By Chef Noah Michaels

It's that time of year again - when thousands of food industry professionals descend upon a selected city for the annual Institute of Food Technologists conference.

As we have the last few years, the Symrise Culinary team has assembled a handy guide for your stay in Chicago during IFT, providing you with a list of some of the best places to eat during your stay so that you can indulge in the finest dining experience possible. Our extensive list also shares some of the best dining rooms in the city as well as a selection of popular breweries, cocktail bars and the odd coffee shop as well.

We've listed out the best places to eat lunch or dinner as well as places you can get an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink or get refreshed with some crafted coffee at a local coffee shop. The various dining rooms on this list have something for everyone and highlight the true talent in the Chicago food industry today. From vegetarians to meat-lovers, beer enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs, the culinary opportunities are endless and you can be sure to enjoy a fine dining experience during your stay in Chicago.

Check out our 2018 Guide on Where to Eat and Drink in Chicago during the annual Institute of Food Technologists conference 2018 below: