Are you more excited about Chicago’s dining opportunities than its historic architecture tour? You’re not alone! Few cities can boast a single signature dish—much less an entire menu’s worth of them. As any local will tell you, Chicago deep-dish or Chicago-style hot dogs simply don’t taste right anyplace else.
Check out these popular Chicago dishes from the Skydeck team, including iconic Chicago foods near Willis Tower. Don’t forget to join us for our holiday brunch!
1. Deep Dish Chicago-Style Pizza
Deep dish pizza, often called Chicago-style pizza, is the city’s most famous food. It’s fitting since Chicago is named after onions and garlic! Baked in a deep pan, the crust has a distinctive high edge that surrounds generous amounts of cheese and chunky tomato sauce.
Where to try it: So, where’s the best place to get authentic Chicago-style deep dish? If you’re looking for classic Chicago foods, go to Giordano’s Pizza. It’s one of the city’s top pizza spots. Additionally, you can enjoy it at Skydeck Chicago, located 99 floors above. Now, that’s a unique Chicago food experience at Skydeck!
2. Traditional Italian Thin-Crust Pizza
Most people know about Chicago-style pizza. However, traditional thin-crust Italian pizza is also available. It features toppings like olive oil, pureed fresh tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. As Chicago has the third-largest Italian population in the US, it’s no surprise that many popular dishes here are Italian.
Where to try it: Visit Macello Cucina di Puglia in the South Loop for authentic Italian food! This represents some of the best Chicago foods at tourist spots for visitors seeking an authentic taste.
3. Italian Beef Sandwich
Not to be missed among famous Chicago food specialties is the Italian beef sandwich. The sandwich isn’t Italian, but its name pays tribute to the Italian-style roll and sweet green pepper garnish. The beef is thin-cut sirloin, roasted in broth and spices to create that famous “jus” or gravy. The true origin of the Italian beef sandwich is a topic of hot debate. Many restaurants claim to be the first.
Where to try it: If you want to taste famous Chicago foods near attractions, try Chatel Farm’s Italian Beef. You can get it at Kindling Chicago, located on the ground floor of Willis Tower. It’s helmed by James Beard Award-winning Chef Jonathon Sawyer.
4. Chicago Hot Dog
A Chicago Hot Dog is a popular Chicago dish in its own right, absolutely distinct from a mere “hot dog.” You need a Vienna beef hot dog cooked in water. Grab a poppy seed bun, then add mustard, sweet green relish, and chopped onions. Also, include hot peppers, tomato slices, dill pickles, and a pinch of celery salt. There’s no need for ketchup.
Where to try it: Hot dog stands, baseball games, and fancy restaurants in the Loop all serve them. You’ll easily find Chicago hot dogs near tourist attractions.
5. Original Rainbow Cone
If you somehow still have room for dessert, don’t miss this picturesque Chicago treat. Enjoy this waffle cone after a long walk downtown. It’s packed with five tasty layers: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet.
Where to try it: You can enjoy the original Rainbow Cone in Beverly. This iconic treat is also available at various ice cream shops across the city. It’s perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing.
Malört: the Signature Chicago Shot
You know what food Chicago is known for, but what should you pair it with? Many Chicagoans will answer that question with “Malört.” It’s a Swedish-style schnapps distilled with the flavor of wormwood. That might not sound appealing, but there’s a good reason Malört has stuck around since the 1930s. Malört was only sold in the Chicago area until 2013. Enjoying its bitter taste is a rite of passage in Chicago. Sharp tongues only.
Where to try it: You can find it in many Chicago bars and taverns. It’s a local tradition to share this unique Chicago experience with visitors.
Explore Chicago’s Best With Skydeck!
Elevate your Chicago food experience by dining on The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago. And eat like a local near the top Chicago sights. Skydeck is the perfect start or grand finale to your city adventure.
Plan your visit to Skydeck Chicago. It’s the perfect spot for food lovers and sightseers! Taste the city’s most famous dishes, soak in the skyline, and make your trip truly unforgettable.