I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a variety of cities around the world. However, one place that always stands out to me when it comes to food is Chicago. With its rich cultural diversity and a long history of culinary innovation, the Windy City offers something for every type of food lover—from hearty deep-dish pizza to Michelin-starred dining experiences. I’ve had the opportunity to sample a range of dishes in Chicago’s best restaurants, and in this blog, I’ll take you through five must-visit spots that I personally recommend. Each restaurant has its own unique character, incredible flavors, and signature dishes that represent the city’s vibrant food scene.
- Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – The Home of Deep-Dish Pizza
When you think of Chicago, it’s impossible not to think of its world-famous deep-dish pizza. While there are several places in the city serving up this cheesy, buttery delight, Lou Malnati’s is one of the best and certainly the most iconic.
Location: 1120 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610
Price Range: $20 – $40 per pizza, depending on size and toppings.
Signature Dish: The Malnati Chicago Classic
The Malnati Chicago Classic is a must-try if you’re here. This signature deep-dish pizza comes loaded with mozzarella cheese, a zesty tomato sauce, and a buttery, flaky crust. The ingredients are fresh, and the pie is cooked to perfection, with a perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and crust.
Personal Experience:
My first time at Lou Malnati’s was unforgettable. I had heard all the hype about Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, but nothing could prepare me for how delicious it actually was. The pizza arrived fresh out of the oven with a golden-brown crust, and each bite felt like a little slice of heaven. The sauce was rich and tangy, the cheese stretchy and gooey, and the crust was just thick enough to hold everything together without feeling overwhelming. I could tell right away that Lou Malnati’s didn’t skimp on quality.
While the pizza was undeniably the star of the show, the service was also top-notch. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and offered recommendations for the best pizza combos. The atmosphere was casual, with a cozy, classic Chicago vibe—perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Tips and Considerations:
• Pre-order or expect a wait: Deep-dish pizzas at Lou Malnati’s can take some time to prepare (around 30 minutes or more), so I recommend ordering ahead if you’re in a rush.
• Try the garlic bread: If you’re a fan of garlic bread, their version is buttery and delicious, providing the perfect sidekick to your pizza.
- The Purple Pig – A Mediterranean Feast with a Twist
Located along the Magnificent Mile, The Purple Pig offers an innovative take on Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on pork-based dishes. This trendy spot combines delicious charcuterie, inventive small plates, and mouth-watering mains, making it a go-to for foodies.
Location: 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Price Range: $10 – $30 per dish, depending on portion size.
Signature Dish: Crispy Pig’s Ears
One of the standout dishes at The Purple Pig is the Crispy Pig’s Ears. The dish features tender pork ears that are deep-fried to a crispy texture and then served with a tangy sauce. It’s crispy, savory, and flavorful, a perfect example of The Purple Pig’s ability to bring bold, daring flavors to the table.
Personal Experience:
I visited The Purple Pig during a recent trip to Chicago, and I was immediately struck by its vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The space was buzzing with activity, and the scent of delicious food wafting through the air made my stomach growl with anticipation. I started with the crispy pig’s ears and was instantly hooked. The texture was crispy, yet tender, and the seasoning was spot on—flavorful, without being overwhelming.
For the main course, I went with their Jamon Serrano and Roasted Bone Marrow, both of which were equally exceptional. The bone marrow was rich and buttery, and the jamon serrano was melt-in-your-mouth good. If you’re a fan of bold, inventive Mediterranean flavors, The Purple Pig is the place to be.
Tips and Considerations:
• Reservations are recommended: The Purple Pig is very popular, especially during peak dining hours, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.
• Great for sharing: The menu is designed with sharing in mind, so it’s perfect for a group of friends or family to order a variety of dishes and enjoy together.
- Alinea – A Michelin-Starred Experience Like No Other
For those seeking a fine dining experience in Chicago, Alinea is a must-visit. With three Michelin stars, it’s one of the most renowned restaurants in the world. Led by Chef Grant Achatz, Alinea is famous for its avant-garde approach to cuisine, with dishes that are as much art as they are food.
Location: 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Price Range: $275 – $400 per person for a tasting menu (depending on the season).
Signature Dish: The Edible Balloon
One of Alinea’s most famous dishes is The Edible Balloon, a playful and innovative take on dining. The balloon is made from flavored helium, and you actually eat it by inhaling the helium and then enjoying the accompanying flavors. It’s one of the most unique dining experiences I’ve ever had, and it really highlights the creativity of the restaurant.
