Chicago, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, also boasts an incredibly rich and diverse food scene. Often hailed as one of America’s top culinary destinations, Chicago’s food is deeply intertwined with its history, reflecting the waves of immigration that have shaped the city. From its early days as a major hub for immigrants in the mid-1800s, Chicago has been a melting pot of culinary traditions. Today, this incredible diversity has blossomed into a dynamic dining landscape, offering a tapestry of flavors and experiences that are uniquely Chicagoan.
So, what should you eat when you visit Chicago? The answer is simple: a little bit of everything! To truly experience the heart and soul of this city, you must indulge in its iconic bites and must-eat dishes. These are the foods that not only define Chicago’s culinary identity but also represent the very best of what the city has to offer. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey and explore the essential Chicago Foods that you absolutely can’t miss.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog: A Windy City Classic
The world-famous Chicago-style hot dog is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary icon. Its reputation for deliciousness precedes it, and for good reason. This savory treat starts with an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a poppy seed bun. But it’s the toppings that truly make it a “Chicago dog.” It’s meticulously “dragged through the garden” with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, vibrant sweet pickle relish, a crisp dill pickle spear, juicy tomato wedges, and fiery sport peppers, all finished with a dash of celery salt. Crucially, remember the cardinal rule: ketchup is absolutely forbidden on a Chicago-style hot dog!
For an authentic experience, head to Portillo’s, a Chicago institution with locations throughout the city, including in the Loop and South Loop. Venturing into the neighborhoods will reveal even more gems. The Wieners Circle in Lincoln Park offers a late-night, no-frills experience (and some playful banter). Jim’s Original in Little Italy is renowned for its Maxwell Street Polish Sausage, but their hot dog is also top-notch. And Redhot Ranch, with locations in Bucktown and Lakeview, is a favorite for its simple, perfectly executed Chicago dogs. For a taste of history, Dave’s Red Hot, family-owned and operating since 1938, stands as one of the city’s oldest and most cherished hot dog stands.
Garrett Mix Popcorn: The Sweet and Savory Sensation
Since 1949, Garrett Popcorn Shops has been a Chicago staple, starting with founder Gladys Otto selling bags of flavored popcorn for just 5 cents. Today, Garrett Popcorn Shops continues to craft their popcorn in copper kettles, using recipes passed down through three generations. While they offer classic flavors like Buttery and Plain, their handcrafted recipes extend to Spicy CheeseCorn and a range of CaramelCrisp variations, including Pecan, Macadamia, Cashew, and Almond. However, the must-try is their world-famous Garrett Mix. This addictive combination of cheddar and caramel popcorn creates a sweet and savory symphony that perfectly embodies Chicago’s love for bold flavors.
You can find Garrett Popcorn Shops throughout the city, and the aroma alone is enough to draw you in. It’s the perfect Chicago food to grab as a snack while exploring the city or to take home as a delicious souvenir.
Deep Dish Pizza: Chicago’s Cheesy Masterpiece
While the Chicago-style hot dog is iconic, many argue that deep dish pizza is the quintessential Chicago food. We won’t take sides in this delicious debate, but deep dish pizza is undeniably a must-try when in Chicago. The exact origins are shrouded in mystery, but Uno Pizzeria & Grill is widely credited with popularizing it, serving their version of this local specialty since 1943.
What makes deep dish so special? Unlike traditional thin-crust pizza, deep dish features a high, buttery crust that forms a bowl-like shape. This “dish” is then filled with generous amounts of mozzarella cheese, topped with a chunky, tangy tomato sauce, and often loaded with your choice of toppings. These hefty pies are an explosion of cheesy, saucy goodness. For a deep dive into deep dish, explore legendary spots like Lou Malnati’s, known for its buttery crust and sausage; Gino’s East, famous for its spinach deep dish and graffiti-covered walls; and Giordano’s, renowned for its stuffed pizza, a variation that adds another layer of crust on top.
