Traveling through O'Hare International Airport (ORD) at odd hours? Don't let a late arrival or early departure leave you with limited dining options. Chicago's O'Hare offers surprisingly robust late-night dining choices, catering to both weary travelers and those with connecting flights. This guide highlights eleven of the best late-night restaurants in O'Hare, ensuring you'll find the perfect spot for a satisfying meal, regardless of your schedule.
Finding Your Late-Night Bite at O'Hare: A Guide to 11 Top Spots
Navigating a large airport like O'Hare can be challenging, especially when you're tired and hungry. To help you find the perfect late-night meal, we've categorized these restaurants by terminal and cuisine type. This allows you to quickly locate the ideal restaurant based on your location and preferences. Remember to check the specific hours of operation, as they can vary depending on the day of the week and time of year.
Terminal 1
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1. Bobby Van's Steakhouse: For a luxurious late-night meal, Bobby Van's offers high-quality steaks and classic American cuisine. Their extensive wine list complements the sophisticated ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a celebratory meal or a treat after a long journey. Expect a higher price point, reflecting the quality of the food and service.
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2. Tortas Frontera: Rick Bayless's casual Mexican restaurant offers delicious and authentic tortas (sandwiches), tacos, and other Mexican fare. Perfect for a quick and flavorful late-night meal. Their late-night hours make it a convenient choice for travelers on tight schedules.
Terminal 2
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3. Godiva Chocolatier: While not a full restaurant, Godiva offers a decadent array of chocolates, coffees, and pastries. A perfect late-night pick-me-up or a sweet treat to end your journey.
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4. Wurstküche: This German-style sausage house is a great option for a hearty late-night meal. Their wide variety of sausages, along with traditional sides like sauerkraut and pretzels, satisfies even the most demanding appetites.
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5. Exhale: If you need a lighter option, Exhale offers fresh juices, smoothies, and healthy snacks. Perfect for a refreshing break or a pre-flight pick-me-up.
Terminal 3
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6. Shake Shack: A classic American burger joint, Shake Shack is reliable for a quick and satisfying late-night meal. Their burgers, fries, and shakes are consistently delicious, and their late hours make them a popular choice for travelers.
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7. Pequod's Pizza: Known for their deep-dish pizza, Pequod's offers a Chicago culinary experience late into the night. Be prepared to wait, as their delicious pizza is always in high demand.
Terminal 5
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8. Starbucks: A ubiquitous coffee chain, Starbucks offers a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and light snacks. A reliable choice for a caffeine fix or a quick bite before a flight.
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9. Maggiano's Little Italy: This popular Italian-American restaurant provides a more upscale, yet convenient, late-night dining choice. Their pasta dishes, pizzas, and classic Italian entrees are perfect for a comforting meal.
International Terminal
- 10. Vino Volo: This wine bar offers an extensive selection of wines, along with small plates and appetizers. A perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine before a flight or to celebrate a successful trip.
Outside Security (Accessible before security check)
- 11. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: Enjoy a casual seafood meal at Bubba Gump before heading through security. Known for their shrimp dishes and playful atmosphere, this restaurant is a great choice for a fun late-night bite.
Planning Your Late-Night O'Hare Dining Experience
Remember to check the official O'Hare website or your flight's app for the most up-to-date information on restaurant hours and locations. While this list provides a great starting point, your ideal late-night restaurant in O'Hare depends on your individual tastes and preferences.
Tips for Smooth Late-Night Airport Dining:
- Check restaurant hours: Hours can vary, especially late at night.
- Plan ahead: Knowing where you're going can save you valuable time.
- Consider your location: Choose a restaurant within your terminal to save time.
- Check for wait times: Popular spots can have lines, even late at night.
- Allow ample time: Don't cut it too close to your flight.
Enjoy your late-night dining experience at O'Hare! Bon appétit!
