As someone who will probably never leave Africa to see all these cities i really appreciate your work in showing me the flavours, sites and sounds of the US. Excellent content. Thank you.
Born and raised in Chicago. It was an amazing place to grow up in; world class food, culture, architecture and people. Everyone should visit at least once, for at least a week. Da best!❤
We honeymooned in the states from Ireland starting in Chicago, (memphis-new orleans-nashville) and it was by far my favourite of the 4 places. Loved it so much we cut nashville short to go back there. Wish i had have seen this video first to try some of these places, although all the food i ate was pretty good! Guess ill just have to go back
What's crazy is that there are people who live in and around the city who are scared of it because of the news. In general, it is a very safe and vibrant city. I've moved closer and closer to it as I've gotten older and I appreciate it a lot more. There is so much to try and experience that a year wouldn't give you enough time to try it all. Appreciate you showing some of the positive aspects of the city to your audience 🙏
I wasn’t trying to make it out to seem like crime doesn’t happen in Chicago. It obviously does. But it also happens in every major metropolitan city in the world. Are there gangs, shootings, etc? Yes. Are there good aspects to the city as well? Yes
I grew up on the southwest side of Chicago and the Maxwell St polish at Jims Original was outstanding. Absolutely prefer it over a Chicago dog. As others suggest, an in person visit to a neighborhood stand will be a better experience. Thanks for giving Chicago the love it deserves. Let us help you pick places on your next visit. We guard our favorites. You will not be disappointed.
Best things about your content - honest reviews, no pretentious bullshit, and you pick quality spots. Good on ya, chef.... looking forward to a Philly tour.
Thanks. I try to take most if not all of my suggestions from followers, that way if it ends up being shit its *technically* not my fault. Admittedly, some of my choices are not always the best, and made out of pure laziness. I like showing good or bad, mom and pop or chain, touristy or local....
@@chefreactionsNo. You have something special! Your pieces get better and better. I thought you stepped up the production on this one. Just a small lighting glitch in one part. Keep up this work!!! You are great at it!!! People ALL OVER THE WORLD enjoy you!!!
Thanks for the post. Lifelong Chicagoan who loves my City. It truly is a beautiful place that yes, has its issues. Next time thin crust pizza- it it SO GOOD HERE! Deep dish is tourist food. 🙂 The Architectural River Tour is a great experience too, as it provides such a different perspective. But with only 72 hours, I think you saw a lot of great stuff. And Wrigley is such a classic and true must see. Totally agree.
It was 1984…and the crew of mostly Mexicans I worked with stopped at a burrito joint that had a sister restaurant directly across the street, half the crew went in one direction and half the other. The lines were long but when I tasted the burrito I understood why, it was unlike any I had before. No beans, lettuce, tomato, or cheap steak, this was a burrito filled with marinated skirt steak of a higher quality grilled over a flame and garnished by a mixture of green salsa, onions, and cilantro. First bite was unforgettable, a new experience, by the third bite my eyes were watering from the heat. It was delicious and something I have returned for whenever in that area of Chicago. Wicker Park was run down back in ‘84 yet today it has experienced a renaissance as the trendy neighborhood and La Pasadita is still there after all these years, thank god. Go visit if coming to Chicago or if living here and wanting the best taco/burrito you will ever have.
Chef! Glad you came to our city. For your next visit, the best polish sausage spot in Chicago is Jims Original. Order from a street side window, eat standing up, with the skyline in the background. Best polish and best experience in Chicago.
Thanks for making this video! Everyone I invite to Chicago falls in love with it and I'm glad to hear you did too! Next time though, for the love of god, please leave downtown and the northside and go to other neighborhoods to try different cuisines and restaurants. Cool people and great food all over the city!
Just spent a long weekend for my wedding anniversary in Chicago, absolutely love the city and the incredible food scene. Cannot recommend Giant enough for next time you're in there. Also if you're ever up for a trip to Cincinati, can't recommend it enough. So many good food options.
Chicago is hands down my favorite "big" U.S. city, great atmosphere, architecture, music, and the FOOD! It's amazing that Lincoln Park zoo is free, happy you plugged donating. Visited in every season, fall and spring are the best. Had the best meal of my life at Prime & Provisions last year. Anyone telling you Chi is oddly violent, has never been there. Can't wait for another visit from Chef, I'd suggest hitting up "Chinatown" next time. 10/10
Born in Chicago, but now live in UK (thanks Dad!) Miss that place so much and don't get back enough. Just from your video i can see how much it's changed but loved your whistlestop tour!
I'm from the border of the city and just came back from a trip to Seattle with family. All my mom was doing was making jokes to people out there when they found out we were from Chicago about how "dangerous" and "dirty" the city is. She hasn't been to the city in years, I frequent it. Chicago is full of good people, good food, good sights, good vibes. Every big city is going to have its ups and downs. Thank you for highlighting what a wonderful city Chicago is!
Giardiniera as a pizza topping is one of the unsung heroes of Chicago cuisine. Sausage, onion and giardiniera on a hand-tossed crust... it's just a fantastic combo. If making it at home, you do really have to pat dry the giardiniera, though, or you get a hell of a soggy pizza.
