UChicago Student Restaurant Picks — Save This List!! 📍

The academic vibe at UChicago is intense, and between recruiting, interviews, and deadlines — you gotta eat well to keep going 😂 Here are my top favorite spots in Downtown Chicago & near campus — tried-and-true gems that me and my friends rely on for a much-needed boost 🥰 1️⃣ Sushi-san 🍣 Super fresh sushi and seafood. Their bento box platter is a hit! Sitting at the counter lets you watch the chefs work, and the lighting is perfect for food pics. ✅ Great for catching up with friends or treating yourself after an interview. 2️⃣ Olio E Più Pasta lovers — run here! Authentic Italian with gorgeous atmosphere. The decor alone is worth a photo series 📸. I first went during Christmas — so cozy and festive. 3️⃣ MingHin Cuisine Dim sum heaven when you’re missing home! From shrimp dumplings to rice rolls — everything is authentic and generously portioned. I always leave with leftovers 🥡. 4️⃣ La Serre 🍷 A French girl’s dream — perfect for date nights or special occasions. Elegant interior, super photogenic (can get noisy at night though!). 5️⃣ Chubby Cattle Chicago Hot pot + Japanese + DIY sauce bar! The all-you-can-eat option is a steal. Perfect for holiday feasts with friends 🥹 Don’t miss their cute matcha/vanilla mochi ice cream balls! 6️⃣ Tengoku Cozy Japanese spot with amazing vibes. The owner is super kind — even gave us complimentary yuzu juice! Their sukiyaki and daily hand rolls are top-tier. Great for solo meals or dates. 7️⃣ Fairgrounds Cafe ☕️ Right on UChicago’s North Side! My go-to study spot — matcha latte + avocado toast = instant productivity boost before writing essays. Firm believer that students and working folks deserve the joy of good food! Feel free to share your own favorites too 🌆❤️ #UChicago #ChicagoEats #StudentLife #FoodieFinds #ChicagoRestaurants #StudyBreak