My recent trip to Chicago was like a dream come true. The city, often hailed as a mecca for food lovers, boasts a culinary scene as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From the world-famous deep-dish pizza to the lesser-known hidden gems, Chicago is a place where food culture is celebrated at every corner. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie like myself, the Windy City offers a range of experiences that will leave your taste buds wanting more. In this blog, I’ll take you on a culinary tour of Chicago, sharing my personal experiences with the city’s must-try dishes, where to find them, and why these food experiences are simply unforgettable.

1. The Iconic Deep-Dish Pizza

Chicago’s food scene is dominated by one dish that stands head and shoulders above the rest: deep-dish pizza. This legendary dish is an absolute must-try for anyone visiting the city, and no visit to Chicago is complete without it.

I had the chance to try deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s, one of the city’s most famous pizzerias. As I walked in, the savory smell of fresh-baked dough and melted cheese hit me, and I knew I was in for something special. The deep-dish pizza is nothing like the thin-crust pizza I’m used to; it’s more like a savory pie with a thick, buttery crust that cradles layers of cheese, tomato sauce, and toppings.

When my pizza arrived at the table, it was a beautiful sight: the golden crust was perfectly crisp on the edges, while the layers of cheese were oozing out from the center. The pizza was so thick that it almost felt like a hearty casserole. The stuffed deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s, with its gooey mozzarella cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and the right amount of seasoning, was a true indulgence. I couldn’t get enough of it, even though the portion size was enormous.

While deep-dish pizza is available at many pizzerias across the city, Giordano’s is known for its signature stuffed crust, which is one of the most popular styles in Chicago. For those who want a more classic, thinner crust, Lou Malnati’s and Pequod’s Pizza are other renowned spots to try this Chicago staple. Regardless of where you go, deep-dish pizza is a dish you won’t forget.

2. Chicago-Style Hot Dog: A Local Classic

After indulging in deep-dish pizza, I was ready to try another iconic Chicago dish: the Chicago-style hot dog. This hot dog is unlike any I’ve had before. It’s not just about the sausage – it’s about the toppings, and they’re key to making the Chicago-style hot dog special.

I ventured to Portillo’s, a beloved Chicago institution, to get my hands on one of these classic hot dogs. The hot dog itself was topped with yellow mustard, relish, chopped onions, tomato slices, sport peppers, celery salt, and a pickle spear, all nestled in a poppy seed bun. It was a glorious explosion of flavors and textures that I could hardly believe came from a humble hot dog.

What makes the Chicago-style hot dog unique is the no ketchup rule – Chicagoans will tell you that ketchup simply does not belong on their hot dog. Instead, it’s all about the fresh, tangy relish and the combination of spices that create a taste that is truly one-of-a-kind. The sport peppers add a bit of heat, while the celery salt ties everything together, giving it that signature Chicago flavor.

Portillo’s, with its retro diner atmosphere, is one of the best places to try the Chicago-style hot dog. The place is always buzzing with energy, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the city’s food culture. But you can also find great Chicago-style hot dogs at Superdawg or Gene & Jude’s, both of which are local favorites.

3. Italian Beef Sandwich: A Hearty, Flavorful Delight

Another Chicago classic that’s absolutely worth trying is the Italian beef sandwich. This sandwich is a reflection of Chicago’s Italian-American roots and features thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef served on a French roll that’s dipped in au jus. The sandwich is often topped with giardiniera (a spicy pickled vegetable mix) or sweet peppers, giving it a delicious tang and heat.

I decided to check out Al’s Beef, one of the most famous spots in the city for this sandwich. When my sandwich arrived, it was dripping with juice, and the bread had soaked up the rich, savory flavors of the beef and broth. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the giardiniera added the perfect amount of spice and crunch. Each bite was a satisfying explosion of flavors that left me wanting more.

What I love about the Italian beef sandwich is how customizable it is. You can ask for your sandwich to be “wet” (dipped in the au jus), or “dry” if you prefer less sauce. You can also opt for mild or hot giardiniera depending on your spice tolerance. It’s a messy but totally worth-it experience. Johnny’s Beef and Mr. Beef are other well-known spots for this Chicago favorite.

4. Chicago-Style Popcorn: A Sweet and Salty Snack

When I think of snacks, popcorn doesn’t usually come to mind as a major culinary experience. But Chicago-style popcorn is something entirely different. It’s a combination of cheese popcorn and caramel popcorn, and it’s surprisingly addictive.

I made my way to Garrett Popcorn Shops, one of the most famous popcorn chains in Chicago, to try this unique snack. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly popped kernels. I ordered a mixed bag of Garrett Mix, which contained both cheese and caramel popcorn. The cheese popcorn was savory and tangy, while the caramel popcorn had just the right amount of sweetness. The balance of flavors was absolutely perfect.

What makes this Chicago-style popcorn so special is the quality of the ingredients and the perfect combination of sweet and savory. I couldn’t stop eating it, and I found myself nibbling on it throughout the rest of my trip. It’s a must-try snack for anyone visiting the city, and you can find Garrett Popcorn Shops in various locations across Chicago, including on Michigan Avenue.

5. Chicago-Style Pizza Toppings: Experimenting Beyond the Classics

While the traditional deep-dish pizza is the star of Chicago’s pizza scene, there’s so much more to explore when it comes to toppings. During my time in Chicago, I decided to get a little adventurous and try some unconventional pizza combinations that the city is known for.

I headed to Bartoli’s Pizzeria, a neighborhood gem known for its creative pizza offerings. I ordered the “Criminal” pizza, which had a combination of sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, and garlic. The crust was perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. The sausage was flavorful and had just the right amount of spice, while the mushrooms added a wonderful earthy depth to the dish.

Another fantastic pizza spot I visited was Labriola Chicago, where I tried their taco pizza, a unique creation that combined ground beef, lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese, and sour cream on a crispy thin crust. It was a surprising but delicious combination of flavors that showcased the city’s willingness to push the boundaries of pizza.

Whether you stick to the classics or opt for something new, Chicago’s pizza scene offers something for everyone, and the possibilities are endless.

6. Chicago’s Diverse Culinary Scene

Chicago is not just about deep-dish pizza and hot dogs – the city has a rich and diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural heritage. I had the chance to explore a few different cuisines during my time in the city, and I was amazed by the variety.

One evening, I dined at The Purple Pig, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located along Michigan Avenue. I ordered the roasted bone marrow and fried olives, both of which were rich in flavor and perfectly prepared. The charcuterie platter was also a standout, with a variety of meats and cheeses that complemented each other wonderfully.

I also made sure to visit Fat Rice, a restaurant known for its fusion of Portuguese and Chinese flavors. The Arroz Gordo (a rich, flavorful rice dish) was a highlight, and I loved the Peri-Peri chicken, which was spicy and tender. Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods offer a wealth of international cuisine, from Mexican and Asian to Mediterranean and beyond.

Chicago’s Food Scene is Truly Unforgettable

Chicago’s food scene is as dynamic as the city itself. From the classic deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to the more adventurous dishes that push culinary boundaries, there is something for everyone. The food in Chicago isn’t just about satisfying hunger – it’s about experiencing the culture, history, and creativity that make this city so special.