Chicago, the Windy City, is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and, most importantly, its incredible food scene. From deep-dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago offers a diverse culinary landscape that will tantalize your taste buds. This article explores the iconic dishes that define Chicago’s food identity and delves into the best places to savor these local delicacies. Prepare for a gastronomic journey through the heart of the Midwest!
The Reigning Champion: Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is arguably the most iconic food associated with Chicago. It’s not just pizza; it’s an experience. Forget everything you know about thin-crust; this is a pizza pie with a tall, buttery crust that resembles a cake pan more than a pizza. The dough is pressed high up the sides of a deep pan, creating a vessel for an abundance of cheese, toppings, and a generous layer of chunky tomato sauce spooned on top.
Lou Malnati’s: A Deep-Dish Institution
When discussing deep-dish, Lou Malnati’s is a name that inevitably comes up. This family-owned institution has been serving up their legendary pizzas since 1971. Their flaky, buttery crust and top-secret sausage blend are what make their deep-dish pizzas so memorable. Their “Lou” pizza, featuring spinach, mushrooms, and sliced tomatoes, is a must-try. The freshness of the ingredients and the perfectly balanced flavors are what sets Lou Malnati’s apart. Expect a wait, especially during peak hours, but trust us, it’s worth it.
Giordano’s: Stuffed Pizza Perfection
Giordano’s takes the deep-dish concept to another level with their stuffed pizza. This is essentially deep-dish on steroids. Imagine a layer of dough, followed by a mountain of cheese, your desired toppings, another layer of dough, and then the signature tomato sauce on top. It’s a behemoth of a pizza, requiring a knife and fork. While some argue about the merits of stuffed versus deep-dish, there’s no denying the sheer indulgence of a Giordano’s pizza.
Pequod’s Pizza: The Caramelized Crust Champion
Pequod’s Pizza offers a unique twist on deep-dish with their caramelized crust. The cheese extends all the way to the edge of the pan, creating a crispy, almost burnt, caramelized ring that adds a distinct flavor and texture. The caramelized crust is a game-changer, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Pequod’s is a favorite among locals in Lincoln Park and is often considered a hidden gem in the Chicago pizza scene.
The Chicago-Style Hot Dog: A No-Ketchup Zone
The Chicago-style hot dog is a culinary masterpiece, meticulously crafted with specific ingredients and a strict “no ketchup” policy. It’s a dog piled high with a symphony of flavors and textures. The Chicago-style hot dog is more than just a quick bite; it’s a statement.
The Anatomy of a Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A true Chicago-style hot dog starts with a Vienna Beef hot dog, steamed to perfection. It’s then nestled in a poppy seed bun and topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this hot dog so unique and addictive. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the iconic taste.
Portillo’s: A Hot Dog Empire
Portillo’s is a Chicago institution, serving up hot dogs, Italian beef, and other Chicago classics in a lively and nostalgic atmosphere. Their hot dogs are consistently ranked among the best in the city. Portillo’s is a great place to experience a Chicago-style hot dog for the first time, as they consistently deliver a high-quality and authentic product. The efficient service and the sheer volume of hot dogs they sell are a testament to their popularity.
Superdawg Drive-In: A Vintage Icon
Superdawg Drive-In is a throwback to the classic American drive-in, complete with carhops and retro signage. Their Superdawg, a Vienna Beef hot dog topped with mustard, relish, chopped onions, a pickle, and a pickled green tomato (not the traditional red tomato), is a local favorite. Superdawg offers a unique and nostalgic dining experience that complements their delicious hot dogs. The quirky atmosphere and the commitment to tradition make Superdawg a must-visit for any hot dog enthusiast.
Italian Beef: A Dripping Delight
The Italian beef sandwich is another Chicago staple, featuring thinly sliced roast beef simmered in a flavorful gravy and served on a crusty Italian roll. The key to a great Italian beef sandwich is the quality of the beef and the richness of the gravy. It’s often served “wet” (dipped in the gravy) or “dry” (without dipping), and you can add sweet peppers or hot giardiniera for an extra kick.
Al’s #1 Italian Beef: The Original and Still Going Strong
Al’s #1 Italian Beef claims to be the originator of the Italian beef sandwich, and they’ve been serving up their version since 1938. Their beef is thinly sliced and piled high on a Turano roll, and their gravy is legendary. Al’s is a no-frills establishment that focuses on delivering a consistently delicious and authentic Italian beef sandwich. Ordering “wet” is highly recommended for the full experience.
Johnnie’s Beef: A Northwest Side Favorite
Johnnie’s Beef is a popular spot on the Northwest Side, known for their generous portions and flavorful beef. Their gravy is slightly sweeter than Al’s, and they offer both sweet peppers and hot giardiniera. Johnnie’s is a great option for those who prefer a slightly sweeter and more generously portioned Italian beef sandwich. The long lines are a testament to their popularity among locals.
Mr. Beef on Orleans: The Inspiration for “The Bear”
Mr. Beef on Orleans is a legendary sandwich shop that served as the inspiration for the hit TV show “The Bear.” Their Italian beef is known for its robust flavor and generous portions. Mr. Beef offers a classic Chicago experience with its no-nonsense atmosphere and delicious Italian beef sandwiches. It’s a must-visit for fans of the show and anyone looking for an authentic taste of Chicago.
Beyond the Big Three: Exploring Chicago’s Culinary Diversity
While deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches are the most well-known Chicago foods, the city’s culinary scene extends far beyond these classics. Chicago is a melting pot of cultures, and its diverse neighborhoods offer a wide array of culinary experiences.
Jibarito: A Puerto Rican Staple
The Jibarito is a Puerto Rican sandwich made with flattened, fried green plantains instead of bread. It’s typically filled with steak, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. The Jibarito is a unique and flavorful sandwich that showcases Chicago’s Puerto Rican culinary heritage. It’s a satisfying and delicious alternative to traditional bread-based sandwiches.
