The most prominent Jewish deli in Chicago has operated for eight decades and though it received a facelift in 2016, little else about the experience has changed. Grab a tray and get in line, because the food is served cafeteria-style. The reason to come here is the famous corned beef, generously piled high on rye bread, but other standouts include the pastrami, potato pancakes and matzah ball soup. No matter what you order, you’re certain to leave full and satisfied.
Chicago’s incredible wealth of restaurants make the city a world-class dining destination—and although buzzy newcomers get much of the attention, it’s the longstanding spots that keep the city fueled and running. Some of them are among the best restaurants in Chicago, while others are humble hot dog stands and ice cream shops. They’ve all been around for decades (or more than a century in a few cases) and are classic time capsules that belong on the dining bucket lists of both locals and tourists alike. You'll find that several of Chicago’s most famous dishes are represented, like Italian beef, the Polish sausage and rib tips. There’s even a James Beard-recognized seafood shack that smokes its own fish on site, as well as a prohibition-era cocktail lounge once frequented by Al Capone. So start mapping out a route, because this guide to the most iconic restaurants in Chicago will take you everywhere from Norwood Park to South Deering.
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