15 Best Naperville Restaurants to Try

Naperville, Illinois, is a lovely city about 30 miles west of Chicago in central Illinois. Some of the top restaurants in the state can be found in this city, which is also renowned for its picturesque riverwalk, bustling downtown, and deep historical roots.

Naperville’s dining options vary, from casual cafés, french toast, and gastropubs to sophisticated fine dining restaurants. Whether you’re a foodie searching for the newest trends in the kitchen or just someone hoping to enjoy a nice meal with loved ones, you’ll find what you’re searching for in this culinary haven.

So come with me as we sample the cuisines of the best Naperville restaurants making it a  famous dining destination

1. Best High-End Brazilian Restaurant – Fogo de Chao Steakhouse

Address: 1824 Abriter Court, Naperville, IL 60563

If you love to eat meat and other delicious dishes, look no further than Naperville’s own Fogo de Chao Steakhouse. This is one of the best restaurants in Naperville. The slow-roasted beef, pork, lamb, and chicken at this Brazilian restaurant are perfectly seasoned and come in a wide variety of delicious cuts.

The restaurant’s sophisticated and up-to-date interior creates an intimate and elegant atmosphere, ideal for celebrating special occasions or enjoying a night out with friends. 

What to Eat:

My personal favorite is the “Rodizio” service which has been the highlight of every meal since. It consists of the servers bringing skewers of beef to each table while it is still cooking. 

But Fogo de Chao isn’t just about the meat; they also have a huge salad bar stocked with tasty things like marinated veggies, exotic cheeses, and cured meats. And make sure to save some room for desserts. They have a flavorful flan and chocolate mousse if you’re in the mood for something sweet. 

2. Best Seafood Restaurant – Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House

Address: 55 S Main St, Naperville, IL 60540-8568

Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House is a seafood lover’s heaven and one of the downtown Naperville restaurants. The restaurant prides itself on its concentration on fresh, high-quality ingredients and perfectly prepared dishes, providing customers with an experience that is as refined as it is tasty.

The stylish and up-to-date decor makes for an enjoyable evening, whether you’re there for a date or a group of friends.  Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House in Naperville in general is a first-rate seafood establishment with an extensive menu that can satisfy even the most particular diners.

And while the restaurant is known for its seafood, it also serves superb steak and chicken for those who prefer meat.

What to Eat:

Classics like lobster soup and shrimp cocktail sit alongside more daring offerings like Alaskan king crab legs and sushi rolls on the extensive seafood menu. 

The Gibsons Prime Angus burger, cooked from the finest beef and served with a side of crispy fries, is a treat not to be missed. And if you still have room for dessert, options like Key Lime Pie and Warm Apple Cobbler can’t be beaten. 

3. Best Italian Pizza – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

Address: 131 W Jefferson Ave Ste 123, Naperville, IL 60540-4682

The Naperville location of Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is a beloved institution in the community and is renowned for producing some of the most delicious deep-dish pizzas and great food in the surrounding area. 

It has a cozy and casual ambiance with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant features a casual dining area with tables and booths adorned with Chicago-themed decor, creating a nostalgic and authentic Chicago pizza joint vibe.

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria offers takeout and delivery services, allowing customers to enjoy their delicious pizzas and other menu items from their homes. They also offer online ordering for added convenience.

What to Eat:

The deep-dish pizza is without a doubt the most notable dish on the menu since it is cooked to perfection with a buttery and flaky dough and is topped with an abundance of tasty toppings. 

The sauce has a tangy taste and a lot of flavors, and the cheese has melted to the point where it is ooey-gooey and delicious. However, pizza isn’t the only item on the menu; there is also a selection of appetizers, salads, and pasta dishes that are guaranteed to be a hit with diners of any food type. The Malnati Salad is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.

And if you’re looking for something sweet to round off your meal, the Chocolate Chip Pizza is a must-have. It has warm chocolate chips nested in a crust made with butter.

4. Best Steakhouse – Sullivan’s Steakhouse

Address: 244 South Main Street, Naperville, IL 60540

Any person who enjoys steak should go to Sullivan’s Steakhouse in Naperville. The restaurant has a refined and classy ambiance, complete with traditional furnishings and cozy seating arrangements, making it the ideal location for a memorable supper for two or a celebration of a significant life event. 

