The keto diet is widely used for weight loss as the high-fat, low-carb diet makes the body burn fat and uses ketones as an energy source. A recent study found that keto is currently Illinois’s most popular (and googled!) diet. However, we know sticking to a specialized diet makes dining out a bit more challenging than usual, but who’d want to miss out on Chicago’s splendid restaurant scene? So, here are 6 of the best keto-friendly restaurants in Chicago next time you’re tired of cooking at home.
Meanwhile, check out where we get vegan food in Chicago here!
FARE
433 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607
71 S Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60606
Fare is a keto-friendly restaurant that offers a wide range of options for people following the keto diet. The menu is focused on healthy, in-season ingredients that are low in carbs and high in fat like grass-fed meats, seafood, vegetables, and nuts. They also offer a variety of dairy-free and gluten-free options, making it an even more inclusive place for those with different dietary restrictions. Fare is also committed to using the highest quality ingredients and offering different customizations so that every patron can find a delicious meal.
Blue Door Farm Stand
2010 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
By using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, Blue Door Farm Stand creates unique and healthy dishes that are perfect for anyone following a specialized diet. Their menu, featuring keto favorites like high protein options, mouthwatering salads, and burgers (hold the bun), makes it easy to pick a meal that will keep you satiated while in ketosis. By using healthy cooking techniques, Blue Door Farm Stand is able to attract people with tons of different dietary needs, including the keto diet.
Tango Sur
3763 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Tango Sur, an Argentinian restaurant just a few blocks from Wrigley Field, is a perfect spot for a tasty, keto-friendly meal. The provoleta, Pechuga de Pollo, and sirloin steak are all just a part of the keto-friendly options awaiting you on their menu. By substituting some of the sides, you won’t have to worry about being tempted by carbs while you enjoy your fresh-cooked meal. Next time you’re looking to dine out, try some authentic Argentinian food at Tango Sur, you definitely won’t be disappointed.
True Food Kitchen
1 W Erie St Unit A/Floor 1, Chicago, IL 60654
True Food Kitchen believes in nourishing your body with fresh, wholesome ingredients. In other words, they’re one of the keto-friendly restaurants in Chicago. Their menu features a range of dishes with nutrient-dense ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and sustainably sourced proteins. The restaurant also emphasized their accommodations of other dietary needs like vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo options. Founded in Phoenix, AZ in 2008 by Dr. Andrew Weil, True Food now has over 30 locations across the US, including two in Illinois!
Bluebird
2863 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
If you’re on a keto diet and think you can’t enjoy the savory, crispy goodness of fried chicken, think again. At Bluebird Chicago, one of their specialties is the keto-friendly fried chicken meal. Consisting of four chicken strips coated and fried in their specialty keto flour, you can chow down on a comfort meal you may have thought was outside your restrictions. Enjoy your chicken with ranch, chipotle ranch, Nashville sauce, or buffalo sauce, and savor every bite.
Crave Kabob
1521 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607
It’s often said that Mediterranean food is some of the healthiest cuisines in the world, which brings us to Crave Kabob! With protein-packed options like chicken, chickpeas, and falafel, patrons can enjoy building their own keto-friendly plates with ingredients that are always fresh. Instead of a rice bowl, opt for a build-your-own chopped salad with toppings like cucumbers and tabbouleh salads. Top it off with a keto-friendly tahini sauce (primarily made of sesame seeds) and you’ll be munching on your new favorite dish in no time!
Featured Image: True Food Kitchen