Discover the Top 10 Delicious Salads in Chicago: A Guide for Healthy Food Lovers!
Discover the best salads in Chicago! From classic Caesar to creative veggie bowls, these restaurants serve up fresh greens and delicious toppings.
Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. But did you know that the city also offers some of the best salads in the country? These salads are not your ordinary greens and dressing combinations. They are packed with unique ingredients, bold flavors, and creative presentations that will leave you craving for more. From classic Caesar salads to innovative vegan options, Chicago has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a healthy and satisfying meal in the Windy City, check out these top salad spots that will blow your mind!
First on our list is The Goddess and Grocer, a local favorite that serves up some of the most delicious salads in town. This gourmet deli offers a wide range of salads, from the classic Greek salad to the exotic Thai chicken salad. But what sets The Goddess and Grocer apart is their attention to detail and quality of ingredients. Each salad is made with fresh, locally sourced produce and homemade dressings that are bursting with flavor. Plus, their portions are generous enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
If you're looking for something more upscale, head over to Nico Osteria, an Italian-inspired seafood restaurant located in the Gold Coast neighborhood. While their menu is primarily focused on seafood, their salads are equally impressive. The standout dish is their roasted beet salad, which features a colorful mix of beets, oranges, pistachios, and goat cheese, all drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette. The combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors creates a perfect balance that will make your taste buds dance.
For a quick and healthy lunch option, try Sweetgreen, a national chain that specializes in customizable salads. Their menu features a variety of fresh greens, grains, proteins, and toppings, allowing you to create your own masterpiece. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegan, Sweetgreen has plenty of options to choose from. And if you're not feeling creative, you can always opt for one of their signature salads, such as the Kale Caesar or the Spicy Thai.
If you're in the mood for something spicy and flavorful, head over to Big Jones, a Southern-inspired restaurant located in Andersonville. Their fried chicken salad is a must-try dish that combines crispy chicken, pickled vegetables, and hot sauce dressing. It's a perfect balance of crunchy, tangy, and spicy flavors that will awaken your taste buds. And if you're not a fan of fried chicken, they also offer a vegetarian option with roasted beets and goat cheese.
Another great spot for healthy and delicious salads is Farmer's Fridge, a vending machine company that offers fresh salads, bowls, and snacks made daily with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Their salads come in convenient jars that you can grab on the go, making them a perfect option for busy people who want to eat healthy. Plus, their menu changes seasonally, so you can always try something new.
For a unique dining experience, check out The Purple Pig, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located in the River North neighborhood. While their menu is primarily focused on meat and cheese, their salads are equally impressive. The standout dish is their roasted cauliflower salad, which features crispy florets, golden raisins, pine nuts, and a tangy yogurt dressing. It's a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will make you forget you're eating a salad.
If you're looking for a vegan-friendly option, head over to The Chicago Diner, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in Logan Square. While their menu is primarily focused on comfort food, their salads are equally satisfying. The standout dish is their BBQ tempeh salad, which features smoky tempeh, crispy greens, avocado, and a zesty ranch dressing. It's a perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and creamy flavors that will make you forget there's no meat in it.
Another great spot for vegan salads is Handlebar, a bike-themed restaurant located in Wicker Park. Their menu features a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, including the popular kale Caesar salad. This dish combines fresh kale, croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing made with cashews and tofu. It's a healthier and more sustainable version of the classic Caesar salad that will leave you feeling satisfied.
If you're in the mood for something sweet and refreshing, head over to Beatrix, a brunch spot located in River North. While their menu is primarily focused on breakfast and brunch dishes, their salads are equally delicious. The standout dish is their kale and apple salad, which features crunchy apples, candied walnuts, and a honey vinaigrette. It's a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will make you feel like you're eating dessert.
Lastly, if you're looking for a cozy and intimate dining experience, check out Gather, a farm-to-table restaurant located in Lincoln Square. Their menu changes seasonally, but their salads are always fresh and flavorful. The standout dish is their roasted beet and quinoa salad, which features tender beets, fluffy quinoa, goat cheese, and a citrus dressing. It's a perfect combination of earthy, nutty, and tangy flavors that will warm your soul.
In conclusion, Chicago offers some of the best salads in the country, from classic Caesar salads to innovative vegan options. Whether you're in the mood for something upscale or casual, spicy or sweet, you'll find a perfect salad spot in the Windy City. So, next time you're looking for a healthy and satisfying meal, skip the pizza and hot dogs and try one of these top salad spots that will blow your mind!
