Chicago, a city celebrated for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, also holds a well-deserved reputation as a premier culinary destination in the United States. Food is deeply interwoven with the city’s history, reflecting the waves of immigration that have shaped its identity. Starting in the mid-1800s, immigrants arrived, bringing not only aspirations but also their diverse culinary traditions. Today, this rich tapestry of influences has transformed Chicago’s dining scene into an exciting exploration of global flavors and iconic local dishes.
When visiting Chicago, the question isn’t if you should indulge in the food, but what you should prioritize. The answer? A little bit of everything. To truly experience the heart of Chicago, you must taste the iconic bites and must-eat dishes that define the best food in Chicago. Prepare your appetite for a memorable culinary adventure through the Windy City.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The world-renowned “Chicago dog” is more than just a hot dog; it’s a savory masterpiece, a culinary icon whose fame is matched only by its incredible taste. To create this Chicago staple, start with an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a poppy seed bun. Then comes the crucial layering of toppings: yellow mustard, freshly chopped white onions, vibrant sweet pickle relish, a crisp dill pickle spear, juicy tomato slices or wedges, and fiery sport peppers. Finally, a sprinkle of celery salt completes this symphony of flavors. Crucially, remember the cardinal rule: ketchup is absolutely forbidden on a Chicago-style hot dog!
For an authentic taste of this Chicago classic, Portillo’s, with locations in the Loop and South Loop, is a quintessential choice. Venture into Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods to discover more local favorites. The Wieners Circle in Lincoln Park is known for its dogs and late-night ambiance. Jim’s Original, located in Little Italy, offers a taste of history. Redhot Ranch, with spots in Bucktown and Lakeview, provides another popular option. For a truly historic experience, visit Dave’s Red Hot, a family-owned stand that opened in 1938, making it one of Chicago’s oldest guardians of the Chicago hot dog tradition.
Garrett Mix Popcorn
In 1949, Gladys Otto, the visionary founder of Garrett Popcorn Shops, began selling bags of her flavored popcorn for just 5 cents each on the bustling streets of Chicago. Today, Garrett Popcorn remains a beloved Chicago treat, crafted using the same time-honored methods. The popcorn is still made in copper kettles, just as it was three generations ago, ensuring the same rich flavor and quality. Beyond the classic Buttery and Plain options, Garrett’s offers a tempting array of handcrafted recipes, including the zesty Spicy CheeseCorn and four variations of CaramelCrisp, featuring Pecan, Macadamia, Cashew, and Almond.
However, no visit to Chicago is complete without experiencing their world-famous Garrett Mix. This addictive combination of cheddar and caramel popcorn is the brand’s best-seller and a true Chicago original. The sweet and savory blend is irresistible and perfectly encapsulates the city’s penchant for bold flavors. Grab a bag and understand why Garrett Popcorn is a must-have food in Chicago.
Deep Dish Pizza
While the Chicago-style hot dog is iconic, many Chicagoans will passionately argue that deep dish pizza is the ultimate local food. We won’t take sides in this delicious debate, but it’s undeniable that deep dish is a culinary experience unique to Chicago. The precise origins of deep dish pizza remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, but Uno Pizzeria & Grill is widely credited as being the first to serve this now-famous style, delighting customers since 1943 with their unique take on this local specialty.
What distinguishes deep dish? It’s unlike any other pizza. Instead of a flatbread, deep dish features a high-walled, buttery crust that creates a deep “dish” to hold generous amounts of mozzarella cheese, all topped with a robust, tangy tomato sauce. These substantial pies are overflowing with melted, cheesy goodness, offering a hearty and satisfying meal. For more opportunities to savor Chicago’s deep dish, explore Lou Malnati’s, Gino’s East, and Giordano’s, all legendary names in the Chicago deep dish pizza landscape. Trying deep dish pizza is essential for anyone seeking the Must Have Food In Chicago.
Jibarito
Chicago’s vibrant Puerto Rican community gifted the city with the jibarito, a sandwich that has quickly become a local legend. This innovative creation replaces traditional bread with crispy, fried plantains, offering a unique textural and flavor contrast. Inside, you can choose your protein – options range from savory seafood and tender meats to fresh vegetables. The jibarito is then generously adorned with crisp lettuce, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheese, creating a symphony of sweet, savory, and satisfying flavors.
To taste an authentic jibarito in Chicago, head to La Bomba in Logan Square for a truly flavorful experience. Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park is another excellent choice, known for its traditional Puerto Rican fare. Marina’s Bistro in Uptown also offers a delicious rendition. Exploring the jibarito is a must for those seeking to discover the diverse and must have food in Chicago beyond the typical tourist fare.
Eli’s Cheesecake
Eli’s Cheesecake, a quintessential Chicago dessert, made its grand debut at the very first Taste of Chicago festival. This renowned food festival has since grown into one of the largest of its kind in the world, and Eli’s Cheesecake has remained a star. At family-owned Eli’s Cheesecake, crafting cheesecake is elevated to an art form. Interestingly, this now-iconic cheesecake originated at Eli’s The Place for Steak, a popular Chicago steakhouse. While the restaurant is no longer, the cheesecake has not only endured but thrived, becoming a Chicago institution in its own right.
Eli’s Cheesecake offers an impressive array of over 40 unique flavors, but their most beloved remain the original plain, the classic chocolate chip, and the refreshing strawberry topped. Indulge in a slice of Eli’s Cheesecake to experience a true taste of Chicago’s sweet side and understand why it’s considered a must have food in Chicago.
Italian Beef
Meet the Italian beef sandwich, a Chicago original born from the city’s vibrant Italian immigrant community in the early 1900s. While the precise details are debated, a popular story credits Anthony Ferrari, an innovative street peddler, with its creation. To feed large, hungry wedding crowds affordably, Ferrari devised a sandwich using thinly sliced beef, slow-cooked and stewed in its own flavorful juices.
Ferrari’s son, Al, the namesake of the locally famous Al’s Italian Beef, played a pivotal role in popularizing the sandwich. Today, Italian beef ranks among Chicago’s most celebrated and original dishes. Another highly recommended spot is Mr. Beef on Orleans in River North, a small, no-frills eatery with a dive vibe that’s big on flavor, and recently featured in the hit TV show The Bear. To truly experience the must have food in Chicago, sinking your teeth into a juicy Italian beef sandwich is paramount.
Steakhouse Fare
If you’re craving a truly exceptional steak, cooked in a city once considered the heart of America’s beef industry, Chicago’s steakhouses are a must-visit. Indulge in a perfectly cooked T-bone at Gene & Georgetti, a legendary, old-school steakhouse that exudes both elegance and intimacy. Other local favorites include classic institutions like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse and Rosebud Prime, as well as more modern and upscale options such as RPM Steak.
Chicago’s steakhouse tradition reflects the city’s history and its commitment to quality ingredients and culinary excellence. Exploring the city’s steakhouse scene is essential for any food lover seeking the must have food in Chicago, especially for those with a taste for high-quality beef. For further exploration, consider delving into Chicago’s top steakhouses.
The Original Rainbow Cone
“Life’s too short for just one flavor,” and The Original Rainbow Cone in Chicago wholeheartedly embraces this philosophy. This Chicago institution’s signature treat is a visually stunning and delicious cone stacked high with slices of orange sherbet, pistachio ice cream, Palmer House (a unique New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), strawberry ice cream, and rich chocolate ice cream.
This ultra-photogenic and flavorful treat can be enjoyed at Rainbow Cone’s original Beverly location or their convenient outpost at Navy Pier. Trying The Original Rainbow Cone is not just about dessert; it’s about experiencing a piece of Chicago’s whimsical and flavorful food culture, solidifying its place as a must have food in Chicago.
Greek Cuisine
The vibrant Mediterranean spirit thrives in Chicago’s Greektown neighborhood, a testament to the generations of the Hellenic community who have made this area their home. To experience the authentic flavors of Greek cuisine, visit Greek Islands, often hailed as “America’s most popular Greek restaurant.” A highlight of any meal here is the famed flaming saganaki appetizer. Kasseri cheese is dramatically flambéed in brandy right at your table, creating a memorable and delicious start to your Greek culinary journey.
Exploring Greektown and indulging in Greek cuisine is a fantastic way to expand your understanding of the must have food in Chicago, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary influences.
Shaved Ice
Summertime in Chicago calls for a refreshing, cold treat, and fortunately, delicious flavored ice is readily available throughout the city. Mario’s Italian Lemonade, a beloved curbside dessert stand, has been a fixture in Little Italy since 1954. This seasonal, family-run shop opens its doors on bustling Taylor Street during the warmer months, serving up their famous shaved ice.
Mario’s Italian Lemonade embodies the spirit of Chicago summers and offers a perfect way to cool down while experiencing a local favorite. Enjoying shaved ice from Mario’s is a simple yet essential part of the must have food in Chicago experience during the summer.
Barbecue
“Ribs, and keep ’em coming!” That was Frank Sinatra’s enthusiastic order during his many meals at Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern. When it comes to barbecue, you can trust Ol’ Blue Eyes. Among Chicago’s barbecue scene, Twin Anchors stands out as one of the city’s oldest (established in 1932) and most respected, even receiving a Bib Gourmand award from the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Chicago’s barbecue landscape is rich and diverse. Explore other standout barbecue joints throughout the city, including Slab BBQ in South Shore and Lexington Betty Smokehouse in Roseland. Sampling Chicago barbecue, especially ribs, is a must for any food enthusiast looking to discover the must have food in Chicago. To further your barbecue exploration, delve into essential Chicago barbecue restaurants.
Corned Beef
Corned beef holds a special place in Chicago’s culinary history, thanks to the large influx of Irish immigrants in the 1800s. Often among the city’s poorest, they ingeniously transformed brisket, the most affordable cut of meat, by brining and spicing it, serving it alongside cabbage. Corned beef delivers a unique flavor profile – soft, tender texture combined with a spicy, sour, and salty taste that has remained popular for nearly two centuries.
