15 Best Restaurants in Elmhurst in 2023

Elmhurst, Illinois, is a lovely community in DuPage County, about 16 miles west of downtown Chicago. It is a popular destination for residents and visitors because of its lovely downtown area, historic buildings, and lush green spaces.

But aside from that, Elmhurst’s dining culture is equally amazing, with an array of eateries serving up good food worldwide. Everything from basic American comfort cuisine to authentic Italian dishes, fresh sushi, Mexican favorites, and more are available.

So whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a quick bite, or an elaborate dinner, grab your appetite as we explore the best restaurants in Elmhurst, Il.

Best Restaurants in Elmhurst

1. Best Italian Restaurant – Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria

Address: 483 Spring Rd, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria is a family-run Italian restaurant in downtown Elmhurst, Illinois. Since 1962, the restaurant has served the neighborhood and has become a local institution for excellent Italian cuisine and courteous service.

This Italian restaurant in Elmhurst is warm and inviting, with red brick walls, exposed wooden beams, and gentle lighting creating a comfortable ambiance. The dining area is vast and open, with tables and booths set up for both personal dinners and larger gatherings.

This Elmhurst, Illinois restaurant features classic Italian meals prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. A selection of appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, and entrees and their famed thin-crust pizzas are available.

What to Eat:

Some of the most popular dishes at Roberto’s include the Linguine Vongole, made with fresh clams, garlic, and white wine sauce, the Veal Saltimbocca, with prosciutto, sage, and fontina cheese, and the Chicken Vesuvio, served with roasted potatoes and garlic. 

Roberto’s pizzas are also a must-try. The restaurant offers a variety of toppings, from classic Margherita to more adventurous options like the Italian Stallion, topped with sausage, peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

2. Best American &  Czech – Austrian cuisine –

Address: 668 W North Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Mack’s Golden Pheasant Restaurant is a long-running family-run establishment and one of the best Elmhurst restaurants. The restaurant has operated since 1953 and has become a local landmark. 

The restaurant’s interior is cozy and inviting, with wooden booths and tables, traditional German decorations, and a welcoming bar area. It has a fireplace, a piano bar, and an exquisite and classic ambiance.

The restaurant has an extensive menu that serves lunch and dinner and also provides catering for gatherings and parties. Reservations are highly suggested, and the dress requirement is business casual. Mack’s Golden Pheasant is also noted for its superb service.

What to Eat:

Mack’s menu celebrates classic German dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, and entrees, including Mack’s famous Wiener Schnitzel, Sauerbraten, and Rouladen. 

The restaurant also offers fresh seafood, including fresh Lake Superior whitefish and shrimp scampi.

3. Best Filipino Restaurant – Lahi Filipino Restaurant

Address: 51-24 Van Loon St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, United States

Try Lahi Filipino Restaurant if you want authentic Filipino food that will satisfy you. The restaurant opened its doors in 2018 and has since become a popular destination for those seeking authentic Filipino cuisine.

The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and welcoming, with vibrant decor and Filipino-inspired artwork on the walls. They serve the best food in Elmhurst Il.  The restaurant’s bar also offers a selection of Filipino-inspired cocktails, beer, and wine. 

The staff at Lahi Filipino Restaurant are also known for their friendly and attentive service, making sure that every guest feels welcomed and comfortable.

What to Eat:

Noodle lovers will like the pansit bihon, which consists of sauteed rice noodles with shrimp, pork, and vegetables. Lahi’s kare-kare, adobo chicken, Bicol express, and Special BBQ Pork Ribs are some other Filipino favorites to sample.

They also serve a variety of appetizers, soups, and desserts, including halo-halo, a popular Filipino dessert made with shaved ice, fruits, and sweet beans.

4. Best Asian Fusion Restaurant – Zenwich Asian Fusion Restaurant

Address: 416 N York St B, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Zenwich Asian Fusion Restaurant is one of Elmhurst’s greatest places to eat. It is owned and operated by John Lee and his family. John Lee is a classically trained chef with over 20 years of experience in the food industry. The restaurant has received numerous accolades and awards, including being named one of the top 10 sandwich shops in the Chicagoland area by Chicago Magazine in 2017. 

This one-of-a-kind eatery on N York Street is cashless and cashierless. You can order via Zenwich’s website or at the restaurant’s kiosk. However, ordering online is the preferable method.

