When you think of Navy Pier, images of the Centennial Wheel, the sweeping skyline views, and the crashing waves of Lake Michigan come to mind. But there is so much more to this iconic landmark than the first few sights you see, especially when it comes to the food.
Today, Navy Pier restaurants serve up a massive variety of cuisines, from James Beard Award-winning comfort food to world-record-holding rooftops. Whether you’re a local looking for a hidden gem or a traveler wanting a taste of the city, this guide has you covered.
Pro Tip: Want to explore even more of the city's culinary history? After you’ve explored the Pier, join us at Chicago Food & City Tours for our Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour to see why Chicago is the food capital of the world!
For a variety of cuisines...
Photo Source: Navy Pier
Named after the Spanish word for lyric, Lirica restaurant is a love song to Latin cuisine. The menu is a beautiful blend of Spanish, Portuguese, and Caribbean traditions. Music is at the forefront here, lending an engrossing atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else on the Pier. Their cocktails are can’t-miss, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer some of the best views of Lake Michigan available.
Photo Source: Reunion
James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Art Smith brings his famous down-home cooking to the lakefront. Reunion is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle. Experience unpretentious Southern cuisine with a Midwestern twist, using locally sourced ingredients. It’s simple food done exactly right.
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If you’re in the mood for a hot dog (and let’s be honest, a hot dog is fit for any mood), check out America’s Dog & Burger. You can grab a classic Chicago Style Dog (no ketchup!) or try unique hot dog specialties from cities across the country all without leaving Navy Pier.
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Sometimes you just want a solid burger, and you can’t beat the legendary Cheezborger. The Billy Goat Tavern was founded in 1934 by "Billy Goat" Sianis, this tavern is a piece of living Chicago history. Grab a seat on the patio to enjoy the lakefront breeze and tell your friends the story of the "Billy Goat Curse"—it’s a Chicago classic.
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When fried chicken is calling your name, Big City Chicken is the stop for you. This fast-casual favorite serves up crispy wings, tenders, and their famous Spicy Chicken Sandwich. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal to eat while walking the Pier.
Photo Source: Harry Caray’s
Located right near the entrance, Harry Caray’s Tavern is a must for sports fans. Known for outstanding barbecue and a massive collection of sports memorabilia, it’s a great spot to catch a game on their HDTVs. Their dog-friendly patio is one of the best places for Navy Pier dining with your furry friend.
Photo Source: Chicago Food Planet
No list of Chicago Navy Pier restaurants is complete without deep-dish pizza. Giordano’s famous stuffed pizza is hearty, filling, and a true Chicago bucket-list item. If you’re looking for something lighter, they also offer thin-crust and pasta options that are just as delicious.
For something a little sweeter…
Garrett Popcorn figured out the secret to the perfect popcorn back in 1949. Today, visitors still line up for the "Garrett Mix" which is a blend of sweet CaramelCrisp and savory CheeseCorn. Everything is handmade throughout the day using secret family recipes.
Photo Source: Rainbow Cone
You don’t have to venture to the South Side to try this Chicago legend. Rainbow Cone's Navy Pier kiosk serves up the signature five-flavor stack: Chocolate, Strawberry, Palmer House, Pistachio, and Orange Sherbet. It’s been a local favorite since 1926!
For something a little different…
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Offshore is a cocktail lounge that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest rooftop deck. With seating for 1,000 people, it’s an incredible spot for a work meeting or a date night in Chicago, offering fire pits and seasonal cocktails with a panoramic view of the skyline.
Interested in learning more about all of Chicago's iconic foods and where to find them? Eat your way through the city with one of our tours such as:
Whether you are looking for the best Navy Pier restaurants or hidden gems in the West Loop, Chicago Food & City Tours is here to make sure you never have a bad meal in our city!