Chef! I LOVE Chicago. I used to live there. Next time you go, I'd be happy to give you some recommendations. Whatever ethnic food you can imagine, you can probably find it there. And it's a phenomenal food city. Vietnamese, Szechuan, S Asian, etc... AND I'm a Texan, and some of the BEST Al Pastor tacos I've had in the US are in Chicago. Love your content Chef. Keep it coming.
I like a voiceover for meal impressions. No need to disturb other diners. Chicago does get a bad rap for being dangerous. It's like all the hate that Seattle is suddenly getting. *eye roll* In other cities most of the best views and beautiful spots in the city are reserved for the wealthy. But in Chicago the lakefront is full of beautiful public spaces everyone can enjoy. Pequod's pizza looked scrumptious as usual. Ann Sathers was another solid choice! If I could have made some recommendations, I would have steered you to Elmwood Park and Johnnie's Italian Beef. Maxwell Street has a soild pork chop sandwich. OH and I'd love to take you around Chinatown and all the solid choices there! Ramen, dumplings, hot pot, you name it, they got it. ^_^ Love the video! Glad you had such a good time in Chicago!
I think we're comparing apples to oranges. Seattle is suddenly getting hate because of rampant crime and drug problems that are being ignored. But I wouldn't recommend him try a mother in law from fat Johnny's
Glad you enjoyed! Great city and great food scene. Lived there for several years and miss it. Definitely recommend Avec, Girl & The Goat, and Tanta when you go back!
Don't sweat calling Ann Sather "Ann Sather's" because in Chicago we needlessly pluralize everything anyway. The grocery chain Jewel - Jewel's; Soldier Field = Soldier's Field, and the most egregious of them all, Lurie Children's Hospital = "Lurie's" which makes it sound like an ice cream shop or something. Portillo's, like everything else, was better before Private Equity bought it. Sadly. Good video. Come to the south side next time!
I love these videos, your theme song lives rent free in my head. “Ten outta ten, I’d eat the whole damn thing”. I’m in Portland, Or, we’ve gotten a bad rap or two, but I love my city. ❤
I've never heard it pronounced SAY-ther, and I've lived in Chicago all of my life! Other than that? Excellent video. Chicago is a beautiful city and you did it justice.
Looks amazing! Chicago is giving me Melbourne, Australia vibes with the water, parks, architecture etc. I hope one of us Aussies sponsors you to come down here so you can roast (or appreciate) our food.
@@chefreactions we would welcome you with open arms!! Hahaha I don’t know anyone who drinks Fosters. I think this is like a great international marketing campaign to drink Fosters. If you order one anywhere, they probably won’t have it. Drink the beer that’s brewed by the state: Tasmania: Boags/Cascade Victoria: VB (or some hipster craft beer if you’re feeling fancy) NSW: Tooheys QLD: XXXX South Australia: Coopers? Western Australia: who knows? Also, I’ve never cooked shrimp on the barbie, literally only shitty sausages and onions. Get a Bunnings sausage for a true BBQ experience.
Chicago, and the surrounding suburb area, is a place I would consider the following: "If you leave hungry, that's your own damn fault." So many great food places either everyone knows or very few are privileged to experience. Can't wait for you to come back and experience more things out here. Only thing I suggest, which is kinda obvious but still needs to be said, avoid the Chicago area like the plague during winter. Spring and fall are the best times to come out here, summer also with the various food fests. Try to come during the Taste of Chicago. Love what you do, keep doing what you love!
Chef!! I work at Roister....well....did. I actually live a 15 minute walk to that Ann Sather you went to. Love the... strategic angling while talking about the restaurant. Considering what's across the street.
I come from Sydney Australia and got a homely feel in Chicago - loved it (but also loved NYC, soooo) Thanks for the awesome content Mr and Mrs Reactions 🤘
Loved it, great choices as a starter with only a few days. Next time back though you gotta go to Ricobene's steak sandwich is insane and been named the top sandwich is the US by several publications
0:51 thank you so much for this nothing irritates me more than hearing this. Chicago is just like any big city and has its share of crimes. Been living here for 7 years so far and have never experienced any violence. Anyone who is reading this please come!! Especially in the Summer it’s the best time trust me!!
Love your video's especially your short instagrams always puts a smile on my face and a laugh and you swear ( curse ) like an Aussie Cheers from Australia 😂👏
😂🤣🤣😂😂 "First off..." @ 9:09 Awesome video. It was very entertaining, and I will always love your sense of humor when reviewing food. Keep up the great work man!
