Very few cities have as many iconic foods as Chicago, Illinois. If you are planning a visit to the Windy City, there are several foods that you simply must try if you are able to. And while you may have tried versions of them in your hometown, or while traveling to other cities, there is nothing like trying iconic foods in their home cities.
During your trip to Chicago, plan some of the city’s iconic foods into your itinerary. As you visit tourist destinations, be sure to focus on the local foods and favorites as well. Here is a guide to Chicago’s food scene from deep dish pizza to Chicago dogs and more:
Deep Dish Pizza
Probably the most iconic Chicago dish and the one that the city is best known for is its deep dish pizza, which is a thick pizza made from a thick crust, zesty tomato sauce, toppings of choice, and cheese. Served in a deep pan, deep dish pizza is so full of sauce, toppings and cheese, you might just need to use a knife and fork.
There is some debate as to where to go in Chicago for the best deep dish pizza, but many agree that the deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s is delicious. Diners love the sauce and the buttery crust. If you are in Chicago, be sure to stop by Lou Malnati’s to try the deep dish pizza.
Chicago Style Hot Dog
You may be wondering what makes a Chicago dog different from any other regular hot dog, and you may be surprised to find that almost every element of the Chicago dog is specific and makes it unique, from the hot dog to the bun to the toppings.
Chicago style hot dogs start with a water-bathed (not boiled) Vienna beef hot dog, which is then placed on a poppy seed bun. The hot dog is then topped with mustard, relish, chopped white onions, pickled sport peppers, tomato slices, a dill pickle spear, and celery salt. You will never find ketchup on a Chicago style hot dog. When in Chicago, head to Portillo’s to try an authentic Chicago style hot dog.
Italian Beef Sandwich
While the Italian beef Chicago sandwich may not be as well known as deep dish pizza or Chicago dogs, it is just as iconic. Roast beef is seasoned and thinly sliced then placed on a hard Italian roll. You can then top it with your choice of peppers and au jus.
Like the deep dish pizza, there is debate as to where to get the best Italian beef sandwich in Chicago. Many claim Al’s Italian beef is the best spot to try this iconic dish, and at Al’s you can get your sandwich dry, wet, or dipped, with cheese, sweet peppers, or spicy giardiniera.
If all of these iconic Chicago foods have you looking at houses for rent in Chicago so you can enjoy them anytime you want, you are not alone. The Chicago food scene is exciting and delicious.