United States

What to eat in Chicago

Chicago’s food scene blends Midwestern comfort with world‑class ethnic neighborhoods. From deep‑dish pizza to vibrant street markets, the city feeds every craving.

Local dishes to try

Deep‑Dish Pizza

Thick, buttery crust filled with cheese and tomato sauce, served in downtown pizzerias and family spots.

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced roast beef on a crusty roll, drenched in au jus, often topped with giardiniera.

Chicago‑style Hot Dog

All‑beef frank on a poppy seed bun, loaded with mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle, sport peppers and celery salt.

Garrett Popcorn Mix

Sweet caramel popcorn paired with salty cheese‑toasted popcorn, sold at stands citywide.

Jibarito

Fried plantain “bread” filled with steak, cheese, lettuce and garlic mayo, popular in the West Loop.

Chicago‑style Pop‑tarts

Local bakery version of the classic snack, often filled with caramel apple or maple bacon.

Chicago‑style Cocktail – Chicago Fizz

Gin‑based cocktail with orange bitters and club soda, a staple in historic bars.

Eli’s Cheesecake

Rich, creamy cheesecake with a graham‑crust base, found in many downtown bakeries.

Where to eat

1
West Loop
Industrial lofts turned eateries; try tacos, ramen and upscale American.
2
Greektown on Halsted
Greek souvlaki, spanakopita and baklava line the streets.
3
Devon Avenue
South Asian market stalls offering Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi street foods.