Food is one of the best parts of the holidays, which is why we’re sharing where to eat no matter what you celebrate.
Christmas, Dec. 24–25
Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar in Humboldt Park
The restaurant has a Feast of the Seven Fishes special for $150 a person on Christmas Eve. And, yes, it will almost certainly be more peaceful than the multi-course meal depicted on “The Bear.” You can also pick up pre-made meals featuring prime rib and lobster claws.
DaeBak Korean BBQ in Chinatown and Wicker Park
Korean BBQ is the perfect holiday meal: It’s meant to be eaten family-style, you cook on your table, and the sides are to die for. My mom wants me to tell you to order kimchi pancakes and spicy seafood tofu soup, too. DaeBak Korean BBQ is open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Santa Masa Tamaleria in Dunning
Get your Christmas tamales on the Far Northwest Side. You can get savory ones smothered in poblano peppers and onions or sweet ones featuring strawberries (which one local food journalist said were among the best things he ate in 2024).
The Duck Inn in Bridgeport
Don’t want to make Christmas dinner or pick it up? Get the traditional feast delivered. Wear stretchy pants: The meal features Irish cheddar potato casserole and sticky toffee pudding 🤤
D’Masti To Go in Blue Island
Whether you’re hosting a large party or a small gathering, place your orders for turkey dinners, lasagnas, and more. Plus, there are individual holiday ham dinners available. Get your orders in by Saturday.
Ring in Hanukkah with sufganiyot. (Gado / Getty)
Hanukkah, Dec. 25–Jan. 2
Goddess & the Grocer in Bucktown, Fulton Market, River North, and Gold Coast
Find packages of potato latkes, braised short ribs, noodle kugel, and rugelach. The chain will stop taking orders when it reaches production capacity or by Tuesday at noon — whichever comes first!
Bennison’s Bakery in Evanston
Don’t forget about dessert! Pick up raspberry and apricot sufganiyot, which are pillowy jelly-filled doughnuts. Sugar cookies and macarons are also for sale.
Kwanzaa celebrations are later this month (Jerry Holt / Star Tribune / Getty)
Kwanzaa, Dec. 26–Jan. 1
Chicago baker Alicia Andry recommends bringing this treat to Karamu, the final feast of Kwanzaa.
Plus, eat with others at celebrations in Palos Park and Oak Park.