Introduction
Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, but it also has a thriving salad scene. With an abundance of locally sourced ingredients, creative dressings, and innovative combinations, Chicago’s best salads are not to be missed. Here are some of the best salads in the city that will make your taste buds dance.
The Goddess Salad at Sweetgreen
If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy salad, Sweetgreen is the place to go. The Goddess Salad is one of their most popular dishes, made with organic mesclun greens, roasted chicken, avocado, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and a creamy herb dressing. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.
The Harvest Salad at Beatrix
The Harvest Salad at Beatrix is a fall-inspired dish that is perfect for a chilly day. Made with roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, kale, farro, and goat cheese, this salad is packed with seasonal flavors. The maple vinaigrette adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ingredients perfectly.
The Chopped Salad at Portillo’s
The Chopped Salad at Portillo’s is a classic Chicago dish that has been around for decades. Made with romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, cucumber, tomato, chicken breast, bacon, gorgonzola cheese, and a red wine vinaigrette, this salad is hearty and satisfying. It’s a great option for those who want a filling meal without the guilt of a burger and fries.
The Farmer’s Market Salad at The Little Beet Table
The Farmer’s Market Salad at The Little Beet Table is a colorful and vibrant dish that showcases the freshest seasonal produce. Made with roasted beets, heirloom carrots, quinoa, arugula, and feta cheese, this salad is packed with nutrients and flavor. The lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty kick that ties the ingredients together.
The Caesar Salad at RPM Italian
The Caesar Salad at RPM Italian is a classic dish with a modern twist. Made with romaine lettuce, garlic croutons, parmesan cheese, and a creamy Caesar dressing, this salad is simple yet elegant. The addition of white anchovies gives it a subtle briny flavor that takes it to the next level.
The Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad at The Publican
The Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad at The Publican is a unique and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who love Brussels sprouts. Made with shaved Brussels sprouts, bacon, pecorino cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette, this salad is crunchy, salty, and tangy all at once. It’s a great option for a light lunch or as a side dish to share.
The Chinois Salad at Big Bowl
The Chinois Salad at Big Bowl is an Asian-inspired dish that is refreshing and delicious. Made with mixed greens, chicken, crispy wontons, cashews, and a sesame dressing, this salad is crunchy and satisfying. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a popular choice among diners.
The Roasted Beet Salad at Naha
The Roasted Beet Salad at Naha is a beautiful and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion. Made with roasted beets, goat cheese, pistachios, and a sherry vinaigrette, this salad is sweet, savory, and nutty all at once. The presentation is stunning, with the vibrant colors of the beets and the creamy cheese creating a feast for the eyes.
The Chopped Salad at The Original Gino’s East
The Chopped Salad at The Original Gino’s East is another classic Chicago dish that has stood the test of time. Made with romaine lettuce, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, salami, provolone cheese, and a red wine vinaigrette, this salad is hearty and flavorful. It’s a great option for those who want a taste of Chicago’s history.
The Beet and Burrata Salad at The Bristol
The Beet and Burrata Salad at The Bristol is a decadent and indulgent dish that is perfect for a special occasion. Made with roasted beets, burrata cheese, hazelnuts, and a sherry vinaigrette, this salad is creamy, nutty, and sweet all at once. The combination of flavors and textures is heavenly.
Conclusion
Chicago’s salad scene is thriving, with something for everyone. From classic Chopped Salads to innovative creations with seasonal ingredients, these salads are not to be missed. So next time you’re in the city, make sure to try one of these delicious dishes.
Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is a food lover's paradise. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs to Italian beef sandwiches, there's no shortage of delicious and indulgent treats to try. However, if you're looking for something on the healthier side, Chicago has plenty of options for you too. In fact, the Windy City is home to some of the best salads in the country. Whether you're a vegetarian, meat lover, or somewhere in between, there's a salad for everyone in Chicago. In this article, we'll take a look at ten different categories of salads in the city and highlight some of the best options available.
