Big Star Mariscos
Photograph: Huge Galdones

1 Big Star Mariscos

What:A spinoff of the favorite taco joint, this new One Off Hospitality venture homes in on Mexican seafood dishes, from ceviches to pescado zarandeado, a whole sea bass to tuck into tacos.
Why:Meet your sunny winter escape: Sip a prickly pear margarita or glass of natural wine while snacking on fish tostadas and salmon aguachile. The plant-filled space and retro honky-tonk soundtrack provide cool vibes.
Where:551 N. Ogden Ave., West Town Website

 

Indienne
Photograph: Neil John Burger

2 Indienne

What:Sujan Sarkar (Rooh) serves a five-course Indian tasting menu with French influences.
Why:Whether you go for the omnivorous or vegetarian menu, you’ll find plates like avocado with ember-roasted chickpeas and buckwheat khakda.
Where:217 W. Huron St., River North Website

 

Le Midi Wine
Photograph: Lucy Hewett

3 Le Midi Wine

What:Oenophiles Craig Perman (Perman Wine Selections) and Seth Wilson (Lettuce Entertain You) run this chill wine bar and shop.
Why:Swing by for a glass and a small plate or two, or grab a bottle of wine for dinner that night.
Where:2108 W. Division St., Wicker Park Website

 

Valhalla
Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas

4 Valhalla

What:A new restaurant from Stephen Gillanders (S.K.Y.) at Time Out Market
Why:Splurge on the 11-course tasting menu, with dishes like crab arroz caldo with chile and garlic, or opt for some plates off the à la carte menu.
Where:916 W. Fulton Market, West Loop Website

 

Ragadan
Photograph: Danny Sweis

5 Ragadan

What:Danny Sweis (BellyQ, Quartino) highlights Jordanian street food like falafel, hummus, and sabich.
Why:Ragadan taps both classic and inventive flavor pairings — you’ll want to try the tahini ranch fried chicken sandwich.
Where:4409 N. Broadway, Uptown Website

 

Dorothy’s Bistro
Photograph: Dorothy’s Bistro

6 Dorothy’s Bistro

What:The former Flat & Point gets a fresh name and approach.
Why:Brian Bruns delivers an Alpine menu with offal Bolognese lasagna and grilled kale salad.
Where:3524 W. Fullerton Ave., Logan Square Website

 

Curfew
Photograph: Fabio Viviani

7 Curfew

What:Fabio Viviani opens a loungey spot at the Hotel St. Clair.
Why:Expect American, Spanish, and Italian influences, like octopus with crispy potatoes and ’nduja vinaigrette.
Where:162 E. Ontario St., Streeterville Website

 

BLVD Steakhouse
Photograph: Anthony Tahlier

8 BLVD Steakhouse

What:Joe Flamm of Rose Mary takes the reins at this glam steakhouse.
Why:He brings a fresh eye to dishes like grouper with fennel and olives.
Where:817 W. Lake St., West Loop Website

 

Rakkan Ramen
Photograph: Rakkan Ramen

9 Rakkan Ramen

What:A Tokyo import slinging plant-based ramen lands off Argyle.
Why:Customize each bowl of vegan broth to your preferences, with pork, chicken, or veggie options.
Where:4926 N. Broadway, Uptown Website

 

Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health
Photograph: Lauren Hermann

10 Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health

What:A café that helps fund community mental health care services.
Why:Grab a vegan muffin by Branded Kitchen and feel good about your morning.
Where:1051 W. Belmont Ave., Lake View Website