Where to Eat on Navy Pier: A Guide to the Best Restaurants and Eateries
Navy Pier, a iconic lakefront attraction in Chicago, Illinois, offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From classic American fare to international cuisine, and from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone on this bustling pier. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Navy Pier, highlighting the best places to eat and what to expect from each.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of these popular spots:
- The Billy Goat Tavern: This casual, family-friendly restaurant is a Navy Pier institution, serving up classic American breakfast fare like omelets, pancakes, and waffles.
- Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse: While not exclusively a breakfast spot, Harry Caray’s offers a weekend brunch menu featuring Italian-inspired dishes like eggs benedict and quiche.
- The Pier Cafe: Located near the pier’s entrance, this cafe serves up fresh pastries, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a variety of coffee drinks.
Lunch and Snack Options
When you need a quick bite or a satisfying lunch, try one of these popular spots:
- Gino’s East: This classic Chicago pizzeria has been serving up deep-dish pies since 1966. Try their famous "Cheesy Fungus Among Us" pizza, topped with sausage, mushrooms, and mozzarella.
- Billy Goat’s Bagel Shop: This casual eatery offers a variety of bagels, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a selection of coffee drinks and pastries.
- The Crystal Seafood Company: For a seafood fix, head to The Crystal Seafood Company, which offers a variety of fresh seafood options, including fish tacos, lobster rolls, and crab cakes.
Dinner and Fine Dining
For a more upscale dining experience, try one of these fine dining establishments:
- Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse: This family-owned restaurant offers a range of Italian-inspired dishes, including pasta, seafood, and steak, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- The Crystal Seafood Company: While also offering lunch and snacks, The Crystal Seafood Company’s dinner menu features a range of seafood options, including filet mignon, lobster, and scallops.
- The Smith & Wollensky: This upscale steakhouse offers a range of premium cuts, including filet mignon, ribeye, and porterhouse, all served with a side of classic American fare.
Specialty and Unique Eateries
For a truly unique dining experience, try one of these specialty eateries:
- The Navy Pier Shake Shack: This popular burger joint offers a range of burgers, hot dogs, and frozen custard, all made with high-quality ingredients.
- The Chicago Food Truck: This food truck offers a range of international cuisine, including tacos, empanadas, and falafel.
- The Navy Pier Ice Cream Shop: Cool off with a sweet treat from this ice cream shop, which offers a range of unique flavors, including lavender honey and strawberry balsamic.
Table Service vs. Quick Bites
Here’s a breakdown of the types of dining options available on Navy Pier:
| Type of Dining | Examples |
|---|---|
| Table Service | Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, The Crystal Seafood Company, The Smith & Wollensky |
| Quick Bites | The Billy Goat Tavern, Billy Goat’s Bagel Shop, The Navy Pier Shake Shack |
| Snacks and Treats | The Pier Cafe, The Navy Pier Ice Cream Shop |
Tips and Tricks
Before you head out to eat on Navy Pier, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Reservations: Many of the fine dining establishments on Navy Pier recommend reservations, especially on weekends or during peak season.
- Dress Code: While most eateries on Navy Pier are casual, some fine dining establishments may have a dress code. Be sure to check ahead of time.
- Hours of Operation: Be sure to check the hours of operation for each restaurant, as they may vary depending on the day and season.
- Budget: With a range of dining options available, there’s something for every budget on Navy Pier. Be sure to plan ahead and budget accordingly.
In conclusion, Navy Pier offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From classic American fare to international cuisine, and from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone on this bustling pier. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a special occasion meal, be sure to check out one of these top-rated restaurants and eateries.