As someone who has lived in the Chicago area for 28 years (aka my whole life), I feel qualified to offer my two cents here... Specifically on the pizza and Portillo's/street food... because I'm a middle class suburbanite who has as much experience with Michelin-rated Chicago restaurants as a native Siberian... but goddammit I sure as hell know pizza and greasy street food... As far as pizza, you really can't go wrong with any of the local favorites... But, although I love a good deep dish (or the occasional Nancy's stuffed variety - locals know) as much as the next guy... I'm by far most familiar with Chicago's lesser known thin crust pizza (which I imagine most natives are as well)... Though deep dish is Chicago's iconic pizza tradition, I'd wager most locals will agree that they've downed more thin crust than deep dish in their lifetimes... And as a testament to that, there are only a handful of restaurants trusted for deep dish - most of which have since expanded outside of Chicago (Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, Gino's East - with Pequod's being an exception) - but any old, hole-in-the-wall pizza joint worth its salt within 20 miles of city limits, is a trustworthy source for Chicago-style thin crust... I recommend trying that if you visit again... As for Portillo's, swap that "Chicago-style" hot dog (which, like Chicago thin pizza, any local place can match) for an italian beef sandwich, with optional sweet (green bell) or hot (giardiniera) peppers (I go for both)... Like a Chicago dog, any local street food joint will also offer an italian beef... Except, unlike the hot dog, none of them can match the Portillo's beef... In fact, every other italian beef sandwich I've ever had (and I've had many) has tasted virtually the same... and though I've enjoyed them all, none have ever compared to a Portillo's italian beef... it's the only one that stands apart, and is the platonic ideal of this sandwich... As for hot dogs, swap that "Chicago-style / Vienna(beef, not the city)-style" hot dog for a simpler, humbler "Depression dog" from the one and only Gene & Jude's... Considering your review of the kitchen sink Chicago dog, I have no doubt you will appreciate the more minimalist approach of this undoubtedly superior specimen... I can't remember the last time I got a full-on Chicago dog from Portillo's... I'd sooner go to Mickey's (Villa Park, IL) for one of those... But whenever I make the sacred pilgrimage to Gene & Jude's, there is nothing on my mind but hot dogs... I am in a transcendental state, and my mantra is "hot dog"... Some friendly notes for next time :) Otherwise job well done
You definitely need a week or more here! I'm a Chicagoan through and through. As soon as I open my mouth and speak everyone knows I'm from Chicago! There are so many food spots that you need to see. You hit the big ones, Alinea, Ann Sather, and Billy Goat but that's just a little tip of the beat. Oh by the way an entire video on Alinea would be totally worth watching!! Next time a real Chicago Italian Beef and Giardinera sandwich is a Must! Vito & Nick's pizza as well as Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder. 2 different pizza styles but both incredible. Kuma's Corner is a must stop for amazing burgers in an eclectic setting. North Pond is a farm to table experience located right on the grounds of Lincoln Park. For a culinary virtuoso like yourself its a must see! The Chicago Cut and Gibson's Steakhouse are prime steak outfits that are positively outstanding. Third Coast Coffee house is an out of the way little coffee house under a magnificent building with upscale apartments. The coffee house is open to the public and is tasty!! Chinatown is a trip unto itself and anywhere you pick to eat there will not disappoint. Entertainment is abundant in Chicago and a couple of excellent shows include Blue Man Group and the Second City Comedy spot. The Weiners Circle is where you should hit up for amazing hotdogs and Chicago vibes next time you're here. It's in Lincoln Park and the hotdogs are phenomenal. They have amazing good old fashioned shakes too and you get them by asking. They aren't advertised on the menu. Oh there is so much more in this amazing town to see. The culinary department at Kendall College has a beautiful restaurant completely commandered by its students. So start planning your next trip, you have lots to do here still!!!
Been waiting for you to post this video of my hometown! ❤ Great as usual. Portillos is really the dominoes of beef places back home. Don’t get me wrong, when it’s all I have now that I live in SoCal I’ll take it. But Al’s Beef right across from Wrigley is my fav! Maybe for your next visit
Been waiting for this video. Thanks for the high marks for my hometown - it’s such a beautiful city! As others have said…the one thing you missed is a the iconic Italian Beef Sandwich. Hard to find a bad one anywhere. Do come back.
He even makes a reference to "The Bear", which was all about the Chicago beef. If I had one meal it would be an Italian beef, dipped, double sweet peppers (no giardinera) with ketchup. HEAVEN.
Saw Barry Binds hit two homers at Wrigley. Was sitting near the third base line…I’ll never forgot that trip to Chicago. One of my favorite cities I’ve ever been to.
Love the call out meta edit. "I am going to pause to check if there are multiple locations..." You are showing your desire to be as accurate as possible while not pretending to know everything. Your humbleness between chucklef*cks is refreshing. I also love that you did not rank Alinea. That would have been pretentious. And you are never that.
I didn't even know how to pronounce the name of the restaurant properly either. I do very little research (OBVIOUSLY) and my ratings are purely subjective.
Looks amazing and it’s on my list. I always eat at a McDonalds in every foreign city I visit, partly because I want to see if it really is different, and partly because after a couple of weeks I need something “familiar “ if that makes sense. Great video chef 🎉😊
I attended the National Restaurant Association Show back in 2012. Absolutely loved Chicago! Great food, people were friendly. The food show itself was insanely huge.
Thank you for posting a positive and quite accurate video of Chicago. We love the city and there is so much to see and do. Jealous that you experienced Alinea - hope to go there someday. Thank you!
Excited that you came to Chicago and made this fun video. Sad you did Portillo's, I hope you had other good things that are more uniquely Chicago, like a Jibartito!
I grew up a few blocks from Alinea and went to the Lincoln Park Zoo weekly as a small child. Absolutely world-class Zoo, for free, a 5 minute walk from the beach and just a few minute's ride to downtown. But the best thing about Chicago is the food
You did it BIG!! Im from Chicago, living in Florida now (8 years). We spend 2-3 weeks every summer doing the Chicago food tour. Still not enough time.I prefer the Maxwell St. Polish over the Chicago Dog, too!! Next time you come, definitely hit Ricobene's for their infamous Breaded Steak Sangwich with Hot Giardiniera 🔥 11 out of 10
Every year, as a child, we used to go to Chicago to see Christmas decorations on State Street. As an adult woeking for the VA, we took patients to at lwast 1 CUBS game/year. Good times
I'm glad you mentioned the “danger factor”. I am from a small town, but I travel. I went to Chicago alone (::gasp::) in March and walked around the whole downtown alone. I didn't feel threatened or scared. When I got back, I had a friend message me and ask me if I felt in danger or anything - and she lives in the Chicago suburbs! Like you said, if you do stupid stuff, you'll get stupid results. I also go to NYC at least once a year and explore alone.