Personal Experience:
Visiting Alinea was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I entered the restaurant, I was transported into a world of culinary magic. The tasting menu is an adventure in itself, and each course was a revelation. I’ve dined at some of the best restaurants globally, but Alinea’s commitment to both creativity and flavor sets it apart. The Edible Balloon was an incredible highlight—it felt surreal to inhale the helium and then savor the unique flavors that accompanied the dish.
Every dish at Alinea is beautifully plated and meticulously crafted, making each bite feel like an event in itself. The service was impeccable, with staff guiding us through each course with enthusiasm and passion. Alinea is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive dining experience that will stay with you long after you’ve finished.
Tips and Considerations:
• Reservations are essential: Alinea has a strict reservation policy, and securing a table can be difficult. It’s best to book well in advance (sometimes months ahead).
• Be prepared for a splurge: Alinea is on the pricey side, but the experience is worth every penny. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an extraordinary meal, Alinea is the place.
- Portillo’s – A Chicago Institution for Hot Dogs and Italian Beef Sandwiches
When in Chicago, no trip is complete without sampling the city’s iconic Chicago-style hot dog or Italian beef sandwich, and Portillo’s is the place to get both. This beloved chain is famous for its casual atmosphere and its commitment to serving up classic Chicago comfort food.
Location: 100 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654 (multiple locations available)
Price Range: $5 – $15 per dish
Signature Dish: Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Portillo’s Chicago-style hot dog is a quintessential experience. The dog is served in a steamed poppy seed bun, topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, sport peppers, and a pickle. It’s the perfect example of Chicago’s unique take on a classic hot dog.
Personal Experience:
I’ve been to Portillo’s more times than I can count, and it never disappoints. The hot dog is always perfectly assembled, with all the classic toppings in the right proportions. The balance of flavors is amazing—tangy, spicy, and savory. The Italian beef sandwich is another fan favorite, with tender, juicy beef piled high and drenched in flavorful gravy. I could eat this every day.
While Portillo’s doesn’t offer the fine-dining experience of some of the other places I’ve mentioned, it’s still one of my favorite spots in the city. It’s a great place to grab a quick, satisfying meal, and it has a fun, no-frills atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
Tips and Considerations:
• Be prepared for crowds: Portillo’s is a popular spot, and it can get busy, especially during lunch and dinner hours. However, the service is fast, and you’ll usually find a table without too much trouble.
• Try the chocolate cake shake: It’s a fun dessert that combines rich chocolate cake and milkshake into one decadent treat.
- Girl & The Goat – Contemporary Small Plates with Big Flavors
Located in the vibrant West Loop neighborhood, Girl & The Goat is a trendy restaurant known for its eclectic menu and bold flavors. The restaurant serves contemporary small plates that focus on seasonal ingredients, with a special emphasis on vegetables and meats.
Location: 809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Price Range: $15 – $30 per plate
Signature Dish: Goat Empanadas
As the name suggests, Goat Empanadas are one of the restaurant’s signature dishes. The empanadas are stuffed with flavorful goat meat and served with a tangy dipping sauce. They’re a great introduction to the unique, adventurous flavors that Girl & The Goat is known for.
Personal Experience:
I visited Girl & The Goat on a recent trip to Chicago, and the meal was nothing short of spectacular. The goat empanadas were crispy and packed with flavor, and the dipping sauce added a nice contrast. Other highlights included their Wood Oven Roasted Oysters and Spicy Beef Tongue Tacos, both of which were equally exceptional. The flavors were bold and innovative, and I appreciated the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The atmosphere at Girl & The Goat is lively and fun, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. The staff was friendly and eager to offer recommendations, and I felt well taken care of throughout the meal.
Tips and Considerations:
• Reservations are a must: Girl & The Goat is extremely popular, so you’ll want to make a reservation ahead of time, especially on weekends.
• Go for the small plates: The small plates are meant for sharing, so I recommend ordering a variety of dishes to get the full experience.
Chicago’s food scene is one of the most diverse and exciting in the world. From deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s to the avant-garde culinary creations at Alinea, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food, international flavors, or innovative fine dining, the city delivers in spades. These five restaurants represent just a small slice of what Chicago has to offer, but each one holds a special place in my heart for their unique flavors, incredible service, and unforgettable experiences. So, the next time you’re in Chicago, make sure to check out these culinary gems for a true taste of the Windy City!
