Exploring Chicago's Hidden Culinary Gems
Chicago is often associated with deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. However, this city has much more to offer, especially for those willing to venture beyond the popular tourist trails. Let's uncover some of Chicago's underrated food delights.
QXY Dumplings' Soup Dumplings
If you haven't tried soup dumplings, you're missing out. In Chinatown, a place called QXY Dumplings specializes in these savory delights. With a wide variety of flavors of soup dumplings on the menu, there's no need for anything else. Some fans have said that these are the best soup dumplings they've ever had, as each dumpling is filled with flavorful broth and perfectly seasoned filling, marking this spot as essential.
For pasta enthusiasts, Daisies is a hidden treasure that elevates this classic dish. Their menu offers unique ingredients and creative combinations. Their standout offerings include the bone marrow, black garlic, and onion on toast appetizer. With such a wide selection of pasta options, it's difficult to choose just one favorite. Don't forget to leave space for dessert – the gooey butter cake is a crowd favorite
Tavern Style Pizza
While deep-dish pizza might be Chicago's culinary hallmark, the lesser-known tavern-style pizza deserves your attention. This thin-crust pizza is crispy, cut into squares, and provides a perfect balance of toppings and cheese. Vito and Nick's is a prime example. Make sure to stop by on your next trip to Chicago.
The Classic Hot Dog
Chicago-style hot dogs are a cherished local staple, often overshadowed by the city's more renowned dishes. Whether you get one from Portillo's or a smaller spot like the now-closed Home Depot shack, you're in for a treat. Topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, and sport peppers on a poppy seed bun, each bite is a flavor burst.
Dessert in Chicago should not be missed, especially a classic like Portillo's chocolate cake made with a secret ingredient, mayonnaise. This cake is moist, rich, and incredibly decadent. If you're feeling especially hungry, try the cake shake, which features their famous chocolate cake blended with vanilla ice cream
Pilsen's Tacos
Chicago’s taco scene, particularly in the Pilsen neighborhood, is exceptional. Locations like 5 Rabanitos serve tacos that could compete with those from any traditional Mexican locale. Favorites include al pastor and cochinita pibil, best enjoyed with a skinny margarita. A local enthusiast proclaimed, "Our tacos are phenomenal. You have to go to Pilsen."
Chicago’s food scene extends far beyond its famed deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. From QXY's delicate soup dumplings to Pilsen's flavorful tacos, the city is brimming with hidden culinary treasures. On your next visit to Chicago, go beyond the usual and taste these underrated gems. You won't be disappointed.