Sullivan’s is a renowned restaurant that truly stands out from other dining establishments due to its exceptional food. The menu offers an array of carefully selected, premium steaks that are a cut above the rest. From tender filet mignon to flavorful ribeye, the options are tantalizing and cater to the discerning palate of steak aficionados.

The wait staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that every part of your dining experience is perfect and living up to the restaurant’s reputation for excellence in food and service. 

What to Eat:

In addition to steak, the menu offers a variety of seafood dishes, salads, and side dishes that are as mouthwatering as the steak. One of the dishes that truly stands out is the lobster bisque, which is smooth and velvety and is loaded with bits of tender lobster meat.

5. Best Traditional Pub – Jackson Avenue Pub

Address: 7W Jackson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540-5303

If you’re searching for a friendly, low-key bar in the middle of Naperville, look no further than Jackson Avenue Pub. A lot of comfortable seating is available, and the decor is warm and friendly. You can unwind with a drink here after a busy day with friends or coworkers.

But the Jackson Avenue Pub is more than just a bar,  they provide a vast selection of delectable pub food that is sure to satisfy even the most voracious of appetites.

The kind and welcoming staff at Jackson Avenue Pub is what truly sets it apart from other similar establishments. Every member of the team, from the hosts behind the bar to the wait staff, is dedicated to ensuring that your needs are met.

Aside from that, the thing that I adore the most about the location is the fact that it is so simple to fall in love with it. At the Jackson Avenue Pub, it does not make a difference if you are a frequent visitor or this is your very first time there.

What to Eat:

The burgers are succulent and flavorful, the nachos have every topping you could want, and the fish and chips are perfectly crisp. The fresh salads are an excellent choice if you’re watching your weight.

6. Best Traditional American Restaurant – The White Chocolate Grill

Address: 1803 Freedom Dr, Naperville, IL 60563-5701

If you’re looking for a classy yet inviting restaurant in Naperville, go no further than the White Chocolate Grill. As soon as you walk through the doors, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere of refined comfort, thanks to the plush decor, soft lighting, and intimate design.

The food, however, is what draws people to The White Chocolate Grill. There’s a wide selection of tasty American standards, all of which are made with attention to detail using only the finest ingredients.

The dessert menu, however, is what truly sets The White Chocolate Grill apart; true to its name, it is a paradise for chocolate lovers, offering a wide variety of rich and indulgent sweets. Every kind of chocolate cake imaginable is here, from traditional to white chocolate cheesecake. But my personal favorite would definitely be the White Chocolate bread pudding.

So if you want to treat your kids to a sweet lunch or dinner outside, you know the place to go.

What to Eat:

White Chocolate Bread Pudding is a signature dessert made with chunks of white chocolate, vanilla custard, and served warm with a bourbon caramel sauce.

A classic steak option, the Filet Mignon is a tender and juicy cut of beef, perfectly grilled to your preferred level of doneness. It’s often served with a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables.

Aside from that, as a vegetarian option, the Grilled Artichoke is a tasty choice. The artichoke is grilled to perfection and served with a lemon garlic aioli for dipping.

7. Bes Hongkong Style Restaurant – MingHin Cuisine

Address: 1633 N Naper Blvd, Naperville, IL 60563-1555

MingHin Cuisine is a well-known Chinese chain restaurant with many sites in and around the Chicago metropolitan region, one of which can be found in Naperville. The restaurant has earned a reputation for the authenticity of its Chinese cuisine, which is prepared using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.

The menu is broad, and it offers a wide variety of foods designed to accommodate various dietary requirements and food preferences. The dim sum, the seafood dishes, and the noodle soups are among the most famous of the restaurant’s specialties.

The restaurant has an atmosphere that is warm and inviting, and the decor is both contemporary and sophisticated. The staff is warm and welcoming, and they pay close attention to the needs of each guest, delivering outstanding customer service so that diners have an enjoyable day. 

What to Eat:

MingHin Cuisine offers a wide variety of dim sum options, including favorites such as Shrimp Har Gow (steamed shrimp dumplings), Siu Mai (steamed pork and shrimp dumplings), and BBQ Pork Buns (steamed buns filled with BBQ pork).

Another classic Chinese dish is the Peking Duck which features roasted duck with crispy skin, typically served with Mandarin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce for wrapping.