My guy you gotta return and stay at least a week!! Don’t be afraid to visit other places in the daylight that aren’t connected to downtown as well. I would no doubt recommend you return during the summer tho homie. So many events and the entire region is bustling!!! Chi - Town
Hell yea. I love my city! The best food ever! So many diverse neighborhoods from china town, little india, little village for Mexicans cuisine and Humboldt park for puerto rican food. There are just sooo many cuisines. Im so lucky to be here. Dont neglect the south side too!
Next time you're in Chicago, checkout the neighborhoods of Hyde Park & Bronzeville. There's lots of historical sites in BOTH areas, and the food spots are Top Notch. 😀
Pequod's - My FAVORITE "Chicago style" pizza! Chicago native, suburban raised, currently displaced to our northern neighbor and seriously missing my hometown eats! Love the fact you decided not to be a Jagoff while eating! (Jagoff - Only ever heard in/around Chicago!) You said "Chucklefuck" which I think I've only heard once before, also in/around Chicago. I totally love that you pretty much stuck to the North Side and downtown. Pequod's, Ann Sather, Lincoln Park, Cubs... My son was offered a scholarship to a prestigious school of music back East but chose to go to Columbia College because: Chicago! What can I say, I love my city, my son fell in love with his adopted city. It's in our blood. We hate the politics but we love the city and its people. There's just nothing like it anywhere I've lived or visited. I get there and immediately get this rush of: "I'm home!" Hope you do get a chance to spend more time in my favorite city and to experience the wide range of foods, cultures, and experiences the city has to offer. It's an amazing city that I simply can't say enough about.
As someone who will probably never leave Africa to see all these cities i really appreciate your work in showing me the flavours, sites and sounds of the US. Excellent content. Thank you.
Appreciate that! Maybe I'll make my way over to Africa one day.
@@chefreactionsYou should! The Ethiopian food I had in Chicago was amazing and I'm sure it's even better in the motherland
Born and raised in Chicago. It was an amazing place to grow up in; world class food, culture, architecture and people. Everyone should visit at least once, for at least a week. Da best!❤
Been many times. Love it.
He didn't even eat an Italian beef!!!
We honeymooned in the states from Ireland starting in Chicago, (memphis-new orleans-nashville) and it was by far my favourite of the 4 places. Loved it so much we cut nashville short to go back there. Wish i had have seen this video first to try some of these places, although all the food i ate was pretty good! Guess ill just have to go back
Stan's? Nooooooo! Walk a couple blocks and try Do-Rite Donuts. Perfection
accurate
What's crazy is that there are people who live in and around the city who are scared of it because of the news. In general, it is a very safe and vibrant city. I've moved closer and closer to it as I've gotten older and I appreciate it a lot more. There is so much to try and experience that a year wouldn't give you enough time to try it all. Appreciate you showing some of the positive aspects of the city to your audience 🙏
I wasn’t trying to make it out to seem like crime doesn’t happen in Chicago. It obviously does. But it also happens in every major metropolitan city in the world. Are there gangs, shootings, etc? Yes. Are there good aspects to the city as well? Yes
I grew up on the southwest side of Chicago and the Maxwell St polish at Jims Original was outstanding. Absolutely prefer it over a Chicago dog. As others suggest, an in person visit to a neighborhood stand will be a better experience. Thanks for giving Chicago the love it deserves. Let us help you pick places on your next visit. We guard our favorites. You will not be disappointed.
As a Chicago kid at heart, I always love seeing a Kukoc jersey. TK will always be my favorite Bull
The Waiter!
Best things about your content - honest reviews, no pretentious bullshit, and you pick quality spots. Good on ya, chef.... looking forward to a Philly tour.
Thanks. I try to take most if not all of my suggestions from followers, that way if it ends up being shit its *technically* not my fault. Admittedly, some of my choices are not always the best, and made out of pure laziness.
I like showing good or bad, mom and pop or chain, touristy or local....
My dude. You are filling the void left when we lost Anthony Bourdain; that real honest opinion that we all want to hear. Keep it up!
I'm like if Bourdain were an idiot instead of a genius.
@@chefreactionsNo. You have something special!
Your pieces get better and better. I thought you stepped up the production on this one. Just a small lighting glitch in one part.
Keep up this work!!!
You are great at it!!!
People ALL OVER THE WORLD enjoy you!!!
Thanks for the post. Lifelong Chicagoan who loves my City. It truly is a beautiful place that yes, has its issues. Next time thin crust pizza- it it SO GOOD HERE! Deep dish is tourist food. 🙂 The Architectural River Tour is a great experience too, as it provides such a different perspective. But with only 72 hours, I think you saw a lot of great stuff.
And Wrigley is such a classic and true must see. Totally agree.
Chicago is the cleanest big city I've ever been to.
