Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Windsor Terrace | Upscale & Vegan

25 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Windsor Terrace | Upscale & Vegan

• Gnarly Eats — American · rated 5/5: Gnarly Eats pulses with the energy of a modern urban hangout, where the irresistible scent of flame-seared beef and slow-smoked brisket draws a hungry crowd. Towering burgers—from crispy buttermilk fried chicken to earthy portobello stacks—arrive piled high with fresh ingredients, offering a messy, soul-satisfying symphony of textures and bold flavors. It is a vibrant destination that celebrates the art of the sandwich, inviting guests to roll up their sleeves and indulge in a menu where every bite feels like a decadent celebration of comfort food.
• Dog Day Afternoon — American · rated 5/5: Step into a high-energy tribute to Windy City street food, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of spiced Italian beef and the nostalgic sizzle of the flat-top grill. The kitchen celebrates the art of the snap and the crunch, serving up everything from neon-topped Chicago dogs and hearty Polish kielbasa to golden-fried pork schnitzel and crispy oyster mushroom sandwiches. It is a soulful, inclusive destination where every bite—whether a messy chili cheese dog or a full "Tour of Chicago"—delivers a masterclass in bold, unpretentious comfort.
• Lore — American · rated 4.7/5: Lore invites diners into a sophisticated yet soulful space where the rich tapestry of American flavors is reimagined through a lens of seasonal artistry and storytelling. From the warm glow of the dining room to the meticulously plated dishes that celebrate regional bounty, every element conspires to create an intimate experience that feels both timeless and vibrantly current.
• Java Rijsttafel — Indonesian · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into Java Rijsttafel feels like a journey to the heart of Indonesia, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted coconut, lemongrass, and galangal. A vibrant parade of small plates brings the table to life, offering a kaleidoscope of textures and spices that range from the creamy richness of slow-simmered curries to the bright, fiery kick of house-made sambals. This communal feast celebrates the art of Indonesian hospitality, inviting guests to linger over a spread overflowing with color and soul-warming flavor.
• Giovanni’s Brooklyn Eats — Italian · rated 4.5/5: This soulful Brooklyn gem captures the heart of an Italian-American kitchen, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of slow-simmered Sunday gravy and toasted garlic. Diners gather around rustic tables to share generous platters of silken, hand-rolled pasta and golden-crusted classics, all served within a warm, brick-walled space that hums with the convivial energy of a neighborhood celebration.
• Le Paddock — French · rated 4.5/5: Le Paddock captures the spirited charm of a classic French bistro, where the hum of lively conversation mingles with the rich, buttery aromas wafting from the open kitchen. Golden-crusted baguettes and velvety sauces take center stage, elevating time-honored Gallic staples into a soulful celebration of seasonal ingredients and culinary finesse. Whether tucked into a cozy corner for a quiet rendezvous or sharing a bottle of Bordeaux at the bustling bar, every visit offers a transportive journey to the heart of France.
• Am Thai Bistro — Thai · rated 4.4/5: Am Thai Bistro invites diners into a warm, contemporary space where the intoxicating aroma of sizzling woks and fresh galangal sets the stage for a soulful culinary journey. Each plate is a vibrant tapestry of textures and tastes, harmonizing the sharp zing of lime with the deep warmth of house-made curries to capture the spirited essence of Bangkok’s bustling streets.
• Pasta Louise — Italian · rated 4.4/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood gem hums with the joyful energy of a bustling Italian kitchen, where the comforting aroma of simmering sauces and freshly extruded pasta invites guests to linger. Golden strands of house-made noodles are tossed with vibrant, seasonal ingredients and served in a bright, airy space that feels like a perpetual Sunday afternoon gathering with family and friends.
• Gnarly Eats — American · rated 4.4/5: Gnarly Eats pulses with a high-energy, urban spirit where the sizzle of the flat-top grill and the scent of toasted brioche create an atmosphere of pure, unadulterated comfort. Towering, hand-crafted burgers dripping with melted cheese and artisanal toppings take center stage, inviting diners to roll up their sleeves and dive into a decadent, flavor-packed experience that celebrates the boldest traditions of American comfort food.
• Hilltop Tavern — American · rated 4.3/5: Perched where the horizon meets the hills, this inviting retreat wraps guests in the warmth of reclaimed wood and the amber glow of a crackling hearth. The kitchen elevates American comfort with the sizzle of flame-seared steaks and the vibrant crunch of garden-fresh sides, all paired with a curated selection of local spirits and craft ales. It is a place where the clink of glasses and the aroma of slow-simmered savory classics create a soulful atmosphere perfect for lingering long after the sun goes down.
• Della — Italian · rated 4.2/5: Della invites guests into a warm, candlelit sanctuary where the rhythmic sound of clinking glasses and the fragrance of fresh-torn basil set the stage for a soulful Italian feast. Hand-stretched doughs and velvety, house-made pastas celebrate the beauty of seasonal harvests, offering a sensory journey that lingers long after the final sip of espresso.
• Double Windsor — American · rated 4/5: This neighborhood haunt glows with a warm, convivial energy, where the clinking of heavy whiskey glasses and the rhythmic hiss of craft beer taps provide a soulful soundtrack to lively conversation. Hearty, artisanal sandwiches arrive alongside piles of golden, salt-dusted fries or vibrant seasonal greens, offering a masterclass in elevated comfort that invites guests to linger long over a smooth amber pour.
