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Chicago Food Guide for People Who Actually Know Flavor
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items I’m not from Chicago but I know good food when I taste it. This ain’t a touristy deep-dish roundup. These are the spots locals actually eat at.
Map
Forget Portillo’s. Al’s is where it’s AT! Get that dipped beef and watch your taste buds go into shock. The flavor don’t sit on top of the meat, it’s deep in it!
Al's Beef
1
The truffle mac & cheese is a MUST. So many incredible entrees to choose from but that spiced fried chicken will change your life. Also, you cannot come here and not get the chocolate cake for dessert.
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
I hate lamb chops. And what did I end up ordering and loving here? Lamb chops. Flavor in every bite and more tender than any lamb chops I’ve ever had. The collard greens mac & cheese, and yams will knock your socks off.
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago
Rib tips so smoky and tangy they’ll have your fingers glistening. You won’t be disappointed!!!
Lem's Bar-B-Q
It’s like this place is literally frozen in time. In a good way! You cannot leave here without trying that turtle sundae!!!
Margie's Candies
I don’t think I need to say much about this place honestly. If you wanna eat where Obama chilled pre-and-post presidency and Harold Washington used to roll through, this is it. Cash only btw!!!
Valois Restaurant
I know this ain’t specific to Chicago but MAN the food is good. That lobster ravioli will change your life 😭bring your coins tho!
RPM Italian
Confession: I thought this place was gonna be all hype. NOPE. Food bursting with flavor. The portions are amazinggggg and that dry chicken chili will make you question your existence.
MCCB Chicago
Forget anything you’ve ever heard about who has the best fried rice in Chicago. Triple Crown is IT!!! Each dish has so much freakin FLAVOR. Oh and don’t leave without trying the chow mein!
Triple Crown Restaurant
Hear me outttt. The fish is BEYOND fresh and seasoned with nothing but love!! The fried shrimp SMACK too! Worth the trip every time.
Calumet Fisheries
Way better than the tourist traps on Michigan Ave. Fight me. Caramelized crust, chunky sauce, and gooey cheese in every bite. A must if you want the real Chicago pie experience.
Pequod's Pizza
Listen. This that make you wanna slap ya mama food. Do NOT come here without trying the fried lobster tails! Omggg the flavor! They’re so consistent with every dish, too!
Provare Chicago
Absolutely worth the journey from downtown. We got the hot cocoa flight and tried a few of the caramels. Long story short: I had a bag full of caramels in my carry on bag. SO good!
Katherine Anne Confections
You know when you’re at the point of your trip where you just want a quick and easy breakfast? This place is it. The pancakes are so light and fluffy and I loveeee the pecan and bacon waffle.
Lou Mitchell's