Best Places to Eat in Chicago

The Best Places to Eat in Chicago: A Guide to Street Food Heaven

Chicago, a city known for its deep dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches, has evolved into a culinary melting pot, offering a diverse array of cuisines from around the world. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best street food spots in Chicago, showcasing popular eats that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Pizzeria Uno’s Original Pan Pizza

While not technically street food, Pizzeria Uno’s iconic deep dish pizza is a must-try for any visitor to Chicago. Try their original pan pizza, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and chunky tomato sauce.

2. Portillo’s Hot Dogs

A Chicago staple since 1963, Portillo’s serves up the city’s best hot dogs, made with all-beef franks served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, sport peppers, and a pickle spear. Don’t forget to try their famous Italian beef sandwiches!

3. Xoco Mexican Grill

Rick Bayless’ casual Mexican eatery offers an array of fresh and flavorful street food-style dishes. Try their famous tortas (Mexican sandwiches), tacos, or soups, all made with love and care.

4. Mr. Beef’s Italian Beef Sandwiches

This family-owned shop has been serving up tender and juicy Italian beef sandwiches since 1965. Thinly sliced roast beef is piled high on a crusty roll, served with hot peppers and au jus for dipping.

5. Gene & Georgetti’s Steakhouse-Style Italian Beef Sandwiches

Another iconic Chicago eatery, Gene & Georgetti’s has been serving up top-notch steak since 1941. Their Italian beef sandwiches are made with thinly sliced roast beef, served on a crusty roll with hot peppers and au jus.

6. The Berghoff German-Style Sausages

This historic German restaurant has been a Chicago staple since 1898. Try their famous sausages, made from a secret recipe that includes pork, veal, and spices, served on a steamed bun with mustard and relish.

7. Jimmy’s Red Hots

A family-owned shop since 1974, Jimmy’s Red Hots serves up classic Chicago-style hot dogs, topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, sport peppers, and a pickle spear. Try their famous Italian beef sandwiches too!

8. Luella’s Southern-Style BBQ

Located in the trendy Avondale neighborhood, Luella’s offers an array of delicious Southern-style barbecue dishes, including pulled pork, ribs, and chicken.

Summary

Chicago is a city that takes its food very seriously, with a wide range of cuisines available from street vendors to high-end restaurants. From deep dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for classic street eats or are looking to try something new and adventurous, this guide will help you navigate the city’s culinary landscape.