15 Iconic Chicago Restaurants You Have To Try
Chicago is a culinary wonderland, offering a diverse array of flavors and dining experiences. From deep-dish pizza to gourmet fine dining, the city’s food scene is both rich in history and innovation. Explore 15 iconic restaurants that capture the essence of Chicago’s unique culinary landscape.
1. Lou Malnati’s
Imagine a pizza so iconic that it defines a city. Lou Malnati’s deep-dish pizza is a must-try for anyone visiting Chicago. The buttery, flaky crust cradles layers of cheese, savory sausage, and tangy tomato sauce, creating a harmony of flavors that is nothing short of legendary.
Each bite is a celebration of indulgence, with a crust that holds its own beneath the mountainous layers of toppings. Lou Malnati’s has been a rite of passage for pizza lovers since its founding, and continues to win over hearts with its classic recipe.
Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, Lou Malnati’s never fails to deliver a slice of Chicago heaven.
2. Portillo’s
Portillo’s is where nostalgia meets flavor in the Windy City. Famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef, this fast-casual spot transports you back to simpler times.
The hot dogs come fully loaded with mustard, relish, onions, and a signature pickle spear—never ketchup—a rule every Chicagoan knows. Pair it with their famous Italian beef sandwich, overflowing with juicy, tender meat, and you’re in for a treat.
Portillo’s is a culinary time capsule, preserving the traditional tastes that make Chicago food so distinct and beloved.
3. Alinea
Alinea is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Known for its avant-garde approach, this one-of-a-kind dining destination combines art, science, and flavor to create unforgettable dishes.
Every meal at Alinea is a journey into the unknown, with dishes that might change flavors mid-bite or come in unexpected forms, like edible balloons. The creativity and innovation are unparalleled, making it a staple on the list of the world’s best restaurants.
For those willing to explore the boundaries of dining, Alinea offers a sensory adventure that’s as much about the imagination as it is about taste.
4. The Original Rainbow Cone
Since 1926, The Original Rainbow Cone has been delighting Chicagoans with its colorful layers of ice cream. This South Side treasure is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
The cone features slices of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet, all stacked precariously atop one another. It’s a playful nod to indulgence that captures the spirit of summer.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fan, the Rainbow Cone promises a sweet, nostalgic journey through Chicago’s dessert history.
5. Superdawg Drive-In
Step back in time at Superdawg Drive-In, where the retro vibes are as irresistible as the food. This iconic spot serves up hot dogs with a side of nostalgic charm.
The signature Superdawg is topped with crinkle-cut pickles, mustard, and a dash of sass, served straight to your car window by carhops. The neon mascots, Maurie and Flaurie, add to the whimsical allure of this classic drive-in experience.
It’s a slice of Americana that’s as unique to Chicago as the unforgettable taste of a Superdawg.
6. Al’s Beef
In the world of Italian beef sandwiches, Al’s Beef reigns supreme. This legendary eatery has set the benchmark for what a perfect beef sandwich should be.
The sandwiches are succulent and flavorful, best enjoyed “dipped” in their savory jus and topped with spicy giardiniera. Each bite is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Chicago’s Italian immigrants.
Al’s Beef is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the essence of Chicago’s Italian beef tradition, one juicy bite at a time.
7. Gene & Georgetti
Gene & Georgetti is Chicago’s oldest steakhouse, a timeless establishment steeped in tradition. Since 1941, it’s been serving thick, juicy steaks to generations of meat lovers.
The no-frills, all-vibe atmosphere is a nod to classic Italian-American dining, with an emphasis on hearty portions and authentic flavors. It’s a place where the past and present converge, offering a dining experience that’s as rich in history as it is in taste.
For a taste of genuine Chicago hospitality and a steak done right, Gene & Georgetti never disappoints.
8. Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza takes deep-dish to another level, beloved by locals for its unique caramelized crust. The cheese-lined edges offer a deliciously crispy texture that contrasts with the gooey center.
Each pie is a labor of love, with generous servings of cheese and toppings that make every slice an adventure. Pequod’s is a cornerstone of Chicago’s pizza scene, renowned for turning deep-dish into an art form.
For those who crave a pizza that’s both comforting and innovative, Pequod’s is a must-visit destination.
9. The Wiener’s Circle
The Wiener’s Circle is as famous for its late-night hot dogs as it is for its colorful, often chaotic atmosphere. Known for its grilled dogs and verbal sparring between staff and patrons, it’s a Chicago institution.
The hot dogs are perfectly charred, offering a satisfying snap with each bite. Going after midnight ensures not just delicious food, but a unique, interactive dining experience.
It’s a place where culinary simplicity meets entertainment, making every visit memorable for more than just the meal.
10. Harold’s Chicken Shack
Harold’s Chicken Shack is a South Side staple, known for its perfectly fried chicken and signature mild sauce. The crispy exterior gives way to juicy, flavorful meat that’s hard to resist.
The mild sauce, a sweet, tangy concoction, is liberally applied, adding zest that elevates the chicken to legendary status. It’s a taste that locals swear by, capturing the essence of comfort food.
Harold’s is more than a meal—it’s a tradition, offering a taste of the South Side with every mouthwatering bite.
11. Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen
Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen is a beloved family-run establishment, offering authentic Jewish deli fare since 1942. Its corned beef sandwiches are legendary, piled high and bursting with flavor.
The cafeteria-style setup invites you to explore a variety of comfort foods, from matzo ball soup to crispy potato pancakes, all reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
Manny’s is a slice of Chicago’s cultural tapestry, known for its warm service and hearty, satisfying dishes that keep generations of patrons coming back.
12. Parachute
Parachute is where modern Korean-American fusion takes flight. This Michelin-starred gem offers a creative menu that pushes the boundaries of traditional cuisine.
Every dish is a testament to artistry and imagination, with flavors that surprise and delight. Bing bread is a must-try, showcasing the unique flavors that Parachute is known for.
For those seeking a dining experience that blends culture and innovation seamlessly, Parachute is an unforgettable journey into the world of fusion cuisine.
13. Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab brings a taste of luxury to Chicago, with a menu that features the freshest seafood and finest steaks.
The stone crab claws are a standout, perfectly paired with a classic remoulade sauce. The elegant, white-tablecloth setting enhances the dining experience, providing a sense of timeless sophistication.
For a meal that embodies both class and culinary excellence, Joe’s is a go-to destination for special occasions and indulgent evenings.
14. Frontera Grill
Frontera Grill, helmed by Chef Rick Bayless, is a celebration of regional Mexican cuisine. Long before it was trendy, Bayless brought these vibrant flavors to the forefront.
The dishes are a symphony of taste, texture, and tradition, each one telling a story of Mexico’s culinary landscape. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate authentic, upscale Mexican dining.
Frontera Grill is not just a meal—it’s a journey through the rich, diverse flavors that define Mexican cuisine, crafted with passion and precision.
15. Giordano’s
Giordano’s presents a different side of Chicago’s deep-dish debate with its stuffed pizza. Known for being cheese-laden and richly indulgent, this pizza is a meal in itself.
The thick layers of cheese are enveloped by a robust crust, with tomato sauce poured over the top, creating a pie that’s both filling and satisfying. It’s a hallmark of Chicago’s pizza tradition, offering a hearty slice of classic comfort.
Giordano’s invites you to experience the delight of a pizza that’s as much about texture as it is about taste, sealing its place in Chicago’s culinary lore.