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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Evanston

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86 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Alcove- Evanston restaurant
1. The Alcove- Evanston
4.7
Exceptional(518)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Evanston
Booked 4 times today
Now reserving for Thanksgiving dinner (prix fixe, menu details to come)! Chef Elio Romero curates an inventive American-inspired experience at Alcove Evanston, tucked under the Metra’s Davis Street stop. Taking cues from seasonal produce availability, Alcove’s menu is always evolving to guarantee freshness—check back often to stay updated on the restaurant’s culinary offerings. The Alcove is eager to host your group's event--contact Alcove management to discuss building your prix fixe menu!****Please view our menu on our website for the most updated items. Menus across other platforms are not always 100% up-to-date, as our dishes change with the seasonality of their ingredients. Please also note that the Alcove has implemented a 3% credit card service charge due to an increase in point-of-sale operating costs. We apologize for this inconvenience. Thank you!****
A photo of L. Woods Tap and Pine Lodge restaurant
2. L. Woods Tap and Pine Lodge
4.7
Exceptional(8133)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lincolnwood
Booked 110 times today
Experience the nostalgia of a Northwoods Supper Club at L.Woods Tap & Pine Lodge. The menu features American classics and barbecue specialties. Menu highlights include 12-Hour Smoked Prime Brisket, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, BBQ Ribs, and Wisconsin Fish Fry Friday.
A photo of EJ's Place restaurant
3. EJ's Place
4.8
Exceptional(1737)
Price: Expensive
• American • Skokie
Booked 45 times today
Owner, EJ Lenzi, and managers bring over 100 years of combined restaurant experience to Chicago's North Shore. Teamed with a mature, experienced wait staff, and serving the finest food products available, EJ's Place has become the North Shore's premiere supper club. Established since 1997 and selected one of the Chicago Magazine's Best New Restaurants, EJ's menu consists of prime aged steaks and chops, pristine seafood, and traditional Italian specialties. EJ's Place serves only the best, from their family to yours.
A photo of Blind Faith Cafe restaurant
4. Blind Faith Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(1501)
Price: Moderate
• Vegetarian / Vegan • Evanston
Booked 10 times today
Blind Faith Cafe in Evanston is a true neighborhood gem. This vegan/vegetarian hotspot consistently impresses with its diverse menu, warm ambiance, and excellent service. Reviews rave about the delicious food, friendly staff, and the perfect balance of casual warmth and conversation-friendly atmosphere. One reviewer says, 'It is a treat to visit Blind Faith Cafe. The food is always tasty, and the staff is warm and welcoming.'
A photo of Stefani Prime restaurant
5. Stefani Prime
4.8
Exceptional(2284)
Price: Expensive
• Steak • Lincolnwood
Booked 41 times today
Stefani Prime (Italian) brings Chicago dining; experience to Lincolnwood in a modern and comfortable environment. It offers prime cuts, the freshest seafood, signature Italian dishes and more. More than just a steakhouse, the name Stefani Prime is a nod to offering the best of everything from premium fare to top notch service. Stefani Prime is a collaborative effort between famed restaurateur Phil Stefani, wife Karen (owner of Inspired Catering & Events), and their children Gina and Anthony, the next generation of the Stefani restaurant group. Right off the Edens expressway, Stefani Prime is the ideal meeting place where the North Shore meets the city with guests enjoying a “city dining” experience without having to battle the downtown traffic and parking challenges.
A photo of Libertad restaurant
6. Libertad
4.7
Exceptional(3205)
Price: Moderate
• Latin American • Skokie
Booked 8 times today
Libertad is a casual, chef-driven neighborhood restaurant featuring Latin American inspired cuisine.Executive Chef Mark Mendez, whose experience includes Chicago’s most notable restaurants, pairs bold and exciting flavors for a seasonal menu of small plates ideal for sharing and experiencing the diverse mosaic of the countries that make up Latin America.Noted mixologist Ziyad Asrar has put together a fun and creative cocktail menu while Sommelier Shebnem Ince compiled a succinct wine list that complements the menu with by the glass and bottle selections.You'll quickly find that Libertad personifies the true neighborhood restaurant - a place you want and can dine at all the time because it's welcoming, relaxing and offers a menu so good it's hard to choose. The answer to that dilemma? Visit often.
A photo of Anteprima restaurant
7. Anteprima
4.8
Exceptional(3539)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Andersonville
Booked 12 times today
Anteprima is a neighborhood gem, known for its authentic Italian cooking. The restaurant gets high praise for its delicious dishes, great service, and lively atmosphere. It's a neighborhood staple, with frequent returns from patrons. One reviewer even called it a 'neighborhood treasure'. With its consistently amazing food, warm service, and reasonable pricing, Anteprima is definitely a gem in Andersonville.
