Being a frequent commuter to the Windy City, I often get asked where I typically shop, hang out and eat! People ask where I would recommend for a quick bite, or places to go for a nice dinner. I recently took a roommate of mine who had never been to Chicago before to some of these places and she enjoyed every minute of her trip. The 10 places I'm going to list are some of my recommendations-- it is impossible to list all of the food options. Enjoy!
1. The Cheesecake Factory~ 875 North Michigan Avenue
Located below the John Hancock Center, The Cheesecake Factory is a favorite of mine when I'm shopping along the famous Magnificent Mile. The menu has a variety of options, great for even the pickiest of eaters-- it is so hard to choose! Not to mention what they are known for-- their 36 choices of cheesecake, perfect for every mood.
2. Maggiano's Little Italy ~ 516 North Clark Street
Maggiano's Little Italy is known for its famous flat breads and amazing Italian- American cuisine. The atmosphere of Maggiano's is fantastic for a family dinner, or a larger event. The company offers catering for larger banquets and parties!
3. Portillo's ~ 100 West Ontario Street
Portillo's hot dogs have been a Chicago classic since 1963. The first opening downtown Chicago was in 1994, where the same building still stands at the intersection of Clark and Ontario across from the famous Rock 'N Roll McDonald's. You may have heard of someone referring to a hot dog as 'Chicago Style', Portillo's is the perfect place to experience just that. A Chicago Style hot dog consists of an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, chopped onions, relish, celery salt, pickle spear, tomato slices and pickled peppers. If you are not feeling a Chicago Style dog, Portillo's also has several pastas and amazing Italian Beef!
4. Walnut Room~111 North State Street (7th floor of Macy's Department Store)
I'm sure you have seen, or at least heard about the Walnut Room. If you haven't, it is a spectacle to see around the holidays. The restaurant is at the base of the Christmas Tree, showcasing a different theme every holiday season. The menu and space is limited, so be sure to check it out beforehand!
5. Billy Goat Tavern~ 430 North Michigan Avenue
If you are a Saturday Night Live fan like myself, you may have seen the famous "Olympia Restaurant" sketch with Bill Murray, Jim Belushi and Dan Akroyd. If not, here is the link to the website and sketch: http://www.billygoattavern.com/legend/snl/
Ordering at the Billy Goat may go something like, "Cheezborger, Cheezborger, Cheezborger!" "Doublecheez?" "No fries.. CHEEPS!" "No Pepsi... Coke!" I don't think I have to say anymore. It's a classic. Just go. You won't regret it.
6. Fogo De Chao~ 661 North Lasalle Street
If you are leaning towards an international meal, I would recommend Fogo De Chao. It is a Brazilian Steakhouse offering an incredible atmosphere and amazing service. Their entrees center around, but are not limited to, choices of beef, chicken, pork, and lamb.
7. Shake Shack~ 66 East Ohio Street
A newer addition to the Chicago area, Shake Shack opened its doors in 2014. The restaurant offers a variety of burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and of course, shakes! If you are a night owl like myself, the restaurant is also open late-- perfect after a sporting event.
7. RPM Restaurants
Oh yes, my love for reality TV has made its way to Chicago. RPM Italian is owned by Bill and Guiliana Rancic. You may know Guiliana from E! News, and Bill from Celebrity Apprentice. The menu stems from Guiliana's Italian Roots, covering all corners of an authentic Italian cuisine. The pair also owns RPM Steak located on the Gold Coast.
8. Giordano's
You're probably wondering, when is she going to mention the famous deep-dish pizza? Well, I thought I would stray away from pizza, but then again pizza is always a go-to. Trust me, Chicago has fantastic pizza places, and there is no possible way that I can list all of them, but here are some that come to mind.
You have read about it, you have heard about it, you know it is Derrick Rose's favorite pizza, so of course you have to try it! Well, I have, and Giordano's is good, but it is not the greatest Chicago pizza experience I have had.
Lou Malnati's is my all-time favorite Chicago pizza. The sauce, the toppings, the crust melting in your mouth. It is everything. This may be my own personal opinion, but I'll let you decide for yourself!
10. Gino's East
Finally, Gino's my other go-to pizza restaurant in the Windy City. Gino's is known of course for it's deep-dish pizza, but it is also known for the walls covered in graffiti and the customers personal etchings.
If you ever find yourself in the Windy City, I would recommend these places off the top of my head. There are several other incredible restaurants, but it is impossible to list all of them. If you are looking for other places that have made "Chicago's Best" list go to there website here: http://chicagosbesttv.com/Safe travels and happy eating!
