The 100 top-rated appetizers in Chicago, ranked by flavor score.
Crispy, flaky layers envelop a flavorful spinach and cheese filling, making this spanakopita a standout favorite among patrons.
Creamy burrata paired with fresh pesto, sweet tomato jam, and perfectly toasted bread consistently impresses and keeps diners coming back.
The spinach pies feature a buttery, flaky crust filled with fresh, flavorful spinach, earning rave reviews for their deliciousness.
Fresh, tender steak tartare with anchovy mayo and crunchy sourdough consistently impresses diners as the best in Chicago.
Fresh and flavorful ceviche features a perfect balance of citrus, sweetness from mango, and just the right amount of heat.
Crispy and fresh samosas filled with flavorful spices and served with delicious chutney received high praise from everyone.
Fluffy focaccia with a crispy crust, perfectly paired with creamy burrata and sweet honey, receives high praise from all.
The spinach pie features a perfect blend of spinach, onions, and rich cheeses wrapped in a deliciously portable crust.
Flaky, golden-brown pastry surrounds a generously filled, savory meat mixture, praised for its deliciousness and satisfying texture.
Flaky, golden coxinha is filled with tender, well-seasoned chicken and creamy catupiry, earning rave reviews for its authentic taste.
The tuna tartare impresses with its fresh flavors, beautiful presentation, and a delightful sauce that enhances the dish.
Crispy, airy puff bread topped with fragrant truffle sauce and Parmesan cheese is consistently described as a must-try delight.
Unique and delicious appetizers, including creative options like poutine, received rave reviews for their flavor and presentation.
Creamy burrata served with fresh bread and aged balsamic is consistently praised for its rich flavor and luxurious texture.
Crispy truffle mozzarella sticks with a perfect cheese pull and flavorful marinara sauce consistently impress diners and keep them returning.
Crispy tostadas topped with flavorful salsa and fresh ingredients receive high praise for their perfect size and taste.
Creamy burrata with perfect seasoning and a delightful texture consistently impresses diners, making it a must-try appetizer.
The burrata is praised for its creamy texture and freshness, often described as melt-in-your-mouth perfection paired with warm bread.
The duck liver mousse is praised for its rich, buttery texture and perfect pairing with warm, fresh bread.
The salmon tartare is praised for its fresh flavor, creamy yuja sauce, and delightful crunch from crispy rice pearls.
Garlic bread is praised for its crispy exterior, creamy mascarpone filling, and rich garlic flavor, making it a must-try.
Crispy pork atop rice and beans, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy avocado make the chifrijo a must-try dish.
Truffle mozzarella sticks are praised for their rich truffle flavor, gooey cheese, and perfect pairing with marinara sauce.
The ceviche stands out for its fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and perfect acidity, making it a must-try dish.
The flaming cheese impresses with its salty, gooey texture and exciting table-side presentation, making it a must-try appetizer.
Warm, fluffy focaccia with a perfectly salted crust consistently impresses, often enjoyed with ricotta and honey for added flavor.
Hand-pulled mozzarella sticks receive rave reviews for their perfect melt, light texture, and impressive cheese pull.
Dolma stands out for its authentic flavor, tender grape leaves, and deliciously seasoned rice, earning high praise from many.
Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, the falafel is praised for its freshness and perfect seasoning.
Wings are praised for their perfect balance of crispy texture, juicy meat, and a deliciously addictive sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce.
Crispy potato borak with a soft filling and flavorful dipping sauce, often described as a must-try appetizer.
The buffalo cauliflower features a perfect crunch, bold buffalo flavor, and creamy blue cheese, making it a must-try dish.
The bacon wrapped dates received rave reviews for their perfect balance of sweet, tender dates and crispy, salty bacon.
Chorizo stuffed Medjool dates wrapped in bacon, served with a spicy piquillo pepper-tomato sauce, are praised for their perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Crispy tequeños with gooey cheese and flavorful dipping sauces receive rave reviews for their satisfying crunch and authentic taste.
Light and airy cheese curds with a unique tempura-style batter are consistently praised as the best in Chicago.
Crispy on the outside and gooey inside, the mozzarella sticks shine with rich flavors and a perfect marinara dip.
The tuna tartare features fresh, savory tuna paired with a unique squid ink cracker, creating a delightful texture and presentation.
The tuna tostada impresses with fresh, vibrant flavors, perfectly balanced black garlic, and a satisfying texture on a sturdy tortilla.
Crispy on the outside with gooey aged white cheddar and a hint of jalapeño, the black truffle croquettes are a must-try.
Homemade kimchi is incredibly fresh, perfectly crunchy, and bursting with flavor, making it a standout side dish.
The elote is praised for its fresh flavor, creamy texture, and resemblance to authentic street corn on the cob.
Warm, thickly sliced focaccia topped with creamy ricotta and drizzled honey creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Handmade pierogi with smooth dough and rich fillings like potato and cheese, brisket, and truffle receive outstanding praise.
The bruschetta features soft, thick pita-like bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic olive oil, and creamy feta cheese.
Lightly battered and pillowy soft, the cheese curds are consistently praised for their rich flavor and perfect texture.
Flaky and crispy empanadas filled with flavorful meats and sweet guava cheese consistently delight customers, especially when paired with hot sauce.
Savory pierogi filled with rich flavors, perfectly cooked and generously portioned, consistently earn high praise from diners.
Soft dough and flavorful potato and cheese filling receive praise, though some find them average or lacking in seasoning.
Spring rolls with cevapcici sausage shine with unique flavors, complemented by a delicious peanut sauce that enhances every bite.
Homemade mozzarella sticks with perfectly seasoned breading and an amazing cheese pull are consistently praised alongside delicious marinara sauce.
The pierogi are flavorful with options like potato and cheese or caramelized onion, though some found the white sauce unappealing.