A Healthy Start to Your Day: Chicago's Best Breakfast Salads
Starting your day with a salad may not be the most traditional breakfast, but it's a great way to get some greens in early and set yourself up for a healthy day. Here are some of the best breakfast salads in Chicago:The Goddess & The Grocer
The Goddess & The Grocer is a popular Chicago cafe that offers a variety of salads, including their breakfast salad. This salad features mixed greens, avocado, hard-boiled egg, cherry tomatoes, and bacon, all topped with a lemon vinaigrette. It's a filling and flavorful way to start your day.Sweetgreen
Sweetgreen is a national chain that specializes in healthy salads and bowls. Their Harvest Bowl is a great option for breakfast, featuring warm quinoa, roasted chicken, sweet potatoes, kale, apples, and goat cheese. It's a hearty and satisfying way to kick off your morning.Fresh and Flavorful: Top Picks for Vegetarian Salads in Chicago
Vegetarians rejoice! Chicago has no shortage of delicious meat-free salads to choose from. Here are some of the best vegetarian options in the city:Green Zebra
Green Zebra is a vegetarian restaurant in Chicago that prides itself on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their Chopped Salad is a customer favorite, featuring mixed greens, avocado, cucumber, tomato, and shaved fennel, all topped with a buttermilk herb dressing.Protein Bar & Kitchen
Protein Bar & Kitchen is another national chain with several locations in Chicago. They offer a variety of healthy salads, including their Kale Caesar salad which features kale, parmesan, croutons, and a vegan Caesar dressing. You can also add protein to any salad, making it a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.Protein-Packed: Delicious Meat-Based Salads in the Windy City
If you're looking for a salad that will keep you full and satisfied, look no further than these protein-packed options in Chicago:The Purple Pig
The Purple Pig is a popular Chicago restaurant known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their Pork Neck Bone Gravy Salad is a standout, featuring arugula, roasted garlic, Parmesan, and a generous serving of pork neck bone gravy. It's a hearty and flavorful option for meat lovers.Beatrix
Beatrix is a Chicago-based restaurant chain with several locations throughout the city. Their Spicy Chicken Tinga Salad is a great option for those looking for a little heat. It features arugula, avocado, quinoa, and a spicy chicken tinga topping.From Across the Globe: International Salad Options in Chicago
Chicago is a diverse city with a wide range of international cuisine. These salads take inspiration from around the world:En Hakkore
En Hakkore is a Korean fusion restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of unique dishes, including their Bibimbop Salad. This salad features mixed greens, bulgogi beef, pickled radish, and a fried egg, all served with a spicy gochujang dressing.Figo
Figo is an Italian restaurant in Chicago that specializes in handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza. However, their Caprese Salad is a standout, featuring fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic glaze. It's a simple yet delicious option for those craving Italian flavors.Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Salad Spots in Chicago
While there are plenty of popular salad spots in Chicago, sometimes it's fun to try something a little off the beaten path. Here are some hidden gem salad spots in the city:Left Coast Food + Juice
Left Coast Food + Juice is a health-focused cafe in Chicago that offers a variety of salads and bowls. Their Kale Yeah! salad is a customer favorite, featuring kale, quinoa, avocado, cucumber, and a lemon-tahini dressing.Green Street Smoked Meats
Green Street Smoked Meats is a barbecue joint in Chicago that may not seem like the obvious choice for salad lovers. However, their Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and unexpected option. It features watermelon, feta cheese, mint, and a citrus vinaigrette.Sweet Treats: Fruit and Dessert Salads for a Satisfying Snack
Salads don't have to be savory! These fruit and dessert salads are perfect for a sweet and satisfying snack:Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern is an Italian restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of salads, including their Winter Citrus Salad. This salad features blood oranges, grapefruit, fennel, and pistachios, all served with a honey vinaigrette.Protein Bar & Kitchen
Protein Bar & Kitchen makes another appearance on this list, this time for their Superfood Parfait. This sweet option features Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and granola, making it a great choice for breakfast or a midday snack.DIY Salad Bars: Customizable Options in Chicago
Sometimes you just want to build your own perfect salad. These DIY salad bars in Chicago let you do just that:Lyfe Kitchen
Lyfe Kitchen is a health-focused restaurant chain with several locations in Chicago. Their Build Your Own Salad option lets you choose from a variety of greens, toppings, and dressings, allowing for endless customization.Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop
Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop is a California-based restaurant chain with one location in Chicago. They offer a variety of salads and bowls, but their Chopshop Salad is a great option for those looking to build their own. It features mixed greens, quinoa, avocado, and a variety of other toppings to choose from.Takeout Favorites: Best Salads for Lunch on the Go