The ambiance of Zenwich is modern and sleek, with clean lines and minimalist decor. The menu features a fusion of Asian and American flavors, emphasizing fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

What to Eat:

The Spicy Garlic Shrimp sandwich, which consists of gently battered shrimp, baby arugula, cilantro, and garlic crunch with sweet and spicy aioli, and their modern vietnamese sandwiches is one of the most popular.

The Basil Crab Cake, which consists of blue crab cakes and baby arugula with garlic basil aioli and sriracha sauce, is also a tasty alternative. Zenwich’s beverage menu includes a wide selection of artisanal teas and specialty drinks, including their popular “Zen-Tea” made with fresh fruit, honey, and green tea.

5. Best Japanese Cuisine – Sushi Nest

Address: 142 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Sushi Nest is a Japanese restaurant in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. The restaurant serves classic and contemporary Japanese meals, with an emphasis on fresh and high-quality sushi.

It has a sleek and modern environment, with a large eating room and a sushi bar where diners can watch the professional sushi chefs at work. The menu includes a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, as well as hot and cold appetizers, salads, and entrees.

The staff at Sushi Nest are knowledgeable and friendly, providing attentive service and making sure that every guest has an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant also offers a variety of sake, beer, and wine to complement the fresh food.

In addition to its dine-in service, Sushi Nest also offers takeout and delivery options, making it easy for customers to enjoy their delicious food at home or in the office.

What to Eat:

Sushi Nest’s signature dishes include the “Nest Roll,” made with spicy crab, shrimp tempura, and avocado, and the “Truffle Yellowtail” sashimi, made with thinly sliced yellowtail drizzled with truffle oil. 

You can also choose one of their Combination Platters, such as Combination Platter B, which includes steak teriyaki, shrimp, veggie tempura, and a California roll, for a plate already full of tasty options.

6. Best Italian Rustic Cuisine – Francesca’s Amici

Address: 174 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Francesca’s Amici, which opened in downtown Elmhurst in 1999, delivers rustic Italian meals representing Italian cities’ zesty, earthy fare.  The restaurant is part of Francesca’s Restaurant Group, which operates multiple restaurants in the Chicago area.

Thanks to experienced waiters who will care about your requirements as soon as you enter through the door, the interior is filled with exquisite details, a color palette of neutral tones, and a formal environment. 

As one of the best places to eat in Elmhurst, the restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating options, with a charming outdoor patio area perfect for al fresco dining during the warmer months.

Francesca’s Amici’s beverage menu includes a selection of Italian wines and specialty cocktails, such as their “Italian Margarita,” made with limoncello and amaretto.

What to Eat:

Francesca’s Amici’s signature dishes include the “Pappardelle alla Bolognese,” made with housemade pappardelle pasta and a rich beef and pork ragu sauce, and the “Pollo Vesuvio,” a classic Chicago-style chicken dish with garlic, white wine, and peas.

You can also choose an outstanding pasta dish, such as Paccheri Alla Vodka, which consists of paccheri pasta sautéed in vodka sauce and topped with fresh pulled mozzarella and basil leaves.

7. Best American Comfort Foods – Fresh Start Cafe

Address: 1038 S York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Fresh Start Cafe is one of the neighborhood restaurants to check out in the morning, whether you’re a resident looking to try something new for breakfast or a visitor visiting Elmhurst.

Come in for benedicts, skillets, crepes, griddle dishes, lunch specials, grilled sandwiches, and wraps for a “fresh start.”

Since opening in 1999, it has served American comfort classics in a relaxing, yellow-hued atmosphere for breakfast and lunch. The cafe’s atmosphere is light and airy, with lots of natural light and colorful decor. During the warmer months, the cafe has a small outdoor patio space for al fresco dining.

What to Eat:

Try their Bananas Foster French Toast, which is topped with sautéed bananas, pecans, and powdered sugar for a hearty breakfast.

The Mediterranean Wrap, a quick handheld meal loaded with marinated chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta tossed with house dressing, is a good choice for brunch. The cafe offers also offers a variety of freshly made juices and smoothies, including the “Green Machine,” made with kale, spinach, pineapple, and apple.

8. Best Steakhouse – 100 South Chop House and Grill

Address: 100 S York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

100 South Chop House is one of the best restaurants in Downtown Elmhurst that provides classic steaks, chops, and pasta dishes in an elegant, ’50s-style supper club environment. This is also an excellent choice for a romantic evening with someone special or a happy hour celebration with friends.

100 South Chop House and Grill’s menu is centered around its selection of hand-cut, USDA prime steaks, which are grilled to perfection and served with a variety of classic steakhouse sides. This restaurant also serves fresh fish, poultry, wonderful pasta, and steaks. 

