The Windy City has an appetite. In the winter, residents eat and drink to stave off the cold, but after months of snow and tundra-like temperatures, everyone rushes to eat outside when it gets above 60 degrees.
In a city that's often most closely associated with deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, some might be surprised that Chicago's dynamic dining has made it a culinary destination for well-traveled foodies. But this is a big city that feels small, thanks to hundreds of neighborhoods where you can find anything you want — from Polish to Thai.
Chicago's world-class dining scene features a slew of James Beard award-winning chefs and Michelin-rated restaurants (19 were awarded Michelin stars and 64 received Bib Gourmands in 2013). Even with a high-class culinary buffet of options, Chicagoans are still down-to-earth and love comfort foods, brunch places and all things pork.
ONLY IN CHICAGO: DEEP-DISH NIRVANA
Chicago's favorite deep dish pizza is always up for debate. Many prefer Lou Malnati's with its butter crust or Pequod's Pizza. But Giordano's has a great filling and a tasty sauce in a sloppy cheesy pie of deliciousness. Try the tropical delight with Canadian bacon and pineapple or get spinach and pepperoni mixed together. Most locations are touristy hot spots since locals typically order out rather than eating in.