Going hard in the paint with the Tony Kukoc jersey. Nice! Thanks for showing off our beautiful city.
I friggin love this guy. Found him on Twitter, so happy to find him on TH-cam. He’s Croatian to boot! Brother Croatian 🇭🇷
I’m a NYC area guy and Chicago is my favorite city. Thanks chef!
It was 1984…and the crew of mostly Mexicans I worked with stopped at a burrito joint that had a sister restaurant directly across the street, half the crew went in one direction and half the other. The lines were long but when I tasted the burrito I understood why, it was unlike any I had before. No beans, lettuce, tomato, or cheap steak, this was a burrito filled with marinated skirt steak of a higher quality grilled over a flame and garnished by a mixture of green salsa, onions, and cilantro. First bite was unforgettable, a new experience, by the third bite my eyes were watering from the heat. It was delicious and something I have returned for whenever in that area of Chicago. Wicker Park was run down back in ‘84 yet today it has experienced a renaissance as the trendy neighborhood and La Pasadita is still there after all these years, thank god. Go visit if coming to Chicago or if living here and wanting the best taco/burrito you will ever have.
Thanks for speaking so highly about my wonderful hometown! Next time, you have to go to The Publican -- absolutely amazing place.
Chef! Glad you came to our city. For your next visit, the best polish sausage spot in Chicago is Jims Original. Order from a street side window, eat standing up, with the skyline in the background. Best polish and best experience in Chicago.
I can't wait to come back. Actually I can.... till spring at least.
Thanks for making this video! Everyone I invite to Chicago falls in love with it and I'm glad to hear you did too! Next time though, for the love of god, please leave downtown and the northside and go to other neighborhoods to try different cuisines and restaurants. Cool people and great food all over the city!
yeah will do. only had a limited amount of time so had to make the best of it
Thank you for highlighting the beauty of our city. Come back soon
will be back *after winter*
Just spent a long weekend for my wedding anniversary in Chicago, absolutely love the city and the incredible food scene.
Cannot recommend Giant enough for next time you're in there.
Also if you're ever up for a trip to Cincinati, can't recommend it enough. So many good food options.
Cinci is on the list. Gotta try that chilli that people say is awesome/gross
@@chefreactions Boston transplant living in Cincinnati. I absolutely love the chili.
I love the opening! SMALL TOWN= LIMITED EXPERIENCES. Chicago is on my bucket list!! Great post!
great town
I absolutely love living in this city. It has become my favorite city and feel very lucky to be here.
Always stop at Ann Sather when visiting our daughter. And I get the cinnamon roll as a side! And love the realism (not overly produced) of your video.
Chicago is hands down my favorite "big" U.S. city, great atmosphere, architecture, music, and the FOOD! It's amazing that Lincoln Park zoo is free, happy you plugged donating. Visited in every season, fall and spring are the best. Had the best meal of my life at Prime & Provisions last year. Anyone telling you Chi is oddly violent, has never been there. Can't wait for another visit from Chef, I'd suggest hitting up "Chinatown" next time. 10/10
From Chicago my whole life and there is a shooting every 7 hours and a murder every 15 hours. How is that not violent? Carjacking up 300% 😢
The south is far more dangerous than Chicago. Florida is full of crazies.
Born in Chicago, but now live in UK (thanks Dad!) Miss that place so much and don't get back enough. Just from your video i can see how much it's changed but loved your whistlestop tour!
Next time get the Italian beef dipped with sweet peppers and a chocolate malt at Portillo's 😊
I'm from the border of the city and just came back from a trip to Seattle with family. All my mom was doing was making jokes to people out there when they found out we were from Chicago about how "dangerous" and "dirty" the city is. She hasn't been to the city in years, I frequent it. Chicago is full of good people, good food, good sights, good vibes. Every big city is going to have its ups and downs. Thank you for highlighting what a wonderful city Chicago is!
Oh hell yeah, warm me up, windy city. Sweet production! Loving this.
thank you
Giardiniera as a pizza topping is one of the unsung heroes of Chicago cuisine.
Sausage, onion and giardiniera on a hand-tossed crust... it's just a fantastic combo. If making it at home, you do really have to pat dry the giardiniera, though, or you get a hell of a soggy pizza.
Chef! I LOVE Chicago. I used to live there. Next time you go, I'd be happy to give you some recommendations. Whatever ethnic food you can imagine, you can probably find it there. And it's a phenomenal food city. Vietnamese, Szechuan, S Asian, etc... AND I'm a Texan, and some of the BEST Al Pastor tacos I've had in the US are in Chicago.
Love your content Chef. Keep it coming.
I like a voiceover for meal impressions. No need to disturb other diners. Chicago does get a bad rap for being dangerous. It's like all the hate that Seattle is suddenly getting. *eye roll* In other cities most of the best views and beautiful spots in the city are reserved for the wealthy. But in Chicago the lakefront is full of beautiful public spaces everyone can enjoy. Pequod's pizza looked scrumptious as usual. Ann Sathers was another solid choice! If I could have made some recommendations, I would have steered you to Elmwood Park and Johnnie's Italian Beef. Maxwell Street has a soild pork chop sandwich. OH and I'd love to take you around Chinatown and all the solid choices there! Ramen, dumplings, hot pot, you name it, they got it. ^_^ Love the video! Glad you had such a good time in Chicago!