8. Best Italian Restaurant – La Sorella di Francesca

Address: 18 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540

Lo Sorella di Francesca, is one of the best Italian restaurants in Naperville, which serves an atmosphere that is both homey and welcoming. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its traditional Italian fare, which is prepared using ingredients of the highest possible freshness and quality. On the menu, you’ll find a wide selection of classic Italian fares, such as pasta, fish, and meat meals.

The restaurant has a warm and welcoming ambiance, and the design is rustic, which contributes to the overall allure of the establishment. The crew is warm and welcoming, and they provide outstanding customer service to guarantee that every one of the visitors has an enjoyable and memorable eating experience. 

The restaurant’s large wine list, which includes a broad selection of Italian and international wines that are expertly matched to the many courses on the menu, is one of the restaurant’s most notable features.

What to Eat:

A popular pasta dish, Penne alla Vodka features penne pasta tossed in a creamy tomato sauce made with vodka, tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a rich and comforting option that combines the flavors of tomato, cream, and cheese in a delicious sauce.

Another traditional Italian dish is the Osso Buco is made with braised veal shanks cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with carrots, celery, and onions. The dish is typically served with gremolata, a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, adding freshness to the rich and tender veal.

My personal favorite is the Spaghetti alla Carbonara, the Grilled Salmon, and the Antipasto Platter for the appetizer. 

9. Best Fine Dining Restaurant – Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants

Address: 1740 Freedom Dr, Naperville, IL 60563-1732

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants is a well-liked dining destination famous for its extensive wine collection and contemporary American food. The restaurant’s decor is ultra-contemporary and sophisticated, with stylish lighting, ultra-modern furniture, and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow abundant natural light.

Small plates, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts are just some of the American classics given a unique spin that can be found on the menu at Cooper’s Hawk, a restaurant in Cooperstown, New York. Dishes on the menu are prepared with fresh, in-season ingredients, and the menu itself is modified on a regular basis to reflect the shifting of the seasons.

And who would not say no to wine? The large wine list at Cooper’s Hawk, which boasts more than 50 different kinds of wine made right there on the premises, is one of the most notable aspects of this restaurant. In addition to being a restaurant, the building also has a fully functional winery, where visitors can partake in wine tastings, tours, and educational sessions about wine.

What to Eat:

The Cooper’s Hawk Calamari features crispy calamari, which is a popular appetizer. It is served with a sweet chili sauce and lemon garlic aioli. It’s a perfect dish to start your meal with.

They also have the Short Rib Risotto which is a rich and indulgent dish, slow-braised short rib served over creamy Parmesan risotto with roasted carrots and a red wine reduction.

10. Best Taco Restaurant – Fire It Up Naperville

Address: 1523 N Aurora Rd Suite 107, Naperville, IL 60563-0702

If you’re ever in the Naperville, Illinois, area and you’re craving some authentic, creative tacos, you have to stop by Fire It Up – TacoFusion Grill. The traditional Spanish tapas restaurant
has a bright and energetic decor, making it ideal for a casual meal out, and the staff goes out of their way to make sure each customer is satisfied.

Choices like the hot shrimp taco, crispy fish taco, and BBQ pulled pork taco put a contemporary spin on classic Mexican cuisine.

Fire It Up’s dedication to fusion food sets it distinct from other taco restaurants. The restaurant’s tacos are unlike any other since they incorporate flavors and techniques worldwide. A “Surf and Turf” taco features Korean BBQ beef, crunchy shrimp, and cilantro lime slaw.

What to Eat:

A classic barbecue favorite, the Smoked Brisket at Fire It Up is slow-smoked for hours to achieve tender, smoky perfection. It’s served sliced or chopped and can be enjoyed as a platter with sides or a sandwich.

Another favorite is loaded BBQ Nachos feature a bed of tortilla chips topped with your choice of smoked meat (such as brisket, pulled pork, or chicken), cheese, barbecue sauce, and other toppings like jalapenos and sour cream. It’s a delicious and shareable option.

11. Best Mexican Restaurant – Totopos Mexican Restaurant

Address: 2048 Aurora Ave Ste 120, Naperville, IL 60540-1002

The brilliant and colorful Totopos Restaurant can be found in Naperville, Illinois, and it is a Mexican eatery that provides patrons with an engaging foodie experience. You’ll be taken to a lively and festive atmosphere the moment you step inside, packed with traditional Mexican design and upbeat music. 

