The best restaurants in DuPage County

“When only a proper Chicago pie will do, Beggars Pizza lives up to its 'We Lay it On Thick' mantra with thin-crust, deep-dish and stuffed options plus wings, salads, pasta and handhelds. A Southside classic since 1976, they’re community-minded and even partner with the Chicago White Sox.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Carnivore & The Queen channels a prohibition-era supper club with shareable classics, seasonal local ingredients, and courses meant for lingering. Think beef wellington, chicken cordon bleu, and the Queen's Ruby Martini, ideal for date night, brunch, or gathering the crew with private parties and catering.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Los Dos Mexican Cuisine nails the petite, casual counter-serve vibe with tacos, rice bowls, and rotating Daily Specials like Sopa de Lima, Pozole, or a Tostada de Tinga. Solid, unfussy comfort that hits on busy weeknights... and they’ll even cater your next backyard hang.”

“BBQLand Restaurant (Indian Pakistani Cuisine) does desi barbecue right with sizzling tandoor entrées, hefty mix platters like Chicken Charga, and biryanis that actually taste like someone cared. Everything is 100% Zabiha halal, with vegetarian-friendly bites too, so the whole crew can eat happy.”

From the Bartlett newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Counter-serve chain serving deli-style eats such as sandwiches & salads, plus a variety of bagels.”

“Down-to-earth, strip-mall restaurant providing sizable plates of standard Mexican fare & margaritas.”

“When dinner needs to impress without you breaking a sweat, The Honey Baked Ham Company turns out ready-to-serve smoked hams, turkeys, roasts, plus sides and desserts that make weeknights, holidays, and impromptu gatherings in Naperville feel like you actually planned it.”

From the Naperville newsletter, October 2, 2026

“Daytime counter-serve Jewish deli for classic sandwiches, soups & breakfasts plus modern salads.”

“Craving real-deal barbecue without lighting your own grill? Sharko's BBQ in Downers Grove handles it with hand-pulled pork, brisket, chicken on the bone, and smoked turkey, plus mac and cheese, fresh green beans, and corn muffins, and you can dine in, grab takeout, or get catering when the group chat spirals.”

“Omega Restaurant Pancake House & Bakery is that family-owned spot locals lean on, serving fluffy pancakes, omelettes, and skillets, plus gyros, Greek chicken, and the Famous Friday Fish Fry. Homemade soups and desserts, a full bakery, and easy takeout mean breakfast or dinner solves itself.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Easygoing, bi-level stop with a patio serving an array of Mexican fare from tacos to tequila drinks.”

“Modern eatery for Chinese & Japanese chow, sushi & cocktails in a minimal environment.”

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Parkers' Restaurant & Bar nails the special occasion vibe with globally inspired plates built on American farm and fishery ingredients, a Wine Spectator-recognized wine list, and live music. Pro tip for locals, the New Orleans Dixieland jazz brunch makes Sunday feel like a mini vacation.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips.”

“Irish pub offering craft beer & burgers plus live music, karaoke & sports on big-screens.”

“Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips.”

“Relaxed, family-friendly establishment offering classic Italian food, a bar & a private event space.”

“Italian chain eatery featuring Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

“Modern, light-filled eatery whipping up creative breakfast dishes, sandwiches & salads.”

“Contemporary spot for high-end sushi & Japanese cuisine in both traditional & modern preparations.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Low-key spot with checkered tablecloths for pizzas, pastas & gyros, plus savory & sweet crêpes.”

“Unassuming option with bar seating offering casual Mexican plates, plus imported beer & cocktails.”

“Casual restaurant with artful decor offering wood-fired pizza & Italian mains, plus a covered patio.”

“Rollicking, open-timbered hangout at a ski area featuring pub grub, sports on TV & live music.”

“Relaxed American eatery serving an all-day breakfast menu plus sandwiches & wraps for lunch.”

“Long-standing local chain eatery known for Italian beef sandwiches, plus pizza, burgers & salads.”

“Casual restaurant serving all-you-can-eat sushi rolls & traditional Japanese dishes.”

“Billy Bricks - Naperville turns out wood-fired, thin-crust pies with that crisp-chewy bite and just-enough char, plus oven-baked sandwiches when pizza somehow isn’t the move. A reliable weeknight staple and clutch for game days when nobody can agree on toppings.”

From the Naperville newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Old-school diner with an extensive selection of pancakes, waffles & familiar breakfast dishes.”

“This casual daytime diner serves classic American breakfast & lunch in a relaxed space.”

