Traveling to watch your favorite football team is one of the best ways to explore the country in the fall. You get to cheer on your NFL or college team while also checking out a new city, and thankfully, heading to Chicago for the big game means access to some of the country's best and most iconic foods.

Indulge in the Flavors of the Windy City: A Culinary Adventure Awaits

Chicago Hot Dogs: A Signature Taste of the City

One of the most celebrated and universal items in Chicago's culinary scene is the Chicago-style hot dog. This iconic creation features a Vienna Beef frank topped with a symphony of flavors, including mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and a sprinkle of celery salt, all nestled in a poppy seed bun. Devil Dawgs, with its five locations throughout the city, including one near Soldier Field, has elevated this classic dish, with chefs Andrew Brochu and Matthias Merges crafting an exceptional menu. For those seeking a plant-based option, Devil Dawgs also offers vegan hot dogs, allowing everyone to indulge in the quintessential Chicago-style experience.

Diving into Chicago-Style Pizza: A Slice of Heaven

No visit to Chicago is complete without indulging in the city's renowned pizza offerings. Whether you prefer the deep-dish, stuffed, pan, or tavern-style varieties, the Windy City has it all. In the vibrant Uptown neighborhood, Milly's Pizza in the Pan by Robert Maleski is a must-try, serving up some of the best new pizza in the city. However, be sure to plan ahead, as Milly's only sells 60 pizzas per day and often sells out before the doors even open due to high demand.

Riverfront Dining and Renowned Steakhouses

Chicago's downtown area is blessed with the winding river that provides a stunning backdrop for waterfront dining experiences. One such destination is the renowned Chicago Cut Steakhouse, where you can savor dry-aged steaks and indulge in their impressive 600-bottle wine program, including magnums and 2-liter selections perfect for sharing with your traveling party.

Exploring the Fulton Market District: A Culinary Melting Pot

The former warehouse district of Fulton Market has undergone a remarkable transformation, now a vibrant hub of residential, office, hotel, restaurant, and artistic offerings. Time Out Market Chicago is a must-visit destination, featuring more than 20 unique restaurants, bars, and food stalls, catering to every palate. Within this dynamic neighborhood, Gaijin, Chicago's first okonomiyaki restaurant, led by 2007 F&W Best New Chef Paul Virant, offers both Hiroshima and Osaka styles of the savory Japanese pancakes, as well as the delightful kakigori.

Brunch in the Windy City: Fueling Up Before the Big Game

Before heading to Soldier Field, treat your group to a memorable brunch experience at The Dawson in the River West neighborhood. The Saturday and Sunday menu boasts an array of tempting options, from ricotta pancakes and smoked brisket hash to the indulgent birria grilled cheese and even chicken fried lobster. To truly embrace the pre-game festivities, indulge in the $36 bottomless mimosas, ensuring you're fueled and ready to cheer on your team.

Sports Bar Bliss: Catching the Action and Indulging in Iconic Bites

For visitors seeking to catch even more football action, Jake Melnick's Corner Tap in River North is a must-visit. This longstanding sports bar is renowned for serving up the best wings in the city, with a diverse range of flavors, from the classic Buffalo to the daring Nashville Hot and Whisky BBQ. For the true thrill-seekers, the XXXX scorching hot wings, featuring a blend of habanero, ghost pepper, scorpion, and reaper peppers, offer a challenge not for the faint of heart. Conquer the eight-wing challenge, and you'll earn a comped meal and a t-shirt to commemorate your bravery.

Garrett Popcorn: A Sweet and Savory Farewell

As you bid farewell to the Windy City, don't forget to grab a bag or tin of the world-famous Garrett Popcorn. For 75 years, this iconic brand has delighted taste buds with its signature Garrett Mix, a blend of sweet caramel and savory cheddar cheese. With convenient locations at both O'Hare and Midway airports, you can easily stock up on this gourmet popcorn before your departure. In 2023 alone, Garrett Popcorn produced an astounding 122 million gallons of their beloved snack, cementing its status as one of the country's largest gourmet popcorn makers.