Streeterville and Lakeshore East are Chicago's lakefront high-rise neighborhoods. Streeterville sits between Michigan Avenue and the lake, around the Northwestern medical campus and Navy Pier, and Lakeshore East is just across the river. They're home to a lot of hotel restaurants and chains, but there are some genuinely good places to eat once you know where to look.
Pizza
- Gino's East: a deep dish name since 1966, with a golden cornmeal crust that sets it apart from the other big deep dish houses. Deep dish or tavern-style? →
Mornings
- Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken: a homegrown Chicago donut shop. Get the buttermilk old fashioned.
- Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter: a tiny Belgian bakery off Michigan Ave with excellent croissants and country loaves.
- Beatrix: a bright, easygoing all-day spot and the neighborhood's go-to brunch. Order the honey butter cinnamon roll.
- Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe: at the edge of Lakeshore East, with huge plates and berry-piled pancakes. The line is part of the experience.
Drinks
- Coq d'Or at The Drake: a wood-paneled bar that opened in 1933, right after Prohibition ended. Order a classic martini.
A short walk west
Across Michigan Avenue in River North, you'll find the downtown classics: Mr. Beef for Italian beef, Portillo's for a Chicago dog, and Garrett Popcorn for the Chicago mix. See our River North guide →
Thinking about living by the lake downtown? Browse apartment buildings in Streeterville and Lakeshore East →