“Family-friendly Italian eatery serving pastas & pizzas in a casual, classy setting.”

“Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips.”

“Outpost of a long-running Italian sub chain serving overstuffed sandwiches in a no-frills space.”

“Cozy tavern & American grill serving burgers & more in a bright-red house erected in the mid-1800s.”

“Cadence Kitchen & Co brings urban energy with an industrial bar, creative plates and house specials. Run by Kendall College alums Tim Canning and Todd Davies with serious Chicago restaurant chops, it’s a go-to for date night, group hangs, and stress-free private events or catering.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Retro-style counter-serve chain known for made-to-order toasted sandwiches, salads & baked goods.”

“Italian chain eatery featuring Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

“Honey-Jam Cafe Wheaton nails the cozy-home vibe with a big, everyone’s-invited menu built on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Pro tip for locals, grab their in-house freshly squeezed orange juice and settle in for the kind of breakfast-lunch hang that turns into a small weekly tradition.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Known for deep-dish pizza, this casual chain serves other classic Italian food, plus beer & wine.”

“Low-key daytime spot for familiar diner fare served in old-school digs adorned with customer photos.”

“Restaurant & bar serving New American cuisine & craft beers in a trendy space with wood partitions.”

“Deli chain featuring specialty sandwiches, salads & other health-conscious fare.”

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Lodgelike tavern with a vast craft beer selection plus hearty German sandwiches & mains.”

“Homey standby serves pizza & Italian home cooking plus burgers, chicken & other American chow.”

“Casual place serving a wide-ranging American menu (pizza, steak & more) plus cocktails & mocktails.”

“Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.”

“Connie's Pizza brings Chicago’s favorite pies to Downers Grove with classic deep dish, crisp thin crust, and Italian staples that hit the spot. When dinner needs to be easy, their delivery or takeout keeps weeknights sane, and the recipes date back to 1963... which explains the crowd-pleasing consistency.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Casual eatery in a strip mall offering Mexican favorites like burritos, tacos & tortas.”

“Barn-shaped white-tablecloth eatery featuring hearty American fare, a patio & lower-level pub.”

“Lively, unfussy pizzeria offering a lunch buffet, burgers & a game room in a large setting.”

“Easygoing counter-service chain known for its sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes & sweet tea.”

“Semi-upscale chain for classic Italian fare served family-style in a relaxed, polished space.”

“Craving something that feels local but not predictable? Warren's Ale House nails New American comfort with a seasonal menu, a serious craft beer and whiskey lineup, and their claim to fame, the original Italian Beef Eggrolls featured on WGN TV's Chicago's Best. Perfect for meeting friends, then making new ones.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Taqueria Invicto nails that post-practice, midweek, or I-just-need-tacos vibe with slow-braised birria you dunk in rich consomé, plus familiar Mexican comfort staples. Order at the counter, grab a beer, paloma, or margarita, and know they also cater and bring pop-up taco stands to neighborhood events.”

From the Naperville newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Low-key sports bar & eatery featuring a menu of pizza, sandwiches & bar food, plus video poker.”

“Branch of a counter-serve Mexican eatery featuring tacos, burritos & tortas in a casual setting.”

“When the craving hits, Buona is Naperville’s go-to for Italian beef done old-school, slow-roasted and all-natural with gravy from beef drippings, no additives, since 1981. Not in a beef mood? Their all-natural sirloin burgers, 24-hour marinated grilled chicken, and chopped salads keep weeknights easy.”

From the Naperville newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Downers Grove folks, The Baked Apple Breakfast Co. nails the classics and plays with the menu, think Pumpkin Pancakes, Croissant Beignets, and Breakfast Nachos. Also shrimp and grits, a vegan bowl with a Beyond Burger patty, and maple bacon jam that sticks in your memory.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 19, 2026

“At Teddy's Red Hots, you get the no-frills good stuff locals crave, from snap-happy hot dogs and Chicago beef to the Tamale Dog, Double Steakburger, and those spoon-satisfying Italian ices. When the week needs a pick-me-up, this longtime counter spot keeps it classic, quick, and reliably tasty.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 14, 2026

“American fare with global twists in a vibrantly colored space that also features a covered patio.”

“A menu of customizable Mexican food served in a modern restaurant, plus takeout & catering.”

“Louie's Pizza nails the Naperville trifecta with crispy tavern-thin, pan or stuffed pies made from fresh dough and old world sauce, authentic Greek gyros grilled to order, and sweet European crepes for the finish. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or painless catering.”

