Best Budget Eats in Chicago, Illinois, United States

1. Portillo's Hot Dogs

Iconic Chicago hot dog spot offering classic dogs with all the fixings at reasonable prices.

Authenticity: Long-standing tradition in Chicago since 1963
Variety: More than just hot dogs; also offers Italian beef sandwiches and chocolate cake shakes
Location: Multiple locations throughout Chicago for convenience

Famous Michelin-starred chef Grant Achatz serving affordable street food at his pizza joint.

Celebrity Chef: Chef Grant Achatz's casual takeout counterpart of his high-end restaurant Alinea
Innovative Menu: Offers unique items like the famous pumpkin pie hot pocket and fried chicken sandwich
Affordability: High-quality food at a fraction of the cost of dining at Alinea itself

Italian market-driven small plates restaurant with an excellent wine list.

Fast-casual restaurant by Rick Bayless featuring fresh Mexican street food.

Celebrity Chef: Chef Rick Bayless's casual concept focused on authentic Mexican cuisine
Speed and Convenience: Quick service for busy travelers looking to grab a bite on the go
Affordability: High-quality food at budget-friendly prices

Steve Zimmerman's contemporary small plates restaurant with global flavors.

Celebrity Chef: James Beard Award-winning chef, Steve Zimmerman's signature spot
Small Plates: A variety of dishes to share and sample, perfect for groups or solo dining
Global Flavors: Inspired by flavors from around the world

Classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza served hot and delicious.

Deep Dish Style: Iconic Chicago pizza style with a buttery crust, gooey cheese, and saucy tomato sauce
Location: Multiple locations throughout the city for easy access
Value: Generous slices at affordable prices

Stylish cocktail bar serving artisanal cocktails in a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere.

Artisanal Cocktails: Creative and expertly crafted drinks with an emphasis on fresh ingredients
Atmosphere: Elegant, dimly-lit space reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy
Location: Located in the trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood

Romantic fine dining restaurant with stunning views of the city skyline.

Views: Unparalleled vistas of Chicago's iconic skyline
Fine Dining: Elevated cuisine and exceptional service for special occasions
Location: Located in the John Hancock Center, the second tallest building in Chicago

Classic ballpark hot dogs from iconic Wrigley Field.

Popular brunch spot with unique pancake and crepe flavors.

Southern-style barbecue with smoked meats and sides.

Authenticity: Bringing the flavors of the Deep South to Chicago
Variety: A wide selection of smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, and chicken
Location: Located in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood

Chef Stephanie Izard's famous burger from her restaurant.

Celebrity Chef: James Beard Award-winning chef, Stephanie Izard's signature dish
Quality Ingredients: High-quality beef and house-made buns
Location: Available at Girl & The Goat's restaurant, as well as its sibling spot Little Goat Diner

Iconic Chicago dessert featuring five flavors of ice cream on a single cone.

Authenticity: Chicago institution since 1949
Variety: Five unique flavors (pistachio, palmer house cream cheese, orange sherbet, strawberry, and chocolate) combined on a single cone
Location: Located in the Beverly neighborhood

Guided tour of Chicago's iconic deep dish and thin crust pizza spots.

Cultural Experience: Learn about the history and significance of Chicago-style pizza
Tasting Opportunities: Taste various styles of pizza at multiple locations throughout the city
Convenience: Organized tours for easy planning and accessibility

Guided food tour showcasing the city's diverse culinary offerings.

Cultural Experience: Discover Chicago's unique food culture and learn about its ethnic influences
Tasting Opportunities: Sample a variety of dishes from different cuisines throughout the city
Convenience: Organized tours for easy planning and accessibility