To understand the enduring appeal of corned beef in Chicago, visit Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, a city institution since 1942. Manny’s sandwiches are legendary, piled high with thinly sliced, tender corned beef nestled between slices of soft rye bread – a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience. Trying a corned beef sandwich at Manny’s is essential for experiencing a classic and must have food in Chicago.
Fried Chicken
When it comes to fried chicken in Chicago, there’s fried chicken, and then there’s Harold’s fried chicken. This famed chicken shack, serving Chicagoans since 1950, has become a true Chicago institution, immortalized by local legends like Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, Common, and countless others. With locations throughout the city, Harold’s offers an accessible and iconic taste of Chicago.
When ordering, be sure to ask for your chicken with Harold’s famous mild sauce, a signature condiment that perfectly complements the crispy, flavorful chicken. Experiencing Harold’s fried chicken is a cultural and culinary must have food in Chicago, offering a taste of local history and flavor.
A Classic Cheeseburger
Some might say a burger is simply a burger, but in Chicago, the cheeseburger elevates to a different level of local flavor and culinary artistry. To discover the best Chicago-style cheeseburgers, start with the Billy Goat Tavern, home of the beloved “Cheezborger,” a simple yet iconic burger experience. Kuma’s Corner offers a more gourmet and adventurous burger experience with creatively named options like the Black Sabbath or the Goatsnake burger.
For the ultimate burger experience, make time for Au Cheval, recognized by the Food Network as serving the top burger in America. Be prepared for a wait, but discover for yourself why these burgers are considered worth it. Exploring Chicago’s cheeseburger scene, from classic to gourmet, is a must for burger aficionados seeking the must have food in Chicago.
Authentic Tacos
Tacos in Chicago take on a uniquely local flavor at Las Carnitas Uruapan. Since 1975, Chicagoans have been lining up for their incredibly flavorful, slow-cooked pork street tacos. For taco enthusiasts seeking further flavorful options, Taqueria El Milagro is a must-try for its made-from-scratch tortillas. 5 Rabanitos offers a vibrant and colorful taco experience.
You truly can’t go wrong exploring the numerous family-owned taquerias in Pilsen or Little Village, Chicago’s vibrant hubs for Mexican American culture and cuisine. Immersing yourself in Chicago’s taco scene is essential for experiencing the must have food in Chicago, and discovering the city’s rich Mexican culinary heritage.
Chicken Vesuvio
Deep dish pizza, Italian beef, chicken Vesuvio… the list of Italian contributions to Chicago’s culinary landscape is long and legendary. For what the Chicago Tribune calls “the best Chicken Vesuvio in the city,” order this classic dish at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. Here, half of a bone-in chicken is expertly roasted with quartered potatoes, sweet peas, garlic, and white wine, creating a flavorful and comforting dish.
While excellent Italian food can be found throughout Chicago, start your search by exploring Chicago’s Italian Village or the Little Italy neighborhood to discover your own favorite interpretations of Chicken Vesuvio and other Italian classics. Trying Chicken Vesuvio is key to understanding the must have food in Chicago, and appreciating the city’s Italian culinary legacy.
Polish Sausage
Filling, flavorful, and affordable, 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.”
To truly understand the hype, you simply must try it for yourself. Jim’s Original Polish Sausage is a testament to Chicago’s street food culture and is undoubtedly a must have food in Chicago for anyone seeking an authentic and budget-friendly culinary experience.
German Fare
Beer and brats are Chicago staples, and The Berghoff serves some of the very best. This family-owned restaurant has been a Chicago institution since 1898, harking back to 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.
Dining at The Berghoff is more than just a meal; it’s a step back in time and a taste of Chicago’s rich history. Experiencing German fare at The Berghoff is a unique and must have food in Chicago, especially for those interested in the city’s culinary heritage.
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. It is 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 a truly special experience, visit during the holiday season and enjoy this famous pot pie under Macy’s Great Tree, the store’s magnificent 45-foot-tall centerpiece. Enjoying Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie at The Walnut Room is a unique and must have food in Chicago, especially during the festive holiday season.
The Original Brownie
The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair introduced the world to a plethora of new foods and drinks, but among them, the brownie stands out as perhaps the most noteworthy culinary invention (with apologies to Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, and Cream of Wheat, also debuted at the fair). Why not savor a brownie at its birthplace? The famed Palmer House hotel created the brownie at the direction of socialite Bertha Palmer for the World’s Fair.
Remarkably, the hotel kitchen still uses the same century-old recipe today. Indulging in an Original Brownie at the Palmer House is a delicious way to experience a piece of culinary history and is undoubtedly a must have food in Chicago for dessert lovers.
Swedish Cinnamon Rolls
Forget any preconceived notions about cinnamon rolls the moment you step into Ann Sather. This beloved Swedish diner, opened by its namesake in 1945, exudes a charming, neighborhood-oriented atmosphere. It’s equally famous for its incredibly frosting-laden cinnamon rolls and its phenomenal brunch menu.
Visit any of Ann Sather’s three locations in Lakeview and Edgewater to experience a taste of sweet home Chicago. Trying Ann Sather’s Swedish cinnamon rolls is a delightful and must have food in Chicago, especially for those seeking a comforting and sweet treat.
