20 Best Restaurants in Arlington Heights, IL
From quaint coffee shops to bustling bistros, fine dining establishments to delicious take-out spots, Arlington Heights boasts an array of eateries that can satisfy any foodie's palette.
Here are the 20 of the best restaurants in Arlington Heights, Illinois:
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Arlington Heights that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Nikko Sushi
Being a sushi lover, I've tried my fair share of sushi places around the village, but I always find myself returning to one in particular: Nikko Sushi.
This bustling sushi house isn't just a place to grab a quick meal; it's a culinary experience that keeps me coming back for more.
The shrimp tempura roll, for example, is an unexpected delight.
I'll admit, I initially ordered it by mistake, thinking it was a shrimp tempura dish.
But let me tell you, it was the best mistake I've ever made.
Bursting with flavor, it was a roll I found myself craving long after I had finished it.
It's one of those dishes that remind you why Nikko Sushi is the best sushi spot in the suburbs.
But sushi isn't the only thing that Nikko Sushi excels at. They also serve an array of delicious Korean dishes.
And if you're a fan of uni, this is your place. They almost always have it available, along with unique specials like toro and hamachi collars.
Another must-try is their ikura with quail. Creamy, sweet, and salty, it's a taste sensation that will have you coming back for more.
Golden Brunch
Let me tell you about my favorite place to start the day in the village, the Golden Brunch.
As soon as you step inside, a warm and welcoming atmosphere embraces you.
And if you think that's amazing, wait until you try the food.
Their breakfast classics are to die for. The pancakes are fluffy and sweet, best paired with their savory bacon.
If you're not in the mood for breakfast food, they offer a variety of other options like burgers, salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
Everything is prepared to perfection, and every bite is a testament to their excellence in the kitchen.
It's no wonder the place is loved not just by visitors but by locals like myself as well.
What I also love about Golden Brunch is that they offer to-go services.
You can enjoy their delicious food wherever you please.
It's perfect for those days when you want a hearty meal but prefer to stay in the comfort of your own home.
Hey Nonny Live Music + Local Kitchen
My frequent visits to Hey Nonny in Arlington Heights mainly revolve around their live music performances.
I must admit, that is the main attraction that keeps me coming back.
However, I've also had a chance to sample their food, and my feelings about it are quite mixed.
Some of the dishes I've had were pleasantly surprising, like the chorizo hash for brunch.
Pairing the meal with their toasted coconut espresso martini was a great recommendation, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Yen Yen Restaurant
It's become a sort of tradition for me to pop into the Yen Yen Restaurant for lunch.
I just can't resist their vegetarian lunch special, which always comes sizzling and perfectly seasoned from their cast iron wok.
The smokey taste just keeps me coming back for more.
Each time, they surprise me with a slightly different presentation, but the taste is always spot on.
But it's not just about the food. The ambiance is just as inviting.
Nestled in a relaxed strip mall, the restaurant serves traditional Chinese stir-fry, noodle dishes, and even some cocktails.
And let's not forget their other dishes. They serve some of the best Chinese cuisine in the village.
Their egg rolls and sweet n sour dishes are something that every food lover should try.
Recently, I tried their "happy family" dinner for the first time and was absolutely blown away.
And their mu shu, oh! It's so good that it will make you want to recommend this place to everyone you know.
I remember the first time I stepped into the Yen Yen Restaurant.
It was back in the early 2000s, and even then, their egg rolls were the talk of the village.
Even after all these years, I haven't found any other place that serves egg rolls as delicious as Yen Yen's.
My partner, who's also a fan of Chinese restaurants with a long-standing reputation, gave it a thumbs up.
It was one of the rare moments when he was floored by something new I introduced him to.
Wayne's Pizza
Ah, Wayne's Pizza is my go-to spot for a hearty meal.
I've been a regular for what feels like a lifetime, and there's a reason I keep going back.
I remember the first time I bit into a slice of their sausage pizza - it was a game-changer.
The crust crunched in my mouth while the rich and tangy sauce blended perfectly with the robust flavor of the sausage.
The pizza was, hands down, one of the best I've ever tasted.
And it's not just the pizza that keeps me drawn to this place. The Italian standbys, like the calamari appetizer, are equally delightful.
The calamari is tender, fresh, and seasoned to perfection. It's a dish that never fails to satisfy me.
I remember one particular evening when we ordered two pizzas - one thin crust with spinach, mushroom, and onion and another with Italian beef, garlic, and BBQ sauce.
And boy, were they delicious! Each pizza was loaded with toppings and cooked to perfection.
Barnaby's Family Inn
When the craving for a good old American dish hits me, there's one place in the village that always comes to mind - Barnaby's Family Inn.
This place has been around for a long time, and it holds a special place in my heart.
I have countless memories of family dinners, school field trips, and casual hangouts here.
I remember one day when the local special education class had their field trip at Barnaby's.
It made me realize how this place isn't just a restaurant but a part of our community.
It could be a simple solo lunch, a chatty dinner with a couple of friends, or even a group outing.
The restaurant has a large seating area, perfect for group gatherings yet intimate enough for a quiet meal.
Their pizza is hands down the best in the village – it is consistently delicious, with the right amount of cheese that melts in your mouth.
But the menu doesn't stop there. They serve everything from pasta to burgers to fish, each dish as mouth-watering as the other.
And for those days when you just want to stay in, Barnaby's online delivery system comes to the rescue.
The food delivered is just as good as dining in, proving their dedication to quality.
Sutadonya
There's a certain magic to stepping through the doors of Sutadonya.
Even after two years, I remember the sense of anticipation, the long lines that promised a treat worth waiting for.
The Pork Garlic Bowl, with its soft, perfectly cooked egg, is a delicious memory etched on my palate.
It wasn’t just food, it was an experience - an experience that was made even more special by that egg.
The garlic and pork over rice is another favorite. The flavor balance is just right, making it the perfect comfort food after a long day.
There’s something about the place that takes me back to my childhood when my father was stationed in Japan.
Tokyo Shokudo
Every once in a while, my friends and I visit Tokyo Shokudo for our love of their curry bowls.
The champion curry bowl is my personal favorite because of its diverse assortment of fried delights.
But be sure to double-check your order before leaving, as I made the mistake of not checking once and only received the pork cutlet instead of the whole assortment.
The food at Tokyo Shokudo is not only delicious but also surprisingly filling.
My friends and I often order pork cutlet and chicken cutlet bowls, which are both comforting and delicious.
What adds to the charm of this place is the gorgeous window display that showcases all the different dishes on offer.
Even when the place is bustling, the service remains prompt and efficient, and we usually get our food within 10 minutes.
5th Ave Sushi
My trips to 5th Ave Sushi have been a bit of a mixed bag.
On one hand, the sushi has a unique, homely feel to it, reminding me why I fell in love with this Japanese delicacy in the first place.
There's something about meeting my sushi cravings at this place, especially with dishes like Godzilla and Golden.
It's been a regular haunt for my partner and me, particularly because it's an eat-all-you-can joint, which suits our hearty appetites.
One of the charming aspects of their service is you can bring your own wine and drinks.
Brunch Cafe-Arlington Heights
Every Saturday morning, one of my favorite things to do is head over to Brunch Cafe-Arlington Heights for a bite to eat.
It's not just a meal; it's an experience that sets the tone for the rest of my weekend.
The menu is filled with delicious options, from classic breakfast items to innovative twists on lunch favorites.
What really draws me to this place time and again is the cozy, friendly atmosphere that welcomes you the moment you step inside.
Their pancakes are fluffy and light, their omelets are generously filled, and their French toast is absolutely divine.
Not to mention, they serve some of the best coffee in the village.
Whenever I want to treat myself or guests from out of the village, Brunch Cafe-Arlington Heights is my go-to spot.
Kaido Sushi
One day, after a particularly grueling day, my partner and I decided we needed something really good to eat.
We turned to Kaido Sushi and ordered the omakase and a few rolls - a leap of faith, given that we've had our fair share of sushi over the years.
But oh, the delight when we tasted those fresh, inventive nigiri pieces we'd never met before!
Trust me, even after experiencing many sophisticated and high-end Japanese restaurants in the heart of Chicago, Kaido Sushi didn't disappoint.
The quality of the fish was outstanding.
Each bite was a clear testament to the high-quality, fresh ingredients used.
The ambiance was just right, and the service was impeccable.
The best part? This top-notch sushi experience comes at a reasonable price right here in the suburbs of Arlington Heights.
Chennai Express Bistro
If you're looking for authentic Indian cuisine in the village, then you can't miss out on Chennai Express Bistro.
This cozy eatery, located just around the corner, has become my go-to for comfort food.
The menu is diverse, and everything I've tried so far has been a flavorful journey.
But there's one dish that stands out - the Bamboo Chicken Biryani.
You need to inform them 3 hours in advance, but I assure you it's worth the wait!
The first time I ordered takeout from Chennai Express Bistro, I was pleasantly surprised.
The food was fresh and still warm, a rare occurrence in most takeouts.
It was clear that the food was not precooked and reheated but made to order.
I still remember the appetizing aroma of the Sambhar that wrapped around my senses, it was so inviting.
Apart from the food, what makes Chennai Express Bistro stand out is its service.
The ambiance is cozy and comfortable, making it a perfect spot for a family dinner or a get-together with friends.
Burger Baron II
Just a stone's throw away from my house, nestled comfortably amidst the hustle and bustle of the village, you'll find my absolute favorite burger joint - Burger Baron II.
There's a certain understated charm to this long-standing counter-serve establishment that I can't help but be drawn to.
As soon as you step foot into Burger Baron II, you are greeted with a down-to-earth setting that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
The calm and beautiful sitting area is a place where I have spent countless hours sipping on a cup of coffee or devouring one of their delicious burgers.
