The Best Restaurants in Wilmette (2026 Guide)
One of the best things about living in the North Shore is the abundance of incredible restaurants to choose from. Today, I'm excited to share with you my top picks for the best restaurants in Wilmette, and if you’re looking for more Wilmette information, be sure to check out this page.
Wilmette is a charming village located on the North Shore of Chicago, also where I happen to call home. It's a popular destination for families, thanks to its top-rated schools and beautiful parks. But beyond its family-friendly appeal, Wilmette also boasts an impressive dining scene, with a variety of restaurants offering a range of cuisines.
Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two, a casual lunch with friends, or a family-friendly spot for dinner, Wilmette has something for everyone. From farm-to-table eateries to classic pizza joints, this village has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
The Best Restaurants in Wilmette
In this blog post, I'll be sharing my personal favorites, based on my own experiences and recommendations from friends and locals. So, without further ado, let's dive into the best restaurants in Wilmette!
1. Convito Cafe & Market:
Photo Credit: Convito Cafe & Market
Convito Cafe & Market is a European-style cafe that serves authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant's menu includes handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and classic Italian dishes such as lasagna and risotto. The restaurant's market section sells fresh produce and artisanal cheeses. It’s located in Plaza del Lago in a great location right by the water.
2. Valley Lodge Tavern:
Photo Credit: Valley Lodge Tavern
Valley Lodge Tavern is a neighborhood bar and restaurant that serves classic American fare. Think of it as your neighborhood pub, but a touch more upscale. The restaurant's menu includes burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, along with a selection of beers and cocktails. The restaurant's atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it a great spot to grab a drink with friends. I love their patio, and they’re really great with kids. We like to go here for a happy hour dinner.
3. Pescadero:
Photo Credit: Pescadero
Pescadero is a seafood restaurant that offers customers a taste of the ocean. Lunch is where Pescadero thrives in my opinion. It’s my favorite patio in Wilmette. The restaurant's menu includes a variety of fresh fish, shrimp, and lobster, all cooked to perfection. Pescadero's interior is reminiscent of a beachside shack, offering a relaxed and casual atmosphere for diners. The restaurant also serves a selection of non-seafood dishes for those who prefer other types of cuisine. Pescadero has a very basic kids menu that’s basically a modified adults menu. It’s not my favorite place to take the kids, but if you do, have them split a dish because they’re huge!
4. Pit & Tap:
Photo Credit: Pit & Tap
Pit & Tap is a barbecue joint that serves up some of the best smoked meats in Wilmette. The atmosphere is stronger than the food here. It’s a great place to pop into the bar or watch a game. Plus, at Christmastime it’s fully decked out in lights (like Butch McGuires if you’re from Chicago). The restaurant features a rustic interior with wooden accents and a cozy fireplace. Pit & Tap's menu includes brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, all cooked to perfection and served with delicious sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers to wash down your meal.
5. Torino Ramen:
Photo Credit: Torino Ramen
Torino Ramen is a must-visit for lovers of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant's sleek and modern interior adds to the dining experience. Torino Ramen's menu features a variety of ramen dishes, each one cooked to perfection and packed with flavor. The restaurant's broth is made in-house and simmered for hours to get the perfect flavor. Apart from ramen, the restaurant also offers other Japanese favorites like crispy gyoza and steamed buns. Torino Ramen also has a selection of Japanese beers and sake to complement your meal.
6. Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House:
Photo Credit: Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House
Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House is a breakfast lover's dream. The restaurant has been around since 1960, and its classic décor takes you back in time. Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House's menu includes a variety of pancakes, waffles, and crepes, all made from scratch using the restaurant's signature batter recipe. The restaurant also offers traditional breakfast dishes like eggs benedict and omelets, along with lunch options like sandwiches and salads. Don't miss out on their famous apple pancake, which is baked to perfection and served with warm syrup on top.
7. Sophia Steak:
Photo Credit: Sophia Steak
Sophia Steak is another excellent steakhouse in Wilmette. The restaurant's sleek and modern interior creates the perfect ambiance for a fine dining experience. Sophia Steak's menu features USDA Prime steaks, dry-aged in-house for 28 days to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster tail and shrimp scampi. To complement your meal, Sophia Steak has an extensive wine list, featuring both domestic and international labels. Don't forget to try their famous truffle fries, which are crispy and flavorful, and a perfect side dish to your steak.
8. Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar:
Photo Credit: Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar offers an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Wilmette. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar's menu features a variety of wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection of antipasti, salads, and pasta dishes, all made from scratch using traditional Italian recipes. To complement your meal, Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar has an extensive wine list, featuring both Italian and domestic labels. Don't forget to save room for dessert, as the tiramisu and cannoli are not to be missed.
