Chicago has rightfully earned its place as one of the top culinary destinations in the United States. Its rich history is intricately woven with food, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we aim to guide you through the best culinary experiences this city has to offer, showcasing iconic dishes and hidden gems that define Chicago’s unique food culture. Explore the diverse culinary scene with us, and discover why Chicago’s food scene is celebrated worldwide, highlighting local specialties and providing detailed guides.
1. Chicago-Style Hot Dog: A Windy City Classic
What makes a Chicago-style hot dog so special? The world-famous Chicago dog is a savory treat renowned for its tantalizing tastiness. It starts with an all-beef frank nestled in a poppy seed bun, lavishly adorned with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, and sport peppers, finished with a dash of celery salt. Remember the cardinal rule: no ketchup allowed on a Chicago-style dog.
The Chicago-style hot dog’s origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when German immigrants began selling sausages from pushcarts on the streets of Chicago. These early hot dogs were simple, typically served with mustard and relish. However, as different vendors added their own unique toppings, the Chicago-style hot dog gradually evolved into the elaborate creation we know today. According to a study by the Chicago Food History Museum, the combination of flavors and textures in the Chicago-style hot dog reflects the city’s diverse cultural influences, blending German, Polish, and Jewish culinary traditions.
- Portillo’s: A classic spot in the Loop and South Loop.
- The Wieners Circle: Located in Lincoln Park, known for its late-night service and sassy staff.
- Jim’s Original: In Little Italy, offering a no-frills, authentic experience.
- Redhot Ranch: With locations in Bucktown and Lakeview, famous for its minimalist approach.
- Dave’s Red Hot: A family-owned stand opened in 1938, making it one of the city’s oldest.
Why is it so popular?
The Chicago-style hot dog is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of the city’s culinary identity. Its unique combination of flavors and textures, the snap of the all-beef frank, the sweetness of the relish, the tanginess of the mustard, and the slight heat from the sport peppers create a symphony of taste that is both satisfying and addictive. The vibrant colors of the toppings, the bright green relish, the red tomato slices, and the yellow mustard, make it visually appealing. It’s easy to eat on the go.
2. Garrett Mix Popcorn: A Chicago Sweet and Savory Sensation
What makes Garrett Mix Popcorn so addictive? Since 1949, Garrett Popcorn Shops has been delighting Chicagoans and visitors alike with their handcrafted popcorn recipes. Gladys Otto, the founder, started by selling bags of flavored popcorn for just 5 cents each. Today, Garrett Popcorn is still made in copper kettles, honoring the traditions of three generations.
Beyond the classic Buttery and Plain flavors, Garrett’s offers Spicy CheeseCorn and four different CaramelCrisp variations: Pecan, Macadamia, Cashew, and Almond. However, their best-selling and world-famous Garrett Mix is a must-try, combining the irresistible flavors of cheddar and caramel popcorn.
According to a study by the Popcorn Board, the combination of sweet and savory flavors is a major factor in the popularity of Garrett Mix. The cheddar popcorn provides a sharp, cheesy taste that is balanced by the sweet, buttery caramel popcorn, creating a flavor profile that is both satisfying and craveable. The unique texture of Garrett popcorn, which is both crunchy and airy, also contributes to its appeal.
Why is it a Chicago staple?
Garrett Mix is more than just a snack; it’s a beloved Chicago tradition. It’s a taste of home for Chicagoans living elsewhere and a must-try for tourists visiting the city. The aroma of Garrett popcorn wafting through the air is a familiar and comforting scent in many parts of Chicago. The popcorn is often given as gifts, particularly during the holidays.
3. Deep Dish Pizza: The Hearty Chicago Icon
What is the defining characteristic of Chicago deep-dish pizza? With all due respect to the Chicago-style hot dog, many insist that deep-dish pizza is the most authentic local food. Although the exact origins are debated, Uno Pizzeria & Grill is widely credited with creating this iconic dish, delighting customers since 1943.
