Chicago is known for its world class restaurant scene, but did you know that the city is also home to some of the most sustainable restaurants in the country? From farm to table concepts to zero waste initiatives, these restaurants are serving up delicious food, and making a positive impact on the environment. Here are 11 of the most sustainable restaurants in Chicago that you need to check out:
1. Uncommon Ground
Known for being the first certified organic rooftop farm and restaurant in the country, Uncommon Ground takes sustainability to new heights. The restaurant sources many of its ingredients from the rooftop farm and works with local farmers to provide organic and sustainable produce. Not to mention, they’ve got a zero waste policy and compost all food waste onsite.
2. Chicago Raw
As the name suggests, this raw food restaurant focuses on using only fresh, raw, and organic ingredients in their dishes. They locally source these ingredients and use sustainable packaging for takeout orders.
3. Juice RX
JuiceRX is a juice bar committed to using only the freshest, locally-sourced organic produce in their juices and smoothies. They also use eco-friendly packaging and offer a rewards program for customers who bring in their own reusable cups.
4. FRÍO Gelato
This gelato shop is dedicated to reducing waste in all aspects of their business, from composting at their production kitchen to phasing out non-recyclable packaging in their stores. They also encourage customers to bring their own containers to reduce waste even further.
5. Dill Pickle Food Co-op
Dill Pickle is a co-op grocery store with a focus on providing organic, locally sourced and sustainable products. They also have a composting service and actively educate customers on sustainable practices.
6. Back of the Yards Coffeehouse
Back of the Yards not only sources sustainable beans and use eco-friendly packaging, but they also give back to the community through their social impact fund which reinvests a portion of every sale back into community organizations and initiatives.
7. Amish & Healthy Foods
This family owned store is committed to providing healthy, sustainable, and organic products. They also prioritize building relationships with customers and actively listen to their feedback to continue improving their sustainable practices.
8. Azul Mariscos
Azul Mariscos is an upscale seafood restaurant sources sustainable and fresh seafood. It also boasts a rooftop garden that provides fresh herbs and produce for their dishes. The restaurant makes an effort to use eco-friendly packaging and products throughout their business.
9. Formento’s
This Italian restaurant focuses on reducing waste by making smart ordering decisions and using sustainable packaging. Thanks to sourcing locally and using organic ingredients when possible, they ensure their guests receive only the best ingredients.
10. Publican Quality Meats
Thanks to their acclaimed chef and butcher, Rob Levitt, PQM has adopted a sustainable method of butchering that uses whole animals, which are sourced sustainably and organically. They also use eco-friendly packaging and work with local farmers to source produce.
11. Takito Kitchen
Takito focuses on using sustainable and organic ingredients, many of which are sourced locally. Like many of the restaurants on this list, they use eco-friendly packaging and offer gluten free options.
If you are a restaurant owner looking to be more sustainable while also increasing profits, reach out to us!
