Chicago, a city celebrated for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, also boasts a rich and diverse culinary landscape, rightfully earning its place as one of America’s top food destinations. This reputation is no accident; food is deeply woven into the fabric of Chicago’s history.
The city’s gastronomic journey began in the mid-1800s with significant waves of immigrants arriving, each group bringing their unique culinary traditions. These diverse influences have shaped Chicago’s dining scene into the incredible tapestry of flavors we experience today.
When visiting Chicago, the question isn’t if you should indulge in the local food, but what you should try first. The answer? A little bit of everything! To truly experience the best food in Chicago, you need to sample these iconic dishes that define the city’s culinary identity. Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure through the must-eat Chicago Food experiences.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The world-famous Chicago-style hot dog isn’t just food; it’s a cultural icon. Its legendary status is matched only by its incredible taste. This savory masterpiece starts with an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a poppy seed bun and then gets loaded with a specific set of toppings in a precise order: yellow mustard, chopped white onions, vibrant sweet pickle relish, a crisp dill pickle spear, juicy tomato wedges, and fiery sport peppers. Finally, a dash of celery salt provides the perfect finishing touch. Crucially, remember this cardinal rule: ketchup is absolutely forbidden on a Chicago-style dog!
For an authentic taste of this Chicago classic, head to Portillo’s, a beloved institution with locations in the Loop and South Loop. To experience neighborhood favorites, venture out to The Wieners Circle in Lincoln Park for a late-night dog with a side of (good-natured) verbal sparring, Jim’s Original in Little Italy for a no-frills, historic experience, or Redhot Ranch, with locations in Bucktown and Lakeview, known for their minimalist, yet perfect rendition. For a true taste of Chicago history, visit family-owned Dave’s Red Hot, which opened its doors in 1938, making it one of the city’s oldest hot dog stands and a testament to the enduring appeal of this Chicago food staple.
Garrett Mix Popcorn
Step back in time to 1949 Chicago, and you might have encountered Gladys Otto, the founder of Garrett Popcorn Shops, selling bags of her flavored popcorn for just 5 cents a bag on the bustling Chicago streets. Today, Garrett Popcorn remains a beloved Chicago treat, still handcrafted in copper kettles, using recipes passed down through three generations. Beyond the classic Buttery and Plain options, Garrett’s offers an array of tempting flavors, including Spicy CheeseCorn and four variations of CaramelCrisp – Pecan, Macadamia, Cashew, and Almond.
However, no visit to Chicago is complete without indulging in their world-famous Garrett Mix. This addictive combination of cheddar and caramel popcorn is the perfect sweet and savory snack, representing a truly iconic Chicago food experience. Grab a bag and experience why Garrett Popcorn has been a Windy City favorite for decades.
Deep Dish Pizza
While the Chicago-style hot dog is a strong contender, many would argue that deep dish pizza reigns supreme as the quintessential Chicago food. We’re not taking sides in this delicious debate! The origins of deep dish are shrouded in local culinary lore, but Uno Pizzeria & Grill is widely credited with pioneering this iconic style, delighting pizza lovers since 1943.
What makes deep dish so unique? It’s not just a pizza; it’s a culinary experience. Imagine a tall, buttery crust forming a deep bowl, filled to the brim with generous layers of mozzarella cheese, all topped with a robust and tangy tomato sauce. These substantial pies are overflowing with cheesy, saucy goodness, offering a uniquely satisfying pizza experience unlike any other. For more deep dish indulgence, explore other Chicago institutions like Lou Malnati’s, known for their buttery crust and lean sausage, Gino’s East, famous for their spinach and sausage deep dish and graffiti-covered walls, and Giordano’s, known for their “stuffed” pizza, an even more decadent variation of deep dish. Trying deep dish is a must for anyone wanting to experience authentic Chicago food.
Jibarito
Chicago’s vibrant Puerto Rican community gifted the city with the jibarito, a sandwich that has reached legendary status among Chicago food enthusiasts. This local creation is a culinary marvel, replacing traditional bread with crispy, fried plantains. These plantain “buns” cradle your choice of protein – be it savory seafood, succulent meat, or flavorful vegetables – generously adorned with crisp lettuce, creamy mayo, and melted cheese.
To taste the real deal, venture into Chicago’s Puerto Rican neighborhoods and grab a jibarito from La Bomba in Logan Square, known for its lively atmosphere, Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park, a local favorite for authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, or Marina’s Bistro in Uptown, offering a more upscale take on this classic sandwich. The jibarito is a testament to Chicago’s diverse culinary scene and a must-try for adventurous eaters exploring Chicago food.
Eli’s Cheesecake
Eli’s Cheesecake, a quintessential Chicago food dessert, made its grand debut at the inaugural Taste of Chicago, the city’s renowned food festival that has grown into one of the world’s largest of its kind. At family-owned Eli’s Cheesecake, cheesecake making is elevated to an art form. Interestingly, this now-iconic cheesecake originated at Chicago’s popular Eli’s The Place for Steak, outlasting the very restaurant that birthed it.
