Chicago is once again asserting its dominance on the global culinary stage, with two of its most celebrated establishments, Smyth and Kasama, earning prestigious accolades on the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list for 2025. The announcement, made at a high-profile event in Las Vegas, positions the city as a vital hub for innovative and diverse food experiences.
Smyth: A Culinary Powerhouse in the Midwest
Smyth, the acclaimed West Loop restaurant helmed by chefs John and Karen Urie Shields, secured the impressive fourth position overall in North America. This remarkable achievement also earned it the title of the best restaurant in the Midwest USA for 2025 and the second-best in the entire United States. The ranking specifically cited Smyth’s “inventive dining with a progressive, farm-to-table approach” as a key factor in its high placement. The restaurant is renowned for its meticulous use of locally sourced ingredients, with many coming from “The Farm,” a dedicated partner farm that cultivates exclusive crops for Smyth’s menu, including rare vegetables unique to Chicago.
Holding three Michelin stars, a distinction shared by only a select few U.S. restaurants, Smyth has consistently pushed the boundaries of fine dining since its opening in 2016. Chefs John and Karen Urie Shields, who honed their craft at the legendary Charlie Trotter’s, bring a philosophy of intentionality and precision to every dish, balancing technique with soul and drawing inspiration from nature. Their approach emphasizes the journey from producer to plate, creating a dining experience that is both surprising and deeply considered.
Kasama: Elevating Filipino Cuisine on the Global Stage
Joining Smyth on this esteemed list is Kasama, a vibrant Filipino bakery and restaurant located in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village, which ranked 31st overall in North America. Under the skillful direction of husband-and-wife chefs Tim Flores and Genie Kwon, Kasama has become a celebrated destination for its unique blend of traditional Filipino comfort food by day and an elevated tasting menu experience by night.
Kasama holds the distinction of being the first Filipino-American restaurant to earn a Michelin star in 2022. Its success is a testament to its mission of exploring and celebrating Filipino identity in America through food, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the Tagalog word for “together”. The restaurant has also garnered significant cultural attention, notably with an appearance on the popular FX series “The Bear,” further highlighting its impact on the culinary landscape.
Chicago’s Culinary Resilience and Diversity
The inclusion of both Smyth and Kasama on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list underscores Chicago’s reputation as a dynamic and multifaceted food city. While New York City’s Atomix claimed the top spot on the inaugural list, and cities like Montreal and San Francisco also received significant recognition, Chicago’s representation speaks to the depth and innovation within its culinary scene. The distinct culinary philosophies of Smyth and Kasama, one rooted in progressive farm-to-table fine dining and the other in a modern interpretation of Filipino heritage, showcase the rich tapestry of food offerings available in the city.
A New Benchmark for North American Dining
The launch of the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list aims to highlight the diverse and exceptional talent spread across the continent. The recognition of Smyth and Kasama not only celebrates their individual achievements but also signifies Chicago’s continued prominence in setting gastronomic trends and delivering world-class dining experiences. This news serves as a compelling testament to the city’s enduring contribution to the world of food and a promising indicator of future culinary excellence.