Polish Sausage: A Maxwell Street Market Tradition
The Maxwell Street Polish is a grilled or fried Polish sausage served on a bun with grilled onions, mustard, and sport peppers. It’s a simple yet satisfying sandwich that has been a staple of the Maxwell Street Market for decades. The Maxwell Street Polish is a taste of Chicago’s working-class history and a reminder of the city’s diverse immigrant communities. It’s a quick, affordable, and delicious meal that embodies the spirit of Chicago.
Garrett Mix: A Popcorn Powerhouse
Garrett Popcorn Shops is a Chicago institution, famous for its Garrett Mix, a combination of their CaramelCrisp and CheeseCorn popcorn. The Garrett Mix is a sweet and savory delight that has become a Chicago staple. The contrasting flavors and textures make it an addictive snack that’s perfect for sharing (or not!).
A City of Food: Final Thoughts
Chicago’s food scene is a reflection of its diverse culture and rich history. From the iconic deep-dish pizza to the humble Maxwell Street Polish, Chicago offers a culinary experience that is both unique and unforgettable. Exploring Chicago’s food scene is a journey through the city’s history and culture. So, come hungry and prepare to indulge in the delicious flavors of the Windy City!
Finding the Best: A Guide to Exploration
The best way to experience Chicago’s food scene is to explore its diverse neighborhoods. Each neighborhood offers its own unique culinary traditions and hidden gems. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try new things. Talk to locals, read reviews, and most importantly, trust your taste buds. You’re sure to discover your own favorite Chicago foods along the way.
Chicago’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and food trends emerging all the time. The city’s chefs are constantly pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, there’s always something new to discover in Chicago’s vibrant food scene. So, get out there and explore!
What makes Chicago-style pizza so unique?
Chicago-style pizza, often referred to as deep-dish, distinguishes itself through its exceptionally thick crust, which is more akin to a pie than a traditional pizza. This substantial crust forms a deep bowl, allowing for a generous filling of cheese, toppings, and a chunky tomato sauce that’s typically layered on top, as opposed to underneath, to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Another key characteristic is the baking process. Due to its depth, Chicago-style pizza requires a longer cooking time, ensuring the crust is cooked through and the toppings are properly heated. The use of a buttered pan contributes to a crispy, almost fried, crust, further enhancing its unique texture and flavor profile.
Beyond deep-dish, what other pizza styles are popular in Chicago?
While Chicago is synonymous with deep-dish pizza, the city boasts a thriving pizza scene that extends far beyond this iconic style. Tavern-style pizza, with its thin, crispy crust cut into squares, is a local favorite often enjoyed in neighborhood bars and pizzerias. Its cracker-like crust allows for easy sharing and pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
Neapolitan-style pizza, with its soft, chewy crust and simple, high-quality ingredients, has also gained significant popularity in Chicago. Many pizzerias now offer wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary landscape and appreciation for artisanal pizza making.
What is an Italian beef sandwich and why is it a Chicago staple?
The Italian beef sandwich is a quintessential Chicago food, consisting of thinly sliced roast beef simmered in a savory au jus and served on a long, crusty roll. It’s typically topped with giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable relish, or sweet peppers, offering a balance of flavors and textures.
Its prevalence in Chicago stems from the city’s strong Italian-American heritage and its practicality as a hearty, working-class meal. The au jus, often referred to as “gravy,” is essential for soaking the bread, creating a juicy and flavorful experience. Ordering it “wet” or “dipped” means the entire sandwich is submerged in the au jus for maximum flavor.
What is a Chicago-style hot dog and what are its defining ingredients?
A Chicago-style hot dog is a culinary masterpiece, meticulously assembled with specific ingredients to create a unique and iconic flavor profile. It starts with an all-beef hot dog, steamed or water-simmered, placed in a poppy seed bun.
The toppings are what truly define the Chicago-style hot dog: yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Notably, ketchup is strictly prohibited on a Chicago-style hot dog.
Where can I find the best Chicago-style hot dogs in the city?
Finding the “best” Chicago-style hot dog is subjective and often depends on personal preference, but several iconic establishments consistently rank among the top contenders. Gene & Jude’s, known for its minimalist approach and freshly cut fries placed directly on the hot dog, is a beloved institution.
Portillo’s, a Chicago chain, offers a consistent and high-quality Chicago-style hot dog experience, along with other classic Chicago fare. Superdawg, with its drive-in service and distinctive hot dog characters, is another popular choice, offering a nostalgic and delicious experience.
What are some must-try desserts in Chicago besides traditional sweets?
Beyond typical desserts, Chicago offers unique and unforgettable sweet treats. The “bomboloni” at BomboBar, Italian-style filled doughnuts with creative and decadent fillings, are a must-try for doughnut enthusiasts. The oversized cookies at Levain Bakery’s Chicago location are also highly recommended for their gooey centers and crispy edges.
For a lighter option, try a refreshing Italian ice from Mario’s Italian Lemonade, a legendary stand serving homemade Italian ice in a variety of flavors. These offer a perfect palate cleanser after indulging in the city’s savory delights.
Are there any specific Chicago foods that are popular during specific seasons?
Yes, Chicago’s culinary scene adapts to the changing seasons, offering certain foods that are particularly popular during specific times of the year. During the summer months, Italian ice and outdoor grilling are common, with many enjoying barbecued ribs and other grilled meats.
In the colder months, hearty soups, stews, and comfort foods take center stage. Chicken noodle soup, chili, and pot roast are popular choices for warming up on a chilly Chicago day. The Christmas season also brings unique treats like Italian cookies and traditional holiday pies.