The full story
Treat Chicago food as a set of traditions, not a contest between famous dishes. Deep-dish pizza is a substantial, slow meal; order it when you want dinner to be the event. Thin, square-cut tavern-style pizza better reflects the casual neighborhood experience. A Chicago-style hot dog layers mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers and celery salt on a poppy-seed bun, while an Italian beef sandwich is defined by seasoned jus and a choice of sweet or hot peppers. Beyond those icons, Polish, Mexican, Chinese, South Asian, Black Southern and many other communities shape the city's restaurant geography. Choose one meal near your planned sights and another in a neighborhood worth exploring on foot. Check current hours and reservation policies directly, since individual businesses change. The best food plan leaves space for a bakery, market or counter-service stop discovered between larger attractions.