The restaurant’s sleek and modern design, dark wood accents, and gentle lighting create a warm and inviting feel. Private dining rooms are also available for special events and groups at the restaurant. 

The restaurant also has a comprehensive wine list with a wide selection of domestic and international wines to match each dish.

What to Eat:

The Sea Bass Velasco is a popular dinner that should be noticed. It is a tasty seafood dish with fresh sea bass sautéed with jalapeño peppers and garlic in a white wine sauce.

Another appealing option is the Blackened Chicken with Bowtie Pasta, which combines asparagus and tomatoes with pasta in an asiago cream sauce. Dessert options include New York-style cheesecake, chocolate mousse cake, and warm apple tart.

9. Best Mexican Cuisine – Cilantro Taco Grill

Address: 677 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Cilantro Taco Grill will appeal to those who appreciate cilantro and tacos. This family-owned restaurant delivers casual Mexican cuisine that celebrates the country’s rich historical history and recipes. 

As the name suggests, this restaurant is greatly influenced by cilantro, a herb with numerous health advantages.

Cilantro Taco Grill has a casual, laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The decor is simple and colorful, with plenty of Mexican-inspired artwork and decorations.

The restaurant is open seven days a week. On weekdays, they are open from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, and on weekends they are open from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm. This makes it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner.

What to Eat:

This restaurant’s popular dishes are taco salad, quesadilla, and chicken tamales.  Tacos al Pastor is prepared with marinated pork, grilled pineapple, onion, and cilantro. 

A Vegetarian Quesadilla is also available made from grilled flour tortilla packed with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and melted cheese is also available. To round off your meal, make sure to get their Cilantro Taco Grill which has fresh churros. 

10. Best Thai Cuisine – Ayada Thai

Ayada Thai is a well-known restaurant in Thai restaurant in Elmhurst, Illinois. Ayada Thai features traditional Thai fare, such as appetizers, soups, salads, stir-fried meals, curries, noodles, and more. They also have vegetarian and gluten-free options, and many of their dishes may be tailored to special dietary requirements.

The restaurant boasts a casual yet classy ambiance with warm lighting, traditional Thai design, and comfy seating. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with tables set apart for privacy.

The restaurant is in a small strip mall at 622 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126. There is plenty of parking in the lot, and they are open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekends.

What to Eat:

Famous for their Thai cuisine, you should try their thai bbq pork belly and their curries.  Red Curry, Green Curry, Panang Curry, Massaman Curry, and more. Each curry can be made with a choice of meat, seafood, or tofu and customized to your preferred level of spiciness.

They also serve Stir-Fry Dishes like Pad Thai, Pad See Ew, Pad Kee Mao, and more. These dishes typically include rice noodles or stir-fried vegetables with meat or tofu. For desserts, they serve Mango Sticky Rice, Fried bananas with Ice Cream, and more. 

11. Best Organic Bakery – Nu Crepes

Address: 115 W Schiller Ct, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

If you are wondering if any restaurants near you sell crepes, look no further than Nu Crepes.  It opened in the magnificent Schiller Ct Walkway in 2012, specializing in sweet, savory, and breakfast crêpes made with local ingredients and served artistically.

It has established itself as one of Elmhurst’s top restaurants due to its unique and exciting approach. Crepes are prepared to order and can be tailored to individual preferences. They sell coffee, tea, and other beverages in addition to crepes.

The restaurant features a friendly and welcoming ambiance, modern decor, and comfy seating. There is indoor and outdoor seating, with tables set apart for privacy.

The prices at Nu Crepes are affordable and reasonable for the quality of the food and the restaurant’s ambiance. In addition to dine-in service, Nu Crepes offers takeout and delivery options through their website and third-party delivery services such as GrubHub and DoorDash.

What to Eat:

The menu offers plenty of unique options, such as Lumberjack’d, an all-day breakfast crepe stuffed with two fresh eggs, hash browns, one breakfast protein, cheddar, green onion, and a shot of maple syrup on the side.

If you like a typical sweet crepe, consider the Campfire crepe, loaded with marshmallows, chocolate chips, graham crackers, Bischoff, and dark chocolate sauce. They also serve Lemon Berry, which consists of Lemon curd, mixed berries, and powdered sugar.

12. Best for Italian Woodfired Pizza – Gia Mia – Elmhurst

Address: 116 Schiller St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Celebrate your big day at one of Elmhurst’s greatest birthday restaurants, a spacious and modern-looking eatery that serves the most family-friendly dish: pizza.

