Top 10 Must-Try German Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago’s vibrant food scene is a melting pot of flavors, offering everything from Italian Restaurants Chicago to Sushi Restaurants in Chicago, and even Vegetarian Restaurants Chicago for those seeking plant-based delights. Amid this culinary diversity, German cuisine stands out with its rich heritage, hearty dishes, and cozy atmospheres. Whether you’re craving a crispy schnitzel, a frothy stein of beer, or a pretzel as big as your head, the Restaurants in Chicago specializing in German fare deliver unforgettable experiences. This article dives into the Best Restaurants Chicago has to offer for German food lovers, blending tradition with modern twists. From Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago to spots perfect for Outdoor Dining Chicago, we’ve got you covered. Plus, many of these gems offer Takeout Restaurants Chicago options and pair their menus with offerings you’d find at Cocktail Bars in Chicago. Let’s explore the top 10 must-try German restaurants in the Windy City as of March 18, 2025!

Exploring Chicago’s German Culinary Scene

Chicago’s German roots run deep, tracing back to the 19th century when German immigrants shaped the city’s culture and cuisine. Today, the Best Restaurants Chicago scene reflects this legacy with eateries serving authentic Bavarian dishes alongside innovative takes. These spots cater to all tastes, whether you’re seeking Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago or Affordable Restaurants Chicago. Many offer Outdoor Dining Chicago in charming beer gardens, while others provide Food Delivery Services Chicago for a cozy night in. This section highlights three standout German restaurants, each bringing something unique to the table—think hearty meals rivaling the Best Pizza in Chicago or seafood from Seafood Restaurants Chicago, but with a German flair.

The Berghoff Restaurant: A Chicago Icon

Nestled in the Loop, The Berghoff Restaurant is a historic gem that’s been serving German classics since 1898. This family-owned spot holds Chicago’s first post-Prohibition liquor license, making it a must-visit among Restaurants in Chicago. You’ll find traditional dishes like sauerbraten and wiener schnitzel, paired with their house-brewed beers. It’s a top pick for Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago, with a warm, old-world vibe and generous portions. Craving something lighter? They also serve modern plates like cedar-plank salmon, blending German roots with contemporary tastes. The Berghoff doubles as one of the Lunch Restaurants Chicago loves, offering quick bites with a side of history. Check out their Chicago Restaurant Reviews—diners rave about the ambiance and service!

Laschet’s Inn: Neighborhood Charm

Located in North Center, Laschet’s Inn feels like a cozy German tavern tucked into a bustling city. This spot shines among Affordable Restaurants Chicago, serving up rouladen and schnitzel that rival dishes at Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago. The friendly staff and extensive beer list make it a hit for Cocktail Bars in Chicago enthusiasts looking for imported brews. It’s perfect for Outdoor Dining Chicago in warmer months, with a patio that’s ideal for soaking up the vibe. Laschet’s also offers Takeout Restaurants Chicago options, so you can enjoy their goulash at home. Locals call it a hidden gem in Chicago Restaurant Reviews, praising its authentic flavors and laid-back feel.

Prost!: A Lincoln Park Beer Hall

Prost! brings the spirit of a Bavarian beer hall to Lincoln Park, making it one of the Best Restaurants Chicago for German revelry. With imported beers on tap and a menu featuring bratwurst and giant pretzels, it’s a standout among Barbecue Restaurants Chicago alternatives. The rustic benches and communal tables create a lively atmosphere, perfect for Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago or a night out with friends. Prost! also offers Food Delivery Services Chicago, bringing their festive fare to your door. It’s a top choice for Brunch Spots Chicago too, with hearty weekend offerings. Diners in Chicago Restaurant Reviews love the authentic vibe and generous portions—prost to that!

Hidden Gems and Modern Twists in German Dining

Beyond the classics, Chicago’s German restaurants offer hidden gems and creative spins that elevate the cuisine. These spots blend tradition with innovation, appealing to fans of Healthy Restaurants Chicago and Vegan Restaurants Chicago alike. Whether you’re after Romantic Restaurants in Chicago for a date night or Lunch Restaurants Chicago for a quick bite, these eateries deliver. Many feature Outdoor Dining Chicago spaces or partner with Food Courts Chicago for accessibility. This section uncovers three more must-try German restaurants that showcase the diversity of Chicago’s dining scene.

Edelweiss German American Cuisine: A Suburban Star

Just outside Chicago in Norridge, Edelweiss is a family-owned favorite that’s been delighting diners for over 30 years. It’s a standout among Restaurants in Chicago suburbs, offering schnitzel platters and Bavarian beers that rival Seafood Restaurants Chicago in satisfaction. The kitschy decor and live oompah bands during Oktoberfest make it one of the Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago area loves. Edelweiss also caters to Healthy Restaurants Chicago fans with lighter options like chicken dishes. Their Takeout Restaurants Chicago service ensures you can enjoy their massive pretzels at home. Reviews highlight the warm service and festive vibe—perfect for any occasion.

Funkenhausen: Southern-German Fusion

In West Town, Funkenhausen blends German heritage with Southern flair, earning its place among Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago. Chef Mark Steuer’s menu features pork chop choucroute and käsespätzle, offering a twist on classics that rivals Italian Restaurants Chicago in creativity. It’s a hotspot for Romantic Restaurants in Chicago, with a sleek interior and craft cocktails that nod to Cocktail Bars in Chicago. Funkenhausen also offers Food Delivery Services Chicago, making it easy to savor their unique flavors. Diners in Chicago Restaurant Reviews praise the innovative dishes and cozy ambiance—a true gem!