Jibarito: A Puerto Rican Sandwich with a Chicago Twist
Chicago’s vibrant Puerto Rican community has gifted the city with the jibarito, a sandwich that has become a local legend. This unique creation replaces traditional bread with crispy, fried plantains. Inside, you’ll find your choice of protein – from savory seafood and tender meats to flavorful vegetables – 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 cuisine. Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park is another local favorite, offering traditional flavors in a casual setting. Or, try Marina’s Bistro in Uptown for a refined take on this Chicago food staple.
The jibarito is a testament to Chicago’s culinary innovation, blending Puerto Rican flavors with a unique Chicago sensibility to create a truly unforgettable sandwich.
Eli’s Cheesecake: Chicago’s Sweetheart Dessert
Eli’s Cheesecake is a classic Chicago dessert with a sweet origin story. 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. At Eli’s Cheesecake Bakery and Cafe, a family-owned institution, cheesecake making is elevated to an art form. Interestingly, this scrumptious cheesecake originated at Eli’s The Place for Steak, a popular Chicago restaurant. While the steakhouse is no longer around, the cheesecake has not only endured but thrived, becoming a beloved Chicago food. Eli’s offers an impressive 40 unique flavors, but their most popular remain the original plain, the classic chocolate chip, and the refreshing strawberry topped.
Indulge in a slice of Eli’s Cheesecake for a taste of Chicago history and dessert perfection. Whether you visit their bakery cafe or find it at various locations throughout the city, it’s a sweet treat that captures the essence of Chicago.
Italian Beef: A Dripping, Delicious Sandwich
Meet the Italian beef sandwich, a true Chicago original born from the city’s Italian immigrant community in the early 1900s. While the exact origin is debated, a popular story credits Anthony Ferrari, a resourceful street peddler, with creating this sandwich. To feed large wedding crowds affordably, he used thinly sliced beef, slow-cooked in its own flavorful juices, and served it on bread.
Ferrari’s son, Al, namesake of the famous Al’s Italian Beef, played a key role in popularizing this sandwich, which has become one of Chicago’s most iconic dishes. Another must-visit spot is Mr. Beef on Orleans in River North, famously featured in the hit TV show The Bear. This unassuming eatery with a dive bar vibe is packed with flavor. When ordering an Italian beef, be prepared for a customizable experience. You can specify “sweet” or “hot” peppers, and most importantly, whether you want it “wet” (soaked in gravy), “dry” (less gravy), or “dipped” (the whole sandwich quickly dunked in gravy).
Steakhouse Fare: Chicago’s Prime Cuts
Chicago has long been associated with top-quality beef, once considered America’s meatpacking capital. So, it’s no surprise that steakhouses are a significant part of the Chicago food scene. For a classic, old-school steakhouse experience, Gene & Georgetti is a must-visit. Established in 1941, it’s Chicago’s oldest steakhouse, known for its elegant yet intimate atmosphere and perfectly cooked steaks. Other local favorites include the iconic Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, a Chicago institution known for its lively atmosphere and generous portions, and Rosebud Prime, offering a sophisticated take on the classic steakhouse. For a more modern steakhouse experience, explore RPM Steak, known for its stylish ambiance and contemporary menu.
Chicago’s steakhouses offer a taste of the city’s rich culinary history and its ongoing commitment to quality and fine dining.
The Original Rainbow Cone: A Colorful Ice Cream Stack
“Life’s too short for just one flavor,” and The Original Rainbow Cone in Beverly embodies this perfectly. This Chicago institution’s signature treat is a towering cone stacked with slices of orange sherbet, pistachio ice cream, Palmer House (a unique New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), strawberry ice cream, and chocolate ice cream. This ultra-photogenic and incredibly delicious cone is a true Chicago food experience. Visit Rainbow Cone’s original Beverly location for a nostalgic experience or their Navy Pier outpost for a cone with a view.
The Rainbow Cone is a fun, flavorful, and uniquely Chicago way to enjoy ice cream, perfect for a hot summer day or any time you crave a colorful and delicious treat.
