Navigating Fulton Market's abundance of exceptional eateries can be overwhelming, tempting to compile an exhaustive list of every restaurant and recommend trying them all.
Whether you're craving the comfort of casual ramen shops, the elegance of fine dining, or exploring the vibrant scene of Fulton Market restaurants, we've curated a selection of the best spots for every occasion.
1. Momotaro
Momotaro is a modern Japanese restaurant where Chef Partner Gene Kato infuses his Japanese heritage into Chicago culinary culture. Its dishes create a remarkable twist on traditional flavors that still feel true to Japanese roots.
The restaurant excels in authentic sushi and robata plates with handcrafted cocktails and spirits. Moreover, the space is housed in a remodeled warehouse with high ceilings and an observable kitchen.
Address: 820 W Lake St
2. Oriole
If you have a penchant for luxurious dining experiences, Oriole is a must-try. Situated in the West Loop, this upscale spot offers a changing tasting menu, featuring simple presented yet delicious dishes.
The highly attentive, non-intrusive service enhances the overall experience. This makes it ideal for special occasions that justify a week (or three) of more humble meals like Cup Noodles. Alternatively, it's perfect for exploring the exquisite dining options at restaurants in Fulton Market.
Address: 661 W Walnut St
3. Duck Duck Goat
As the Chinese counterpart to Girl & the Goat and Little Goat, Duck Duck Goat maintains the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine characteristic of the goat empire. Exploring Chinese flavors with inventive twists, such as blueberry-infused glass noodles, adds a playful touch.
Noteworthy are dishes incorporating goat, like the duck and goat spring rolls. Additionally, the restaurant provides an excellent takeout experience, ensuring the enjoyment of its flavors in the comfort of your own space.
Address: 857 W Fulton Market
4. The Publican
The Publican is a homage to oysters, pork, and beer. Its eclectic menu is inspired by simple farmhouse fare in a space evocative of a European beer hall. It offers a creative and pork-focused menu plus global brews in a hip setting with communal tables.
Gather with friends around the expansive U-shaped table, ensuring you savor a bit of everything. Notably, it is renowned for hosting one of the city's best brunches, making it a must-visit for a diverse culinary experience.
Address: 837 W Fulton Market
5. Rose Mary
Chef Joe Flamm draws inspiration from his Italian and Croatian roots for his solo restaurant. Their house-made pasta, including Croatian sausage Cevapi, and grilled clams stand out.
The vegetable offerings, like a refreshing tomato, farro, and asparagus salad, elevate the dining experience. Dishes like the flavorful crni rizot showcase a diverse menu with items priced between $15-$25.
Address: 932 W Fulton St
6. Time Out Market Chicago
Time Out Market stands out not for a single restaurant but for the collective excellence of its diverse offerings. Home to successful establishments like Big Kids, Demera, and Lil' Amaru, the market features an expansive industrial space with two levels, three bars, and ample communal tables.
For an elevated experience, Valhalla on the second floor offers a 12-course tasting menu.
Address: 916 W Fulton Market
7. Publican Quality Meats (PQM)
PQM is an American cafe offering charcuterie, pastries, and sandwiches along with an on-site butcher and market. It is your friendly, neighborhood butcher shop, market, and cafe.
This venue is dedicated to bringing clean, wholesome honest products, responsibly raised meats, artisanal baked bread, and handcrafted provisions.
Address: 825 W Fulton Market
8. Aba
Aba, even by West Loop's vibrant standards, stands out as a lively scene. The upside? This bustling ambiance pairs seamlessly with exceptional food. Despite the perpetual crowd, the venue's beauty and expansive rooftop patio make it an ideal spot for socializing over drinks, even in winter.
It's Mediterranean menu encourages shared experiences, enhancing the communal and convivial atmosphere.
Address: 302 N Green St 3rd Floor
9. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
It is a full-service restaurant serving made-to-order hand-battered fried chicken. They serve southern spicy fried chicken and make all their southern sides in-house daily, from shredding fish cabbage to cutting potatoes for potato salad.
You can enjoy a sweet tea, a really big beer, or a bottle of DOM with your meal and finish up with one of the simple southern pecan, chess, sweet potato or chocolate chess pies baked daily.
Address: 847 W Fulton Market
10. The Aviary
The Aviary is a chance to engage all the senses, sights, smells, sounds, temperatures, and tastes. It is a playground where your idea of what a night out drinking will be redefined.
This place offers a 5-course menu that rotates seasonally and features both signature and experimental cocktails. Each course is paired with small plates culminating in a unique dinner experience.
Address: 955 W Fulton Market
11. Il Carciofo
Il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of elevated Italian fare with its traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, and hand-rolled pasta, produced daily.
Their pasta is made in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains highlight the season's bounty.
Address: 1045 W Fulton Market Chicago
12. Swift & Sons
Swift & Sons is known as a swanky, sprawling spot featuring premium steaks and seafood, plus a bi-level bar and house concierge. This place not only elevated what has already been done, but it also evolved the American steakhouse for the modern diner.
The kitchen's contemporary take on steak serves up USDA Prime beef seared at high heat and presented with a trio of sauces.
Address: 1000 W Fulton Market
13. Fulton Market Kitchen
Fulton Market Kitchen offers delicious cuisine that embraces global influences and advocates relaxed, free-form dining. The menu offers guests an alternative experience with playful presentations and ingredients sourced from neighbors along Fulton Market.
It also offers selection of artisanal beers, an extensive wine list and an innovative and clever cocktail menu made with fresh juices and spirits pulled out of their eclectic back bars.
Address: 311 N Sangamon St
14. Italian Homemade Company
This Italian eatery offers a delightful taste of Italy with a specific emphasis on homemade pasta and traditional dishes. Guests can indulge in varieties of pasta like tagliatelle, fettuccine, and casarecce, which are among the favorites.
If you want something heartier, the meat lasagna is highly recommended and is often ordered. The menu also features an assortment of Italian salads and desserts, including classic tiramisu.
Address: 947 W Fulton St
15. Fire
Fire is an open-fire-driven dining experience from the Alinea Group and Chef Grant Achatz. It pushes live-fire cooking into extraordinary new territory.
The restaurant offers bold tasting menu experience pushing fire techniques including ember and ash-salt cooking. It further invites you to step closer to the hearth than ever before, capturing the elemental fire magic in true celebration of flavor and craft.