Chicago, a city celebrated for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, also boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene that has solidified its place as one of America’s top food destinations. Food is deeply woven into the fabric of Chicago’s history, reflecting the waves of immigrants who have shaped the city since the mid-1800s. These newcomers brought with them not only dreams of a new life but also their treasured culinary traditions. Today, this incredible fusion of cultures has transformed Chicago’s dining scene into a vibrant tapestry of flavors, offering something to tantalize every palate.
So, what should you eat when you visit Chicago? The answer is simple: a little bit of everything! To truly experience the essence of this culinary capital, don’t miss the chance to savor the iconic bites and must-eat dishes that define the best Food In Chicago. Get ready for a delicious journey through the city’s most beloved culinary creations.
Iconic Chicago Foods You Can’t Miss
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The world-famous Chicago-style hot dog is more than just a meal; it’s a savory experience that lives up to its legendary reputation. This iconic treat starts with an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a poppy seed bun. The magic, however, is in the toppings: yellow mustard, chopped white onions, vibrant sweet pickle relish, a crisp dill pickle spear, juicy tomato slices or wedges, and fiery sport peppers. Finally, a dash of celery salt completes this masterpiece. Remember the cardinal rule: ketchup is strictly forbidden on a Chicago-style dog!
For an authentic taste, head to Portillo’s, a Chicago institution with locations in the Loop and South Loop. Neighborhood favorites include The Wieners Circle in Lincoln Park, known for its late-night sass and char-dogs; Jim’s Original in Little Italy, a no-frills spot serving Polish sausage and hot dogs; and Redhot Ranch, with locations in Bucktown and Lakeview, praised for its minimalist take on the Chicago dog. For a truly historic bite, visit family-owned Dave’s Red Hot, one of the city’s oldest hot dog stands, serving Chicagoans since 1938.
Garrett Mix Popcorn
Since 1949, Garrett Popcorn Shops has been delighting Chicagoans and visitors alike with its gourmet popcorn. Imagine Gladys Otto, the founder, selling bags of flavored popcorn for just 5 cents on the streets of Chicago. Today, Garrett Popcorn Shops continues to craft their popcorn in copper kettles, using the same time-honored recipes from three generations ago. Beyond the classic Buttery and Plain options, Garrett’s offers tempting handcrafted recipes like Spicy CheeseCorn and four variations of CaramelCrisp in Pecan, Macadamia, Cashew, and Almond. However, the must-try is their world-famous Garrett Mix, a truly addictive combination of cheddar and caramel popcorn that perfectly balances savory and sweet.
Deep Dish Pizza
While the Chicago-style hot dog is iconic, many locals argue that deep dish pizza is the quintessential Chicago food. We won’t take sides in this delicious debate! The exact origins of deep dish are shrouded in mystery, but Uno Pizzeria & Grill is widely credited with popularizing it, serving their unique version since 1943.
What sets deep dish apart? It’s not just pizza; it’s a culinary experience. Imagine a buttery, tall-sided crust forming a bowl to hold generous amounts of mozzarella cheese, all topped with a tangy tomato sauce. These substantial pies are loaded with melty, cheesy goodness, offering a hearty and satisfying meal. For more deep dish adventures, check out Lou Malnati’s, known for its buttery crust; Gino’s East, famous for its spinach deep dish; and Giordano’s, renowned for its stuffed pizza, a variation on deep dish.
Jibarito
Chicago’s vibrant Puerto Rican community gifted the city the jibarito, a sandwich that has reached legendary status among locals. This unique creation replaces traditional bread with crispy, fried plantains, creating a slightly sweet and satisfying base. The plantains are then filled with your choice of protein – from flavorful seafood and succulent meats to fresh vegetables – and generously adorned with lettuce, creamy mayo, and melted cheese. For an authentic jibarito experience, visit La Bomba in Logan Square, a lively spot known for its Puerto Rican specialties; Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park, a neighborhood gem serving authentic cuisine; or Marina’s Bistro in Uptown, offering a refined take on Puerto Rican flavors.