Greek Cuisine: A Taste of the Mediterranean in Greektown
Chicago’s Greektown neighborhood pulsates with Mediterranean vibes, thanks to its vibrant Hellenic community. For generations, this area has been a hub of Greek culture and cuisine. Greek Islands is a cornerstone of Greektown, often billed as “America’s most popular Greek restaurant.” A must-try is their flaming saganaki appetizer – Kasseri cheese flambéed tableside with brandy, a truly dramatic and delicious experience. Beyond Greek Islands, Greektown is filled with restaurants offering authentic Greek dishes, from gyros and souvlaki to moussaka and spanakopita.
Exploring Greektown is a culinary journey to the Mediterranean without leaving Chicago. It’s a neighborhood where you can immerse yourself in Greek flavors and hospitality.
Shaved Ice: Summertime Refreshment
When summer hits Chicago, cooling down with a sweet, icy treat is essential. Mario’s Italian Lemonade, a charming curbside dessert stand in Little Italy, has been a local favorite since 1954. This seasonal, family-run shop on bustling Taylor Street is a go-to for refreshing flavored ice during the warmer months. While called “Italian Lemonade,” it’s closer to a shaved ice or Italian ice, available in a variety of fruit flavors. Mario’s is a simple, no-frills spot, but the quality and refreshing taste of their shaved ice have kept Chicagoans coming back for generations.
Mario’s Italian Lemonade is a perfect example of a simple Chicago food that has become a beloved summer tradition.
Barbecue: Chicago’s Smoked and Sauced Delights
“Ribs, and keep ’em coming!” That’s what Frank Sinatra famously said during his many visits to Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern. And if Sinatra trusted their barbecue, you know it’s good. Twin Anchors, established in 1932, is one of Chicago’s oldest and most respected barbecue restaurants, even earning a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide. But Chicago’s barbecue scene extends far beyond Twin Anchors. Explore other standout spots like Slab BBQ in South Shore, known for its Texas-style barbecue, and Lexington Betty Smokehouse in Roseland, offering a diverse menu of smoked meats and sides.
Chicago’s barbecue scene is diverse, ranging from classic rib joints to modern smokehouses, but all share a commitment to delicious, smoky flavors.
Corned Beef: An Irish-Chicago Staple
Corned beef holds a special place in Chicago’s food history, thanks to the large influx of Irish immigrants in the 1800s. Brisket, the cheapest cut of meat, became a staple, brined and spiced and served with cabbage. Corned beef offers a unique combination of soft, tender texture and a spicy, sour, salty flavor that has remained popular for nearly two centuries. To experience authentic Chicago corned beef, visit Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, a city institution since 1942. Manny’s piles high, tender slices of corned beef on butter-soft rye bread, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sandwich that explains why corned beef remains a Chicago favorite.
Manny’s is more than just a deli; it’s a Chicago experience, serving up classic comfort food and a taste of the city’s history.
Fried Chicken: Harold’s Chicago-Style
There’s fried chicken, and then there’s Harold’s Chicken Shack. This Chicago institution has been serving locals since 1950 and has been immortalized by Chicago legends like Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, and Common. Harold’s has become a true Chicago icon, with locations throughout the city. The key to Harold’s is their perfectly crispy fried chicken and their signature mild sauce. Make sure to order your chicken with Harold’s famous mild sauce for the full Chicago fried chicken experience.
Harold’s is more than just a chicken shack; it’s a cultural touchstone, representing Chicago’s South Side and its unique culinary contributions.
A Classic Cheeseburger: Chicago’s Burger Battles
While a burger might seem universal, Chicago cheeseburgers have a distinct local flavor. For a classic Chicago cheeseburger, Billy Goat Tavern, home of the legendary “Cheezborger,” is a must-visit. Made famous by its “Saturday Night Live” skit, the Billy Goat offers a no-frills, delicious burger experience. For a more gourmet burger, explore Kuma’s Corner, known for its heavy metal theme and creative, towering burgers like the Black Sabbath or the Goatsnake. And for what Food Network has declared the top burger in America, brave the wait at Au Cheval. This diner-style spot serves up a simple yet exceptional cheeseburger that is worth every minute of anticipation.
Chicago’s burger scene is diverse, from classic taverns to upscale diners, but all offer a delicious take on this American staple.