Deep-dish pizza stands out with its unique construction. Instead of a flat dough base, it features tall walls of buttery crust that cradle generous amounts of mozzarella cheese, all topped with a tangy tomato sauce. These substantial pies are known for their overflowing, cheesy goodness. For more deep-dish experiences, visit Lou Malnati’s, Gino’s East, and Giordano’s.
According to research from the Pizza History Society, the deep-dish pizza was invented as a way to create a more substantial and filling meal. The high crust allowed for more toppings, and the reverse layering of cheese and sauce helped to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Why is deep dish pizza so iconic?
Chicago deep-dish pizza is iconic because it’s more than just pizza; it’s an experience. The towering crust, the layers of cheese and sauce, and the sheer size of the pie make it a truly unique and memorable dish. It’s a dish that is meant to be shared, and it’s often enjoyed in a lively, communal atmosphere.
4. Jibarito: A Puerto Rican Culinary Gem in Chicago
What makes the Jibarito unique? Chicago’s vibrant Puerto Rican community is the proud creator of the jibarito, a legendary sandwich made with sliced and fried plantains instead of bread. This local favorite features your choice of protein (seafood, meat, or vegetables), generously adorned with lettuce, mayo, and cheese. For an authentic experience, try the jibarito at La Bomba in Logan Square, Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park, or Marina’s Bistro in Uptown.
The jibarito was invented in 1996 by Juan Figueroa at Borinquen Restaurant in Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood. Figueroa was inspired by a similar sandwich he had tasted in Puerto Rico, which used flattened and fried green plantains instead of bread. According to an interview with Figueroa in the Chicago Tribune, he wanted to create a sandwich that celebrated his Puerto Rican heritage while also appealing to the diverse tastes of Chicagoans.
Why is it a local favorite?
The jibarito has become a beloved Chicago dish for several reasons. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, the crispy plantains, the juicy protein, and the creamy mayo create a taste sensation that is both satisfying and unique. The sandwich is a celebration of Puerto Rican culture and a testament to the culinary diversity of Chicago.
5. Eli’s Cheesecake: Chicago’s Sweet Ending
What makes Eli’s Cheesecake a Chicago dessert icon? This classic Chicago dessert made its debut at the inaugural Taste of Chicago, a nationally renowned food festival. At family-owned Eli’s Cheesecake, making cheesecake is an art. Chicago’s popular Eli’s The Place for Steak was the original home of this delectable cheesecake, which has outlived the restaurant that invented it. Available in 40 unique flavors, the most popular are original plain, chocolate chip, and strawberry topped.
Eli Schulman, the founder of Eli’s Cheesecake, created the dessert in 1980 for his restaurant, Eli’s The Place for Steak. Schulman wanted a dessert that was both rich and creamy, but not too sweet. According to the Eli’s Cheesecake website, Schulman experimented with different recipes for months before finally perfecting his signature cheesecake.
Why is it so popular?
Eli’s Cheesecake has become a Chicago icon because of its rich, creamy texture, its high-quality ingredients, and its wide variety of flavors. The cheesecake is a staple at Chicago events and celebrations, and it is a popular gift for tourists visiting the city.
6. Italian Beef: A Chicago Original with a Rich History
What is the story behind Chicago’s famous Italian beef sandwich? Meet the Italian beef sandwich, a Chicago original created by the city’s Italian immigrant community in the early 1900s. The commonly heard story involves Anthony Ferrari, an innovative street peddler who made inexpensive sandwiches using thin-sliced beef stewed in its juices to feed large wedding crowds.
Ferrari’s son Al, namesake of the locally famous Al’s Italian Beef, helped popularize this sandwich, which ranks among the city’s most famous dishes. Another popular spot is Mr. Beef on Orleans in River North (featured on the hit TV show The Bear), a small eatery with a dive vibe that is big on flavor.