The hustle of the working week slows down to a crawl, and the air is filled with the aroma of freshly cooked gyros, subs, and of course, their signature burgers.
It's a great place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
The real star of the show, however, is the food.
Cooked to order and served piping hot, their fare never disappoints.
I find it nearly impossible to resist the allure of their fries - golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned.
Each bite is a delightful crunch that makes you want to savor the moment.
Sozai Banzai
I have a deep fondness for Sozai Banzai, a wonderful gem tucked into a strip mall that serves sushi, ramen, and other classic Japanese dishes.
The restaurant's interior may be simple, but it perfectly complements the complex and authentic flavors of its food.
Every visit is a new culinary journey with their daily specials.
They're always mouthwatering and offer an excellent bang for the buck.
The miso soup is a comforting delight, and their main entrees, like tonkatsu and Tonjiru soup, never fail to hit the spot.
What I love most about Sozai Banzai is that it's just as enjoyable to dine in as it is to take away.
Their katsu curry and unadon (eel rice bowl) are two dishes that I can never resist.
The restaurant's bright and clean interiors, paired with the delightful smell of cooked food, instantly transport me to cozy eatery corners in Japan.
If you're looking for a taste of Japan right here in our village, I couldn't recommend Sozai Banzai enough.
Armand's Pizzeria
On a beautiful Saturday evening, I decided to walk down to Armand's Pizzeria, a local favorite that has been serving up excellent pies and pasta for years.
This long-running pizzeria chain always hits the spot with its thin-crust and deep-dish pizzas, but there's something special about this particular location.
The moment I stepped in, I was greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
From the nostalgic décor to the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen, everything about Armand's felt authentically Italian.
One of the highlights of my visit was the stuffed artichoke appetizer, easily the best I'd ever had.
The stuffing didn't overpower the artichoke, striking a delicate balance of flavors.
Another favorite was the grilled calamari, which was cooked to perfection.
And let's not forget the bruschetta and the goat cheese salad, both were beyond delicious.
For those who enjoy a good drink, I highly recommend the Bloody Mary.
It's the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with blue cheese olives that add an interesting twist.
And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert that Armand's has perfected.
Hanshin Pocha
Every time I set foot in Hanshin Pocha, I am immediately transported back to the heart of Korea.
This little gem in the suburbs of our village is an absolute delight for anyone who loves authentic Korean cuisine.
Walking into Hanshin Pocha, you are greeted by a cozy, chill vibe that sets the perfect backdrop for a meal with friends.
The menu is a delightful array of offerings, and my favorites are the rice egg and kimchi rice.
The kimchi fried rice and the kimchi pancake are nothing short of terrific.
The pancake is a perfect balance of soft and crispy, spiced just right to get that tangy kick.
The rice, on the other hand, has a hint of smokiness that elevates it to another level.
And let's not forget the Sapporo - poured to perfection every single time!
But what makes this place truly special is not just the food but the people who run it.
Every visit to Hanshin Pocha has been a memorable experience, and it's become a place I hold close to my heart.
Madurai Kitchen
As much as I adore the local food scene, there are some places that hold a special place in my heart.
One of them is Madurai Kitchen, a charming little South Indian joint located right here in the village.
I remember walking into the restaurant at the start of a busy Father's Day weekend.
The place was humbly adorned with pictures of Madurai's temples and gopurams, lending it an authentic touch.
There was a bit of a waiting period owing to the rush, but the extensive menu made it worth our while.
From Chettinadu to Karaikudi, it had an impressive range of South Indian delights.
The shrimp 555 was a standout dish, prepared in a typical South Indian style with coarsely ground ingredients.
The mutton chukka, on the other hand, had a strong star anise flavor and was a bit stringy.
The non-vegetarian thali was hearty, with the beetroot kootu, dal, rasam being the standout dishes.
The sambar and meat bowls were average, and the kesari was well made.
I'd have loved to try the desserts, but the long wait time and the filling meal made it impossible on that occasion.
Tortorice's Pizza
Oh, how I love Tortorice's Pizza! Their pizza easily tops my list of favorite places to eat in my hometown.
I've been a frequent customer for years, and there's a reason their pizzas keep me coming back.
The thin crust is just delightful, and the double dough is just as good.
Pizza nights at my house are never complete without a 16" pan pizza with sausage and garlic from Tortorice's.
The garlic is real, and the flavor is more noticeable than on most pizzas, which I absolutely love!
The one thing that consistently amazes me is the weight of their pizza - seriously, you get a whole lot of pizza for your money.
And it's not just the pizzas, their entire menu is worth trying.
If you're a fan of buffalo wings, you're in for a treat!
Final Thoughts
Dining in Arlington Heights is truly a culinary adventure.
There truly is a diverse range of delectable dining options in this village, assuring that no matter what you're craving, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
The local food scene here is vibrant, varied, and, above all, very tasty.
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