I think we're comparing apples to oranges. Seattle is suddenly getting hate because of rampant crime and drug problems that are being ignored. But I wouldn't recommend him try a mother in law from fat Johnny's
Glad you enjoyed! Great city and great food scene. Lived there for several years and miss it. Definitely recommend Avec, Girl & The Goat, and Tanta when you go back!
Saw you on tik tok, deleted tik tok like a year ago, popped up on youtube. much better on youtube. Good stuff!
So glad you had a good time man, come back whenever. I love it here so much and I'm glad you did too.
Brilliant commentary over Chi great spots, and you're right so much more to explore beyond the Loop.
cant wait to come back
Watching you talk about Ann Sather on the sidewalk gave me so much needless neighborhood pride. Glad you enjoyed our city!
Crazy beautiful city, worth it just to catch the architecture and general vibes of the downtown. Also, super fun finding Dark Knight locations.
You do good shit. Random mention, was sincerely impressed with quality of the intro jingle i heard for first time in this vid. Keep these vids coming.
Don't sweat calling Ann Sather "Ann Sather's" because in Chicago we needlessly pluralize everything anyway. The grocery chain Jewel - Jewel's; Soldier Field = Soldier's Field, and the most egregious of them all, Lurie Children's Hospital = "Lurie's" which makes it sound like an ice cream shop or something.
Portillo's, like everything else, was better before Private Equity bought it. Sadly. Good video. Come to the south side next time!
I love these videos, your theme song lives rent free in my head. “Ten outta ten, I’d eat the whole damn thing”. I’m in Portland, Or, we’ve gotten a bad rap or two, but I love my city. ❤
will have to visit
Yeah, that theme song won’t leave my head.
Thank you for saying the nice things about Chicago! Its a great city!
I am so enjoying these videos . Keep them coming!
Thank you! Will do!
Love your videos, chef! You made some great choices and we have many more for your next visit. Come back soon!
thanks. Hard to fit so much stuff in such a short time. loved the city.
Portillos is awesome! Fantastic Italian beef, but my favorite chili dog ever!
I've never heard it pronounced SAY-ther, and I've lived in Chicago all of my life! Other than that? Excellent video. Chicago is a beautiful city and you did it justice.
It’s absolutely pronounced Say-ther. Your Chicago card is being revoked!!
@@cesnav7593I actually agree with him. Lived in lakeview for years and everyone I know says it like “Saah-thers”, not “Say-thers”
Looks amazing! Chicago is giving me Melbourne, Australia vibes with the water, parks, architecture etc. I hope one of us Aussies sponsors you to come down here so you can roast (or appreciate) our food.
I would LOVE to come to Australia tbh. Always on the bucket list. Australian brands (vegemite? Fosters?) get at me.
@@chefreactions we would welcome you with open arms!!
Hahaha I don’t know anyone who drinks Fosters. I think this is like a great international marketing campaign to drink Fosters. If you order one anywhere, they probably won’t have it. Drink the beer that’s brewed by the state:
Tasmania: Boags/Cascade
Victoria: VB (or some hipster craft beer if you’re feeling fancy)
NSW: Tooheys
QLD: XXXX
South Australia: Coopers?
Western Australia: who knows?
Also, I’ve never cooked shrimp on the barbie, literally only shitty sausages and onions. Get a Bunnings sausage for a true BBQ experience.
Chicago, and the surrounding suburb area, is a place I would consider the following: "If you leave hungry, that's your own damn fault." So many great food places either everyone knows or very few are privileged to experience. Can't wait for you to come back and experience more things out here.
Only thing I suggest, which is kinda obvious but still needs to be said, avoid the Chicago area like the plague during winter. Spring and fall are the best times to come out here, summer also with the various food fests. Try to come during the Taste of Chicago.
Love what you do, keep doing what you love!
Chef!! I work at Roister....well....did. I actually live a 15 minute walk to that Ann Sather you went to. Love the... strategic angling while talking about the restaurant. Considering what's across the street.
Glad you had fun, here. Fair ratings and opinions, I'd say! You're a lot more generous on some of them than I am. haha
the hhhhherbs make me generous
I come from Sydney Australia and got a homely feel in Chicago - loved it (but also loved NYC, soooo)
Thanks for the awesome content Mr and Mrs Reactions 🤘
check out the new york video as well
Shout out to Chef Mike. Such a nice dude. Glad two of my favorite chefs got to hang out.
a gem
Loved it, great choices as a starter with only a few days. Next time back though you gotta go to Ricobene's steak sandwich is insane and been named the top sandwich is the US by several publications
0:51 thank you so much for this nothing irritates me more than hearing this. Chicago is just like any big city and has its share of crimes. Been living here for 7 years so far and have never experienced any violence. Anyone who is reading this please come!! Especially in the Summer it’s the best time trust me!!
Love your video's especially your short instagrams always puts a smile on my face and a laugh and you swear ( curse ) like an Aussie Cheers from Australia 😂👏
orrrrr norrrrrrr
😂🤣🤣😂😂 "First off..." @ 9:09
Awesome video. It was very entertaining, and I will always love your sense of humor when reviewing food. Keep up the great work man!
Glad you enjoyed it!
always a great day when you upload a video, thanks chef.
thanks for watching
Your dry humor chafes me in the right spot.
