Chicago is one of the most dynamic cities in the United States, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. But perhaps its most notable contribution to the world is its iconic food scene. From deep-dish pizza to the legendary Chicago-style hot dog, the Windy City is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a tourist planning your next trip or a local looking to rediscover your city’s culinary treasures, understanding what food Chicago is known for is key to appreciating its diverse gastronomic landscape.
In this article, I’ll take you on a culinary journey through the city, highlighting the most iconic dishes, their origins, and where to find the best examples of each. Buckle up, and get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious food the Midwest has to offer!
Chicago’s Most Iconic Dish: Deep-Dish Pizza
When most people think of Chicago, deep-dish pizza immediately comes to mind. This hearty, thick-crust pie has become synonymous with the city, and for good reason. Deep-dish pizza is a true Chicago creation, a dish designed to be both filling and indulgent. Unlike the thin-crust pizzas more commonly found in New York or Italy, Chicago’s deep-dish pizza has a thick, buttery crust that’s more akin to a pie than traditional pizza. The dough is pressed into a high-sided pan, forming a dense base that’s loaded with cheese, toppings, and a chunky tomato sauce.
The key to deep-dish pizza is its structure. The layers are reversed from traditional pizza—cheese first, then the toppings, and finally the sauce. This allows the cheese to melt into the dough while the sauce stays vibrant and fresh on top. It’s an eating experience that is as much about texture as it is about flavor.
The origin of deep-dish pizza is often attributed to Pizzeria Uno, which opened in 1943 in the River North neighborhood. Founder Ike Sewell wanted to create a dish that was more substantial than the typical thin-crust pizza, something that could serve as a full meal. Today, Pizzeria Uno remains a popular destination, but other local spots like Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s have also become household names, each with their own take on the dish.
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs: A Local Favorite
No trip to Chicago is complete without trying a Chicago-style hot dog. This is not your typical ballpark frank—Chicago’s take on the hot dog is a flavor explosion, and there’s a very specific way to prepare it. A true Chicago dog is made with a Vienna beef hot dog and is served on a poppy seed bun. It’s then topped with a distinct combination of ingredients: yellow mustard, chopped onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. And here’s the golden rule—no ketchup. In Chicago, putting ketchup on a hot dog is considered sacrilegious.
The history of the Chicago-style hot dog dates back to the Great Depression, when vendors began selling “Depression Dogs” at the city’s Maxwell Street Market. These were inexpensive, fully loaded hot dogs that provided a complete meal in a bun. Over time, the ingredients became more standardized, leading to the iconic Chicago-style hot dog we know today.
For a true Chicago hot dog experience, head to Portillo’s, one of the most famous hot dog chains in the city. For something a bit more local and authentic, visit Superdawg Drive-In, a 1940s-style drive-in that still serves up some of the best Chicago-style hot dogs in the city.
Italian Beef Sandwich: A Chicago Staple
While deep-dish pizza and hot dogs may get most of the attention, the Italian beef sandwich is arguably just as iconic. This sandwich is a true Chicago original, featuring thinly sliced roast beef that’s simmered in a flavorful au jus, then piled onto a crusty Italian roll. It’s typically topped with either sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera, and the whole thing is often dipped into the au jus for extra flavor. The result is a messy, savory, and utterly delicious sandwich.
The Italian beef sandwich was invented in the early 20th century by Italian immigrants who wanted to stretch their meat supply by slow-cooking tougher cuts of beef. The practice of dipping the sandwich in gravy, known as “baptizing” or “dipping,” adds an extra layer of flavor and juiciness.
For the best Italian beef in town, locals swear by Al’s Beef, a Chicago institution that has been serving up these sandwiches since 1938. Another popular spot is Mr. Beef on Orleans, which is beloved for its traditional take on the sandwich.
Chicago’s Deep-Rooted Love for Polish Sausage
Chicago is home to one of the largest Polish populations in the United States, so it’s no surprise that Polish sausage, or kielbasa, has become a beloved food in the city. The Maxwell Street Polish, in particular, is a popular variation. This sausage is typically grilled or fried, then served on a bun with mustard, grilled onions, and sport peppers.
The Maxwell Street Polish was first popularized by vendors in the Maxwell Street Market, much like the Chicago-style hot dog. It has since become a staple at many of the city’s hot dog stands and is often seen as a heartier alternative to the classic hot dog.
For an authentic Maxwell Street Polish, head to Jim’s Original, which claims to have invented the sandwich in the 1930s. Maxwell Street Depot is another well-known spot for this iconic dish.
Jibarito: A Puerto Rican Twist
One of the lesser-known but incredibly unique dishes that Chicago is known for is the jibarito. This Puerto Rican sandwich was invented in Chicago and has become a beloved part of the city’s culinary landscape. What makes the jibarito special is that instead of bread, the sandwich is made with fried green plantains. Inside, you’ll find tender slices of steak (or chicken, pork, or even vegetables), topped with lettuce, tomato, cheese, garlic mayonnaise, and often served with rice and beans.
The jibarito was created in the 1990s by Juan “Pete” Figueroa at Borinquen Restaurant in the Humboldt Park neighborhood, which is home to Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. Today, you can find jibaritos at many Puerto Rican and Latin American restaurants throughout the city. Some of the best jibaritos can still be found at Borinquen Lounge, while spots like Papa’s Cache Sabroso and La Palma also serve excellent versions of the sandwich.
See Also: 4 Best Food Tours in Chicago
Garrett Popcorn: A Sweet and Savory Treat
No visit to Chicago is complete without indulging in one of the city’s most famous snacks—Garrett Popcorn. Founded in 1949, Garrett Popcorn has become an international phenomenon, but it all started in downtown Chicago. The company is best known for its Chicago Mix (now called the Garrett Mix), which combines caramel popcorn and cheese popcorn for a sweet-and-savory flavor explosion.
The contrast of the rich, buttery caramel with the sharp, salty cheddar creates a unique combination that’s hard to resist. While this may seem like an unlikely pairing, it’s become a signature Chicago treat, and many locals have fond memories of grabbing a bag of Garrett Popcorn while shopping on Michigan Avenue or before catching a game at the United Center.
You can find Garrett Popcorn shops all over Chicago, but the flagship store on East Madison Street is a must-visit for first-timers. For an extra indulgent experience, try their seasonal flavors, which rotate throughout the year.
Chicago-Style Tamales: A Fusion Favorite
Another surprising yet beloved food in Chicago is the Chicago-style tamale. These tamales are different from the traditional Mexican version—they’re smaller, made with finely ground cornmeal, and wrapped in paper rather than corn husks. The filling is usually simple, consisting of seasoned ground beef or pork. Chicago-style tamales are often sold at hot dog stands and are frequently paired with a classic Chicago dog.
The origins of Chicago-style tamales are somewhat mysterious, but they are believed to have been influenced by African-American and Mexican communities in the city. Today, they remain a popular street food, often enjoyed on the go.
For a taste of this unique Chicago dish, check out vendors at Maxwell Street Market or grab one from a hot dog stand like The Original Jimmy’s Red Hots.
Rainbow Cone: A Slice of Summer in Chicago
If you’re looking for something sweet to cool off during the summer months, Chicago’s iconic Rainbow Cone is a must-try. This towering ice cream cone features five colorful layers of ice cream: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. The combination of flavors and textures creates a one-of-a-kind dessert experience.
The Rainbow Cone has been a Chicago institution since 1926, when it was first served at the original shop on the city’s South Side. Today, you can still visit the original Original Rainbow Cone location, or find their mobile trucks at various festivals and events throughout the city.
Chicago-Style Pizza’s Forgotten Cousin: Tavern-Style Pizza
While deep-dish pizza may be Chicago’s most famous contribution to the pizza world, the city’s locals are just as passionate about another style—tavern-style pizza. This thin-crust pizza is cut into squares rather than slices and is known for its crispy, cracker-like crust. Tavern-style pizza is designed for sharing, making it a popular choice at neighborhood bars (or “taverns”) where patrons could grab a bite while enjoying a drink.
The toppings for tavern-style pizza are typically kept simple, with sausage and pepperoni being the most popular choices. This pizza is known for its balance of crispy crust, zesty sauce, and just the right amount of cheese—not too heavy, but enough to be satisfying.
Some of the best tavern-style pizza can be found at Vito & Nick’s, a South Side institution, and Pat’s Pizza, which claims to have invented the style in the 1940s.
Conclusion
Chicago’s food scene is as diverse as its population, with a rich tapestry of flavors influenced by the many immigrant communities that have shaped the city’s history. From the hearty deep-dish pizza to the humble hot dog, the city’s iconic dishes reflect its working-class roots, while newer creations like the jibarito and Chicago-style tamales speak to its evolving culinary landscape. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Chicago has something to satisfy every craving.
So, the next time you find yourself in the Windy City, make sure to take a culinary tour of the city’s iconic dishes. Whether you’re grabbing a deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s, savoring an Italian beef sandwich from Al’s Beef, or enjoying a sweet treat from Garrett Popcorn, you’ll quickly understand why Chicago is known as one of the best food cities in the world.
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