Previously known as Livia Elmhurst, this restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas in the Neapolitan style, innovative small plates, and fresh pasta. GIA MIA also believes in farm-to-fork cuisine. In addition to outstanding food, this restaurant features an exclusive wine list and craft brews in its mixology bar.

It’s the ideal place for daytime and nighttime birthday celebrations, whether with a huge group or just a loved one, and you may opt for alfresco dining for a more romantic occasion.

With elegant decor and dark lighting, the restaurant boasts a modern and premium ambiance. Indoor and outdoor dining and a bar area for drinks and mingling are offered.

What to Eat:

This restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas in the Neapolitan style, as well as hand-made mozzarella and fresh pasta.

Their pizzas include Margherita, Meatballs, Fennel Sausage, and pasta dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara and Lobster Ravioli. They also offer salads, sandwiches, and small plates like meatballs and garlic knots. Lastly,  they serve a selection of desserts, including Tiramisu, Cannoli, and Gelato.

13. Best Greek Classics – Rainbow Restaurant

Address: 254 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

If you’re in Elmhurst and seeking a classic diner experience, the Rainbow Restaurant is a must-visit. 

Rainbow Restaurant, also known as Rainbow Cafe, is a lively Greek eatery with modern food that combines American and Greek classics and changing and seasonal products. This is one of the best restaurants in Elmhurst for bright, tasty food.

They only use high-quality ingredients, such as AA Farm Fresh Eggs, and they employ local organic ingredients whenever possible.  They take pride in their handcrafted and modern cuisine, which includes their unique, rotating, and seasonal products known as “Nick’s Picks.”

What to Eat:

They serve Awesome Omelettes with Hash Browns or Fruit and a choice of (2) Buttermilk Pancakes or Toast for breakfast. They serve Greek Omelette with spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, feta cheese, onion, arugula and Goat Cheese Omelette with sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, and arugula. Gourmet waffles and crepes are also available. 

Dinner includes Athenian Delights and the famed Veal Parmesan, served with Spaghetti or Mostaccioli.

14. Best Hamburgers – Hamburger Heaven Elmhurst

Address: 281 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

All burger fans, this is the place for you. Hamburger Heaven is a long-running restaurant that has been open since May 1948. Since its inception, this famous restaurant has been servicing Elmhurst.

Guests enjoy visiting Hamburger Heaven because of the unique and memorable memories they have made there. Hamburger Heaven accepts online orders that can be picked up at the restaurant. There are also delivery alternatives available.

As for the best time to visit, Hamburger Heaven is open for lunch and dinner, so you can visit at a time that works best for you. However, it can get busy during peak meal times, so if you prefer a quieter experience, visiting during non-peak hours, such as midweek afternoons, may be a good option.

What to Eat:

Some of the most popular items on the menu at Hamburger Heaven include their classic hamburgers and cheeseburgers, made with freshly ground beef and served on a toasted bun.

 They also offer a variety of toppings, including bacon, mushrooms, and grilled onions. Other menu highlights include their hot dogs, which can be served in a variety of styles, as well as their Italian beef sandwich and grilled chicken sandwich.

15. Best for Breakfast – Stray Hen Cafe

Address: 105 S York St suite a, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

The Stray Hen Cafe is an Elmhurst, Illinois, breakfast and lunch establishment. The cafe serves a variety of homemade cuisine produced with locally sourced ingredients.

Regarding the best times to visit, the Stray Hen Cafe is often busiest during peak meal times, such as weekend breakfasts and weekday lunch hours. If you prefer a more peaceful environment, visiting during non-peak hours, such as midweek mornings or early afternoons, maybe a nice choice.

Regarding the best times to visit, the Stray Hen Cafe is often busiest during peak meal times, such as weekend breakfasts and weekday lunch hours. If you prefer a more peaceful environment, visiting during non-peak hours, such as midweek mornings or early afternoons, maybe a nice choice.

What to Eat:

Some of the most popular items on the menu at the Stray Hen Cafe include their breakfast dishes, such as cinnamon rolls, breakfast burritos, and avocado toast.  Breakfast bowls such as the cauliflower rice bowl, Southwest breakfast bowl, and grainy day breakfast bowl are available. The Smoked Salmon Board and Veggie Hash are two of Stray Hen Cafe’s staple dishes.

For lunch, they offer a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, including their chicken salad sandwich and tomato bisque soup.

Frequently Asked Questions