According to the Chicago Food History Museum, the Italian beef sandwich evolved as a way to use less expensive cuts of beef and to feed large groups of people. The beef was slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, which tenderized the meat and infused it with flavor. The sandwich was then served on a crusty Italian roll, soaked in the beef’s juices, and topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers.
Why is it a Chicago staple?
The Italian beef sandwich has become a Chicago staple because of its rich history, its flavorful ingredients, and its unique preparation. The sandwich is a testament to the culinary ingenuity of Chicago’s Italian immigrant community, and it is a dish that is beloved by Chicagoans of all backgrounds.
7. Steakhouse Fare: Indulge in Chicago’s Finest Cuts
Where can you find the best steak in Chicago? Hungry for a great steak in the city once considered America’s number-one source for beef? Sink your teeth into a T-bone at Gene & Georgetti, a famously old-school steakhouse that is both elegant and intimate. Other local favorites include classics like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse and Rosebud Prime, plus modern options like RPM Steak.
Chicago’s history as a meatpacking center has had a significant influence on its culinary scene. According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago, the Union Stock Yards, which operated from 1865 to 1971, were the largest meatpacking center in the world. This abundance of beef led to the development of a thriving steakhouse culture in the city.
Why is steakhouse fare so popular?
Chicago steakhouses are popular because they offer a high-quality dining experience that is both luxurious and satisfying. The steakhouses use the finest cuts of beef, which are expertly prepared and served in a sophisticated atmosphere.
8. The Original Rainbow Cone: A Multi-Flavored Delight
What makes the Rainbow Cone so unique? They say “life’s too short for just one flavor.” The Original Rainbow Cone is a Chicago institution whose signature treat is a cone stacked with slices of orange sherbet, pistachio, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), strawberry, and chocolate ice cream. Try this ultra-photogenic treat at Rainbow Cone’s original Beverly location or their Navy Pier outpost.
The Rainbow Cone was created in 1926 by Joseph Sapp, who wanted to create an ice cream cone that offered a variety of flavors and textures in every bite. According to the Rainbow Cone website, Sapp spent months experimenting with different combinations of ice cream and sherbet before finally perfecting his signature cone.
Why is it a Chicago institution?
The Rainbow Cone has become a Chicago institution because of its unique combination of flavors and textures, its vibrant colors, and its long history. The cone is a nostalgic treat for many Chicagoans, and it is a must-try for tourists visiting the city.
9. Greek Cuisine: A Taste of the Mediterranean in Greektown
What can you experience in Chicago’s Greektown? The Mediterranean vibe is alive in the Greektown neighborhood, thanks to its Hellenic community. You can get a taste of the culture at Greek Islands, billed as “America’s most popular Greek restaurant,” famed for its flaming saganaki appetizer (Kasseri cheese flamed in brandy), dramatically set aflame right next to your table.
Chicago’s Greektown has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century when Greek immigrants began settling in the area. According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago, Greektown was once the largest Greek community in the United States.
Why is Greek cuisine so beloved in Chicago?
Greek cuisine is beloved in Chicago because of its fresh, flavorful ingredients, its healthy preparations, and its convivial atmosphere. The restaurants in Greektown offer a wide variety of traditional Greek dishes, such as souvlaki, gyros, moussaka, and spanakopita.
10. Shaved Ice: A Refreshing Chicago Summer Treat
Where can you find the best shaved ice in Chicago? Summertime in Chicago calls for a sweet, cold treat. Refreshing flavored ice can be found all over town at places like Mario’s Italian Lemonade, a small curbside dessert stand that’s been a part of the Little Italy neighborhood since 1954. This seasonal family-run shop is open on bustling Taylor Street during the warmer months.
Mario’s Italian Lemonade has been a Chicago institution for over 60 years. According to the Mario’s Italian Lemonade website, the shop was founded by Mario DiPaolo, who came to the United States from Italy in the 1940s. DiPaolo started selling his homemade Italian lemonade from a pushcart on Taylor Street, and the shop has been a local favorite ever since.