I like your approach to hosting. Also, Chicago used to be my favorite city but the media has kept me away. Thanks to your vid, I’ll be back 👍
As someone who has lived in the Chicago area for 28 years (aka my whole life), I feel qualified to offer my two cents here... Specifically on the pizza and Portillo's/street food... because I'm a middle class suburbanite who has as much experience with Michelin-rated Chicago restaurants as a native Siberian... but goddammit I sure as hell know pizza and greasy street food... As far as pizza, you really can't go wrong with any of the local favorites... But, although I love a good deep dish (or the occasional Nancy's stuffed variety - locals know) as much as the next guy... I'm by far most familiar with Chicago's lesser known thin crust pizza (which I imagine most natives are as well)... Though deep dish is Chicago's iconic pizza tradition, I'd wager most locals will agree that they've downed more thin crust than deep dish in their lifetimes... And as a testament to that, there are only a handful of restaurants trusted for deep dish - most of which have since expanded outside of Chicago (Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, Gino's East - with Pequod's being an exception) - but any old, hole-in-the-wall pizza joint worth its salt within 20 miles of city limits, is a trustworthy source for Chicago-style thin crust... I recommend trying that if you visit again... As for Portillo's, swap that "Chicago-style" hot dog (which, like Chicago thin pizza, any local place can match) for an italian beef sandwich, with optional sweet (green bell) or hot (giardiniera) peppers (I go for both)... Like a Chicago dog, any local street food joint will also offer an italian beef... Except, unlike the hot dog, none of them can match the Portillo's beef... In fact, every other italian beef sandwich I've ever had (and I've had many) has tasted virtually the same... and though I've enjoyed them all, none have ever compared to a Portillo's italian beef... it's the only one that stands apart, and is the platonic ideal of this sandwich... As for hot dogs, swap that "Chicago-style / Vienna(beef, not the city)-style" hot dog for a simpler, humbler "Depression dog" from the one and only Gene & Jude's... Considering your review of the kitchen sink Chicago dog, I have no doubt you will appreciate the more minimalist approach of this undoubtedly superior specimen... I can't remember the last time I got a full-on Chicago dog from Portillo's... I'd sooner go to Mickey's (Villa Park, IL) for one of those... But whenever I make the sacred pilgrimage to Gene & Jude's, there is nothing on my mind but hot dogs... I am in a transcendental state, and my mantra is "hot dog"... Some friendly notes for next time :) Otherwise job well done
You definitely need a week or more here! I'm a Chicagoan through and through. As soon as I open my mouth and speak everyone knows I'm from Chicago! There are so many food spots that you need to see. You hit the big ones, Alinea, Ann Sather, and Billy Goat but that's just a little tip of the beat. Oh by the way an entire video on Alinea would be totally worth watching!!
Next time a real Chicago Italian Beef and Giardinera sandwich is a Must! Vito & Nick's pizza as well as Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder. 2 different pizza styles but both incredible. Kuma's Corner is a must stop for amazing burgers in an eclectic setting. North Pond is a farm to table experience located right on the grounds of Lincoln Park. For a culinary virtuoso like yourself its a must see! The Chicago Cut and Gibson's Steakhouse are prime steak outfits that are positively outstanding. Third Coast Coffee house is an out of the way little coffee house under a magnificent building with upscale apartments. The coffee house is open to the public and is tasty!! Chinatown is a trip unto itself and anywhere you pick to eat there will not disappoint. Entertainment is abundant in Chicago and a couple of excellent shows include Blue Man Group and the Second City Comedy spot.
The Weiners Circle is where you should hit up for amazing hotdogs and Chicago vibes next time you're here. It's in Lincoln Park and the hotdogs are phenomenal. They have amazing good old fashioned shakes too and you get them by asking. They aren't advertised on the menu.
Oh there is so much more in this amazing town to see. The culinary department at Kendall College has a beautiful restaurant completely commandered by its students. So start planning your next trip, you have lots to do here still!!!
Been waiting for you to post this video of my hometown! ❤ Great as usual. Portillos is really the dominoes of beef places back home. Don’t get me wrong, when it’s all I have now that I live in SoCal I’ll take it. But Al’s Beef right across from Wrigley is my fav! Maybe for your next visit
Hope you can make it back to Chicago. So much more for you to try!
Chicago is a great city to visit. Lots of fun stuff to see/do.
I’m in Chicago now. Brilliant town!
I love it, man. Glad you enjoyed it here!
Been waiting for this video. Thanks for the high marks for my hometown - it’s such a beautiful city! As others have said…the one thing you missed is a the iconic Italian Beef Sandwich. Hard to find a bad one anywhere. Do come back.
He even makes a reference to "The Bear", which was all about the Chicago beef. If I had one meal it would be an Italian beef, dipped, double sweet peppers (no giardinera) with ketchup. HEAVEN.
I miss my hometown, loved this.
thank you
Saw Barry Binds hit two homers at Wrigley. Was sitting near the third base line…I’ll never forgot that trip to Chicago. One of my favorite cities I’ve ever been to.
I have similar feelings regarding zoo's. Enjoyed the video keep it up!
Love the call out meta edit. "I am going to pause to check if there are multiple locations..." You are showing your desire to be as accurate as possible while not pretending to know everything. Your humbleness between chucklef*cks is refreshing.
I also love that you did not rank Alinea. That would have been pretentious. And you are never that.
