
Foodie Road Trips Across the World in Chicago, Illinois, United States
1. Girl & The Goat
A Michelin-starred restaurant known for innovative small plates using local ingredients.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from Chicago's local farms
- Small Plates Concept: An opportunity to taste a variety of dishes in small portions
- Innovative Cuisine: Creative twists on classic American and European dishes
2. Alinea
A modernist restaurant with a multi-course tasting menu that pushes culinary boundaries.
- Experimental Cuisine: Cutting-edge dishes using science and molecular gastronomy
- Multi-Course Tasting Menu: A unique dining experience with multiple courses showcasing the chef's creativity
- Upscale Dining Experience: An elegant and sophisticated atmosphere for a special occasion
3. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Famous for its Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with buttery crust and gooey cheese.
- Chicago-Style Deep Dish: A thick, saucy pizza with a layer of cheese on the bottom crust
- Generous Portions: Large slices perfect for sharing or taking home for later
- Iconic Chicago Experience: A taste of Chicago's culinary heritage and culture
4. The Purple Pig
An Italian-inspired restaurant offering a variety of charcuterie, cheese, and wine.
- Charcuterie and Cheese Selection: A wide range of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and accompaniments
- Wine List: Extensive wine list featuring Italian and international wines
- Casual Atmosphere: A lively, convivial environment for a relaxed dining experience
5. Smoky Nutmeg
A spice shop and café specializing in global flavors and Indian cuisine.
- Global Spices: Rare and exotic spices from around the world
- Indian Cuisine: Authentic dishes prepared with fresh, aromatic spices
- Café and Workspace: A cozy café and workspace for travelers and foodies alike
6. Frontera Grill
Chef Rick Bayless' flagship restaurant featuring modern Mexican cuisine.
- Modern Mexican Cuisine: Innovative dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Cantina Next: A separate dining area offering inventive taco creations
- Cooking Classes and Demos: Opportunities to learn about Mexican cooking techniques and traditions
7. Au Cheval
Famous for its cheeseburgers, shakes, and extensive beer list.
- Cheeseburger Legend: One of the best burgers in Chicago, if not the country
- Extensive Beer List: Over 50 draft and bottled beers from around the world
- Long Wait Times: Plan ahead for potential long waits, but worth it for the food
8. The Signature Room at the 95th
A high-end dining experience with panoramic views of Chicago's skyline.
- Skyline Views: Breathtaking, unobstructed views of the city below
- Upscale Dining Experience: An elegant, refined atmosphere for a special occasion
- French-Inspired Cuisine: Classic French dishes with a modern twist
9. Chicago Diner
A vegetarian and vegan restaurant known for its comfort food classics.
- Comfort Food Vegan Style: Familiar dishes made vegan, with no compromises on flavor
- Classic Diner Atmosphere: A retro diner setting with booths and counter service
- Breakfast All Day: Enjoy favorite breakfast dishes any time of the day
10. Jitlada Thai Restaurant
A long-standing Thai restaurant known for its authentic dishes and spice levels.
- Authentic Thai Cuisine: Traditional recipes with bold flavors and heat
- Spicy Food Lovers Paradise: Dishes can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness
- Friendly Service: Warm, welcoming service from the knowledgeable staff
11. Chicago Food Planet
A food tour company offering walking tours of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods.
- Diverse Neighborhood Tours: Explore different areas of the city, tasting local favorites
- Knowledgeable Guides: Expert guides share insights into Chicago's food history and culture
- Small Group Tours: Intimate group sizes for a more personalized experience
12. Sweet Mandy's
A chocolate and confectionery shop with European-inspired sweets.
- European Confections: Gourmet chocolates, truffles, and pastries inspired by Europe
- Artisanal Quality: Handcrafted confections made with premium ingredients
- Tasting Room and Café: A cozy café to enjoy sweet treats, tea, or coffee
13. The Violet Hour
A cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe and craft cocktails made by mixologists.
- Craft Cocktails: Artfully designed drinks using high-quality ingredients
- Speakeasy Atmosphere: A covert, underground bar with dim lighting and vintage decor
- Small Plates Menu: Accompaniments to complement the cocktails and enhance the experience
14. The Waffle Calamity
A food truck specializing in unique waffle sandwiches with savory or sweet fillings.
- Unique Waffle Sandwiches: Creative, mouthwatering combinations of ingredients
- Food Truck Experience: A fun, casual dining experience on the go
- Seasonal Menu: Rotating menu items inspired by the seasons and local produce
15. Brown Sugar Bakery
A bakery specializing in Southern-style pastries, cakes, and breads.
- Southern Comfort Food: Delicious, homemade sweets reminiscent of the South
- Custom Cakes: Beautifully designed cakes for any occasion
- Warm, Welcoming Atmosphere: A friendly, inviting space to enjoy sweet treats and coffee