The Chicago Traveler

There was a bit of dispute over my last Best Pizzas list, as I expected there would be. It is a Chicagoan debate that has gone on for generations and will continue probably forever. So, just to add more fuel to the fire, here is another list of Chicago’s ten best ‘pies’ (courtesy of Citysearch and Yelp).
Honorable Mention: Gino’s East. If you enjoy reading, the walls here provide plenty of material.

10. Pizzeria Uno. The one, the only, the original. Loosen your belts now.
9. Piece. These very non-Chicago-style slices are simply delicious.
8. Home Run Inn. This old neighborhood tavern offers the …read more

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The Italian Beef is a simple sandwich that is unique to Chicago, and there are several places in the city to find this great dish. Of course, just as is the case with pizza and hot dogs, Chicagoans can debate for hours on who has the best. I’ve tried to be as fair as possible with this ranking order, but I’m sure there will still be contention. Be sure to leave a comment or shoot me an e-mail, and let me know what you think!

8. Roma’s Italian Beef & Sausage. For decades, generations of loyal customers have been enjoying this …read more

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As I’ve said before, I’m not usually one to write up chain restaurants or businesses. They seem to do well enough of their own advertising. But some places, like Buona Beef, are located only in the Chicago area and draw in plenty of locals and visitors.
Buona Beef is a hit with many Chicago suburbanites. Each of the chain’s 11 locations offer an almost-daunting long list of dishes to choose from, including paninis, sandwiches, salads, soups, and pizza. However, one of my rules when it comes to dining is this: If there’s a food in the name above the door, order …read more

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Being Mexican-American, I can’t help but be excited about this coming weekend. This Sunday is Mexican Independence Day, celebrating Mexico’s victory in the armed conflict between the people of Mexico and Spanish colonial authorities, which started in 1810. A huge and colorful celebration parade will be held on Sunday on 26th Street, as over half a million spectators will cheer on the floats and mariachi bands. It’s a perfect time for dancing in the streets!
The annual Green Tie Ball takes place on Sunday with a “Garden of Good or Evil” theme, raising funds for the Chicago Gateway Green, a non-profit …read more

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Chicago-style pizza isn’t just one kind of pizza. From deep-dish to stuffed to pan to even thin crust, Chicago has its own way of creating this delicious “pie.” But when most people think of Chicago pizza, they probably think of deep-dish, featuring a buttery crust and chunky tomato sauce.
The Chicago-style deep-dish pizza was invented by chef Rudy Malnati at Pizzeria Uno in 1943. It begins with a thin layer of dough which is laid in a deep round pan and pulled up the sides. The dough is then partially baked and then lined with cheese, vegetables, and meats. Crushed tomatoes …read more

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What would Independence Day be without fireworks? “Celebrate the independence of your nation by blowing up a small part of it.” (The Simpsons, “Summer of 4 Ft. 2″) So where is there to go to see some bright lights and loud booms?
A grand display complete with great music can be found at the Taste of Chicago tonight, but you don’t necessarily have to be at the Taste to enjoy it. In fact, many spectators enjoy the colorful explosions from Navy Pier, and some Chicagoans will even be witnessing the spectacle from the Chicago River on cruise ships and private boats.
Of …read more

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