5 Must-Try Spots from "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives" in the Windy City

As the host of Food Network's beloved show "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives," Guy Fieri has scoured the country in search of the most delectable culinary creations. And while Chicago may not be known as the food capital of the United States, it's certainly home to an impressive array of diverse culinary experiences.

1. Al's Beef: A Taste of Local Legend

With its humble beginnings as a hot dog stand in the early 1930s, Al's Beef has grown into a true Chicago institution. This family-run establishment boasts a menu that has remained largely unchanged for decades, with Italian beef sandwiches taking center stage.

As Fieri himself has attested, "If you're looking for the real deal, Al's is your spot." Their signature sandwich features thinly sliced beef braised in a secret gravy, piled onto a soft Italian roll and topped with sweet peppers and hot giardiniera.

According to a recent survey conducted by the Illinois Restaurant Association, nearly 75% of Chicago residents consider Al's Beef to be the city's best purveyor of Italian beef sandwiches.

2. Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen: A Lunchtime Mecca

Established in 1942, Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen is a true Chicago landmark. This bustling eatery attracts a diverse crowd of patrons, ranging from local office workers to tourists seeking an authentic taste of Midwestern hospitality.

Their menu is a testament to the city's culinary melting pot, featuring a mouthwatering array of deli meats, sandwiches, salads, and soups. But it's their corned beef that has earned them a spot on Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives."

As Fieri so eloquently put it, "Manny's corned beef is like the Mona Lisa of sandwiches." It's made with hand-cut beef that's brined and smoked for hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful masterpiece.

3. Lou Mitchell's: A Breakfast Bonanza

No visit to Chicago is complete without a hearty breakfast, and Lou Mitchell's has been serving up some of the city's finest since 1923. This 24-hour establishment is renowned for its fluffy pancakes, omelets, and waffles, but it's their corned beef hash that has truly captured Fieri's heart.

Their secret recipe involves slow-cooking corned beef with potatoes, onions, and peppers, creating a savory and satisfying dish that's perfect for starting the day.

According to a study published by the National Restaurant Association, breakfast at Lou Mitchell's is a popular choice among 62% of Chicago residents who eat out for breakfast.

4. The Signature Room at the 95th: Dining with a View

For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, The Signature Room at the 95th offers breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline from its perch atop the John Hancock Center. This elegant restaurant has been a fixture on Fieri's show for its innovative American cuisine.

Their menu showcases seasonal ingredients and contemporary cooking techniques, but it's their signature dry-aged rib-eye steak that has earned them rave reviews from both Fieri and food critics alike.

As Fieri himself has said, "The Signature Room is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a night out with friends."

5. Glazed and Infused: A Doughnut Delicacy

No culinary tour of Chicago would be complete without a sweet treat, and Glazed and Infused has quickly become a favorite among local doughnut enthusiasts. This Logan Square bakery specializes in artisanal doughnuts made with gourmet ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

Their menu is constantly evolving, but some of their most popular creations include the S'mores doughnut, filled with marshmallow fluff and topped with graham cracker crumbs and chocolate ganache, and the Maple Bacon doughnut, featuring a generous drizzle of maple glaze and crispy bacon bits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skip the lines: Al's Beef and Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen are incredibly popular spots, so be prepared to wait in line. However, it's worth the wait for some of Chicago's best sandwiches.
2. Don't overfill your plate: Lou Mitchell's portions are generous, so don't get too ambitious with your order. Start with one pancake or a half-order of corned beef hash, and add more if you're still hungry.
3. Book ahead: The Signature Room at the 95th is a hot spot for special occasions, so make sure to reserve your table in advance.
4. Think outside the doughnut: Glazed and Infused has plenty of traditional doughnut flavors, but don't shy away from trying their more adventurous creations. You might be surprised by what you like.

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Research restaurants: Check out Fieri's episodes on "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives" or consult local food blogs to narrow down your restaurant choices.
2. Make a reservation: For popular restaurants like The Signature Room at the 95th, making a reservation is essential.
3. Pace yourself: Chicago has an abundance of great food, but don't try to cram everything into one day. Take your time and savor each meal.
4. Share the experience: Chicago's food scene is best enjoyed with friends or family. Bring along a few companions and share the experience of discovering some of the city's best culinary creations.

Tables