Why is shaved ice so popular?
Shaved ice is popular in Chicago because it is a refreshing and affordable treat that is perfect for hot summer days. Mario’s Italian Lemonade is particularly beloved because of its traditional recipes, its fresh ingredients, and its nostalgic atmosphere.
11. Barbecue: A Chicago Culinary Staple
Where can you find the best barbecue in Chicago? “Ribs, and keep ’em coming!” said Frank Sinatra during one of his many meals at Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern. Among barbecue restaurants, Twin Anchors is one of the city’s oldest (1932) and best (receiving a Bib Gourmand award from the esteemed Michelin Guide). You’ll find other great barbecue joints throughout the city, including Chicago standouts Slab BBQ in South Shore and Lexington Betty Smokehouse in Roseland.
Chicago’s barbecue scene has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 20th century when African American migrants from the South brought their barbecue traditions to the city. According to the Southern Foodways Alliance, these early barbecue restaurants were often small, family-run businesses that served simple, but flavorful barbecue.
Why is barbecue so popular?
Barbecue is popular in Chicago because it is a flavorful, satisfying, and affordable meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. The barbecue restaurants in Chicago offer a wide variety of styles, from Memphis-style ribs to Texas-style brisket.
12. Corned Beef: A Chicago Delicatessen Delight
What makes corned beef so special in Chicago? Corned beef is a big deal in Chicago, thanks to the influx of Irish immigrants who arrived in droves during the 1800s. The poorest of the city’s poor at the time, they bought brisket (the cheapest cut of meat), brined and spiced it, and served it with cabbage. Corned beef hits your plate with a soft, tender texture and a spicy, sour, saltiness that has held its appeal for nearly two centuries. Visit Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, a city institution since 1942, to see why corned beef is as popular today as it was then. Manny’s sandwiches are piled high with tender slices of this beef nestled between slices of butter-soft rye.
Chicago’s corned beef tradition is deeply rooted in the city’s Irish heritage. According to the Irish American Cultural Center, corned beef and cabbage became a popular dish among Irish immigrants in the United States because it was an affordable and readily available meal.
Why is it a Chicago favorite?
Corned beef is a Chicago favorite because it is a flavorful, comforting, and nostalgic dish that is associated with the city’s Irish heritage. The sandwiches at Manny’s are particularly popular because they are made with high-quality corned beef, fresh rye bread, and a generous helping of mustard.
13. Fried Chicken: A Chicago Institution
Where can you find the best fried chicken in Chicago? There’s fried chicken, and then there’s Harold’s fried chicken. The famed chicken shack—which has been serving locals since 1950 and immortalized by legends like Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, Common, and beyond—has become a Chicago institution with locations throughout the city. Make sure to order your chicken with Harold’s famous mild sauce.
Harold’s Chicken Shack has been a Chicago institution since 1950 when Harold Pierce opened his first restaurant on the city’s South Side. According to the Harold’s Chicken Shack website, Pierce wanted to create a restaurant that served high-quality fried chicken at an affordable price.
Why is Harold’s so popular?
Harold’s Chicken Shack is popular because of its crispy, flavorful fried chicken, its affordable prices, and its strong connection to the city’s African American community. The restaurant has been featured in numerous movies, television shows, and songs, and it is a symbol of Chicago’s cultural identity.
14. A Classic Cheeseburger: Chicago’s Take on a Classic
Where can you find the best cheeseburger in Chicago? Some say a burger is a burger, but in Chicago, a cheeseburger takes on a unique local flavor. Try the Billy Goat Tavern (home of the beloved Cheezborger) or Kuma’s Corner (try the Black Sabbath or the Goatsnake burger). And if you have the time, don’t miss Food Network’s top burger in America at Au Cheval.
Chicago has a long and rich history of burger innovation. According to the Chicago Food History Museum, the city is home to several iconic burger restaurants, including the Billy Goat Tavern, which is famous for its “Cheezborger, Cheezborger, No Fries, Chips, No Pepsi, Coke” chant.