This decadent dessert is available in an astonishing 40 unique flavors, but their most beloved are the original plain, the classic chocolate chip, and the ever-popular strawberry topped. Whether you visit their bakery and cafe or find it on the menu at restaurants across the city, indulging in Eli’s Cheesecake is a sweet taste of Chicago food history.
Italian Beef
Meet the Italian beef sandwich, a true Chicago food original born from the city’s Italian immigrant community in the early 1900s. While the exact origin story is debated, a popular tale credits an innovative street peddler named Anthony Ferrari with creating this now-famous sandwich. He sought to feed large, hungry wedding crowds affordably by using thinly sliced beef, stewed in flavorful juices, and served on bread.
Ferrari’s son Al, namesake of the locally famous Al’s Italian Beef, played a key role in popularizing this sandwich, which today ranks among the city’s most iconic and original dishes. Another must-visit spot is Mr. Beef on Orleans in River North, which gained further fame after being featured in the hit TV show The Bear. This unassuming eatery, with its dive bar ambiance, is a flavor powerhouse. Ordering an Italian beef “dipped” (soaked in its own juices) is the quintessential Chicago food experience.
Steakhouse Fare
Craving a steak that’s a cut above the rest, cooked in a city once considered America’s beef capital? Chicago’s steakhouse tradition is deeply rooted and offers an unparalleled dining experience. Sink your teeth into a perfectly cooked T-bone at Gene & Georgetti, a legendary, old-school steakhouse exuding both elegance and intimacy, and considered the oldest steakhouse in Chicago.
Other local favorites include classic institutions like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse and Rosebud Prime, both known for their traditional steakhouse ambiance and high-quality cuts, alongside modern interpretations like RPM Steak, offering a more contemporary and stylish steakhouse experience. Exploring Chicago’s steakhouses is essential for any serious Chicago food lover.
Explore more: Discover Chicago’s best steaks at these top Chicago steakhouses.
The Original Rainbow Cone
“Life’s too short for just one flavor,” and The Original Rainbow Cone, a true Chicago food institution, embodies this philosophy perfectly. Their signature namesake treat is an ultra-photogenic ice cream cone stacked high with slices of orange sherbet, pistachio, Palmer House (a unique New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), strawberry, and chocolate ice cream.
Experience this iconic, multi-flavored delight at Rainbow Cone’s original Beverly location, a neighborhood landmark, or their more accessible outpost at Navy Pier. The Rainbow Cone is a whimsical and delicious Chicago food experience, perfect for a hot summer day.
Greek Cuisine
The vibrant Mediterranean spirit thrives in Chicago’s Greektown neighborhood, a testament to its Hellenic community that has called this area home for generations. Immerse yourself in the culture and flavors at Greek Islands, often hailed as “America’s most popular Greek restaurant.” A must-try is their famed flaming saganaki appetizer – Kasseri cheese dramatically flambéed in brandy right at your table, a truly memorable and delicious Chicago food experience within Greektown.
Shaved Ice
Summertime in Chicago calls for a refreshing, sweet, and cold treat, and luckily, flavored shaved ice is readily available throughout the city. For a truly classic Chicago food experience, visit Mario’s Italian Lemonade, a charming curbside dessert stand that has been a beloved part of the Little Italy neighborhood since 1954. This seasonal, family-run shop, located on bustling Taylor Street, opens its doors during the warmer months, offering a taste of authentic Italian ice and Chicago food nostalgia.
Barbecue
“Ribs, and keep ’em coming!” declared Frank Sinatra, a frequent patron of Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern. And when it comes to Chicago food, you can trust Ol’ Blue Eyes’ judgment. Among Chicago’s many barbecue restaurants, Twin Anchors stands out as one of the city’s oldest (established in 1932) and best, recognized with a Bib Gourmand award from the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Beyond Twin Anchors, Chicago boasts a thriving barbecue scene. Explore other standout joints like Slab BBQ in South Shore, known for its Memphis-style BBQ, and Lexington Betty Smokehouse in Roseland, offering a diverse range of smoked meats and Southern-inspired sides. Chicago barbecue is a flavorful journey into another facet of Chicago food culture.
Explore more: Don’t miss these essential Chicago barbecue restaurants.
Corned Beef
Corned beef holds a special place in Chicago food history, largely thanks to the influx of Irish immigrants who arrived in droves during the 1800s. Often among the city’s poorest, they transformed brisket, the most affordable cut of meat, by brining and spicing it, then serving it simply with cabbage. Corned beef offers a unique flavor profile – a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a spicy, sour, and salty taste that has captivated palates for nearly two centuries.
