Discover Chicago Beyond the Famous Deep Dish Pizza

While many associate Chicago with the beloved deep dish pizza, the city is known for much more than its iconic pasta creations. From savory meat treats to unique ice cream flavors, Chicago has a diverse culinary landscape that offers a rich tapestry of tastes. This guide will explore some of the city's lesser-known delights, such as sausage sandwiches, Italian beef sandwiches, and the iconic Rainbow Cone.

Sausage Sandwiches: A Chicago Classic

One of the quintessential foods that bring Chicagoans to the city is the sausage sandwich. With a history dating back to the early 20th century, these sandwiches are a beloved local delicacy. Unlike the quick versions served at some chain restaurants, Chicago's sausage sandwiches are often handcrafted by local butchers in smokehouses situated in the city. These butchers take pride in their craftsmanship, ensuring that each sandwich is a handcrafted masterpiece.

Chicago has more historic butchers with smokehouses than any other city I have been to. These establishments are the heart of Chicago’s culinary heritage, offering a truly unique and authentic experience.

Chicago Style Hotdogs: A Grillers Delight

Despite originating in the United States, the Chicago style hotdog has its own distinct identity. Unlike the hot dogs you might find in New York or other cities, Chicago-style hotdogs are blessed with a sheen that makes them appear almost tube-like. They are spicy, juicy, and served on a long, soft hot dog roll with a loop of string for easy eating. The best hotdogs are served with a side of sauerkraut and onion.

The Rainbow Cone: An Irresistible Ice Cream Delight

For those with a sweet tooth, the Rainbow Cone is a must-try when visiting Chicago. This unique ice cream treat was invented by a local ice cream shop and has become a beloved local tradition. Located at just a handful of locations (including a couple of food trucks now), the Rainbow Cone offers a symphony of flavors in a single cone—chocolate, strawberry, cherry, nut, pistachio, and orange sherbet. The flavors are not just a combination but a carefully balanced blend that enhances each other's taste.

The Rainbow Cone is not a full meal but rather a delightful treat served in small sections within a larger cone. Each section is approximately half a scoop, making it the equivalent of about 2.5 scoops in total. Visitors can find creative descriptions of these scoops on the cone's website, which is both unique and endearing.

Italian Beef Sandwich: A Must-Visit for Meat Lovers

Another must-try in Chicago is the Italian beef sandwich. This sandwich is a true Chicago tradition and has been around since the 1930s. An Italian beef is a sandwich made with thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef, often simmered in a gravy known locally as "jus." This meat is perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The bread is typically a long Italian roll that is often either dipped or double-dipped into the jus to retain its moisture.

The sandwich is enhanced with a topping of giardiniera, a mixture of pickled vegetables. This combination of hot, savory beef and cool, tangy vegetables creates a perfect balance of flavors. Chicago-style Italian beef sandwiches are a staple at local diners and are a delight for anyone with a taste for hearty, flavorful meat dishes.

With such a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, Chicago offers more than just another day in the same old city. Whether you're a foodie or a casual visitor, you're sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.

Enjoy exploring these unique Chicago delicacies, and remember, every visit to the city is an opportunity to discover something new!