Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants in Evanston, Illinois

Welcome to Evanston, Illinois, a charming lakeside city bursting with cultural richness and a vibrant dining scene bolstered by its close proximity to Northwestern University. This historic town, with its stunning Victorian architecture and scenic waterfront, boasts a culinary landscape where diverse influences converge, from Mediterranean to Asian flavors, reflecting the city's community spirit and multicultural heritage. The bustling streets are filled with restaurants that showcase the creativity of local chefs, inviting you to embark on a delicious journey.

Begin your culinary adventure at Spice Restaurant, where the enticing flavors of Jamaica come alive with dishes that make your taste buds dance. A short stroll down Church Street leads you to Habibi Mediterranean Grill, where each plate feels like a warm embrace, serving hearty portions of vibrant Middle Eastern cuisine that make you feel right at home. If you find yourself craving Mexican fare, Tomate Fresh Kitchen offers tasty vegan tacos that are refreshing and satisfying; don’t forget to grab a sip of their zesty salsa! As you meander through the streets, the delightful aroma from Frida's Breakfast and Lunch beckons, where colorful brunch dishes shine, perfect for enjoying al fresco on sunny days.

In Evanston, every meal tells a story as you explore the eclectic mix of eateries that cater to every palate. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with the city's lively heart, ensures that dining here is not just about food—it's about experience, community, and a celebration of flavors. With every turn revealing a new flavor, Evanston is waiting to delight your taste buds—where will you start?

Discover the best restaurants and places to eat in Evanston, Illinois, near you now.

39 restaurants found in Evanston.

Find Restaurants in Evanston Nearby Your Location

Spice Restaurant

Jamaican restaurant

1905 Church St, Evanston, IL 60201

Experience the vibrant essence of Jamaica with exceptional jerk chicken, tender oxtail, and flavorful plantains in a cozy setting.

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Habibi In Mediterranean Grill

Mediterranean restaurant

825 Church St, Evanston, IL 60201

This welcoming spot serves generous portions of mouthwatering Mediterranean fare, including standout falafel and flavorful chicken shawarma.

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Tomate Fresh Kitchen

Mexican restaurant

914 Noyes St, Evanston, IL 60201

Delicious burritos, tasty tacos, and flavorful vegetarian options await you in this quick-service Mexican gem!

Ovo Frito Cafe

Restaurant

1936 Maple Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Colorful and vibrant, this cozy café offers delightful breakfast options like Eggs OE and Zarzamora French Toast, plus warm service!

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Trattoria Demi

Italian restaurant

1571 Sherman Ave Ste 1, Evanston, IL 60201

Nestled in a charming location, this Italian eatery offers flavorful dishes like shrimp scampi and delightful tiramisu!

Frida's Breakfast and Lunch

Restaurant

618 Church St, Evanston, IL 60201

Colorful and vibrant, this brunch spot enchants with flavorful Mexican-inspired dishes, exceptional service, and a vast menu selection.

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Oceanique

Seafood restaurant

505 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202

Savor exceptional seafood and refined French cuisine in an upscale venue where the bouillabaisse reigns supreme!

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Dozika Restaurant

Asian restaurant

601 Dempster St, Evanston, IL 60201

This cozy Asian gem offers flavorful sushi, delectable curries, and affordable bento boxes in a welcoming atmosphere.

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Bat 17

Restaurant

1709 Benson Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

This lively sports bar delights with gourmet burgers, including the pretzel boy burger, alongside engaging service and cozy ambiance.

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Cupitol Coffee & Eatery (Evanston)

Restaurant

812 Grove St, Evanston, IL 60201

A trendy gathering spot offering fresh breakfast, delightful pastries, and quality coffee, perfect for brunch or a quick bite.

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Cross-Rhodes Restaurant

Greek restaurant

913 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202

Beloved neighborhood gem offering authentic Greek delights like gyros, pita sandwiches, and irresistible Maria fries!

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Sea Ranch Sushi Evanston

Sushi restaurant

518 Dempster St, Evanston, IL 60202

A cozy counter-service sushi spot offering delicious rolls, fresh sashimi, and Japanese groceries at unbeatable prices!.

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Lucky Platter

American restaurant

514 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202

Charming eatery serving globally inspired comfort food, highlighted by the decadent Crab Cake Benedict and delightful brunch options.

Bluestone

Restaurant

1932 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201

Cozy eatery featuring classic American favorites, including renowned burrata, alongside a bustling bar and inviting atmosphere.

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La Principal

Mexican restaurant

700 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202

This vibrant Mexican eatery delivers authentic flavors with generous portions, featuring standout Baja tacos and handmade tortillas.

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Evanston Chicken Shack

Chicken restaurant

1925 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

This cozy pick-up haven specializes in Southern-fried chicken, crispy gator bites, and tender ribs—comfort food bliss awaits!