I didn't even know how to pronounce the name of the restaurant properly either. I do very little research (OBVIOUSLY) and my ratings are purely subjective.
@@chefreactions Keep up the good work, Chef.
Some italian beefs wouldve been dope!
Chicago is my favorite place to travel to. So glad I got to go to the tast of Chicago. Such a great city
Looks amazing and it’s on my list. I always eat at a McDonalds in every foreign city I visit, partly because I want to see if it really is different, and partly because after a couple of weeks I need something “familiar “ if that makes sense.
Great video chef 🎉😊
thanks for watching
I’d recommend Lou Mitchell’s over Ann Sather. Al’s Beef/Mr Beef over Portillo’s, and get to a Chicago steakhouse (and yes Do Rite donuts > Stan’s) 🐻⬇️
I f’kn love when I get home, kick the feet up, and find a new video from you to watch. Keep it the f’k up!!
hope you enjoyed it
Super happy to see the fountains at the end. Married with children was epic growing up
I attended the National Restaurant Association Show back in 2012. Absolutely loved Chicago! Great food, people were friendly.
The food show itself was insanely huge.
Another great video!!!
Thank you for posting a positive and quite accurate video of Chicago. We love the city and there is so much to see and do. Jealous that you experienced Alinea - hope to go there someday. Thank you!
you should go!
Love these videos. You must be a Dan Auerbach fan. Your theme music has a distinct "King of a One Horse Town" feel to it.
I have been to Chicago twice this year- that’s how fast I fell in love with it, too.
Lived in Chicago for 6 years and man I love that city. Looks like you got Chef Achatz himself to serve you guys. Dope.
Love this... thanks Chef!!!
Excited that you came to Chicago and made this fun video. Sad you did Portillo's, I hope you had other good things that are more uniquely Chicago, like a Jibartito!
Starting off with disavowing Labron was the best possible start
I grew up a few blocks from Alinea and went to the Lincoln Park Zoo weekly as a small child. Absolutely world-class Zoo, for free, a 5 minute walk from the beach and just a few minute's ride to downtown. But the best thing about Chicago is the food
You did it BIG!! Im from Chicago, living in Florida now (8 years). We spend 2-3 weeks every summer doing the Chicago food tour. Still not enough time.I prefer the Maxwell St. Polish over the Chicago Dog, too!! Next time you come, definitely hit Ricobene's for their infamous Breaded Steak Sangwich with Hot Giardiniera 🔥 11 out of 10
Seconding Ricobene's. It's a must, and I stan Italian beef sandwiches but the breaded steak beats it every time. Special sandwich.
I second ricobenes!
Please come back again. You’re always welcome here! So much more food to try.
I barely scratched the surface
Every year, as a child, we used to go to Chicago to see Christmas decorations on State Street. As an adult woeking for the VA, we took patients to at lwast 1 CUBS game/year. Good times
I'm glad you mentioned the “danger factor”. I am from a small town, but I travel. I went to Chicago alone (::gasp::) in March and walked around the whole downtown alone. I didn't feel threatened or scared. When I got back, I had a friend message me and ask me if I felt in danger or anything - and she lives in the Chicago suburbs!
Like you said, if you do stupid stuff, you'll get stupid results.
I also go to NYC at least once a year and explore alone.
every city has good and "bad" areas.
That Tony Kukoc jersey is clutch! I met him in 1999 at at Nautica in Gurnee Mills mall. He was super cool and signed autographs for everyone.
My guy you gotta return and stay at least a week!! Don’t be afraid to visit other places in the daylight that aren’t connected to downtown as well. I would no doubt recommend you return during the summer tho homie. So many events and the entire region is bustling!!! Chi - Town
Hell yea. I love my city! The best food ever! So many diverse neighborhoods from china town, little india, little village for Mexicans cuisine and Humboldt park for puerto rican food. There are just sooo many cuisines. Im so lucky to be here. Dont neglect the south side too!
Another great video, but I was looking forward to a Chicago Handshake review!
These videos are fun and entertaining
Chicago, being called The Windy City, is a reference to politicians, not the weather.
Wonderful city!
top 5
Next time you're in Chicago, checkout the neighborhoods of Hyde Park & Bronzeville.
There's lots of historical sites in BOTH areas, and the food spots are Top Notch. 😀
Dude, love your attitude and narration!
Pequod's - My FAVORITE "Chicago style" pizza!
Chicago native, suburban raised, currently displaced to our northern neighbor and seriously missing my hometown eats!
Love the fact you decided not to be a Jagoff while eating! (Jagoff - Only ever heard in/around Chicago!) You said "Chucklefuck" which I think I've only heard once before, also in/around Chicago.
I totally love that you pretty much stuck to the North Side and downtown.
Pequod's, Ann Sather, Lincoln Park, Cubs...
My son was offered a scholarship to a prestigious school of music back East but chose to go to Columbia College because: Chicago!
What can I say, I love my city, my son fell in love with his adopted city. It's in our blood.
We hate the politics but we love the city and its people. There's just nothing like it anywhere I've lived or visited.
I get there and immediately get this rush of: "I'm home!"
Hope you do get a chance to spend more time in my favorite city and to experience the wide range of foods, cultures, and experiences the city has to offer. It's an amazing city that I simply can't say enough about.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ thank you Chef!!!!