Jeremy Allen White’s two favorite Chicago restaurants: A taste of the city’s best

Jeremy Allen White, the star of FX’s hit show The Bear, knows a thing or two about great food. After all, he plays Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, a fine-dining chef navigating the chaotic world of a Chicago sandwich shop. So when White recently revealed his two favorite Chicago restaurants, food lovers and fans alike took note.

His top picks? Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf and La Scarola—two beloved spots that showcase the city's rich culinary diversity.

A Classic Steakhouse with a Modern Touch

Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf, located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, is a go-to destination for steak lovers. Known for its warm, dimly lit atmosphere and French-inspired menu, the restaurant offers a refined yet relaxed take on the classic steakhouse. Dishes like the dry-aged bone-in ribeye and buttery mashed potatoes have helped Bavette’s earn a reputation as one of of the best steakhouses in the world. For White, the restaurant’s cozy, old-school charm and top-tier cuisine make it an easy favorite. And he’s not alone—Bavette’s frequently lands on lists of the best dining spots in Chicago.

A Neighborhood Staple for Italian Comfort Food

White’s second pick and one of our personal favorites, La Scarola, is a longtime Chicago favorite for hearty Italian fare. Located on West Grand Avenue, this restaurant, owned by Joey Mondelli and Armando Vasquez,  has been serving up generous portions of pasta and classic Italian dishes since 1998. Celebrities, locals, and food enthusiasts alike flock to La Scarola for its signature dishes, like the legendary sausage and peppers or the rich, garlicky shrimp DeJonghe. Its intimate, no-frills atmosphere and welcoming hospitality make it a standout in Chicago’s Italian dining scene—something that clearly resonated with White.

A Personal Connection to Chicago

While White isn’t a Chicago native, the city has played a major role in his career. Before The Bear, he starred in Shameless, another Chicago-based show that gave him plenty of time to experience the city’s food scene. Now, as The Bear gears up for its fourth season, set to begin filming in Chicago soon, White will have another opportunity to enjoy his favorite spots.

For fans looking to eat like Carmy (or at least like the actor who plays him), Bavette’s and La Scarola offer a perfect glimpse into what makes Chicago’s restaurant scene so special—classic, welcoming, and always full of flavor.

You may also like this article that shares one of La Scarola's top recipes!