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Dining in Chicago
If there is one thing Chicagoans like
as much as their sports and their beer, it's their food. Anyone who
knows Chicago knows about its deep-dish pizza, barbecued ribs, Italian
restaurants, steakhouses and "cheeseburgers, cheeseburgers."
Yet Chicago also possesses some of the best Greek food this side of
the Mediterranean and an odd local dish best enjoyed while standing
up at a counter.
There are many types of pizza served in Chicago, but only a few can
really be called deep-dish Chicago-style pizza. The two favorites
are Pizzeria Due and Pizzeria Uno. Accept no substitutes
and get the real stuff!! Edwardo's and Giordano's are
also quite delicious. Gino's East on State Street is home of
the original deep-dish; it was started by a cab driver and it has a
"guest book" on the wall where patrons write their name. It's
sister restaurant is Gino's West.
In a town known for it's blues and jazz, it's only natural that ribs
would come with the territory. There was even a classic M*A*S*H episode
about an adventure of having Adam's Ribs sent to Korea. Certainly,
Adam's is worth the effort. There are several other places, most notably
Carson's, which annually wins awards as tops in town. But the
best ribs in Chicago are found in a small family-owned place that has
been around for 50+ years. The meat at Twin Acres (in Old Town
near Lincoln Park) is so tender it practically falls off the bone when
picked up off the plate. This is a friendly neighborhood joint with
only one location and about eight tables. Hungry diners must arrive
early.
While in Chicago, it is essential to get an Italian beef sandwich
from a local sandwich or diner-style restaurant. Do not order it in
a sit-down restaurant because it will be a basic French Dip which does
not do this delicacy justice. Locals prefer their sandwiches extra wet,
with cheese and gardinara. Many of the shops along Taylor Street
just west of the Loop serve them to perfection.
For those not familiar with the Italian beef sandwich, it is basically
roast beef that has spent all day simmering in an aju of Italian seasonings,
served on a large roll that has been dipped in the juice, covered with
Mozzarella cheese and a combination of peppers. Those who try them think
they have died and gone to heaven. Pub Club is not aware of this food
being available in any other city, so they provide a true taste of Chicago's
unique flavor.
The quality of the Greek or Italian food is equally outstanding. Greek
Town is located just south west of the Loop on Halsted Street. There
are about 15 restaurants to choose from and all offer fantastic dishes
at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is classic Mediterranean with outdoor
patios and table wine.
Although there are fantastic Italian restaurants all over the city,
Taylor Street is specifically known for the variety of Italian
restaurants and cuisine that is served in them. Tuscany and Rosebud
are the most well known, but are usually crowded. Just sit back in the
bar with a bottle of Merlot and enjoy the half-hour wait.
Little Italy (24th & Oakley) is another area that is populated
with fantastic Italian Restaurants. Maggiano's or The Italian
Village are also scrumptious but are a bit touristy because they
are located in the Loop and Michigan Ave. areas. North of the Loop,
Soozie's (in the River North area), is one of 25 restaurants
in town owned by Richard Noman, the Wolfgang Puck of Chicago.
For those hungry for USDA Angus prime beef, Chicago has some of the
best bloody cow in the world. Lawry's, Eli's, Morton's and Magnum's
are all Chicago traditions, although good-quality porterhouses and prime
rib are on just about every restaurant menu.
The most romantic restaurant in Chicago, the kind of place where dates
can turn into relationships, is Gejas (in Old Town). It is illuminated
mainly by candles and is so quiet, people feel as if they are all alone.
The fare is fondue, which has made a comeback in some Midwest cities.
This provides couples the opportunity to engage in fun activity –
cooking their dinner with the little forks in the fondue pot – in
addition to conversation. Desserts are dreamy; fresh fruit dipped in
warm chocolate.
Another local favorite is Cafe Barbariba on Halstad Street in
Lincoln Park. It serves tasty tapas and has an outdoor garden area.
Tourists in the mood for a less formal setting make their way down
the steps next to the Wrigley Building to the Billy Goat Tavern.
It was made famous by John Belushi's "cheeseburger, cheeseburger"
character; the skit was created from the actual restaurant, founded
a local journalist. Unfortunately, the cheeseburger are terrible.
A few words of advice from Pub Club: Avoid eating at chain restaurants
That is food anyone can get anytime at home. There are some really fantastic
places to eat in Chicago that offer great food and atmosphere. Your
tastebuds will thank you!
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