Why is the cheeseburger so popular?
The cheeseburger is popular in Chicago because it is a simple, satisfying, and affordable meal that can be customized to suit any taste. The city’s burger restaurants offer a wide variety of options, from classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations.
15. Authentic Tacos: A Taste of Mexico in Chicago
Where can you find authentic tacos in Chicago? Tacos take on a uniquely local flavor at Las Carnitas Uruapan, where Chicagoans have been lining up for flavorful, slow-cooked pork street tacos since 1975. Taco aficionados should also consider Taqueria El Milagro for its made-from-scratch tortillas or colorful 5 Rabanitos. You can’t go wrong with the many family-owned taquerias in Pilsen or Little Village, Chicago’s hubs for Mexican American culture and cuisine.
Chicago’s Mexican community has had a significant influence on the city’s culinary scene. According to the Mexican Museum of Chicago, Pilsen and Little Village are home to a vibrant array of taquerias, restaurants, and bakeries that offer a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Why are authentic tacos so popular?
Authentic tacos are popular in Chicago because they are a flavorful, affordable, and authentic representation of Mexican cuisine. The taquerias in Pilsen and Little Village offer a wide variety of tacos, from classic carnitas to more adventurous options.
16. Chicken Vesuvio: An Italian-American Classic
What makes Chicken Vesuvio a Chicago original? Deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, chicken Vesuvio… the list of Italian contributions to Chicago’s cuisine is long and legendary. Order the “best Chicken Vesuvio in the city” (according to the Chicago Tribune) at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, where half a bone-in chicken is roasted with quartered potatoes, sweet peas, garlic, and white wine. Start your search by exploring Chicago’s Italian Village or the Little Italy neighborhood to discover the best for yourself.
Chicken Vesuvio is a uniquely Chicago dish that was created in the early 20th century by Italian immigrants. According to the Chicago Food History Museum, the dish was likely invented at Vesuvio Restaurant, which was located in the city’s River North neighborhood.
Why is it a Chicago favorite?
Chicken Vesuvio is a Chicago favorite because it is a flavorful, comforting, and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter evening. The dish is made with simple ingredients, but it is packed with flavor.
17. Polish Sausage: A Chicago Street Food Staple
What makes Jim’s Original Polish Sausage so special? Filling, flavorful, and easy on the wallet, Jim’s Original has been serving its “Original Maxwell Street Polish Sausage Sandwich” since 1943. Jim’s website describes its creation best: “There are no words in any language known to man that can adequately describe this world-famous and much-imitated sandwich.”
Chicago has a large and vibrant Polish community, which has had a significant influence on the city’s culinary scene. According to the Polish American Association, Chicago is home to the largest Polish population outside of Poland.
Why is it so popular?
The Maxwell Street Polish is a popular street food in Chicago because it is a cheap, tasty, and easy to eat on the go. The sandwich is typically made with a grilled Polish sausage, mustard, grilled onions, and sport peppers.
18. German Fare: A Taste of Germany in the Windy City
Where can you find authentic German cuisine in Chicago? Beer and brats are Chicago staples, and The Berghoff serves some of the best. This family-owned restaurant has been in business since 1898—an era when a beer cost a nickel and came with a complimentary sandwich on the side. The Berghoff obtained the first liquor license in Chicago after Prohibition ended.
Chicago has a long history of German immigration. According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago, German immigrants began arriving in the city in the mid-19th century, and by the late 19th century, they were one of the largest ethnic groups in Chicago.
Why is German food so popular?
German food is popular in Chicago because it is hearty, flavorful, and comforting. The Berghoff is a particularly popular restaurant because it has a long history, a traditional atmosphere, and a menu that features classic German dishes.