Eli’s Cheesecake
Eli’s Cheesecake is a classic Chicago dessert with a sweet history. It made its debut at the very first Taste of Chicago, the renowned food festival that has grown into one of the world’s largest of its kind. At family-owned Eli’s Cheesecake Bakery and Cafe, cheesecake making is truly an art form. Interestingly, this delectable dessert originated at Chicago’s popular Eli’s The Place for Steak, outlasting the very restaurant that birthed it. Eli’s Cheesecake offers an impressive 40 unique flavors, but their most beloved are the original plain, rich chocolate chip, and the ever-popular strawberry topped.
Italian Beef
Meet the Italian beef sandwich, a true Chicago original born from the city’s Italian immigrant community in the early 1900s. While the exact story is debated, a popular tale credits Anthony Ferrari, an innovative street vendor, with creating this affordable and flavorful sandwich. He used thinly sliced beef, slow-cooked in savory juices, to feed large wedding crowds.
Anthony’s son, Al Ferrari, namesake of the famed Al’s Italian Beef, played a crucial role in popularizing this dish. Today, the Italian beef sandwich is a cornerstone of Chicago cuisine. Another must-visit spot is Mr. Beef on Orleans in River North, a small, no-frills eatery featured in the hit TV show The Bear. Don’t let the dive vibe fool you; Mr. Beef is big on flavor and a local favorite for a reason.
Steakhouse Fare
Craving a truly exceptional steak? Chicago, once considered America’s meatpacking capital, knows its beef. Indulge in a perfectly cooked T-bone at Gene & Georgetti, a classic, old-school steakhouse that exudes both elegance and intimacy. Other legendary steakhouses include classics like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse and Rosebud Prime, alongside modern favorites such as RPM Steak.
Explore more: Discover the best cuts in the city at these top Chicago steakhouses.
The Original Rainbow Cone
“Life’s too short for just one flavor,” and The Original Rainbow Cone embodies this perfectly. This Chicago institution’s signature treat is a towering cone stacked high with slices of orange sherbet, pistachio ice cream, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), strawberry ice cream, and rich chocolate ice cream. Capture the ultra-photogenic Rainbow Cone at its original Beverly location or their convenient outpost at Navy Pier.
Greek Cuisine
Experience the vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere in Chicago’s Greektown neighborhood. This area has been home to a thriving Hellenic community for generations. Immerse yourself in the culture and flavors at Greek Islands, often hailed as “America’s most popular Greek restaurant.” Don’t miss their famed flaming saganaki appetizer – Kasseri cheese flambéed tableside with brandy for a truly dramatic and delicious start to your meal.
Shaved Ice
Summertime in Chicago calls for a refreshing, icy treat. Luckily, you can find delicious flavored ice all over the city. Mario’s Italian Lemonade, a charming curbside stand in Little Italy, has been a neighborhood staple since 1954. This seasonal, family-run shop on bustling Taylor Street is the perfect place to cool down during the warmer months with their signature Italian lemonade and shaved ice.
Barbecue
“Ribs, and keep ’em coming!” That’s what Frank Sinatra famously declared during his many visits to Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern. And you can trust Ol’ Blue Eyes when it comes to good taste. Twin Anchors is among Chicago’s oldest barbecue restaurants, dating back to 1932, and consistently ranks among the best, earning a Bib Gourmand award from the prestigious Michelin Guide. Explore the city further and discover other fantastic barbecue joints, including Slab BBQ in South Shore and Lexington Betty Smokehouse in Roseland, both known for their mouthwatering smoked meats.
Explore more: Don’t miss these essential Chicago barbecue restaurants for a true taste of Chicago BBQ.
Corned Beef
Corned beef holds a special place in Chicago’s culinary landscape, thanks to the large influx of Irish immigrants in the 1800s. Often among the city’s poorest, they transformed brisket, the most affordable cut of meat, into a flavorful dish by brining and spicing it, serving it alongside simple cabbage. Corned beef offers a tender texture and a distinctive spicy, sour, and salty flavor that has remained popular for almost two centuries. To experience this Chicago classic, visit Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, a city institution since 1942. Manny’s sandwiches are generously piled high with tender slices of corned beef nestled between slices of soft rye bread – a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Fried Chicken
When it comes to fried chicken in Chicago, there’s fried chicken, and then there’s Harold’s Chicken. This legendary chicken shack has been serving Chicagoans since 1950 and has been immortalized by local legends like Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, Common, and many more. Harold’s has become a true Chicago institution with locations throughout the city. Be sure to order your chicken with Harold’s famous mild sauce for the complete Chicago fried chicken experience.
