Those who know me know I’m a proud Chicagoan: born and raised on the South Side. Seventeen years and two cities later, I can still say with confidence: nothing hits like Chicago food. The flavors and variety are unmatched, and anyone who’s lived there will say the same.
So I put together a Chicago Eats Map. Part hometown love letter, part tourist guide, it features my go-to spots plus others I’ve heard good things about. If you’re from the city, you’ll spot some classics. If you’re new, get ready for your life to change.
Click here to access the full list.
Note: pay attention to the categories, and be safe when going into some of these neighborhoods.
Top Picks
* Note: some of these are in rougher areas. If you don’t have street smarts, take someone with you who does…
Milanos Pizza
10945 S. Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60643
Tried and true! My family has been going here for so long, I still know the phone number by heart.
I’ve heard the deep dish is solid, but tavern style is true Chicago pizza. We only eat deep dish when friends & family visit from out of town. Also, just in general: pizza isn’t meant to be healthy, so get a salad on the side if you want veggies.
My order: Thin crust with ground beef and onions (trust me; it tastes better than sausage).
Pequod’s
2207 N Clybourn Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
This is the place to go for deep dish. There will be a wait, but it’s worth it; the outer crust is caramelized cheese.
Wingz It Iz*
1257 W 127th St
Calumet Park, IL 60827
In my opinion, this place is better than Harold’s (and Uncle Remus for the westsiders). Just take it home or get it delivered.
My order: 6 wing chicken dinner (fried hard) with either plain, famous garlic or lemon pepper seasoning.
Let’s Get Poppin’*
11758 S Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60643
Family-owned popcorn shop, made in small batches with amazing flavors.
My order: 1/2 Cheese, 1/2 Caramel (Chicago style)
Home of the Hoagy*
1316 W 111th St
Chicago, IL 60643
The customer service is trash. You will wait in line forever, even if you called your order in. Somebody will ask you for change, or try to sell you a pack of socks. They may even be closed for no reason.
But if you can catch them when they’re open, it’s worth it. This hilarious TikTok review is proof. Just take it home to eat it; this isn’t the kind of area to eat in the car.
My order: Steak Sandwich with sweet pickles, and fries with steak sauce (the most important part). The Turkey Hoagy is also good.
Honorable Mentions
Harold’s
various locations citywide
In the Southside vs Westside war between Harold’s and Uncle Remus… I’m going with the home team.
That being said, they are not all equal! I prefer the one on 91st & Ashland for wings, and the Express #55 on 87th and the Dan Ryan has good regular chicken (the wings aren’t seasoned as well for whatever reason).
My order: Italian Beef sandwich (dipped with hot peppers), cheese fries, and a Chocolate Cake shake. The Chicago dogs are solid as well.
Portillo’s
various locations citywide
It’s not fancy by any means, and my love for it may be mainly nostalgia… but if you see it, stop in.
They have Chicago Dogs and Italian Beef Sandwiches alongside other traditional American foods, as well as salads and pasta. There’s something for everyone.
My order: Italian Beef sandwich (dipped with hot peppers), cheese fries, and a Chocolate Cake shake. The Chicago dogs are solid as well.
Jim’s Original
1250 S Union Ave
Chicago, IL 60607
This is where you’ll get the Maxwell Street style of hot dogs and polish sausages: Vienna Beef link, grilled onions, mustard, and a hot pepper, with free fries piled into a greasy paper bag. It’s quick, cheap, and good.
My order: Hot Dog + Fries.
Garrett’s Popcorn
various locations citywide
Go here if Let’s Get Poppin’ is closed or too far. It’s still better than anything outside of the city.
My order: Chicago Mix (cheese & caramel)
