Latest news with #Chicago-style
Time Out
2 days ago
- General
- Time Out
Chicago cracked the top ten as one of America's best cities for BBQ
The Windy City has long been a foodie haven, especially when it comes to meat: There's Italian beef sandwiches, loaded hot dogs and, of course, Chicago-style barbecue. Heavily influenced by the city's vibrant immigrant communities, the city's local 'cue utilizes an aquarium smoker and sweet-meets-tangy sauces and spotlights specific dishes like rib tips and hot links. And now, according to a new ranking from yard experts LawnStarter, Chicago earned a sixth place spot out of nearly 500 U.S. cities on the list of 2025's Best BBQ Cities in America. Chicagoland earned an overall score of 42.20. (For reference, the number one spot earned an overall score of 52.02, with the number five destination garnering a 46.54.) To determine the above rankings, LawnStarter looked at consumer satisfaction, access to BBQ restaurants, competition awards, and elite BBQ memberships (yes, that's a thing). For each of the biggest cities in the U.S., data was analyzed, and scores were calculated out of 100 points for each city, giving each locale an overall score from the 'Best' at number one to the 'Worst' at number 476. Fifteen Illinois cities made it to the list, but only two earned a spot in the top 100: along with Chicago at No. 6, Joliet came in at No. 94. Elsewhere, Schaumburg earned a spot at 117, Waukegan at 132, and Peoria at 186. Other cities didn't fare as well: Springfield at 335, Evanston at 381, and Rockford at 442. Outside of Illinois, Kansas City, Missouri received the number one rank, followed by Los Angeles, Houston, St. Louis, and Austin rounding out the top five. Interestingly, Los Angeles has the best access to BBQ with 162 establishment according to this ranking and has the second highest number of top-rated BBQ joints. Unsurprisingly, nine cities in Texas landed in the top 100. Chicago earned the number four spot for the highest number of BBQ establishments with 123. And for the highest number of top-rated BBQ establishments, Chicago comes in at number five. Now, who's hungry?
Time Out
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Lou Malnati's and Portillo's have come together for the Chicago-iest collab ever
Two of Chicago's culinary heavyweights, Lou Malnati's and Portillo's, are back at it with a new collab that screams Chicago pride. As of this week, you can order the limited-edition Chicago Dog Deep Dish Pizza at 21 full-service Lou Malnati's locations nationwide. But act fast: it's only available while supplies last. This isn't the first time these local legends have teamed up—in 2022, they created an Italian beef deep dish that was shipped frozen. But this time, they're taking it straight to the dining room with a mashup that's both bold and bizarre: a deep-dish pizza packed with all the classic Chicago hot dog fixings. This crosstown collaboration starts with a poppy seed–flecked deep-dish crust (giving hot dog bun vibes) layered with mozzarella, canned plum tomatoes and diced tomatoes (no ketchup of course). It's then topped with sliced Portillo's hot dogs, sport peppers, pickles, onions and celery salt. When it comes out of the oven, it gets the final flourish: green relish and a drizzle of bright yellow mustard. It's a Chicago-style dog, but baked into a buttery, tomatoey deep dish. It's only offered in a small size, but it's all you need for a Chicago-style feast. "At Portillo's, Chicago-style hot dogs are more than just a menu item—they're a part of our DNA," said Vallory McCormack, Director of Marketing for Portillo's. "We're making sure everyone can join in on the celebration of the iconic hot dog that helped make Portillo's a household name." Whether you're a deep-dish diehard, a Chicago dog purist or just in it for the novelty, this is the mashup you didn't know you needed. Available for a limited time, it's your chance to taste two of Chicago's greatest hits in one cheesy, mustard-topped bite.
