Celebrating the New Pope: A Delicious Ranking of Chicago’s Must-Try Iconic Foods!

I grew up about 40 minutes from downtown Chicago, which meant I often hopped on the Metra train for a Cubs game or a meal in the West Loop. Even though I moved away over a decade ago, the city’s food scene made a lasting impression on me.

Recently, the Vatican named a new American pope—Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native. To celebrate, let’s explore some of the city’s iconic culinary delights, from deep-dish pizza to Portillo’s famous chocolate cake.

Honorable Mention: Malort
While not a food dish, Malort deserves a shout-out. This bitter liquor is notorious for its unique taste and is a rite of passage for Chicagoans. Even if the new pope isn’t knocking back shots, trying Malort can be a memorable part of visiting the city.

#8 – Chicago Hot Dog
The Chicago dog is famous, featuring all-beef sausage on a poppy seed bun, topped with mustard, neon green relish, onions, tomato slices, a pickle, and sport peppers—all without ketchup. Personally, I prefer New York-style hot dogs, but if you want a classic Chicago experience, the local dog is a must-try.

#7 – Maxwell Street Polish
Another local favorite is the Maxwell Street Polish. This sausage is grilled or fried, topped with onions and mustard. It’s a delicious twist on the traditional hot dog and often garnished with green sport peppers.

#6 – Garrett’s Popcorn
Garrett’s Popcorn is a Chicago staple. The Chicago Mix is particularly popular, combining sweet caramel and savory cheese popcorn. This mix is a nostalgic treat for many who grew up in the city.

#5 – Deep Dish Pizza
Know that deep-dish pizza is polarizing, but there’s no denying it’s a Chicago classic. With layers of cheese, sauce, and crust, it’s a filling meal that many locals stand by—though I’ve found many prefer to enjoy lighter options like tavern-style pizza.

#4 – Italian Beef
Nothing beats a juicy Italian beef sandwich topped with hot giardiniera. The meat is tender and flavorful, especially when dipped in au jus. You can’t go wrong with options from Portillo’s or Al’s.

#3 – Portillo’s Chocolate Cake
Portillo’s chocolate cake is the stuff of legend. It’s rich but not overwhelming, with a moist texture and rich frosting. Many who visit Chicago find themselves yearning for a slice long after they’ve left.

#2 – The Au Cheval Burger
The Au Cheval burger is famous for a reason. With griddled beef patties, melted American cheese, and delicious toppings like bacon and a fried egg, it’s a splurge that every burger lover needs to experience.

#1 – Tavern-Style Pizza
If you ask locals, many will say tavern-style pizza is their go-to. With its thin, crispy crust and toppings that go edge to edge, it’s ideal for sharing—though you might find yourself wanting a few extra slices!

In conclusion, Chicago’s food scene is as diverse as its culture. From hot dogs to deep-dish pizzas, there’s something for everyone. Discovering these dishes is a delicious way to connect with the city’s rich history and vibrant community. For more insights, check out the Chicago Food and Drink website for the latest on what to eat and where to find it in the Windy City.

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