Illinois is not only famous for the University of Illinois State University (ISU) but also a treasure trove of diverse and unique cuisine. From Chicago-style deep-dish pizza to hearty Italian beef sandwiches, Illinois’s food scene is a fusion of tradition and innovation, offering unforgettable experiences for visitors. Let’s explore the must-try iconic dishes when you come to this state!
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is perhaps the most famous dish in Illinois. Unlike regular thin-crust pizza, Chicago pizza has a thick, high crust that forms a “pot” filled with cheese, tomato sauce, and various toppings.
Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with thick cheese and rich tomato sauce
Origin: This special pizza was born in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago. Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, the founders, wanted to create a different type of pizza, richer and more flavorful.
Flavor: Deep-dish pizza has a crispy crust, a rich filling of mozzarella cheese, a sweet and sour tomato sauce, and a variety of toppings such as Italian sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, and more. All combined create a hearty and satisfying dish.
Recommended places:
- Pizzeria Uno: The birthplace of the legendary deep-dish pizza.
- Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria: One of the most famous deep-dish pizza brands in Chicago, loved for its buttery crust and special Italian sausage topping.
- Giordano’s: A popular deep-dish pizza chain known for its “giant” layer of cheese.
Italian Beef Sandwich
The Italian beef sandwich is a popular street food in Chicago, made from thinly sliced beef, seasoned and simmered in a rich broth. The beef is then stuffed into a long French-style roll, served with sweet or hot peppers.
Italian beef sandwich with thinly sliced beef, sweet peppers, and flavorful gravy
How to enjoy: Italian beef sandwiches are often partially or fully dipped in the broth to enhance the flavor and tenderness. There are three popular ways to order:
- Dry: The sandwich is not dipped in broth.
- Wet: The sandwich is partially dipped in broth.
- Dipped: The sandwich is fully dipped in broth.
Recommended places:
- Al’s #1 Italian Beef: One of the oldest and most famous Italian beef sandwich shops in Chicago.
- Johnnie’s Beef: An Italian beef sandwich shop loved for its tender beef and flavorful broth.
- Portillo’s Hot Dogs: A restaurant chain famous for Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog is an iconic street food of this city. The dish consists of a Vienna beef sausage, placed in a poppy seed bun and topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.
Chicago-style hot dog with all the fresh toppings
Note: A “proper” Chicago-style hot dog never has ketchup!
Recommended places:
- Portillo’s Hot Dogs: A restaurant chain famous for Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
- Superdawg Drive-In: A classic hot dog stand with unique decor and distinctive flavor.
- Gene & Jude’s: A hot dog shop famous for its high-quality Vienna beef sausages.
Pierogi
Pierogi are dumplings of Eastern European origin, introduced to Illinois and becoming an indispensable part of the local cuisine. They are made from dough, filled with potatoes, cheese, meat, or cabbage, then boiled or fried.
How to enjoy: Pierogi are often served with sour cream, fried onions, or butter.
Recommended places:
- Smakosz Polish Deli: A Polish food store specializing in traditional pierogi.
- Red Apple Buffet: A Polish buffet restaurant with many signature dishes, including pierogi.
- Old Warsaw: A long-standing Polish restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and diverse menu.
Garrett Mix Popcorn
Garrett Mix Popcorn is a famous Chicago snack, created by Garrett Popcorn Shops. The treat is a combination of two types of popcorn: CaramelCrisp (caramel popcorn) and CheeseCorn (cheddar cheese popcorn).
Flavor: The combination of sweet caramel and savory cheese creates a unique and addictive flavor.
Recommended places:
- Garrett Popcorn Shops: The most famous popcorn chain in Chicago, with many locations throughout the city.
Conclusion
Illinois cuisine is a fascinating and surprising journey of discovery. Iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, pierogi, and Garrett Mix popcorn are not only delicious but also cultural symbols of this state. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy these dishes when you visit Illinois!