From the Naperville newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Stella's Pizza & Pub turns out Chicago-style thin crust with fresh-daily dough, house-made sauce, and a special cheese blend that hits just right. Dine in, grab takeout or let them deliver, and keep them in mind for easy pizza buffets and family-style party spreads when the whole crew shows up.”

“Pizza & pasta, plus gourmet burgers, offered in a casual space that's part of a small local chain.”

“Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips.”

“Branch of a counter-serve Mexican eatery featuring tacos, burritos & tortas in a casual setting.”

“Shinto Sushi at Freedom Commons keeps things casual and tasty with classic rolls, bento boxes, teriyaki, and legit lunch specials that hit the spot on a busy weekday. They also do pickup, delivery, and catering, so whether it’s desk lunch or house party, your sushi situation is covered.”

From the Naperville newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Contemporary American brunch restaurant serving classic breakfast dishes, plus sandwiches & salads.”

“Pastas & other Italian eats served up in a bright, white-tableclothed space with hardwood accents.”

“Japanese chain serving sushi, noodles, bento boxes & hot entrees in a stylish, traditional setting.”

“The Hen House of Wheaton is a family-owned breakfast-and-lunch spot and coffee bar near Downtown Wheaton serving fluffy pancakes, fresh crepes, omelets, Eggs Benedict, and signature skillets, plus a full gluten-free and vegan menu.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Burrito Grill keeps it simple and seriously good, with tacos and burritos that hit the spot plus Tampiquena and bistec for when you want a real plate. Easy online ordering means dinner’s sorted fast, so you can get back to pretending chores count as cardio.”

From the West Chicago newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Long-standing local chain eatery known for Italian beef sandwiches, plus pizza, burgers & salads.”

“Egg House keeps things simple and satisfying with fluffy omelets, syrup-soaked French toast, and a sneaky-good burger if breakfast isn’t calling, all in a laid-back Lombard spot locals actually return to. Solid for easy weekends or midweek fuel, and yes, they do lunch and catering, too.”

From the Lombard newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Carnicerias Jimenez is the kind of neighborhood market that keeps local kitchens happy, with imported Hispanic staples alongside fresh produce and butcher-cut meats. Stop in when your salsa game needs a lift, or when you just want ingredients that taste like home without overthinking it.”

From the Streamwood newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Bumper 2 Burger keeps it simple and legit with 100% fresh beef on soft potato rolls, tangy Bumper sauce, and sides that go hard, like Boosted Bumper Fries. Certified Zabiha Halal, with a solid Beyond Burger and Philly options, then cap it with a Cookies & Cream shake.”

From the Lombard newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Bright breakfast & lunch diner with a long menu of sweet & savory fare from pancakes to sandwiches.”

“Bustling, family-owned spot serving comfort food for breakfast & lunch in basic digs.”

“Casual eatery with patio, serving American & Greek favorites like gyros, hot dogs & roast beef.”

“For fresh, old-world Italian that actually tastes like someone’s Nonna is supervising, Avanzare Italian Restaurant does handmade pastas, brick-oven bakes, and the kind of sauces you plan meals around. Great for Lombard get-togethers too, with private rooms and catering when the whole famiglia shows up.”

From the Lombard newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Health-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.”

“Family-run outfit known for providing specialty & choose-your-own-topping pizzas.”

“Casual staple serving thin-crust, pan & stuffed pizzas, pasta, sandwiches & Italian entrees.”

“Casual American cafe serving classic breakfast fare plus salads, sandwiches & burgers.”

“A diverse American menu, including seafood, steaks & pasta, in a relaxed, traditional setting.”

“Grill & sports bar with barbecue, fish fries & brews, plus an outdoor area for horseshoes & more.”

“Italian chain eatery featuring Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Carry-out spot since 1988 offering pizzas, including frozen selections, plus homemade desserts.”

“Eclectic American fare & craft cocktails offered in a vintage-chic tavern with a cool, relaxed vibe.”

“Shannon's Deli turns the classic deli run into a proper hangout, with hefty sandwiches, housemade sausages, and signature soups made from locally sourced produce. Swing by for the new full-service bar, seasonal rooftop tables, and the occasional karaoke or Sip & Paint night that keeps things lively.”

From the Lombard newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Japanese seafood including an all-you-can-eat option served in a chic, contemporary restaurant.”

