The 100 top-rated appetizers in Lake View, Chicago, ranked by flavor score.
The top choice is burrata at Sal's Trattoria (2834 N Southport Ave), with a flavor score of 95 out of 100 from 57 diner ratings. Flavor scores come from what real diners say in their reviews. Last updated August 27, 2026. How flavor scores work →
Creamy burrata paired with fresh pesto, sweet tomato jam, and perfectly toasted bread consistently impresses and keeps diners coming back.
Crispy tequeños with gooey cheese and flavorful dipping sauces receive rave reviews for their satisfying crunch and authentic taste.
Lightly battered and pillowy soft, the cheese curds are consistently praised for their rich flavor and perfect texture.
Creamy, savory mushroom toast topped with umami-rich mushrooms consistently impresses with its hearty flavor and perfect texture.
The carpaccio impresses with its fresh, thinly sliced beef, complemented by salty parmigiano reggiano and briny capers.
Delicious appetizers consistently impress with fresh ingredients and flavorful combinations that keep diners returning for more.
Crispy Brussels sprouts with unique flavors and sauces receive high praise, making them a standout dish that diners can't resist.
Dumplings are incredibly flavorful, juicy, and made to order, with a delightful fusion of Asian and Indian spices.
Spring rolls with cevapcici sausage shine with unique flavors, complemented by a delicious peanut sauce that enhances every bite.
Queso fundido with chorizo is praised for its gooey cheese, flavorful chorizo, and unique taco shell bowl presentation.
Ceviche stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and spice, earning high praise for its freshness and taste.
Tequeños are praised for their authentic flavor and texture, though some reported issues with inconsistent quality and high prices.
Crispy empanadas filled with sweet beef, corn, and cheese receive high praise, especially when paired with flavorful chimichurri sauce.
Crispy coconut shrimp are large, flavorful, and paired with a delicious sweet-chili sauce, making them a favorite among diners.
The 1000 layer potato impresses with its creamy richness and crispy texture, earning high praise for its deliciousness.
Handmade tequeños are consistently praised for their delicious flavor and comforting, homemade quality, making them a must-try appetizer.
Crispy samosas with a flavorful filling and tangy tamarind chutney receive high praise for their deliciousness and satisfying texture.
The bruschetta features fresh, flavorful toppings like ricotta with honey and pistachios, brie with apple, and classic tomato mozzarella.
Elote features fresh corn topped with cotija cheese, lime, and cilantro, praised for its delicious flavors and perfect texture.
Crispy beer-battered cheese curds are a favorite for their delicious flavor, perfect for pairing with drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Manti dumplings are praised for their creamy texture and savory beef and dill filling, making them a standout dish.
Mahi Mahi ceviche impresses with its refreshing flavors and tender texture, often highlighted as a standout dish among diners.
Warm focaccia with crispy crust and flavorful whipped ricotta receives high praise for its deliciousness and texture.
Ceviche features fresh seafood with vibrant citrus flavors, complemented by crispy plantain chips, making it a standout dish.
Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh ingredients and served with a delicious dipping sauce receive high praise for their generous portions.
Crispy homemade chips served with two flavorful salsas, praised for their perfect saltiness and fresh, slightly spicy taste.
Coxinha is praised for its authentic flavor, delicious seasoning, and satisfying texture, making it a must-try dish.
Crispy pajeon features delicious seafood and vegetables, complemented by a tasty dipping sauce that leaves diners wanting more.
Cheese curds are praised for their light, flaky texture and delicious flavor, especially when paired with Sriracha aioli.
Beef tartare is praised for its rich flavor, tender texture, and unique pairing with crispy pumpernickel bread.
Lumpia is praised for its crispiness and flavorful filling, making it a favorite for sharing among diners.
Grilled halloumi impresses with its smoky flavor and perfect texture, often paired with olives and crispy crostini.
Flautas filled with chicken and topped with chipotle sauce received praise for their crispy texture and flavorful accompaniments.
Fresh shrimp spring rolls are praised for their generous size, vibrant filling, and delicious peanut sauce accompaniment.
The Spanish tortilla impresses with its fluffy texture, balanced saltiness from cod, and delicate flavors of fennel and pickled shallots.
Crispy samosas are generously stuffed with flavorful filling, earning praise for their size and deliciousness from satisfied patrons.
The arancini features a crispy exterior with a creamy filling and unique ingredients like corn and truffles, delighting many.
Crispy croquettes filled with gooey cheese and served with a tangy pepper sauce received enthusiastic praise for their flavor.
Ajaruli features crispy boat-shaped bread filled with rich, oozing cheese and topped with a perfectly runny egg.
Sashimi tuna dip combines fresh tuna, cucumber, and sesame mayo served with crispy wonton chips, earning high praise for flavor.
Escargot is praised for its rich flavor, flaky pastry, and unique presentation, making it a standout dish.
Crispy cheese curds with delicious breading and a light BBQ aioli dipping sauce receive high praise for their flavor.
Creamy, warm queso with a good kick receives high praise for its rich flavor and freshness.
Crispy potstickers are praised for their flavorful filling and perfect texture, making them a favorite appetizer among diners.
Cevapcici spring rolls impress with a satisfying blend of beef, veal, and fresh veggies wrapped in rice paper.
You can crown one per category, so choose wisely.