There are a lot of options in the dishes that can be selected from the menu at Totopos Restaurant, which features a delectable combination of traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine.

The outstanding variety of tequila and margaritas offered at Totopos Restaurant is one of the establishment’s most notable characteristics. Whether you like your margarita on the rocks or in a blender, a variety of flavors and preparation methods are available to satisfy your preferences.

What to Eat:

Begin your meal with some freshly produced guacamole or queso fundido, then go on to hearty dishes such as fajitas, tacos, and burritos.

There is also food that is suitable for vegetarians and people who avoid gluten, so there is something for everyone.

12. Best Indian Restaurant – Cuisine of India Restaurant

Address: 1163 E Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60563-1687

Naperville’s Cuisine of India is a restaurant that provides guests with an opportunity to sample genuine Indian fare in an inviting and leisurely setting. This restaurant is great for both first-timers who are interested in trying Indian cuisine and seasoned enthusiasts who already have a lot of experience with it due to its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service.

The cuisine of India offers an extensive menu with a wide selection of authentic Indian cuisine, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian alternatives available for diners to choose from.

They also have a wide selection of starters, soups, salads, and sides in addition to the main courses that are offered on the menu.

What to Eat:

A wide variety of delicious food is available for patrons to choose from, ranging from well-known dishes like chicken tikka masala and lamb vindaloo to less common specialties like goat curry and baingan bharta.

In addition, do not forget to save food for dessert; a number of previous customers highly recommend the mango kulfi and the rice pudding.

13. Best Peruvian Cuisine – SanguCHE

Address: 535 Fairway Dr #115, Naperville, IL 60563-3938

Naperville’s SanguCHE is an undiscovered gem serving you vibrant Peruvian food with bold flavors. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with vibrant, colourful designs that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Peru.

Fresh, high-quality ingredients are used in every dish, and special seasonings and spices are blended to give each item a flavor all its own.

The crew at SanguCHE goes out of their way to make sure you feel at home, and they’re happy to help you through the menu and make personalized recommendations.

What to Eat:

Ceviche, anticuchos, lomo saltado, and arroz con pollo are just a few of the numerous traditional Peruvian meals that can be found on the extensive menu at SanguCHE.

Pisco sours, chicha morada, and Inca Kola are just a few of the Peruvian cocktails, and other drinks available at SanguCHE also go wonderfully with the restaurant’s colorful and vibrant main meals.

14. Best Downtown Restaurant – Everdine’s Grilled Cheese Co.

Address: 24 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540-5309

Naperville is home to Everdine’s Grilled Cheese Co., a warm and inviting restaurant that puts a unique spin on the age-old comfort food of grilled cheese sandwiches. This is one of the best places to eat in Naperville. Visitors who are interested in cheese and those who are looking for a quick and fulfilling dinner both flock to this establishment.

The restaurant serves grilled cheese sandwiches, and they also have a variety of sides, salads, and soups to go along with them. Customers can make their sandwiches just the way they like them by asking for extra cheese or toppings.

What to Eat:

Sandwiches at Everdine’s Grilled Cheese Co. are handcrafted with care using artisanal bread and cheeses from the area’s farmers and cheesemakers. From the traditional cheddar to the more out-there brie and apple or smoked gouda and bacon, each sandwich is lovingly made and overflowing with flavor.

15. Best Unique Restaurant – Allegory

Address: 224 S Main St, Naperville, IL 60540-5350

Naperville’s downtown is home to Allegory, an upscale American eatery serving up innovative cuisine. Guests may expect to be pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s creative menu, chic decor, and cozy atmosphere.

The menu at this restaurant is an expertly crafted collection of meals that fuse traditional American fare with modern flavors and preparations. Everything on the menu, from the steak frites to the lobster risotto, is expertly prepared with a focus on detail and a flair for innovation.

Aside from the solid food, Allegory also has top-notch service because of its well-informed and friendly staff, who work hard to make sure each and every one of its customers enjoys their meal.

What to Eat:

Allegory is known for its thoughtfully curated charcuterie boards, featuring an array of house-cured and smoked meats, artisanal cheeses, pickles, jams, and other accouterments. It’s a great option for sharing and enjoying a variety of flavors and textures.

Aside from that, the Seared Scallops are a popular choice. These plump and juicy scallops are seared to a golden brown and often served with delicious accompaniments such as risotto, seasonal vegetables, or a flavorful sauce.

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