Introduction
Arlington Heights, Illinois, is more than just a charming Chicago suburb; it’s a culinary hotspot waiting to be discovered. Nestled comfortably northwest of the city, this vibrant community boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene that rivals many of its larger counterparts. Forget the preconceived notions of suburban dining; Arlington Heights offers a symphony of flavors, from comforting classics to innovative creations, catering to every palate and budget. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a curious visitor, prepared to embark on a delightful gastronomic journey. This guide will navigate you through the best dining experiences Arlington Heights has to offer, highlighting hidden gems, local favorites, and establishments that consistently deliver exceptional Arlington Heights IL food. Get ready to explore a world of culinary delights, one delicious bite at a time. We will be covering different cuisines and price points.
Pizza Perfection: Arlington Heights’ Best Pies
Pizza is a universally loved comfort food, and Arlington Heights certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to delivering satisfying slices. From classic Chicago-style deep dish to crispy thin crusts, there’s a pizza place to suit every preference. Here are a few standouts that consistently rank high among pizza aficionados.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
First up is “Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria,” a name synonymous with Chicago deep dish. While technically a chain, the Arlington Heights location upholds the same high standards of quality and flavor that have made Lou Malnati’s famous. The atmosphere is bustling and family-friendly, perfect for a casual night out. Their signature deep dish, featuring a buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce, is a must-try for any visitor. The “Malnati Chicago Classic” with lean sausage is a particularly popular choice. Be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends, but rest assured that every bite is worth it. Expect to pay around $25-$35 for a medium deep dish. You can find them at South Arlington Heights Road, conveniently located for locals and visitors alike.
Armand’s Pizzeria
For those who prefer a thinner, crispier crust, “Armand’s Pizzeria” is an excellent option. This local favorite has been serving up delicious thin-crust pizzas for years, earning a loyal following. The atmosphere is more laid-back and casual than Lou Malnati’s, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. Their thin crust is perfectly crispy, and they offer a wide variety of toppings to choose from. The “Armand’s Special,” loaded with sausage, mushrooms, and onions, is a classic choice. The price point is also more affordable, with a large thin crust pizza costing around $20-$30. Check them out on North Arlington Heights Road.
Giordano’s
Finally, for a more unique and adventurous pizza experience, consider “Giordano’s.” While another well known deep dish chain, Giordano’s offers a different take on the stuffed pizza. What sets them apart is that they stuff their pizza with cheese and toppings before adding the sauce on top. The result is an incredibly cheesy and filling pizza. A large pizza will easily feed a crowd. They offer a great selection of toppings to choose from, but don’t overlook the classics. Giordano’s is also more modern and spacious with its interior design. Located at East Algonquin Road, Giordano’s is another favorite spot for Arlington Heights IL food lovers.
In summary, the pizza scene in Arlington Heights caters to all tastes and cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a deep-dish indulgence, a crispy thin-crust delight, or a stuffed pizza experience, you’re sure to find the perfect pie to satisfy your appetite.
Global Flavors: Exploring International Cuisine
Arlington Heights boasts a vibrant tapestry of international flavors, reflecting the diverse community it serves. From the aromatic spices of Thailand to the rich sauces of Italy, there’s a global culinary adventure waiting to be explored.
Francesca’s Tavola
For an authentic taste of Italy, “Francesca’s Tavola” is a must-visit. This charming restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria. The focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients and classic Italian recipes. Their homemade pasta dishes are exceptional, and the seafood is always cooked to perfection. The “Linguine alle Vongole,” featuring fresh clams in a delicate white wine sauce, is a standout dish. Expect to pay around $25-$40 per entree. Located on East Davis Street, Francesca’s offers a truly delicious Italian experience.
Siam Square
If you’re craving the bold and spicy flavors of Thailand, “Siam Square” is the place to go. This restaurant is known for its authentic Thai cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. The atmosphere is vibrant and colorful, creating a truly immersive dining experience. Their “Pad Thai,” a classic Thai noodle dish with shrimp, chicken, and peanuts, is a crowd-pleaser. The green curry is also a popular choice, offering a rich and creamy coconut milk base with plenty of vegetables and spices. Most entrees range from $15-$25. You can find Siam Square at North Arlington Heights Road, ready to serve you the best in Thai food.