• Little Honey — American · rated 4/5: Little Honey serves as a sun-drenched neighborhood retreat where the comforting scent of fresh-baked goods and griddled egg sandwiches creates an instant sense of belonging. The kitchen transforms daytime staples into artisanal delights, layering vibrant roasted beets or savory meatballs onto crusty bread alongside thick, airy Al Taglio slices that boast a satisfyingly crisp finish. It is a bright, welcoming sanctuary where morning rituals transition seamlessly into leisurely lunches centered around bold flavors and thoughtful, high-quality ingredients.
• Zagaya — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Zagaya unfolds as a sophisticated retreat where the bold, aromatic spices of Ethiopian-inspired bites harmonize with the rustic elegance of artisanal cheese boards and perfectly pressed panini. Guests linger over golden Tej cocktails and curated wine flights in an atmosphere that feels both globally inspired and intimately welcoming, celebrating a unique tapestry of flavors that invites slow, soulful discovery.
• Tacoomar — Mexican · rated 4/5: Tacoomar pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern taqueria, where the sizzle of the grill and the savory aroma of slow-simmered birria create an immediate sense of warmth. Guests tuck into hand-pressed tortillas overflowing with succulent shrimp, tender marinated chicken, or rich, melt-in-your-mouth beef, all perfectly complemented by golden, cheese-crusted quesadillas and hefty, flavor-packed burritos. It is a lively destination where bold, authentic spices meet a casual, sun-drenched spirit, inviting diners to savor every citrus-bright and smoky bite.
• Zoller's — American · rated 4/5: Zoller's captures the soul of a classic neighborhood deli, where the morning air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling Taylor ham and the irresistible pull of melted cheese on toasted rolls. The bustling counter turns out everything from golden, crispy fried chicken sandwiches to herb-flecked Caprese stacks, creating a sanctuary of hearty, hand-held comfort that satisfies every craving from dawn through the afternoon.
• Kiku Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: This serene neighborhood gem invites guests into a world of vibrant freshness, where the crisp crunch of garden-inspired salads meets the soothing warmth of traditional Japanese broths. Delicate ribbons of seaweed and tender hijiki share the stage with jewel-toned slices of tuna and salmon, while the aromatic steam from bowls of savory miso and spicy ramen fills the air with a sense of quiet comfort. It is a space where clean flavors and nourishing textures come together, offering a tranquil escape centered on the art of simple, healthful elegance.
• Kiku Sushi — Japanese · rated 3.8/5: Kiku Sushi serves as a serene sanctuary where the rhythmic precision of the chef’s blade transforms jewel-toned cuts of fish into delicate, edible art. The intimate space hums with a quiet energy, inviting guests to savor the elegant contrast of buttery sashimi against crisp nori and perfectly seasoned rice.
• Baya Bar — American · rated 3/5: Baya Bar serves as a vibrant, sun-drenched sanctuary where the deep, earthy hues of premium açaí meet the indulgent aromas of spiced coffee and toasted cocoa. Guests can dive into artfully layered bowls topped with decadent Dubai chocolate or sip on velvety peppermint mocha smoothies that capture the essence of the seasons in every chilled, refreshing gulp. Whether you are seeking a bright coastal escape or the cozy comfort of hot cocoa oatmeal, this lively spot transforms wholesome ingredients into a colorful celebration of flavor and texture.
• SyKo — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: SyKo invites diners into a vibrant world of Levantine flavors, where the table becomes a colorful canvas of velvety spreads and aromatic, hand-crafted small plates. Silky hummus and smoky baba ghanoush anchor a menu of shared delights, from the satisfying crunch of golden-fried kibbeh to the bright, zesty pop of herb-flecked grape leaves. It is a soulful destination that celebrates the art of the communal feast, offering a refreshing and authentic journey through Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Trees Lounge — American · rated 2/5: Bathed in a warm, amber glow, Trees Lounge serves as a sophisticated retreat where the art of the craft is elevated to a cinematic experience. Guests sink into velvet shadows to savor the audacious spirit of the Money, Baby or find a moment of quiet reflection with the botanical notes of Peace and Respite. Every sip and bite tells a story of ambition and artistry, creating an atmosphere where one can truly dream big amidst the hum of a stylish, late-night sanctuary.
• Am Thai Bistro — Thai: This vibrant neighborhood gem invites guests into a world of bold Thai flavors, where the air is fragrant with lime and the clatter of a busy kitchen sets a lively rhythm. Diners feast on zesty Som Tam salads and fragrant chicken fried rice served in golden pineapple shells, all while sipping neon-hued Blue Hawaiians in an atmosphere that feels like a perpetual tropical getaway.
• Cena — Italian: Cena invites guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched space where the morning air is perfumed with the zest of fresh lime and the savory sizzle of traditional Latin spices. From the spicy crunch of golden chilaquiles to the indulgent, cheesy pull of warm tequeños, each plate celebrates bold flavors that transform a simple meal into a spirited communal feast.
• Lore — Indian: Lore invites diners into a space where global culinary boundaries blur, weaving together the vibrant spices of South Asia with contemporary elegance and artistic flair. The kitchen transforms familiar comforts into sophisticated revelations, from the delicate crunch of golden samosa puffs to the bold, inventive marriage of Angus tartare served atop airy poori. Each plate tells a story of heritage and innovation, offering a soulful journey that lingers through every bite of savory mushroom utthappam and tender, spice-kissed lamb.
• Ottava — Italian: Ottava invites guests into a lively, intimate space where the rhythmic clinking of glasses meets the enticing aroma of golden arancini and bubbling baked burrata. The kitchen masters the art of the small plate, transforming seasonal ingredients into vibrant displays of charred broccoli, tender polpette, and crisp fritto misto that encourage a communal, spirited dining experience.