Chicago’s culinary stars get their close-up in The Bear. See every restaurant location from Seasons 1–4 on an interactive map.
If you’ve ever watched The Bear and found yourself wondering, “Wait, is that a real place?” — the answer is usually yes. The Chicago restaurant scene isn’t just a backdrop for the show — it’s a character all its own.
From Italian beef take-outs and iconic diners, to Michelin-starred temples of fine dining, FX’s award-winning series keeps one foot firmly planted in the real-life food world. And as Carmy, Sydney, and Richie hustle their way through kitchens and chaos, local restaurants keep popping up — either on-screen or in passing mentions — giving Chicago foodies plenty to chew on.
Here’s a season-by-season shoutout to the real-life Chicago eateries that have been seen, named, or filmed in The Bear:
Season 1: Setting the Table
The first season grounded viewers in the gritty rhythm of Chicago’s kitchens — and gave a few beloved joints a nod:
- Mr. Beef – The OG inspiration for The Original Beef of Chicagoland.
- Superdawg Drive-In – A classic throwback with carhop service and signature hot dogs.
- Roeser’s Bakery – Humboldt Park’s oldest family-owned bakery.
- The Green Door Tavern – A Prohibition-era favorite and Chicago’s oldest surviving tavern.
- Ceres Cafe – Tucked inside the Board of Trade; known for stiff drinks and fast lunches.
- Pequod’s Pizza – That caramelized crust! It makes an appearance — and an impression.
(red pins on map)
Season 2: Leveling Up
As The Bear evolves, so does its appetite — and viewers get a whirlwind tour of Chicago’s culinary stars:
- Kasama – The first Michelin-starred Filipino restaurant in the world.
- Lao Peng You – Handmade Chinese noodles and dumplings, West Town favorite.
- Ever – Two Michelin stars and all the precision you’d expect.
- After – Chef Curtis Duffy’s chic cocktail lounge.
- Pequod’s (again) – Because one appearance just isn’t enough pizza.
- Pizza Lobo – Logan Square pizza with a punk rock vibe.
- Avec – Small plates, big reputation. A Sydney stop during her R&D tour.
- Publican Quality Meats – A butcher, bakery, and café rolled into one.
- Margie’s Candies – Ice cream and sundaes since 1921.
- Giant – Bold flavors in a cozy Logan Square space.
- Elske – Nordic-inspired cuisine, understated and elegant.
- Loaf Lounge – A pastry chef haven, and yes, the chocolate cake really is that good.
- Kindling Downtown Cookout & Cocktails – Casual but chef-driven, located in Willis Tower.
(yellow pins on map)
Season 3: Deep Cuts & High Praise
With the restaurant now up and running, Season 3 deepens the culinary references — from greasy spoons to culinary temples:
- Mr. Beef – Still part of the story.
- Ever – Returns for another shot of fine-dining tension.
- Doma – Cozy and ingredient-forward River North standout.
- Schneider Deli – A hidden gem for classic deli fare.
- Lou Mitchell’s – Breakfast legend since 1923, and a true Route 66 icon.
- Birrieria Zaragoza – Family-run, slow-cooked birria at its best.
- D’Amato’s Bakery and Subs – West Town bakery with a wood-fired oven that dates back to 1912.
- Chiu Quon Bakery – Chinatown’s oldest bakery, famous for sweet and savory buns.
- Jim’s Original – Polish sausage perfection near UIC.
- Alinea – The crown jewel. Three Michelin stars and unforgettable theatrics.
- Elske – Back again, because Carmy and Sydney have good taste.
- Kasama – Also back, cementing its place in The Bear canon.
- Longman & Eagle – Logan Square mainstay with a Michelin star and a whiskey list to match.
(green pins on map)
Season 4: Neighborhood Love & New Additions
This season, the show zooms in on community and history — and the locations reflect that:
- Alpana – A Gold Coast wine bar from sommelier and TV host Alpana Singh.
- J&M Tap – A beloved Ukrainian Village dive bar.
- Lou Mitchell’s – Makes another appearance — and earns it.
- Mr. Beef – Of course.
- Lou Malnati’s – A Chicago deep dish institution.
- Milli by Metric – Sleek and modern, with pastry-forward finesse.
(purple pins on map)
A Love Letter, Not Just a Shoutout
The Bear doesn’t just name-drop these places — it honors them. Whether it’s Richie finding new purpose at Ever, or Sydney’s awe in tasting dishes at Kasama and Avec, these moments reflect the real passion that powers Chicago’s kitchens. They also mirror the relationships, struggles, and ambition that make food such a deeply human thing.
So next time you’re hungry for more than just great TV, consider a tour of The Bear’s unofficial Chicago food map.
Here’s a look at the local culinary icons that The Bear has either featured on screen or name-dropped with affection, color-coded by season:
Season 1: Red — Season 2: Yellow — Season 3: Green — Season 4: Purple
ALSO READ:
Yes Chef! FX renews The Bear for Season 5
