2 IL Eateries Make New York Times Best Restaurant List For 2025

ILLINOIS — Two of America’s best restaurants are located in Chicago, according to a new list from The New York Times.

To develop The Restaurant List, 14 New York Times and editors took 76 flights to 33 states, where they ate more than 200 meals, the publication said. The sleuths showed up unannounced and made reservations through a smartphone app.

“We pay for all of our food, and we don’t accept freebies. We eat like you do, with the same hope for a meal to remember, to be welcomed and delighted,” The Times wrote.

More than half of the restaurants have opened since the 2024 list was published, The Times said.

In Illinois, Sanders BBQ Supply and Carino, both located in Chicago, stood out as remarkable, according to the report.

Sanders BBQ Supply, located at 1742 W. 99th St., is known for its barbecue offerings, including ribs, pulled pork, as well as mac 'n' cheese, fried catfish and chicken wings. The casual eatery opened in 2024.

"This award belongs to all of us," the owners said in a social media post regarding being named to the list. "It's a shared victory, and a reminder of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Here’s to everything we've built together — and to everything still ahead."

Carino, located at 4662 N. Broadway in the "Windy City," features a Latin-inspired tasting menu and tacos. A late-night taco omakase is a popular choice. The upscale restaurant received its first Michelin Star in 2024. The restaurant is owned by executive chef Norman Fenton and his business partner, Karen Young.