To understand the enduring appeal of this Chicago food staple, visit Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, a city institution since 1942. Manny’s sandwiches are legendary, piled high with tender slices of corned beef nestled between slices of butter-soft rye bread – a truly unforgettable and classic Chicago food experience.
Fried Chicken
There’s fried chicken, and then there’s Harold’s fried chicken. This famed chicken shack, serving Chicagoans since 1950 and immortalized by Chicago legends like Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, and Common, has become a true Chicago food institution with locations scattered throughout the city.
To complete the authentic Harold’s experience, be sure to order your chicken with their signature mild sauce, a sweet and tangy condiment that perfectly complements the crispy, flavorful chicken. Harold’s is more than just fried chicken; it’s a cultural touchstone of Chicago food.
A Classic Cheeseburger
Some might say “a burger is a burger,” but in Chicago, a cheeseburger transcends the ordinary, taking on a uniquely local character. For a taste of Chicago food at its burger best, try the Billy Goat Tavern, home of the iconic “Cheezborger,” famously linked to a Saturday Night Live skit. Or venture to Kuma’s Corner, known for its heavy metal-themed burgers with bold and creative toppings, like the Black Sabbath or the Goatsnake burger.
If you have time for a potentially longer wait but a truly exceptional burger experience, don’t miss Au Cheval, lauded by the Food Network as serving the top burger in America. Discover for yourself why these Chicago food burger destinations are worth the hype.
Authentic Tacos
Tacos in Chicago take on a uniquely local flavor, particularly at Las Carnitas Uruapan, where Chicagoans have been lining up since 1975 for incredibly flavorful, slow-cooked pork street tacos. For taco aficionados seeking further Chicago food adventures, consider Taqueria El Milagro, celebrated for its made-from-scratch tortillas, or the vibrant 5 Rabanitos, offering a more modern take on Mexican cuisine.
You can’t go wrong exploring the numerous family-owned taquerias in Pilsen or Little Village, Chicago’s vibrant hubs of Mexican American culture and cuisine. These neighborhoods are treasure troves of authentic Chicago food tacos.
Chicken Vesuvio
Deep dish pizza, Italian beef, chicken Vesuvio… the list of Italian contributions to Chicago food is extensive and legendary. To experience what the Chicago Tribune declared the “best Chicken Vesuvio in the city,” head to Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. Here, you’ll savor half a bone-in chicken roasted to perfection with quartered potatoes, sweet peas, garlic, and white wine – a truly comforting and flavorful dish.
While excellent Italian cuisine is found throughout Chicago, start your exploration in Italian Village, a historic cluster of Italian restaurants, or the charming Little Italy neighborhood, and discover your own favorite Italian Chicago food gems.
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.”
Experience this legendary Chicago food for yourself and decide if the hype is justified. Spoiler alert: it likely is.
German Fare
Beer and brats are Chicago staples, and The Berghoff serves up some of the city’s finest. This family-owned restaurant has been a Chicago food landmark since 1898 – a time when a beer cost a nickel and came with a complimentary sandwich. Adding to its historical significance, The Berghoff obtained the very first liquor license in Chicago after Prohibition ended. Step into The Berghoff for a taste of German tradition and Chicago food history.
Chicken Pot Pie
The Walnut Room, located on the 7th floor of Chicago’s iconic Macy’s on State Street, holds a special place in culinary history. As the first-ever restaurant to open within a department store, The Walnut Room is renowned for its classic Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie, a comforting and flavorful dish with a flaky crust, that has graced the menu since 1890.
For an especially magical Chicago food experience, dine at The Walnut Room during the holiday season. Enjoying their famous chicken pot pie under Macy’s Great Tree, the store’s magnificent 45-foot-tall Christmas centerpiece, is a truly unique and festive treat.
The Original Brownie
The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair introduced the world to a wealth of new foods and drinks, and perhaps the most noteworthy among them – with apologies to Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, and Cream of Wheat – is the delectable brownie. Indulge in this iconic Chicago food dessert at its birthplace, the famed Palmer House. Socialite Bertha Palmer commissioned the hotel to create a dessert for ladies attending the Fair, and the Palmer House kitchen still uses the same century-old recipe today, offering a taste of Chicago food history with every bite.
Swedish Cinnamon Rolls
Forget everything you thought you knew about cinnamon rolls until you step into Ann Sather. This charming Swedish diner, opened by its namesake in 1945, exudes a quaint, neighborhood atmosphere. Ann Sather is equally renowned for its frosting-smothered cinnamon rolls and its phenomenal brunch menu, making it a beloved Chicago food destination for locals and visitors alike. Visit any of Ann Sather’s three locations in Lakeview and Edgewater for a taste of sweet home Chicago food comfort.
Chicago’s diverse culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and vibrant culture. From savory to sweet, classic to contemporary, Chicago food offers a delicious adventure for every palate. So come hungry and explore the iconic eats that make Chicago a true food lover’s paradise.
