Mike Chen Clips & BEST Eats in Chicago, IL

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Chicago

Must-try foods in Chicago

• Italian Beef Sandwich
  Italian Beef SandwichA true Chicago icon featuring thinly sliced roast beef simmered in seasoned au jus, served on a long Italian roll. Locals order it 'dipped' (submerged in juice) and topped with 'hot' (giardiniera) or 'sweet' (peppers). Al's and Mr. Beef remain the gold standards.
• Chicago-Style Hot Dog
  Chicago-Style Hot DogAn all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun, 'dragged through the garden' with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato wedges, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Ketchup is strictly forbidden.
• Jibarito
  JibaritoA unique Chicago-Puerto Rican invention: a steak sandwich that uses flattened, fried green plantains instead of bread. It's typically layered with garlic mayo, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Jibaritos y Más is the go-to spot for this local staple.
• Deep-Dish Pizza
  Deep-Dish PizzaThe city's most famous culinary export, characterized by a high-edged, buttery crust that acts as a bowl for massive amounts of mozzarella and chunky tomato sauce on top. Lou Malnati’s and Pequod’s (known for its caramelized cheese crust) are the current top-tier choices.
• Flaming Saganaki
  Flaming SaganakiFried kasseri cheese doused in brandy and ignited tableside with a shout of 'Opa!' While it has Greek roots, the 'flaming' presentation was actually invented in Chicago's Greektown. Greek Islands remains the most iconic place to experience the spectacle.
• Breaded Steak Sandwich
  Breaded Steak SandwichA southside cult favorite, specifically perfected at Ricobene’s. It features a tender, breaded steak cutlet slathered in red gravy (marinara) and often topped with mozzarella and giardiniera on a sturdy Italian roll.

Trip guide

• About Chicago
  About ChicagoChicago is the third-largest city in the United States, located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. Its history is characterized by a transition from a 19th-century trading post to a global center of commerce and industry. Following the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed one-third of the city, Chicago became a site for architectural experimentation.
• When to go
  When to goThe best months to visit Chicago are May, September, and October, which offer mild temperatures (50°F–70°F) and vibrant scenery without the extreme weather of other seasons. Summer (June–August) is the peak tourist season, featuring hot, humid weather and a packed schedule of festivals, though it also brings the highest hotel rates and largest crowds. For the best value, visit during the off-peak winter months (January–March) to find significant travel deals.
• Getting around
  Getting around Chicago

  • Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) 'L' Trains The 'L' system provides direct rail service from O'Hare (Blue Line) and Midway (Orange Line) airports to downtown. It is an affordable way to navigate the city's neighborhoods with eight color-coded lines and 24/7.
  • Metra Commuter Rail Metra is the primary rail system for traveling between downtown Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. With 11 different routes and over 200 stations.
  • Walking and Biking (Divvy) Chicago's grid system makes it highly walkable, especially in the Loop and along the Lakefront Trail. For faster local travel.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the CTA 'L' trains and buses for efficient travel, as driving and parking in the city are often expensive and congested.
  • Never put ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog, as locals consider it a major culinary faux pas.
  • Stay in well-lit, populated areas like the Loop or Magnificent Mile at night and use reputable rideshare services for late-night transit.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Chicago

  • Obama Presidential Center: The highly anticipated civic campus in Jackson Park is opening in mid-2026, featuring a museum, a new Chicago Public Library branch.
  • The Hand & The Eye: Opening in spring 2026 in the historic McCormick Mansion, this is set to be the world's largest magic venue, offering immersive, multi-floor performances.
• Choose Chicago↗
  Choose ChicagoChoose Chicago is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, providing travel guides, event listings, and visitor resources for the city.