Sometimes you need a quick and easy lunch option that you can take with you on the go. These salads are perfect for grabbing and eating on the run:Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Potbelly Sandwich Shop is a national chain with several locations in Chicago. While they're known for their sandwiches, they also offer a variety of salads, including their Powerhouse Salad. This salad features mixed greens, grilled chicken, hard-boiled egg, avocado, and bacon, all served with a balsamic vinaigrette.Freshii
Freshii is a health-focused restaurant chain with several locations in Chicago. They offer a variety of salads and bowls, but their Metaboost Salad is a customer favorite. It features spinach, kale, mango, edamame, and a variety of other toppings, all served with a spicy Thai dressing.Seasonal Specials: Chicago's Best Salads for Every Time of Year
Chicago experiences all four seasons, and each one brings its own unique flavors and ingredients. These seasonal salads are perfect for enjoying the best of what each season has to offer:Eataly
Eataly is an Italian food emporium in Chicago that offers a variety of dining options, including a rooftop restaurant called Terra. Their Winter Citrus Salad features blood oranges, endive, fennel, and almonds, all served with a citrus vinaigrette.Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a Spanish tapas restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of small plates and salads. Their Summer Peach Salad is a popular seasonal option, featuring arugula, grilled peaches, goat cheese, and a sherry vinaigrette.All-in-One Meals: Hearty and Filling Salads for Dinner in Chicago
Sometimes you want a salad that can stand on its own as a full meal. These hearty and filling salads are perfect for dinner:Punch Bowl Social
Punch Bowl Social is a bar and restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of entertainment options, including bowling and arcade games. Their Cobb Salad is a filling option, featuring mixed greens, grilled chicken, bacon, avocado, and a blue cheese dressing.Mediterranean Kitchen
Mediterranean Kitchen is a Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of salads and other dishes. Their Fattoush Salad is a great option for those looking for a hearty and flavorful meal. It features mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pita chips, all served with a tangy sumac dressing.No matter what type of salad you're in the mood for, Chicago has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for vegetarian, meat-based, sweet, or savory, there's a salad for every taste bud in the Windy City. So next time you're in Chicago, be sure to try one of these delicious and healthy options.Best Salads in Chicago
Point of View
As a food lover and salad enthusiast, I have tried numerous salads in Chicago. In my opinion, the best salads in Chicago offer a perfect blend of fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and healthy options. From classic Caesar salads to modern kale salads, Chicago has plenty of options to satisfy all types of taste buds.Pros of Best Salads in Chicago
- Fresh Ingredients - Most of the restaurants use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to make their salads, which not only enhances the flavor but also provides nutritional benefits.
- Healthy Options - Salads are considered one of the healthiest food options as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The best salads in Chicago offer various healthy options like vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb salads.
- Unique Flavors - Chicago is known for its diverse culinary scene, and the best salads in Chicago are no exception. The restaurants offer salads with unique flavors like Thai peanut, Moroccan chicken, and Mediterranean quinoa.
- Customizable - Most of the restaurants allow customers to customize their salads as per their preferences. Customers can choose their base, toppings, dressing, and protein, making it a personalized meal.
Cons of Best Salads in Chicago
- Expensive - The best salads in Chicago can be expensive compared to other food options. This is mainly due to the high-quality ingredients used in the salads.
- Not Filling - Some people might find salads not filling enough as they don't contain as many calories as other meals. However, this can be solved by adding more protein or healthy fats to the salad.
- Not All Restaurants Offer Good Salads - While Chicago has plenty of restaurants offering salads, not all of them serve good quality salads. It's important to research and read reviews before choosing a restaurant for salad.
Table Comparison of Best Salads in Chicago
| Restaurant Name | Type of Salad | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beatrix | Kale Caesar | $13 | 4.5 |
| Sweetgreen | Spicy Sabzi | $10 | 4.6 |
| Protein Bar & Kitchen | Buffalo Chicken | $11 | 4.3 |
| The Goddess and Grocer | Avocado Toast Salad | $12 | 4.4 |
| LYFE Kitchen | Quinoa Crunch | $11 | 4.2 |
The Best Salads in Chicago: A Guide for Foodies
Thank you for taking the time to read this article on the best salads in Chicago. We hope that it has provided you with some inspiration for your next meal out in the city. Whether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, there is no shortage of delicious and healthy salad options to choose from in Chicago.
When it comes to finding the best salads in Chicago, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, look for restaurants that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This will ensure that your salad not only tastes great, but is also packed with nutrients and free from harmful additives and preservatives.
Another important factor to consider is the variety of ingredients and flavors available. The best salads in Chicago will have a range of textures and flavors, from crisp greens and vegetables to creamy dressings and savory toppings.
