312 Reviewer

5 spots you need to try in the North suburbs of Chicago

Five North Suburban Chicago restaurants that are worth the drive.
These are five spots I’ve personally tried and would recommend, covering everything from Korean and Hawaiian to Italian, Southern, and seafood. They’re in no particular order and this is by no means a definitive ranking.

Let me know what other spots are worth checking out.

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Chicago Dumplings recently opened in Western Springs, bringing a menu centered around handmade dumplings with plenty of variety to explore. Beyond the dumplings, you’ll also find excellent ramen bowl. Oh if you stop in during lunch, the specials have a a drink of your choice paired with either soup dumplings or crispy chicken.

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A few blocks from Wrigley Field sits the only Indonesian restaurant in Chicago, and it’s fully halal too. Rendang Republic is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but worth the short walk from the ballpark.

Chef John Avila spent years cooking in kitchens across the world before bringing it all back home to introduce Indonesian food to the city. Really enjoyed the visit and hope to make it back soon.

3355 N Clark St, Chicago

Finally got to try PopUp Bagels now that they’ve landed in Lincoln Park. Went on a Saturday afternoon, no line, which honestly surprised me given how packed this place has been since opening. Bagels were still hot and fresh, all six were solid, no complaints there. Got their jalapeño popper schmear, which is their current rotating special, and it did not disappoint. Reheated great the next day too. Curious to try one of their other weekly flavors next time.

Some brands become part of a country’s identity. Leonidas has been crafting Belgian chocolate since 1913, and that same tradition can be found across three Chicagoland locations. The chocolates are the draw, but the ice cream, Belgian waffles, and crepes are absolutely worth trying out. Sometimes dessert isn’t an afterthought, it’s the reason you came in.

Arabic food in Chicago’s West Town. Zayna Mediterranean Grill serves some delicious healthy plates and sandwiches.

They also just opened a sister restaurant with a Mexican inspired menu called Zayna Express, definitely on my list next.

📍 Zayna Mediterranean Grill, 1147 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL