Chicago is a city known for its diverse and delicious food scene. From deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches to artisanal tacos and contemporary fine dining, the Windy City has something to offer for every palate and budget. We’ve visited the windy city a few times, and I always look forward to the food options. Here’s a guide to some of the most loved restaurants in Chicago, broken down by location:

Loop

1. Giordano’s – This Chicago-based chain is famous for its deep-dish pizza with a buttery crust, mozzarella cheese, and a hearty tomato sauce. We hit up Giordano’s every time we visit Chicago!
2. The Berghoff – This German restaurant, located in the heart of the Loop, is one of the oldest in the city and serves classic dishes like sauerbraten, strudel, and schnitzel.
3. Al’s Beef – This iconic Italian beef sandwich shop originated in the Little Italy neighborhood and has been serving juicy, flavorful sandwiches since 1938.

River North

1. RPM Steak – This upscale steakhouse serves classic cuts of meat and various contemporary sides and sauces.
2. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf – This French-inspired steakhouse serves delicious cuts of beef, seafood, poultry, and game dishes.
3. RPM Italian – This chic Italian restaurant is the sister restaurant of RPM Steak and offers a menu of classic Italian dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Lincoln Park

1. The Purple Pig – This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant serves a variety of shareable plates, including cured meats, cheeses, and roasted vegetables.
2. Lillie’s Q – This BBQ joint, located in the heart of Lincoln Park, is known for its smoky, slow-cooked meats and southern sides.
3. North Pond – This contemporary restaurant, located in a historic building in Lincoln Park, offers a menu of seasonal dishes made with local, farm-to-table ingredients.

Wicker Park

1. Big Star – This taqueria serves delicious tacos, margaritas, and Mexican beers in a lively, casual atmosphere.
2. Parachute – This contemporary Korean restaurant offers a menu of shareable plates, including kimchi fried rice, crispy chicken, and spicy stews.
3. The Publican – This farm-to-table restaurant serves a menu of seasonal dishes, including oysters, charcuterie, and roasted meats.

Hotdogs:

Chicago is famous for its hotdogs; once you try, you will understand why. Typically they are topped with yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, chopped white onion, tomato slices, a dill pickle spear, pickled peppers, and celery salt. Hotdogs are available all over the city, and your trip is only complete with devouring a few.

Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences for every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Chicago dish or a contemporary culinary adventure, the city has something to offer everyone. So gather your friends, make a reservation, and get ready to enjoy some of the best food in the country.