Best Hot Spot Restaurants in Bucktown / Wicker Park

Restaurant Review: The Girl and The Goat The Girl and The Goat continues to solidify its reputation as one of Chicago’s must-visit dining destinations. With a focus on bold flavors and a playful approach to globally inspired dishes, this restaurant delivers a truly memorable experience. Highlights: •Bread and Pimento: This dish is deceptively simple but executed to perfection. The warm, freshly baked bread pairs beautifully with the creamy, smoky pimento spread. It’s the kind of starter that sets the tone for an indulgent meal, leaving you reaching for seconds (or thirds). •Empanadas: Bursting with flavor, these are a standout. The flaky, golden crust envelops a perfectly seasoned filling that balances savory richness with a touch of spice. Each bite feels like a small, delicious adventure. Drinks to Complement Your Meal: While The Girl and The Goat boasts a full bar menu offering craft cocktails, wines, and beers to suit any palate, the non-alcoholic options are equally impressive. The menu features thoughtfully crafted mocktails, infused with fresh herbs, seasonal fruits, and house-made syrups. Standouts include a refreshing citrus-and-mint blend and a rich hibiscus and ginger cooler, each perfectly balanced to enhance the meal without overpowering the flavors of the food. Dessert Note: •Chocolate and Peanut Butter Dessert: A decadent and satisfying way to end your meal. The harmony of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates a nostalgic yet elevated experience. The textures—silky, crunchy, and smooth—make this dessert unforgettable. The Girl and The Goat’s ability to innovate while staying approachable is what makes it a perennial favorite. From small plates to desserts, and a drink menu that caters to every guest, every dish tells a story worth savoring.

Momotaro offers a stellar dining experience with a beautiful ambiance that sets the stage for its delicious variety of robata yaki, fresh nigiri, and expertly crafted sushi rolls. The attentive service ensures every detail is taken care of, making it a perfect choice for indulging in exceptional Japanese cuisine.

Our night was so enjoyable, and it started with our server. He was personable, helpful and good humored. The cocktails are creative, I had the Japantown and loved it. Very original, very refreshing. We shared the garlic fried rice, brussels sprouts, fire chicken and steak kalbi. Every bit of it was delicious. Truly, could not have been happier with the experience.

Incredible food - the beef tartare was zesty and delicious, beef short ribs had body but could still be cut by a butter knife, and the oat financier dessert was a delightful, lightly salty, perfectly balanced dessert - all incredible. The beef short ribs had some of the best umami flavor I've ever had thanks to the roasted puree (I think celery?) they put on the dish. Great drinks as well, try the Bella & Beatrice if you like gin at all.

First time here. Tremendous blend of tastes from start to finish ! We tried 3 unique cocktails and were not disappointed. The Fig Carré is my favorite. For starters the Potted Carrots and Shaved Butternut First timers & Squash were delicious! Of the pastas our favorite ended up being Stuffed Farfalle with Pappardelle coming in 2nd. The rainbow trout was excellent & light. We so enjoyed every taste! The butter cake was THE BOMB. Service was attentive and top notch . Was exceptional culinary experience.