A Classic Cheeseburger
Some might say a burger is just a burger, but in Chicago, a cheeseburger takes on a distinct local character. For a classic Chicago-style cheeseburger, try the Billy Goat Tavern, home of the beloved “Cheezborger,” a simple yet satisfying burger experience. For a more gourmet take, head to Kuma’s Corner, known for its heavy metal-themed burgers with creative toppings, like the Black Sabbath or the Goatsnake. And if you have time for a wait, don’t miss Au Cheval, named by the Food Network as having the top burger in America. Discover for yourself why these burgers are worth the hype.
Authentic Tacos
Tacos in Chicago have a uniquely local flavor, especially at Las Carnitas Uruapan, where Chicagoans have been lining up since 1975 for incredibly flavorful, slow-cooked pork street tacos. Taco enthusiasts looking for more authentic options should consider Taqueria El Milagro, praised for its fresh, made-from-scratch tortillas, or the vibrant 5 Rabanitos. You can’t go wrong exploring the many family-owned taquerias in Pilsen or Little Village, Chicago’s vibrant hubs of Mexican American culture and cuisine.
Chicken Vesuvio
Deep dish pizza, Italian beef, chicken Vesuvio… the list of Italian contributions to Chicago’s culinary heritage is extensive and legendary. For what the Chicago Tribune calls the “best Chicken Vesuvio in the city,” order it at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. This classic dish features half a bone-in chicken roasted with quartered potatoes, sweet peas, garlic, and white wine. While excellent Italian food can be found throughout Chicago, begin your exploration in Italian Village or the Little Italy neighborhood to uncover your own personal favorites.
Polish Sausage
Filling, flavorful, and budget-friendly, Jim’s Original has been serving its iconic “Original Maxwell Street Polish Sausage Sandwich” since 1943. More than just meat on a bun, Jim’s website aptly describes its famous creation: “There are no words in any language known to man that can adequately describe this world-famous and much-imitated sandwich.” Try it for yourself and understand the enduring appeal of this Chicago staple.
German Fare
Beer and brats are Chicago staples, and The Berghoff serves up some of the best. This family-owned restaurant has been a Chicago institution since 1898 – a time when a beer cost a nickel and came with a complimentary sandwich. Fun fact: The Berghoff obtained the very first liquor license in Chicago after Prohibition was repealed, further cementing its place in city history.
Chicken Pot Pie
The Walnut Room, located on the 7th floor of Chicago’s landmark Macy’s on State Street, holds a unique culinary distinction. As the first-ever restaurant to open within a department store, The Walnut Room is famous for its classic Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie. This flaky, comforting dish has been a menu mainstay since 1890. For a truly special experience, dine here during the holiday season and enjoy the famous pot pie under Macy’s Great Tree, the store’s magnificent 45-foot-tall Christmas centerpiece.
The Original Brownie
The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair introduced the world to a plethora of new foods and drinks. Among the most significant – with apologies to Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, and Cream of Wheat – is the delectable brownie. Indulge in an original brownie at its birthplace, the famed Palmer House, created at the request of socialite Bertha Palmer. The hotel’s kitchen still uses the same century-old recipe today, offering a taste of culinary history.
Swedish Cinnamon Rolls
Forget everything you think you know about cinnamon rolls the moment you step into Ann Sather. This charming Swedish diner, opened by its namesake in 1945, has a cozy, neighborhood feel and is equally famous for its generously frosted cinnamon rolls and its phenomenal brunch menu. Visit any of Ann Sather’s three locations in Lakeview and Edgewater for a taste of sweet home Chicago.
Chicago’s food scene is a vibrant and delicious reflection of its rich history and diverse cultural influences. From iconic deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to international flavors and sweet treats, the city offers a culinary adventure for every visitor. Come hungry and explore the incredible food in Chicago – your taste buds will thank you!