Authentic Tacos: Chicago’s Mexican Food Heritage
Tacos in Chicago take on a uniquely local flavor, especially at Las Carnitas Uruapan. Since 1975, Chicagoans have been lining up for their incredibly flavorful, slow-cooked pork street tacos. For taco aficionados seeking more options, Taqueria El Milagro is known for its fresh, made-from-scratch tortillas, and 5 Rabanitos in Pilsen offers colorful and creative taco options. Explore the family-owned taquerias in Pilsen and Little Village, Chicago’s vibrant hubs of Mexican American culture and cuisine, to discover your own favorite Chicago tacos.
Chicago’s Mexican food scene is rich and authentic, reflecting the city’s large and vibrant Mexican American community.
Chicken Vesuvio: An Italian-Chicago Original
Deep dish pizza, Italian beef, and Chicken Vesuvio – Italian contributions to Chicago cuisine are legendary. For what the Chicago Tribune calls the “best Chicken Vesuvio in the city,” head to Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. Their version 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, start your exploration in Italian Village, one of the oldest Italian neighborhoods in the US, or Little Italy, and discover the best Chicken Vesuvio and other Italian-Chicago dishes for yourself.
Chicken Vesuvio is a testament to the Italian influence on Chicago food, a flavorful and comforting dish that is uniquely Chicagoan.
Polish Sausage: Maxwell Street’s Flavor Bomb
Filling, flavorful, and affordable, Jim’s Original has been serving its “Original Maxwell Street Polish Sausage Sandwich” since 1943. More than just sausage on a bun, Jim’s creation is a Chicago food icon. Their website proclaims, “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 to understand the hype. The Maxwell Street Polish features a flavorful Polish sausage nestled in a bun with grilled onions and mustard.
Jim’s Original is a Chicago institution, serving up a simple yet incredibly satisfying sandwich that embodies the city’s working-class food roots.
German Fare: Beer and Brats Chicago-Style
Beer and brats are Chicago staples, and The Berghoff serves some of the best German fare in the city. This family-owned restaurant has been in business since 1898, a time when beer cost a nickel and came with a free sandwich. The Berghoff also holds the distinction of obtaining the very first liquor license in Chicago after Prohibition ended. Beyond beer and brats, The Berghoff offers a full menu of classic German dishes in a historic setting.
The Berghoff is a Chicago landmark, offering a taste of German culinary traditions and a glimpse into the city’s past.
Chicken Pot Pie: Comfort Food at Macy’s
The Walnut Room, located on the 7th floor of Macy’s on State Street, a Chicago landmark, has a tasty claim to fame: it was the first-ever restaurant to open in a department store. The Walnut Room is famous for its classic Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie, a flaky and flavorful comfort dish that has been on the menu since 1890. For a truly special experience, dine here during the holidays and enjoy the pot pie under Macy’s Great Tree, the store’s magnificent 45-foot-tall Christmas centerpiece.
The Walnut Room is a unique Chicago dining destination, combining history, tradition, and delicious comfort food.
The Original Brownie: A World’s Fair Dessert
The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair introduced the world to many new foods, and arguably the most noteworthy dessert among them is the brownie. Enjoy an original brownie at its birthplace, the famed Palmer House, created at the direction of socialite Bertha Palmer for the World’s Fair. The hotel kitchen still uses the same century-old recipe today. The Palmer House brownie is rich, fudgy, and a true taste of Chicago history.
The Palmer House brownie is more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of Chicago culinary history, a sweet reminder of the city’s innovative spirit.
Swedish Cinnamon Rolls: Ann Sather’s Sweet Treat
Forget everything you think you know about cinnamon rolls until you step into Ann Sather. This Swedish diner, opened by Ann Sather in 1945, has a charming, neighborhood feel and is famous for its frosting-covered cinnamon rolls and its phenomenal brunch menu. Visit any of Ann Sather’s locations in Lakeview and Edgewater for a taste of sweet home Chicago. These cinnamon rolls are soft, gooey, and loaded with frosting – a true indulgence.
Ann Sather’s cinnamon rolls are a Chicago institution, a comforting and delicious treat that perfectly embodies the city’s warm and welcoming spirit.
