TV stars, Chicago chefs were serving up delicious cuisine in storied buildings. Even as the years have gone on and the food world has changed, these buildings have continued to house the best in Chicago food. History buffs and visitors alike will love to learn and dine at these long-time favorite spots…
Club Lucky {1824 West Wabansia Avenue, Chicago; 773.227.2300}: The entire restaurant is meant to evoke the feel of a 1940’s supper club, and they tailor to an old-school Italian feel. Their location was once a dance hall, but has been a favorite Bucktown Italian restaurant for more than two decades since it’s re-opening in 1990. However, though it was closed for a few years in the 80’s, Club Lucky first came to the neighborhood for 50-odd years! Their killer Giant Martinis, and old school feel, have been a fan favorite since its re-opening.
Lockwood at the Palmer House Hotel {17 East Monroe Street, Chicago; 312.726.7500}: Did you know that the brownie was invented at the Palmer House in 1893? With a delicious dish like that in their history, you can bet the culinary team at the Palmer House knows what they’re doing! From in-room dining to their famed Lockwood restaurant, they have something for everyone, all housed in the historic hotel. Stepping into their lobby will feel like stepping back in time, but their menus are always up to date with the freshest ingredients and newest culinary trends.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago {646 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.283.7100}: This hot spot building on Michigan Avenue housed the flagship location of Crate & Barrel for nearly two decades before welcoming the Starbucks Reserve team in 2019. Starbucks paid homage to that bit of Chicago history with touches of Windy City love throughout the multi-story roastery. From cocktails created by local bartenders to a sweeping mural from Chicago artist Eulojio Ortega to specially roasted beans you can only get in Chicago, they have made the most of this historical location.
Italian Village {71 West Monroe Street, Chicago; 312.332.7005}: When a restaurant really does it right, they last beyond that initial hype. They thrive for years, thanks to amazing meals, personal customer service, and a welcoming atmosphere. No restaurant is a better example of this than Italian Village. For more than 90 years, they have served up classic Italian meals, now in three different restaurants: The Village, Vivere, and La Cantina. And they’re still owned and run by the Capitanini, who put their heart and soul into every plate, even decades after they opened their doors.
Chicago Chop House {60 West Ontario Street, Chicago; 312.787.7100}: The landmark brownstone in the River North neighborhood has been many restaurants over the years, but it’s been Chicago Chop House since 1986. And when this chophouse took over the location, they included many nods to the history of the building, complete with more than 1,400 historic photos featuring iconic sports, entertainment and political personalities lining the walls. There’s even rumored to be a ghost that sometimes appears in the building! So keep yours eyes peeled over your next steak dinner!
Nick & Vito's Pizzeria {8433 South Pulaski Road, Chicago; 773.735.2050}: Chicago pizza is world-famous, and many pizzerias have been around for decades, including Nick & Vito’s. Their famous Tavern Crust has been loved city-wide for a century, with Nick & Vito’s celebrating a century on our city this summer. If you haven’t had a slice yet, order up soon from this long-time favorite!
The Berghoff {17 West Adams Street, Chicago; 312.427.3170}: This institution has been serving Chicago since 1898, even getting Chicago’s first ever liquor license after Prohibition. Over the years, the restaurant has expanded to include a café, separate bar, and even a new brewery, Adams Street Brewery. Thought they’re currently closed due to the pandemic (as of August 2020), we can wait to dig in to their amazing German food again when they re-open.
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor