Chicago is a city that boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, reflecting its rich history and cultural diversity. From iconic deep-dish pizza to unique hot dogs, the Windy City offers a plethora of food experiences that tantalize the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Here’s a journey through some of the best Chicago foods that make the city a gastronomic haven.
### Deep-Dish Pizza
No conversation about Chicago food is complete without mentioning the legendary deep-dish pizza. This iconic dish, characterized by its thick crust, ample cheese, and chunky tomato sauce, was invented at Pizzeria Uno in 1943. The deep-dish pizza is baked in a pan, giving it a high edge that allows for generous layers of cheese and toppings. Unlike its thin-crust counterpart, the deep-dish pizza is hearty and satisfying, often requiring a knife and fork to eat. Popular spots to savor this indulgent delight include Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and Pequod’s.
### Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Another quintessential Chicago food is the Chicago-style hot dog, a culinary masterpiece that adheres to strict guidelines. The hot dog features an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a poppy seed bun, topped with yellow mustard, bright green relish, chopped onions, tomato wedges, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Notably, ketchup is never included. This vibrant medley of flavors and textures creates a unique hot dog experience that is both delicious and distinctly Chicago. Renowned establishments like Portillo’s, Superdawg, and The Wieners Circle serve some of the best Chicago-style hot dogs in the city.
### Italian Beef Sandwich
The Italian beef sandwich is another beloved Chicago staple. This sandwich consists of thinly sliced roast beef simmered in a flavorful broth, served on a long Italian-style roll. It can be ordered “dry” (with a little gravy), “wet” (dipped in the gravy), or “dipped” (submerged in the gravy). Toppings include sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera, adding a delightful crunch and heat. Al’s Beef, Mr. Beef, and Johnnie’s Beef are some of the go-to spots for this savory delight.
### Garrett Popcorn
For a taste of Chicago’s sweet and savory side, Garrett Popcorn is a must-try. Founded in 1949, Garrett Popcorn is famous for its Garrett Mix, a combination of caramel and cheese popcorn. This unlikely pairing creates a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors that is addictive and irresistible. The popcorn is made in small batches using high-quality ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor in every bite. Garrett Popcorn Shops can be found throughout the city, and the aroma alone is enough to draw you in.
### Jibarito
The Jibarito is a unique Chicago creation that reflects the city’s vibrant Puerto Rican community. This sandwich substitutes bread with fried plantains and is typically filled with seasoned steak, garlic mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. The result is a flavorful and satisfying sandwich with a delightful combination of textures. Borinquen Lounge, the birthplace of the Jibarito, is a great place to try this local favorite.
### Chicken Vesuvio
Chicken Vesuvio is a classic Chicago dish with Italian roots. This hearty entrée features bone-in chicken pieces, potatoes, and peas, all roasted in a white wine and garlic sauce. The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making for a comforting and delicious meal. This dish is a staple at many Italian-American restaurants in Chicago, with Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse being a notable spot to enjoy it.
### Shrimp DeJonghe
Shrimp DeJonghe is a historic Chicago dish dating back to the late 19th century. This casserole-style dish consists of shrimp baked in a garlic, sherry, and breadcrumb mixture. The result is a rich and aromatic dish with a golden, crispy topping. Shrimp DeJonghe is a must-try for seafood lovers and is available at classic Chicago establishments like Gene & Georgetti and Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House.
### Maxwell Street Polish
The Maxwell Street Polish is a hearty sausage sandwich that originated from the Maxwell Street Market, a historic outdoor market in Chicago. This sandwich features a grilled or fried Polish sausage topped with grilled onions, yellow mustard, and sport peppers, served on a bun. The combination of the juicy sausage and the sweet, caramelized onions creates a mouthwatering experience. Jim’s Original and Maxwell Street Depot are iconic spots to enjoy this Chicago classic.
### Rainbow Cone
For dessert, the Original Rainbow Cone is a delightful treat that has been a Chicago tradition since 1926. This colorful ice cream cone features five distinct flavors: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. These flavors are sliced, not scooped, creating a rainbow of ice cream layers in a cone. The Original Rainbow Cone shop, located in the Beverly neighborhood, is the best place to experience this nostalgic dessert.
### Malört
While not a food, Malört is a distinctive Chicago spirit that deserves a mention. This Swedish-style liqueur is known for its intensely bitter flavor, which is an acquired taste for many. Malört is often enjoyed as a rite of passage for newcomers to the city or as a dare among friends. It is typically consumed as a shot, and its bold flavor leaves a lasting impression. Jeppson’s Malört is the original and most famous brand, and it can be found at many bars across Chicago.
### Conclusion
Chicago’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage and rich history. From the deep-dish pizza that put the city on the map to the unique Chicago-style hot dog, the city’s food offerings are as varied as they are delicious. Whether you’re indulging in a savory Italian beef sandwich, enjoying the sweet and salty Garrett Popcorn, or savoring the colorful layers of a Rainbow Cone, Chicago’s best foods offer something for every palate. So, the next time you find yourself in the Windy City, be sure to embark on a culinary adventure and savor these iconic dishes that make Chicago a true food lover’s paradise.