“Shane's Deli keeps Wheaton moving with classic sandwiches and no-fuss catering that actually makes meetings bearable. Order online when the day gets away from you, or swing by when you want something simple, fresh, and reliably good.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Reserve 22 turns out scratch-made American bistro dishes at Village Links, using seasonal produce grown on-site, plus craft beer and cocktails. The patio overlooks the 18th green, open to all, delivering a relaxed country club vibe Carol Stream folks can claim as their own.”

From the Carol Stream newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Unpretentious chophouse featuring a lineup of steaks, sandwiches & burgers plus live music.”

“Taqueria Los Sombreros has been serving 100% Zabiha Halal Mexican food since 2013, using fresh meats, vegetables, and time-tested recipes that actually taste like someone’s abuela signed off on them.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Branch of a counter-serve Mexican eatery featuring tacos, burritos & tortas in a casual setting.”

“Classic Italian entrees & many wines are offered at this small, family-run joint with a warm vibe.”

“A menu of customizable Mexican food served in a modern restaurant, plus takeout & catering.”

“Since the '50s, Seven Dwarfs Family Restaurant has been a go-to for Wheaton and Glen Ellyn folks craving big omelets, sandwich stacks, and a sprinkle of Greek and Italian favorites. Lively retro vibe, expansive menu, and daily lunch specials that hit the spot without overcomplicating your morning or weeknight.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.”

“Cemitas Poblanas 2 nails the Puebla-style cemita, loaded with avocado, onion, shredded Oaxaca cheese and your choice of chipotle or serrano. If you're extra hungry, the Cholulita stacks breaded chicken, Mexican sausage, marinated pork loin, ham and egg...”

From the Aurora newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Since 1996, The Verdict Restaurant has been Wheaton’s dependable all-day breakfast and lunch standby, the place for fluffy pancakes, big omelettes, and homemade soups with that signature warm bread. Add the Greek hits like spinach pie and lemon rice soup and, yeah, your comfort-food craving doesn’t stand a chance.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Longtime chain known for its pizzas, pastas & other Italian staples served in a casual setting.”

“Imaginative, market-fresh takes on regional Mexican favorites dished up in a rustic, minimal space.”

“Whether you want thin crust pizza, hearty pastas, or a relaxed patio hang, Caliendo's Restaurant & Bar nails the scratch-made Italian vibe. Add signature martinis, game-friendly energy, and legit catering for your next get-together, and it becomes a go-to when you don't feel like cooking in West Chicago.”

From the West Chicago newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Glen Prairie Local Flavor Fine Food & Drink does seasonal New American fare in a warm, prairie-style dining room inside the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Swing by for weekly specials and a thoughtful cocktail, wine, and beer lineup that makes weeknights in the Downers Grove area feel a little more celebratory.”

From the Downers Grove newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Laid-back eatery & sports bar with a comfort-food menu offered in a casual dining room with a patio.”

“Urban Counter West Chicago proves The PRIDE Stores' point that genuinely good American fare can happen inside a gas station, turning out made-to-order burgers, fresh salads, sandwiches, and shakes using locally sourced ingredients. Easy pickup, delivery, or catering for those Bartlett nights you can't face the stove.”

From the Streamwood newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Santa Fe Restaurant keeps it cozy and casual in nearby Glen Ellyn, pouring standout margaritas and serving traditional Mexican fare that hits the spot. A reliable weeknight move when you want classic flavors, familiar comfort, and a place you’ll end up calling your regular.”

From the Glen Ellyn newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Steamboat BBQ smokes meats fresh daily over hickory, focusing on spice blends and that legit Southern-style feel, then lets you choose from sauces that span very sweet to hot-n-spicy, plus regional vinegar and mustard staples. Go early, it's first come, first serve, and yes, dine-in, carry-out, or delivery works.”

“Set in a beautiful old chapel with stained glass and climbing ivy, Ivy Restaurant nails the modern chophouse vibe without feeling stuffy. Think well-seared steaks, fresh seafood, twirlable pastas, and a patio that makes weekday dinners feel like an occasion.”

From the Wheaton newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Since 1976, La Magdalena Wonderful Mexican has been the Addison staple locals call "The Little Mag," turning out house-made tortillas, fresh salsa and chips, and classic plates from al pastor tacos to enchiladas and queso fundido.”

From the Elmhurst newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Lake St Cafe is that reliable neighborhood spot for hearty breakfasts and laid-back brunch, serving comfort-food plates in a friendly, no-fuss setting. Ideal for fueling up between errands or catching up with friends, it’s an easy yes whenever you want something satisfying that just hits the spot.”

From the Elmhurst newsletter, September 10, 2026