A photo of Zentli restaurant
8. Zentli
4.9
Exceptional(63)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Evanston
Booked 3 times today
Hear the joyful music of Mexico with a mix of Latin American and world rhythms, enjoy the colorful art, and taste delicious tacos in a warm community space. Zentli (indigenous Nahuatl Language for "corn" or "maize"), is a casual restaurant that serves the best locally sourced Mexican street food in Evanston, Illinois. With fresh, natural ingredients and vegan & vegetarian options in eclectic, artistic digs, we’re your new local favorite. We built Zentli to honor the ingenuity and hard work of Mexican people by bringing you the genuine flavors of street vendors through tasty food and mouth-watering drinks.
A photo of Jameson's Charhouse - Skokie restaurant
9. Jameson's Charhouse - Skokie
4.4
Awesome(1721)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Skokie
Booked 14 times today
Fine-eating establishments know the essence of the restaurant business. It isn't merely enough to provide good food. The truly memorable dining experience depends upon several other ingredients from the top food selections, to the most dedicated people serving you. We want to lift your dining experience to a whole new level of harmony, which shows in our atmosphere and our philosophy to bring you an experience that is simply unparalleled in the restaurant industry.For more than 30 years, Jameson's Charhouse has served quality steaks, chops, and fresh fish, for exceptional value. Our extensive menu selections feature modern American cuisine full of delicious choices.
A photo of Valley Lodge Tavern restaurant
10. Valley Lodge Tavern
4.3
Awesome(111)
Price: Moderate
• Comfort Food • Wilmette
Booked 16 times today
Valley Lodge Tavern in a neighborhood tavern serving high quality food and drink to the north shore for 50 years. We serve a variety of food including burgers, ribs, steaks, and delicious salads.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Karenvip
    Chicago / Illinois •45 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I love L Woods! The service is always awesome and the food is always delicious!! It’s just a great restaurant!
    More info
    L. Woods Tap and Pine LodgePrice: Moderate• American• Lincolnwood
    •
    4.7
  • Christina
    St. Louis •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Service was on point and food presentation festive (for Thanksgiving) and just right for the occasion! Solid nod to tradition meets modern !
    More info
    The Alcove- EvanstonPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Evanston
    •
    4.7
  • Stanvip
    Chicago / Illinois •498 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Impressive every time. They never fail to deliver. Had a quick dinner. EJs slaw and fried shrimp! Two hidden gems on the menu. Service is perfect
    More info
    EJ's PlacePrice: Expensive• American• Skokie
    •
    4.8
  • Carynvip
    Chicago / Illinois •81 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Stefani's is my new favorite spot. This was my fourth visit since October 18th. We tried a few new items this time: the tuna crudo is amazing! The friend calamari is so light and fresh....the caper aioli is delicious! All our entrees were fantastic: chicken parmesan, short rib ravioli, ravioli pera (oh my gosh!!!), pasta aragosta, and my favorite: the seared tuna (extra rare is my favorite way). Our desserts were perfect to finish the meal: the cookie skillet was warm and gooey and delicious....the bread pudding was WOW! Mike was our server and there is no one better! We have been lucky enough to have him for each of our four visits. He is so attentive. He offers excellent suggestion when asked! He KNOWS the menu inside and out!
    More info
    Stefani PrimePrice: Expensive• Steak• Lincolnwood
    •
    4.8
  • Barbara
    Chicago / Illinois •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Food was delicious & tastefully prepared! The service staff were extremely friendly & service was prompt even though it was a busy Saturday night!
    More info
    Blind Faith CafePrice: Moderate• Vegetarian / Vegan• Evanston
    •
    4.8

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Evanston

Discover the charm of neighborhood gems in Evanston, located in the North Suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. This vibrant area boasts a selection of restaurants that are celebrated for their unique ambiance and quality cuisine, making them true local favorites. From innovative American dishes to a delightful fusion of French and Moroccan flavors, each restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. The dining scene in Evanston is particularly noted for its intimate, cozy settings that provide a perfect backdrop for both casual and special occasions. Visitors can expect top-notch service, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to culinary excellence. These establishments not only enhance Evanston's local flavor but also contribute to its reputation as a destination for food lovers seeking authentic and memorable meals. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, exploring these neighborhood gems will surely be a highlight of your culinary adventures in Evanston.

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