I fell in love with Chicago years before I knew I was going to attend ICO. As the big move to Chicago nears, I am getting excited for the food. Chicago is renowned for their famous foods, such as Chicago-style hot dogs and Chicago-style pizzas. And there are three reasons my stomach grumbles in excitement about my new adventure in Chicago that I would like to share.
1. When you’re in Chicago, you’d better try some authentic Chicago-style pizza. And I think they mastered it at Pizzeria Uno. While they have other things on their menu, such as burgers and mouth-watering desserts, people go there for the deep-dish pizza. At least that is what makes my family return to the little restaurant on 29 E. Ohio. The restaurant is smaller than its franchise locations. However, it is a must. The serving sizes are huge and you can easily share a small pizza with three people.
2. Topo Gigio has some of the best pasta I’ve ever had. My absolute favorite dish is Tortellini alla Panna, which is pasta with cream sauce, mushrooms, pancetta, sweet peas and Parmigianino reggiano cheese. This dish actually makes my mouth water just thinking about it (which never happens when I think of pasta). It is found in the heart of historic Old Town at 1516 N Wells Street. It’s also a perfect place to eat before you see a show at Second City. Make sure to check out all the photos and autographs of celebrities that have eaten there before you.
3. People in Minnesota love hot dishes and comfort food. I am particularly true to this stereotype because I love mashed potatoes and all other home-style cooking, which is probably why my favorite restaurant in Chicago is the Elephant and Castle. There are currently five in Canada and 10 in the United States, three of which are in Chicago. It is an English-based restaurant with some of the best comfort foods in Chicago (that I have found thus far). They have stuffed Yorkshire pudding, bacon-wrapped meatloaf, fish & chips, plus some awesome steak! So if anyone is missing their mother’s home-style cooking, or just wants to eat a hefty meal to keep you warm in the middle of winter, then head over to the Elephant and Castle…and make sure to bring me with you.