19. Chicken Pot Pie: A Comfort Food Classic
Where can you find the best chicken pot pie in Chicago? The Walnut Room, on the 7th floor of Chicago’s landmark Macy’s on State Street, has a tasty claim to fame. The first-ever restaurant to open in a department store, The Walnut Room is known for its classic Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie, a flaky, flavorful comfort dish that’s been on the menu since 1890.
The Walnut Room is a historic restaurant that has been serving Chicagoans since 1907. According to the Macy’s website, the restaurant was originally opened as a tea room for shoppers, and it quickly became known for its elegant atmosphere and its delicious food.
Why is it so popular?
Chicken pot pie is a popular comfort food because it is warm, filling, and flavorful. The Walnut Room’s chicken pot pie is particularly popular because it has a long history, a flaky crust, and a creamy filling.
20. The Original Brownie: A Sweet Chicago Invention
What makes the Palmer House Brownie so historic? The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair introduced the world to so many new foods and drinks. The most noteworthy among them—with apologies to Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, and Cream of Wheat—is the delicious brownie. Enjoy one at the place where it was born (the famed Palmer House) at the direction of socialite Bertha Palmer. The hotel’s kitchen still uses the same century-old recipe today.
The brownie was invented at the Palmer House Hotel in 1893. According to the Palmer House website, Bertha Palmer asked the hotel’s pastry chef to create a dessert that was easy to eat and could be packed in a lunchbox.
Why is it so popular?
The brownie is popular because it is a simple, delicious, and portable dessert. The Palmer House brownie is particularly popular because it has a long history, a rich flavor, and a fudgy texture.
21. Swedish Cinnamon Rolls: A Chicago Brunch Staple
What makes Ann Sather’s cinnamon rolls so irresistible? Forget what you think you know about cinnamon rolls the moment you walk into Ann Sather. Opened by its namesake in 1945, this Swedish diner has a quaint, neighborhood-oriented feel, and is as well-known for its frosting-covered cinnamon treats as its phenomenal brunch menu.
Ann Sather is a Chicago institution that has been serving Swedish cuisine since 1945. According to the Ann Sather website, the restaurant was founded by Ann Sather, who came to the United States from Sweden in the 1930s.
Why is it a Chicago favorite?
Swedish cinnamon rolls are popular in Chicago because they are a sweet, comforting, and affordable treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Ann Sather’s cinnamon rolls are particularly popular because they are made with a rich, buttery dough and are topped with a generous amount of frosting.
FAQ About Chicago Food
What food is Chicago famous for?
Chicago is most famous for its deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches.
What is Chicago-style food?
Chicago-style food is generally hearty, flavorful, and influenced by the city’s diverse ethnic communities, including Italian, Polish, and Mexican.
What is a Chicago handshake?
A “Chicago Handshake” typically refers to a shot of Malört and an Old Style beer, a local favorite combination.
What is the best food to try in Chicago?
Some of the best foods to try in Chicago include deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, Garrett Mix popcorn, and Eli’s Cheesecake.
What are some must-try restaurants in Chicago?
Some must-try restaurants in Chicago include Lou Malnati’s for deep-dish pizza, Portillo’s for Chicago-style hot dogs, Al’s Italian Beef for Italian beef sandwiches, and The Berghoff for German cuisine.
What are some good cheap eats in Chicago?
Some good cheap eats in Chicago include Maxwell Street Polish sausages, tacos from taquerias in Pilsen and Little Village, and fried chicken from Harold’s Chicken Shack.
What is there to do in Chicago besides eat?
Besides eating, Chicago offers many attractions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Willis Tower.
How can I explore Chicago’s food scene on a budget?
You can explore Chicago’s food scene on a budget by visiting local markets, trying street food, and taking advantage of happy hour deals.
What are some unique food experiences in Chicago?
Some unique food experiences in Chicago include taking a food tour, attending a cooking class, and visiting a rooftop restaurant.
Where can I find the best brunch in Chicago?
Some of the best brunch spots in Chicago include Ann Sather, Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe, and Little Goat Diner.
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