The 16 top-rated small plates in North Center, Chicago, ranked by flavor score.
The top choice is onigiri at Ekiben Japanese Kitchen (1825 W Irving Park Rd), with a flavor score of 89 out of 100 from 65 diner ratings. Flavor scores come from what real diners say in their reviews. Last updated August 27, 2026. How flavor scores work →
Best Small Plates across Chicago→Perfectly shaped onigiri with crisp nori and delicious fillings like spicy shrimp and salmon impress with fresh flavors and generous portions.
Pork belly buns are praised for their incredibly tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth, making them a must-try.
Gyoza stands out for its perfectly fried texture and generous filling, earning praise for being fresh and flavorful.
Pork buns are praised for their perfect balance of sweetness, tender meat, and satisfying texture, making them a must-try.
Crispy takoyaki with chunks of octopus receives praise, but some found it overly sauced or lacking seasoning.
Crispy Brussels sprouts topped with garlic receive high praise for flavor, though some found them bitter and inedible.
You can crown one per category, so choose wisely.