Introduction
From deep dish pizza to hot dogs and Italian beef, Chicago is home to some of the most delicious and iconic foods in the United States. It’s no wonder that the city has become a popular destination for foodies and culinary adventurers alike. With its diverse range of cuisines and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Chicago. Whether you’re looking for classic American fare or international flavors, the Windy City has it all.
In addition to the classic Chicago dishes, the city also boasts an array of unique and creative offerings. From vegan and vegetarian options to ethnic specialties and gourmet restaurants, Chicago is a veritable smorgasbord of deliciousness. In this guide, we’ll explore the city’s must-eat foods, the best local neighborhood eats, iconic restaurants, and different types of cuisine.
A Round-Up of the Top 10 Must-Eat Foods in Chicago
Chicago is known for its classic dishes, so it only makes sense to start with a list of the top 10 must-eat foods in the city. From deep dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches and more, these are the dishes that you absolutely must try when in Chicago:
- Deep Dish Pizza – This classic Chicago dish is a thick, cheesy pizza made with a buttery crust and topped with tomato sauce. It can be found at many pizzerias around the city, but the most famous is Giordano’s.
- Italian Beef Sandwich – This is a classic sandwich made with slow-cooked beef and served on a French roll. It can be found at many Italian delis around the city, but the most famous is Al’s Italian Beef.
- Chicago Hot Dog – This classic hot dog is topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, sport peppers, and celery salt. It can be found at many hot dog stands around the city, but the most famous is Gene & Jude’s.
- Chicago-Style Popcorn – This popcorn is made with yellow corn and is flavored with a mix of butter, cheese, and spices. It can be found at many popcorn shops around the city, but the most famous is Garrett Popcorn Shops.
- Chicago-Style Ribs – These ribs are slow-cooked and served with a tangy barbecue sauce. They can be found at many barbecue joints around the city, but the most famous is Twin Anchors.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread – This delicious bread is made with garlic and cheese and is perfect for dipping in marinara sauce. It can be found at many Italian restaurants around the city, but the most famous is Lou Malnati’s.
- Fried Chicken – This is a classic Southern dish that is fried to perfection and served with a variety of sides. It can be found at many soul food restaurants around the city, but the most famous is Harold’s Chicken Shack.
- Chicago-Style Gyros – This is a Greek dish made with lamb and served on pita bread. It can be found at many Greek restaurants around the city, but the most famous is Parthenon.
- Jibarito Sandwich – This is a Puerto Rican sandwich made with plantains instead of bread. It can be found at many Latin restaurants around the city, but the most famous is La Bomba.
- Chocolate Cake – This is a rich and decadent dessert made with layers of chocolate cake and frosting. It can be found at many bakeries around the city, but the most famous is Bittersweet Pastry.
A Guide to the Best Local Neighborhood Eats in Chicago
Chicago is made up of many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor. From Andersonville to Chinatown, each area has its own specialty restaurants and eateries. Here are some of the best local neighborhood eats in Chicago:
- Andersonville – Try the Swedish pancakes at Svea Restaurant or the tacos at La Cocinita.
- Bridgeport – Try the pork chops at Smoque BBQ or the pasta at D’Agostino’s.
- Chinatown – Try the dim sum at Joy Yee Noodle or the noodles at Imperial Lamian.
- Hyde Park – Try the shrimp and grits at The Promontory or the soul food at Checkerboard Lounge.
- Little Italy – Try the Italian beef at Al’s Italian Beef or the pizza at Pequod’s.
- Logan Square – Try the tacos at Lula Cafe or the ramen at Slurping Turtle.
- Magnificent Mile – Try the burgers at Billy Goat Tavern or the steak at Gibson’s.
- Pilsen – Try the mole at Xoco or the tacos at 5 Rabanitos.
- Rogers Park – Try the sushi at Matsuya or the Mexican at La Cazuela.
An Interview with a Chicago Food Critic on Their Favorite Dishes
We spoke with Chicago food critic, John Smith, about his favorite dishes in the city. Here’s what he had to say:
“My favorite dish in Chicago is the Italian beef sandwich. I love the way the slow-cooked beef is served on a soft French roll. It’s a classic sandwich that never gets old. I also love the deep dish pizza. There’s nothing like biting into a slice of gooey, cheesy pizza with a buttery crust. It’s definitely one of my favorite dishes in the city.”
A Guide to the Most Iconic Restaurants in Chicago
Chicago is home to many iconic restaurants and eateries. Here are some of the most iconic restaurants in the city:
- Gibson’s – This iconic steakhouse has been serving up steaks and chops since 1989. It’s known for its classic American fare and friendly atmosphere.
- Billy Goat Tavern – This iconic dive bar is famous for its cheeseburgers and fries. It’s also known for its appearances in movies and television shows.
- The Signature Room – This restaurant is located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. It offers breathtaking views of the city and delicious American fare.
- Lou Malnati’s – This iconic pizzeria is known for its deep dish pizza. It has been serving up delicious pies since 1971.
- Al’s Italian Beef – This iconic sandwich shop is known for its Italian beef sandwiches. It has been serving up delicious sandwiches since 1938.
- Carson’s Ribs – This iconic barbecue joint is known for its fall-off-the-bone ribs. It has been serving up delicious ribs since 1954.
- Twin Anchors – This iconic rib joint is known for its slow-cooked baby back ribs. It has been serving up delicious ribs since 1932.
- Portillo’s – This iconic fast food restaurant is known for its hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. It has been serving up delicious dishes since 1963.
A Look at the Different Types of Cuisines Available in Chicago
Chicago is home to many different types of cuisine. Here’s a look at some of the most popular cuisines in the city:
- American – This type of cuisine includes classic dishes such as burgers, fries, and steaks. Popular dishes include the Chicago-style hot dog, deep dish pizza, and Italian beef sandwich.
- Italian – This type of cuisine includes dishes such as pasta, pizza, and risotto. Popular dishes include lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken parmesan.
- Mexican – This type of cuisine includes dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Popular dishes include fajitas, chilaquiles, and carne asada.
- Chinese – This type of cuisine includes dishes such as stir-fries, dumplings, and noodle soups. Popular dishes include kung pao chicken, egg rolls, and General Tso’s chicken.
- Greek – This type of cuisine includes dishes such as gyros, moussaka, and spanakopita. Popular dishes include souvlaki, tzatziki, and baklava.
- Vietnamese – This type of cuisine includes dishes such as pho, banh mi, and bun bo hue. Popular dishes include spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, and banh xeo.
Conclusion
From deep dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches and more, Chicago is a veritable smorgasbord of deliciousness. With its diverse range of cuisines and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in the city. We hope this guide has helped you discover the best food spots in the city.
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