Time Out
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Five Chicago restaurants were just added to the Michelin Guide 2025
The Windy City has long been known for more than deep dish pizza and Chicago-style franks, but if you needed blatant (and delicious) proof of that fact, five more well-loved restaurants have just been added to the esteemed Michelin Guide. Ahead of the annual declaration of coveted Michelin stars and Bib Gourmands, five "new" eateries have joined the guide's "Recommended" category as of today, July 16, staying true to Michelin's ethos of illuminating culinary juggernauts throughout the year. Later this year, the Michelin Guide Ceremony will take place and expectantly these Chicago favorites will earn Bib Gourmand or Star awards. Either way, we're making dining reservations now. The new additions to the Michelin Guide Chicago 2025 are: Mirra: Bucktown Energetic and full of color, Mirra serves up Mexican and Indian fusion dishes, creating special flavors that are difficult to replicate. Jewel tones, subway tiles, exposed white brick, and large windows set the dining stage, while chefs Zubair Mohajir and Rishi Kumar operate at the helm. Tama: Bucktown Creating an ethereal and inventive experience, Tama, is described on its website as 'a votive (an offering or promise) for someone that requires help. A miracle.' And with sharable plates and a relaxed atmosphere, perhaps their meaningful community approach, blending Mediterranean, Asian, and South American flavors, hits the spot for eager diners searching for something newfangled. Open for lunch and dinner, chefs Avgeria Stapaki and Adalberto Olaez have created an attention-grabbing experience inside of house-shaped restaurant, flanked by thickset modern Chicago buildings. Taqueria Chingón: West Loop These are not your abuela's Mexican recipes: inspired by Mexico City-style street food, Taqueria Chingón rings with hungry patrons. What was once a smaller Bucktown establishment has transformed into a larger hot spot in Fulton Market. From duck carnitas to classic al pastor, chefs Marcos Ascencio and Oliver Poilevey have you covered. Nadu: Lincoln Park For elevated Indian cuisine with a fresh twist, Nadu, with chef Sujan Sarkar, serves up sharable plates that are as delicious as they are beautiful. Vegetarian, vegan and meat dishes satiate every type of diner, but leave your babies at home—only diners above five years of age are appropriate. Oliver's: South Loop Let yourself be transported to another time: the golden age of Hollywood. This 1930s Los Angeles-inspired restaurant feels as glamorous as is it does charming, with old photos, vintage artwork, and mirrors dotting the walls. Open for golden hour, come in with friends or loved ones for a boozy beverage prior to a dinner of steak, seafood or vegetarian dishes—you won't regret it.
Business Upturn
16-07-2025
- General
- Business Upturn
How to make your own Hot Dog at home for National Hot Dog Day 2025
By Bhavya Rai Published on July 16, 2025, 12:30 EDT Today is National Hot Dog Day, and while many restaurants and convenience stores are offering specials, there's something uniquely satisfying about preparing a hot dog at home. It's quick, affordable, and allows you to tailor it exactly to your taste. Whether you're cooking for yourself or feeding a group, making your own hot dog can be both enjoyable and straightforward. The foundation is, of course, the hot dog itself. You can opt for all-beef, turkey, pork, chicken, or plant-based versions, depending on your dietary preferences. If you're looking for quality, brands like Nathan's, Hebrew National, or Applegate are well-regarded, but even store-brand varieties will do just fine if you prepare them well. Select a Cooking Method There are several reliable ways to cook hot dogs, depending on what equipment you have and the flavour or texture you prefer: Grilling: This is the traditional method. Heat your grill to medium, place the hot dogs directly on the grates, and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until they're browned and slightly charred. Pan-frying: Add a small amount of oil or butter to a skillet and cook the hot dogs over medium heat. Rotate them every couple of minutes until the exterior is crisp and golden. This method adds a rich, caramelised flavour. Boiling: Place hot dogs in a pot of boiling water and cook for 4 to 6 minutes. This method is simple, fast, and ideal when you're making several hot dogs at once. Air-frying: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and cook the hot dogs for 5 to 6 minutes. The result is a slightly crisp texture without any additional oil. Prepare the Buns Warming the bun makes a noticeable difference. You can toast buns on the