Resi’s Bierstube: Beer Garden Bliss

Resi’s Bierstube in North Center is a German tavern with a stellar beer garden, perfect for Outdoor Dining Chicago. Their Sheboygan bratwurst and leberkäse shine among Barbecue Restaurants Chicago alternatives, paired with a vast selection of German beers. It’s a top pick for Affordable Restaurants Chicago, offering hearty meals without breaking the bank. Resi’s also provides Takeout Restaurants Chicago options for enjoying their schnitzel at home. The wood-clad interior and patio make it a versatile spot for families or date nights. Reviews call it a “slice of Germany” in Chicago—don’t miss it!

Rounding Out the Top 10 German Favorites

Chicago’s German dining scene wouldn’t be complete without these final four standouts. These restaurants cater to diverse tastes, from Pizza Places Chicago lovers seeking a change to Chinese Restaurants in Chicago fans craving something new. They offer Brunch Spots Chicago vibes, Healthy Restaurants Chicago options, and even Vegan Restaurants Chicago-friendly dishes. Whether you’re after Food Delivery Services Chicago or a sit-down meal, these spots round out the top 10 must-try German restaurants in the Windy City.

Himmel’s: European Bistro Vibes

Himmel’s in Ravenswood combines German classics with European flair, making it one of the Best Restaurants Chicago for a cozy meal. Their pork shank and champignon rahm schnitzel pair perfectly with a cold beer, rivaling Best Pizza in Chicago in comfort. It’s a great choice for Lunch Restaurants Chicago, with a homey feel that’s also Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago-approved. Himmel’s offers Takeout Restaurants Chicago too, so you can enjoy their spätzle at home. Diners love the heirloom charm and hearty portions in Chicago Restaurant Reviews.

The Glunz Tavern: Historic Elegance

In Old Town, The Glunz Tavern offers a taste of early 20th-century German fare with modern touches. Their Bavarian veal bratwurst and schnitzel sandwich stand out among Restaurants in Chicago, blending tradition with accessibility. It’s a top pick for Romantic Restaurants in Chicago, with a refined yet welcoming vibe. The Glunz also features German beers on tap, making it a contender for Cocktail Bars in Chicago. Their Food Delivery Services Chicago options bring history to your doorstep. Reviews praise the nostalgic charm and quality ingredients.

Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen: Market Meets Eatery

Gene’s in Lincoln Square isn’t just a shop—it’s a German dining experience with 40 varieties of housemade sausages. This spot rivals Seafood Restaurants Chicago in variety, offering smoked meats and imported treats. It’s perfect for Healthy Restaurants Chicago fans with fresh, customizable options and doubles as a Takeout Restaurants Chicago haven. The rooftop deck offers Outdoor Dining Chicago with a view, making it a unique find. Diners in Chicago Restaurant Reviews call it a “sausage paradise” worth visiting.

Staropolska Restaurant: Polish-German Fusion

In Logan Square, Staropolska blends Polish and German cuisines, earning its spot among Restaurants in Chicago. Their schnitzel and sausage platters appeal to Barbecue Restaurants Chicago lovers, while the European ambiance makes it a Romantic Restaurants in Chicago contender. It’s also one of the Affordable Restaurants Chicago options, with generous portions and friendly service. Staropolska offers Food Delivery Services Chicago, perfect for a cozy night in. Reviews highlight the authentic flavors and warm hospitality.

FAQs:

Who founded The Berghoff Restaurant?
Herman Berghoff started The Berghoff in 1898, originally as a beer stand at the Chicago World’s Fair, making it a standout among Restaurants in Chicago.
What is the customer support number for Laschet’s Inn?
You can reach Laschet’s Inn at (773) 478-7915 for reservations or questions about their Affordable Restaurants Chicago menu.
How many employees work at Prost!?
Prost! likely employs 30-40 staff, fitting its lively beer hall vibe, a popular spot for Outdoor Dining Chicago enthusiasts.
What is the average salary at Funkenhausen?
Staff at Funkenhausen, one of the Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago, probably earn $35,000-$55,000 annually, including tips, based on industry norms.
Where is the headquarters location of Resi’s Bierstube?
Resi’s Bierstube is located at 2034 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60618, offering a cozy escape for Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago fans.
What are the major products at Edelweiss German American Cuisine?
Edelweiss serves schnitzel, sausages, and Bavarian beers, making it a top pick among Takeout Restaurants Chicago options.
What financial insights are available for The Glunz Tavern?
As a private business, exact profits aren’t public, but its historic charm drives steady revenue, rivaling Romantic Restaurants in Chicago.
Who is the founder of Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen?
Gene Luszcz founded this Lincoln Square gem in 1972, blending market vibes with Healthy Restaurants Chicago offerings.
What is the customer support number for Himmel’s?
Call Himmel’s at (773) 784-8777 to explore their European-inspired menu, a favorite for Lunch Restaurants Chicago.
How many employees does Staropolska Restaurant have?
Staropolska likely employs 20-30 staff, supporting its fusion of Polish-German flavors in a Food Delivery Services Chicago-friendly setting.