So without further ado, let's dive into our top picks for the best salads in Chicago:
1. Sweetgreen
If you're looking for a fast and healthy lunch option, Sweetgreen is a great choice. With locations throughout the city, this popular chain offers a wide variety of salads featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Our top pick is the Harvest Bowl, which combines roasted sweet potato, shredded kale, apple, goat cheese, and chicken with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
2. The Goddess and Grocer
This gourmet deli and cafe is known for its creative and flavorful salads. The Goddess Salad is a standout, featuring mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and pine nuts, all topped off with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
3. Beatrix
Located in River North, Beatrix is a popular brunch spot that also offers a variety of healthy salads. Our favorite is the Cauliflower Grits & Greens, which combines roasted cauliflower, spinach, and kale with creamy goat cheese grits and a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
4. Ema
This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in River North offers a range of fresh and flavorful salads. Try the Avocado & Sweet Pea Salad, which features a mix of greens, avocado, sweet peas, and crispy quinoa, all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing.
5. The Allis
This elegant restaurant and bar in the West Loop is known for its stylish decor and delicious food. The Allis Salad is a must-try, featuring mixed greens, roasted beets, goat cheese, candied pecans, and a tangy sherry vinaigrette.
6. Bad Hunter
This vegetarian-focused restaurant in the West Loop offers a range of inventive salads and vegetable dishes. The Carrot Salad is a standout, featuring roasted carrots, avocado, sunflower seeds, and a tangy yogurt dressing.
7. True Food Kitchen
This health-focused restaurant chain has a location in River North and offers a variety of nutritious salads. The Ancient Grains Bowl is a filling and flavorful option, featuring quinoa, farro, sweet potato, avocado, and roasted chicken with a spicy turmeric dressing.
8. Nando's Peri-Peri
If you're in the mood for something spicy and flavorful, Nando's Peri-Peri is the place to go. Their Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and zesty option, featuring mixed greens, quinoa, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy peri-peri dressing.
9. The Little Beet
This fast-casual chain specializes in healthy and delicious salads and bowls. Our top pick is the Roasted Root Vegetable Salad, which features mixed greens, roasted sweet potato and beets, goat cheese, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette.
10. The Publican
This popular restaurant in the West Loop is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, including a few standout salads. The Roasted Carrot Salad is a must-try, featuring roasted carrots, creamy ricotta cheese, and a zesty orange vinaigrette.
We hope that this guide has given you some new ideas for where to find the best salads in Chicago. Whether you're looking for a quick and healthy lunch or a gourmet dinner option, there is no shortage of delicious and nutritious salads to choose from in this vibrant city. So go out and explore, and don't forget to let us know your favorite salad spots in the comments below!
People Also Ask About Best Salads in Chicago
What are the best salads to try in Chicago?
Chicago is known for its diverse food scene, and that includes salads. Here are some of the best salads you should try in Chicago:
- The Chopped Salad at Portillo's: This salad is a mix of lettuce, chicken breast, bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, gorgonzola cheese, and pasta. It is topped with a sweet Italian dressing and served with garlic bread.
- The Caesar Salad at RPM Italian: This classic salad is made with romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. RPM Italian adds a twist to this traditional dish by topping it with crispy prosciutto.
- The Kale Salad at True Food Kitchen: This salad is a healthy choice made with kale, avocado, almonds, dried cranberries, goat cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.
- The Cobb Salad at Wildfire: This salad is a hearty meal made with mixed greens, chicken breast, avocado, bacon, blue cheese, tomatoes, and hard-boiled eggs. It is served with a red wine vinaigrette dressing.
Where can I find the best vegan salads in Chicago?
Chicago has many options for vegans looking for delicious salads. Here are some of the best places to try:
- Sweetgreen: This fast-casual chain offers a variety of vegan salads, including the Harvest Bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, apples, and kale.
- The Chicago Diner: This vegetarian restaurant has many vegan options, including the Asian Chop-Chop Salad with mixed greens, edamame, and crispy wontons.
- LYFE Kitchen: This healthy restaurant has a vegan Kale Caesar Salad made with kale, quinoa, avocado, and almond parmesan.
- Karyn's Cooked: This vegan restaurant offers a variety of salads, including the Karyn's Salad with mixed greens, quinoa, and hemp seeds.
What are some healthy salad options in Chicago?
Chicago has many restaurants that offer healthy salad options. Here are some of the best:
- Protein Bar & Kitchen: This restaurant offers a variety of healthy salads, including the Chicken Caesar with grilled chicken, kale, and a house-made Caesar dressing.
- Beatrix: This restaurant has a variety of healthy salads, including the Cauliflower Salad with roasted cauliflower, arugula, and a lemon vinaigrette.
- Freshii: This fast-casual chain offers a variety of healthy salads, including the Metaboost Salad with spinach, kale, mango, and edamame.
- Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop: This healthy restaurant has a variety of salads, including the Superfood Salad with kale, quinoa, and roasted sweet potatoes.