Mid Kitchen

Breakfast restaurant

1512 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

A cozy haven for brunch lovers, showcasing flavorful vegan and gluten-free creations like Salmon Toast and Shakshuka.

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Stacked and Folded

American restaurant

824 Noyes St, Evanston, IL 60201

This bustling spot delights with extraordinary flavors, featuring massive stacked sandwiches, scrumptious quesadillas, and delightful grapefruit margaritas!

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Halal Town Smash Burger & Phillies

Fast food restaurant

1608 Emerson St, Evanston, IL 60201

Renowned for its mouthwatering, halal Philly cheesesteaks and massive burgers, this fast-food gem delivers unforgettable flavor!

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Kabul House Restaurant

Afghan restaurant

2424 Dempster St, Evanston, IL 60202

Savor authentic Afghan cuisine, from tender beef koobideh to flavorful kabuli pulao, in a stylish BYOB setting.

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Le Peep Evanston

Breakfast restaurant

827 Church St, Evanston, IL 60202

Charming breakfast spot beloved by locals, serving hearty dishes like Lobster Benedict and delightful apple crepes with Brie.

La Cocinita Restaurant

Latin American restaurant

1625 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Discover delicious Venezuelan-inspired street food with generous arepas, refreshing drinks, and friendly service in a modern atmosphere.

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Trattoria D.O.C.

Italian restaurant

706 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202

Delight in Italian classics and inventive wood-fired pizzas in a lively space, complemented by exquisite tiramisu and exceptional service.

Taco Diablo

Mexican restaurant

1026b Davis St A, Evanston, IL 60201

Discover a laid-back haven where vibrant tacos and the famous OG margarita create unforgettable dining experiences!

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Prairie Moon

American restaurant

1635 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Enjoy a lively atmosphere with regional American dishes, like flavorful shrimp etouffee and delightful key lime pie, at this basement gem.

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Joy Yee Noodle

Chinese restaurant

533 Davis St, Evanston, IL 60201

This bustling haven delights with a massive Pan-Asian menu, renowned for its flavorful garlic shrimp noodles and icy boba teas.

Lulu's

Asian restaurant

1026 Davis St C, Evanston, IL 60201

Experience an extraordinary fusion of flavors at this eclectic eatery, serving delicious Vietnamese, Korean, and Chinese dishes alongside tantalizing tacos!

Pâtisserie Coralie

Patisserie

600 Davis St, Evanston, IL 60201

Delight in authentic French pastries like buttery croissants and exquisite eclairs within a cozy, Parisian-inspired ambiance.

Koi Fine Asian Cuisine & Lounge

Asian restaurant

624 Davis St, Evanston, IL 60201

This stylish venue serves captivating Asian fusion dishes, with highlights like dumplings, Phoenix rolls, and irresistible lava cake.

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Sarpino's Pizzeria Evanston

Pizza delivery

2428 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202

This lively pizzeria serves mouthwatering personal pizzas, including popular taco and chicken Alfredo varieties, alongside flavorful wings!

Mt. Everest Restaurant

Indian restaurant

630 Church St, Evanston, IL 60201

Experience authentic Indian and Nepalese flavors in a bright space, highlighted by savory chicken momos and goat curry!

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Edzo's Burger Shop

Hamburger restaurant

1571 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

A lively burger shop featuring fresh, customizable burgers, hand-cut fries, and indulgent shakes in a cozy atmosphere.

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Chili's Grill & Bar

Restaurant

1765 Maple Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

This spirited venue blends Tex-Mex classics with American favorites, featuring friendly service and flavorful cocktails in a welcoming ambiance.

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Epic Burger

Hamburger restaurant

1622 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

This friendly spot serves mouthwatering burgers like the Chicken California, plus unbeatable happy hour deals on fries!

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Firehouse Grill

Bar & grill

750 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202

Nestled in a historic firehouse, this lively bar and grill serves delicious burgers, Detroit-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails.

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Little Wok - Evanston

Chinese restaurant

2426 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202

Bright eatery with a diverse Pan-Asian menu featuring fresh sushi, walnut shrimp, and friendly service in a cozy setting.

Reza's Restaurant- Evanston

Restaurant

1557 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Savor generous portions of Mediterranean and Persian delights, including the highly recommended salmon kabob, in a welcoming atmosphere.

Kingston Grill

Jamaican restaurant

1164 Dodge Ave, Evanston, IL 60202

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with delicious jerk chicken and reasonably priced meals in a lively atmosphere.

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It's Just Wings

Chicken wings restaurant

1765 Maple Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

This casual spot specializes in deliciously plump chicken wings, boasting a fantastic selection of flavorful sauces. Enjoy great prices!