9. Hotcakes:
Hotcakes is a traditional diner offering breakfast and brunch that feels right out of a sitcom. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff create the perfect start to your day. Hotcakes' menu features a variety of breakfast dishes, from classic pancakes and waffles to creative omelets and benedicts. The restaurant also offers a selection of lunch items, including sandwiches and salads. Don't forget to try their famous cinnamon roll pancakes, which are fluffy and sweet, and a perfect indulgence. Hotcakes also offers gluten-free and vegan options, making it a great spot for everyone to enjoy.
10. Pizza by Sal:
Photo Credit: Pizza by Sal
Pizza by Sal is a delicious, fast casual carry-out Italian restaurant. New to Wilmette in 2023, Pizza by Sal has thin-crust pizza and pasta dishes to go. Be sure to try the garlic bread! They recently launched their gluten free pizza, and that’s really good, too! Plus, it’s connected to Buck Russell’s, which has amazing sweets.
11. Buck Russell’s:
Photo Credit: Buck Russell’s
Named after the famous “Uncle Buck” movie, this sandwich shop is a must-try in Wilmette. They’re only open for lunch, so be sure to pencil it into your agenda. Aside from the sandwiches, the cupcakes and malts are also to die for. Think about Buck Russell’s like Potbelly on steroids. The Oilmette sandwich is my favorite!
12. Backyard BBQ
Backyard BBQ is the sleeper of the group! It’s off the beaten path and basically in a parking lot. Technically, it’s a BBQ store. Their hours are tricky. It’s basically happy hour and lunch. They also make a batch of food and when it’s out, it’s out. However, it is the best BBQ I’ve had, and most definitely the best BBQ in the North Shore.
13. Eva Dean’s Bakery
Photo Credit: Eva Dean’s Bakery
Eva Deans opened in Wilmette in 2024. It’s located right across the street from the Wilmette Theater. Featuring a full bakery, restaurant and private event space, it is huge. I’ve been for brunch and loved the French omelette. They also have great donuts and cookies!
14. Carlos & Carlos
Photo Credit: Carlos & Carlos
Nestled in the heart of Wilmette, Illinois, Carlos & Carlos was more than just a Mexican restaurant—it was a culinary institution beloved by locals and visitors alike. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and welcoming ambiance, this eatery was a go-to spot for those craving a taste of Mexico in the Midwest.
From sizzling fajitas to mouthwatering enchiladas, Carlos & Carlos delighted diners with its diverse menu crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. But it wasn't just about the food—the restaurant's vibrant decor and friendly service created an atmosphere that kept patrons coming back time and time again.
For years, Carlos & Carlos stood as a pillar of the Wilmette community, serving up delicious dishes and unforgettable experiences to all who walked through its doors. Though its legacy lives on in memories and tales of flavor, the restaurant remains a cherished part of local lore—a testament to the power of good food and good company.
15. Big Tomato Pizzeria
I haven't dined in at Big Tomato Pizzeria. Think of it as your local Italian old-school pizza place right in downtown Wilmette. Their thin crust is delicious pizza. I've tried their gluten free pizza, and I was personally not a fan. However, the most redeeming quality is that it's BYOB, so if you're looking for a casual date night you might love it. When it comes to finding a great place to dine in Wilmette, you're spoiled for choice.
FAQs
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Wilmette offers a wide range of dining options, including Italian, American, Japanese, seafood, barbecue, breakfast spots, and health-focused cafés.
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Yes. Many restaurants in Wilmette are family-friendly, including Walker Bros., Hotcakes, Valley Lodge Tavern, Convito Cafe & Market, and Big Tomato Pizzeria.
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Sophia Steak, Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar, and Convito Cafe & Market are popular choices for date nights and special occasions.
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Yes. Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House and Hotcakes are longtime local favorites, and Eva Dean’s Bakery is a newer brunch option.
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Yes. FUEL and Hotcakes offer health-conscious and gluten-free options, and several restaurants accommodate dietary preferences.
Wilmette offers a diverse dining scene with something for every taste and occasion. From authentic Italian at Convito Cafe & Market to health-focused meals at FUEL, the village delivers both quality and variety. Classic American favorites can be found at Valley Lodge Tavern, while seafood lovers will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at Pescadero. Barbecue fans should seek out Backyard BBQ or Pit & Tap, and Torino Ramen is a go-to spot for comforting Japanese cuisine.
For breakfast, Walker Bros. and Hotcakes remain local staples, while Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar and Sophia Steak are top choices for date night or special occasions. Beloved spots like Carlos & Carlos and Big Tomato Pizzeria round out Wilmette’s welcoming, community-driven restaurant scene. Whether you’re dining out with family, meeting friends, or planning a night out, Wilmette makes it easy to find a great meal close to home.