grill or in a skillet, or heat them briefly in the oven or microwave. For a softer texture, consider steaming them. Add Your Toppings The beauty of a hot dog lies in its versatility. Here are some classic and creative topping combinations to consider: Classic: Mustard, ketchup, and relish. Chicago-style: Yellow mustard, chopped onions, relish, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, a dill pickle spear, and a dash of celery salt. (No ketchup, traditionally.) Southern-style: Coleslaw, mustard, and chilli. Tex-Mex: Salsa, jalapeños, shredded cheese, and sour cream. Simple: A touch of butter or a single condiment works just as well if that's your style. While hot dogs are a humble food, they hold cultural weight and nostalgic charm. Preparing your own at home can feel less like a shortcut and more like a small, meaningful celebration, especially today. National Hot Dog Day is a reminder that food doesn't need to be elaborate to be enjoyable. With just a few minutes and a few ingredients, you can make something that tastes good, feels satisfying, and brings a bit of joy to the middle of your week. hot dogNational hot dog day
Eater
16-07-2025
- Business
- Eater
Iconic Chicago Brands Collide, Birthing the Hot Dog Deep-Dish Pizza
Two local culinary icons have once again teamed up to create a buzzy, limited-time mashup. Starting today, July 16, folks can order a Chicago-style hot dog deep-dish pizza at 21 full-service Lou Malnati's restaurants across the country. The pizza chain worked with Portillo's to marry two of the city's most famous foods. The Chicago Dog Deep-Dish will be available for 30 days and is only offered in the small size. Here's the lowdown on the recipe: The pie starts with layers of mozzarella, canned plum tomatoes, and diced tomatoes — but no ketchup, of course — before being topped with slices of Portillo's hot dogs, sport peppers, pickles, white onions, and celery salt. The dough is infused with poppy seeds, akin to a hot dog bun, and after it comes out of the oven, the pizza is finished with green relish and drizzles of yellow mustard. To celebrate the launch, Lou Malnati's is giving away free slices while supplies last, starting at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, outside its Gold Coast location at 1120 N. State Street. Lou Malnati's and Portillo's previously partnered together for an Italian beef deep-dish pizza in 2022, which was only sold online and shipped frozen. It's not the first hot dog/deep-dish combo — Giordano's served one at Wrigley Field. Portillo's, once a local chain, is owned by an East Coast investor group. Malnati's, which is still family-owned, is also seeking to expand its national footprint and has hired a new CEO who's worked at Domino's, Auntie Anne's, and Potbelly. A sushi standout is making a comeback in Logan Square Jinsei Motto will return this fall in Logan Square. Crain's reports that the restaurant will take over the former Testaccio and Soif spaces at 2456 N. California Avenue. Guests will find familiar sushi items on the first floor — including Jinsei Motto's signature dry-aged fish — as well as dishes that utilize the wood-fire oven left by Testaccio. An omakase tasting room that seats between eight and 10 people will live downstairs; it will open after the main restaurant, with owner Patrick Bouaphanh aiming for winter. Jinsei Motto operated out of CH Distillery from 2022 to 2025. It was succeeded by Joto Sushi this past spring. An acclaimed fine dining restaurant is selling off its wares Michelin-starred restaurant Atelier will host a garage sale from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, in its soon-to-be former space at 4835 N. Western Avenue. Shoppers will be able to purchase plates, tables, kitchen utensils, and more while also enjoying some snacks and drinks. The restaurant announced earlier this year that it plans on moving into a larger building and turned to regulation crowdfunding to help with the costs. No word yet on where the new location will be or when it will open, but the last night of service on Western Avenue is Saturday, July 19. A Portuguese American celebrity chef is collaborating with a local bakery Celebrity chef Lauren Covas will be in town to promote the release of her new cookbook Little Portugal: A Modern Take on Portuguese Family Recipes. To celebrate, the Chopped and Supermarket Stakeout champion is collaborating with Cadinho Bakery for a special one-week-only menu that's available until July 24. Items will include bacalhau com natas, or salted cod with cream sauce, a pork chop sandwich, and a tiramisu-influenced cookie cake cup. Covas will also be at the bakery from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, for a book signing.
