The nominations are in and now it’s time to vote for whom you want to win the Chicago Tribune Readers’ Choice Food Awards.
Below are the five finalists in each of the 10 categories, as well as what some readers said when making their nominations.
Readers can vote daily for their favorite finalists below (refresh the page if the voting box doesn’t appear) or click here. The voting period ends on April 15 at 11:59 p.m. Winners will be announced on May 13.
Restaurants, bars and other food businesses that have made it to the final round can download our free media kit here.
Coffee Shop of the Year
Bean Bar: A reader described this neighborhood favorite in Northbrook as somewhere with good food and coffee, where the employees make you feel like you’re valued.
Four Letter Word: A reader described this Avondale spot as having the best coffee.
Side Practice Coffee: A reader praised the Ravenswood coffee shop’s rotating specials, and added that they “love what they do for the community and local small businesses.”
Sip & Savor: A reader described this business, which has locations in Edgewater, Bronzeville and Hyde Park, as “personable, professional and for the community.”
Studious Hifi Coffee Shop: Readers praised this Blue Island coffee shop’s house-made syrups, and one reader said it has “great quality roasted coffee, and is a quality third space environment fit for remote workers and neighbors alike.”
Bakery of the Year
Au Levain: Readers praised the baked goods and coffee at this North Center spot, with one reader describing it as an approachable and welcoming all-day spot.
Jennivee’s Bakery: A reader said this Lakeview business has “beautiful, tasty cupcakes in a variety of creative flavors.”
Mindy’s Bakery: A reader praised the “wonderful selection” at this Wicker Park bakery.
Pan Artesanal Bakery: A reader said the line at this Logan Square bakery is worth the wait, noting the unique twist of Mexican and French flavors.
Pookie Crack Cakes: This Bronzeville business garnered dozens of nominations, with readers describing it as “unforgettable from the very first bite” and “the kind of cake that stops conversations.”
Neighborhood Bar of the Year
Babe’s Sports Bar: A reader described this Logan Square spot as the “best sports bar in the city, where everyone is always welcome.”
FitzGerald’s Sidebar: A reader said this Berwyn bar is a “one-stop shop for entertainment, food and fun” with great staff, music, craft cocktails and food.
Lilac Tiger: A reader described this Wicker Park bar as “vibrant” with amazing bar food and delicious cocktails.
Moonflower: A reader said the cocktails are innovative at this Portage Park business, which they said is “warm and friendly.”
Pour Destino: A reader said this Elmhurst spot is eclectic, chic and cozy, but “still has a local mom-and-pop vibe.”
Suburban Restaurant of the Year
Amerikas: A reader said this Oak Park restaurant offers “standout food outside of city limits.”
The Greggory: Readers praised the food, ambiance and service at this South Barrington restaurant.
Lago Lake Zurich by Fabio Viviani: A reader said this Lake Zurich restaurant has a great menu with excellent food and wine.
Thlaco Taco Tijuanense: A reader said this business, with locations in Arlington Heights and Hanover Park, “brought a piece of Mexico to the suburbs,” with authentic tacos and friendly staff.
Wonton Gourmet: A reader said this Des Plaines business offers great Chinese food.
New Restaurant of the Year
Brûlée: A reader said they’ve had almost everything on the menu at this South Loop restaurant and described the food as “divine.”
Burl: A reader said this Evanston restaurant offers a “high-end dining experience in a family-friendly, community-centered environment.”
Cafe Yaya: A reader said this Lincoln Park business has amazing pastries and customer service.
Creepies: A reader said this West Loop restaurant is “beyond great.”
Nadu: A reader said they had one of the best Indian meals of their life at this Lincoln Park restaurant.
Pizza of the Year
Big G’s Pizza: Readers not only praised this Wrigleyville business for its great selection of pizza, but also for its hospitality and efforts to give back to the community.
Pizz’amici: A reader said this West Town business has the “best thin crust ever.”
Sharpies Pizza + Cocktails: A reader said this West Town business offers creative Detroit-style pizzas that are “outstanding.”
Woodfire Pizza: This pizza place has locations in Rockford and West Dundee.
Zarella: Readers praised the tavern-style pizza at this River North business.
Burger of the Year
Bar Parisette: The cheeseburger at this Logan Square spot includes smoked onion mayo and cheddar on a sesame bun.
Burger Bar: This South Loop spot offers a build-your-own-burger, where you can customize your patty, bun, cheese and toppings.
Chubby Boys: A reader praised the flavor and texture of the burgers from this business, which has a residency at Spilt Milk Tavern in Logan Square.
Oliver’s: The cheeseburger at this South Loop restaurant features cheddar, white onion and Oliver’s Sauce.
Ox Bar & Hearth: This Lincoln Park restaurant’s OBH burger comes with a side of beef fat wedge fries.
Community Impact Award
Chicago Chefs Cook: A reader described this organization as “a home base for Chicago chef philanthropy and civic leadership.”
Dion’s Chicago Dream: Readers praised this Englewood organization for its commitment to helping people in the community who lack access to affordable and nutritious groceries by delivering food to those in need.
Restaurants donating or participating in the national shutdown: Earlier this year, many small businesses were faced with deciding if and how they would participate in a national strike to demand changes to federal immigration enforcement. A reader said, “Chicago’s hospitality community took a stand, either by closing to strike or donating proceeds.”
The SoulFood Lounge: A reader praised this North Lawndale business for its history of giving back to the community, including during a time when SNAP benefits were in limbo.
Todos Ponen: A “Todos Ponen” event in January brought together dozens of restaurants to raise money for immigrant families who were severely affected by ICE.
Longstanding Neighborhood Icon
Gene’s Sausage Shop and Delicatessen: A reader described this Lincoln Square business as a North Side “institution” that has incredible meats, a great speciality grocery store and one of the best rooftop beer gardens in the city.
La Villa Restaurant Lounge and Banquets: A reader praised the staff at this Irving Park business, saying, “They just make you feel at home.”
Lou Mitchell’s: A reader said this West Loop diner, which opened in 1923, has incredible service.
The Polo Inn: Readers said this Bridgeport spot has awesome food at reasonable prices.
Valois Restaurant: A reader described this restaurant as “A Hyde Park gem.”
Best Bang for Your Buck
Brudder’s Sports Bar: A reader said they have been going to this Irving Park spot for more than 10 years and they “always leave smiling, having had a fun and tasty experience.”
Gatto’s Italian Restaurant and Bar: Readers said this business, with locations in Tinley Park, New Lenox and Downers Grove, offers delicious food and great service at affordable prices.
Jimmy’s Red Hots: A reader said this Humboldt Park hot dog stand is “all about low cost … no restaurant or hot dog stand serves a meal cheaper.”
Noodles Party: A reader said this Thai business in Albany Park is a gem that gives them a sense of home.
Red Apple Buffet: A reader praised this Polish Norwood Park buffet’s prices and food selection.
