Signature Food and Drink in the Windy City – Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a hub for business meetings and site-seeing. However, it also stands as a culinary giant with an endless list of famous chefs and dishes unique to Chicago. Here are some of the top food and drinks you won’t want to miss.

Deep Dish Pizza at Lou Malnati’s

Everyone has heard of Chicago-style deep dish pizza, so having an authentic slice is a must. If you are looking for a traditional deep dish with a perfectly crunchy crust and quality ingredients, head over to Lou Malnati’s. For a less traditional but equally delicious option, check out Pequod’s Pizza. The caramelized crust makes it a favorite with locals and visitors.

Wood Oven Roasted Pig Face at Girl & The Goat

Celebrity chef Stephanie Izard is not only known for her appearances on cooking shows but is also the founder of several award-winning restaurants. Girl & The Goat has a somewhat relaxed feel, while still delivering exceptional food. Try the signature dish, Wood Oven Roasted Pig Face. The delicious roasted pig is matched with crispy potato and over-easy egg with a sweet and tangy sauce drizzled over the top.

Coffee at Ipsento

Chicago has led the way in specialty third-wave coffee shops. Coffee giant Intelligentsia is originally based in Chicago and is sure to provide a great cup of coffee. Another fantastic choice is Ipsento. This trendy spot offers craft coffee by day and craft beer by night. The coffee is carefully sourced and freshly roasted. The shop also offers coffee cupping for the more dedicated coffee fanatic.

Chicago Hot Dog at Gene and Jude’s

Even if a hot dog isn’t usually your meal of choice, you need to try Chicago’s rendition at least once. What makes the Chicago hot dog different is primarily its toppings: relish, mustard, onion, pickle spear, sport pepper, tomato, and celery salt. Gene and Jude’s is one of the best and in addition to the toppings listed above their dogs are topped with a pile of fries. Just don’t make the mistake of asking for ketchup!

Multi-Course Meal at Alinea

For an unforgettable dining experience reserve a spot at the countless award-winning restaurant¹ Alinea. The imaginative and fanciful courses are carefully designed by chef Grant Achatz to engage the senses. Some courses employ glass coverings to release clouds of citrus or woodsmoke aromas to enhance the flavor of the dish. Another course is an edible helium balloon. For a more budget-friendly option, you can try other Grant Achatz creations at his cocktail lounge, Aviary.

Italian Beef at Al’s #1 Italian Beef

The Italian influence extends beyond pizza. Italian Beef is another beloved Chicago classic. The thin slices of beef were originally invented as a way to stretch food further at weddings. Aside from the slices of beef, the sandwich is dripping with flavorful broth and packed with peppers. Al’s #1 Italian Beef is the alleged originator of this tasty sandwich and a great place to try it out.

Cocktails at Lost Lake

Chicago is home to a surprising number of tiki bars, but the one that stands out is Lost Lake. The palm leaf and bamboo decor create a breezy, carefree atmosphere. However, the bar is more than just a gimmick, the cocktails are beautiful in both appearance and flavor. Try one of their award-winning cocktails and relax at this tropical-themed oasis.

Ceylon Snickerdoodle at Fat Rice Bakery

For desserts that will satisfy your sweet-tooth while improving your palate, visit the Fat Rice Bakery. Various cultures have inspired these pastries, resulting in some of the most unique and delicious baked goods you’ll find. Make sure to try the Ceylon Snickerdoodle. Ceylon Tea and sugar are subbed for the traditional cinnamon mixture and the cookies have an egg-yolk custard center.

Jibarito at La Bomba

One of Chicago’s lesser-known classics is this Puerto Rican sandwich. It is comprised of standard sandwich fillings but fried plantains replace the typical bun. The crunchy plantains really bring the sandwich together. Taste it for yourself at La Bomba.

Craft Beer at Band of Bohemia

Chicago has plenty of great options for craft beer. However, Band of Bohemia is the only brew-pub to have won a Michelin Star Award.² Their small selection of micro-brew beers is designed to pair nicely with their excellent food and dessert options. Combine two of the greatest comforts and try the ice-cream sandwich along with a beer.

Of course, this is only the beginning of the great food you’ll find in Chicago. Have fun exploring the myriad of flavors this city has to offer.

Need help planning a corporate meeting or incentive travel reward to Chicago? Contact Gavel International for more information.

¹https://alinearestaurant.com/site/recognition/

²https://www.foodandwine.com/travel/worlds-first-michelin-starred-brewpub-in-chicago-course

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Jim Bozzelli

With over 34 years of experience, Jim is fluent in the ins and outs of the meeting and event world. His tenacity and creativity as a strategist have ensured that incentive programs and corporate meetings are highly polished while simultaneously achieving big-picture goals and objectives. Before focusing exclusively on corporate events and incentive programs, he enjoyed over 10 years of success managing and directing national and international sales. During this time, he worked closely with hotels and convention bureaus. His expertise was recognized with rapid promotions along the way. Over 18 years ago he joined the Gavel International team where he works tirelessly with clients to make their events shine by analyzing data, setting goals, negotiating contracts, as well as setting and managing budgets. He is currently the Vice President of Gavel International.

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