Casa Maya
For a festive Mexican fiesta, “Casa Maya” delivers an authentic and flavorful experience. The restaurant features a vibrant and colorful decor, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. Their menu is packed with classic Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to moles and ceviches. The “Mole Poblano,” chicken simmered in a rich and complex chocolate-chili sauce, is a must-try. The margaritas are also highly recommended. Expect to pay around $15-$30 per entree. Visit them on West Rand Road for a delicious and affordable taste of Mexico.
Arlington Heights is also home to a variety of other international cuisines, including Japanese sushi, Korean BBQ, and Greek specialties, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every global craving.
Casual Bites & Sweet Treats
Sometimes, all you need is a quick and satisfying bite or a sweet treat to brighten your day. Arlington Heights offers plenty of options for casual dining and decadent desserts.
M Burger
For a classic burger and fries, “M Burger” is a popular choice. This no-frills burger joint focuses on quality ingredients and simple, delicious flavors. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The “M Burger,” featuring a juicy patty, melted cheese, and all the classic toppings, is a must-try. Their fries are also perfectly crispy and seasoned. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a burger, fries, and a drink. They’re located on West Central Road, serving up juicy burgers every day.
La Petite Crêperie
If you’re in need of a caffeine fix and a sweet treat, “La Petite Crêperie” is the perfect spot. This charming café offers a variety of delicious crepes, both sweet and savory, as well as freshly brewed coffee and espresso drinks. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great place to relax and unwind. Their Nutella and banana crepe is a classic favorite, and the ham and cheese crepe is a perfect light lunch. Expect to pay around $5-$10 for a crepe and a coffee. They offer the best crepes in town on North Vail Avenue.
Kilwins
For an ice cream indulgence, “Kilwins” is the place to be. This old-fashioned ice cream parlor offers a wide variety of delicious ice cream flavors, as well as chocolates and other sweet treats. The atmosphere is nostalgic and fun, perfect for a family outing. Their “Mackinac Island Fudge” ice cream is a must-try, featuring chunks of homemade fudge. You can also create your own sundae with a variety of toppings. Prices range from $5-$10 for a scoop of ice cream or a sundae. You can visit Kilwins on North Dunton Avenue.
Fine Dining Experiences
For a special occasion or a truly memorable meal, Arlington Heights offers several fine dining establishments that deliver exceptional cuisine and impeccable service.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants
“Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants” is a popular choice for upscale American cuisine. The restaurant features a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from steak and seafood to pasta and salads. The “Pan-Roasted Barramundi,” a sustainably sourced fish served with roasted vegetables and a lemon-butter sauce, is a standout dish. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, with wines from around the world. Expect to pay around $30-$50 per entree. The location on West Algonquin Road offers a top tier dining experience.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Arlington Heights is also home to several hidden gems and local favorites that are worth discovering.
Passero
“Passero,” for example, is a small, family-run Italian restaurant that’s known for its authentic cuisine and friendly service. This cozy spot has limited seating, so be sure to book ahead. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Many locals boast Passero as their favorite spot for Arlington Heights IL food. Located on Northwest Highway, Passero is a must-try for Italian food.
Food Trucks
Arlington Heights also hosts various food trucks throughout the year, offering a diverse range of cuisines. Check local listings and social media to find out where and when these culinary gems will be parked. Food trucks are perfect for grabbing a quick and delicious bite on the go.
Conclusion
Arlington Heights, Illinois, offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene that rivals many larger cities. From classic pizza and comforting burgers to authentic international cuisine and upscale fine dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. This culinary landscape extends from pizza to authentic international cuisine and the best burger in town.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, I encourage you to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and discover your own favorite Arlington Heights IL food experiences. Venture beyond the familiar and uncover the hidden gems that make this suburban community a true culinary destination.
Arlington Heights offers a dining experience for every palate and budget. Come and explore the flavors! From family run restaurants to well known spots, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
