Chicago Food & Pizza Tours
Taste legendary deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and diverse Chicago culinary scene!
Discover Chicago's incredible food scene - from deep-dish pizza to Chicago-style hot dogs to innovative fine dining! Food tours explore iconic pizza institutions like Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, and Pequod's (caramelized crust!), try authentic Chicago hot dogs (never ketchup!), visit diverse neighborhoods like Pilsen (Mexican), Chinatown, Little Italy, and vibrant West Loop restaurant district. Sample Italian beef sandwiches, Garrett Popcorn (cheese + caramel mix), Polish sausages, and cutting-edge cuisine from Michelin-starred chefs. Walking food tours combine 6-8 tastings with neighborhood history, while pizza tours compare different styles (deep-dish vs. tavern-style thin crust). Learn why Chicago became a culinary capital, how immigration shaped food culture, and where locals actually eat. It's delicious cultural education!
Why Choose Food & Pizza Tours in Chicago?
Legendary Deep Dish
Experience Chicago's most famous food - thick, cheesy pizza perfection!
Diverse Neighborhoods
Explore ethnic enclaves with authentic Mexican, Italian, Polish, and Asian cuisine!
Local Foodie Guides
Chicagoans share insider spots and neighborhood history.
Chicago Classics
Hot dogs, Italian beef, Garrett Popcorn - iconic Chicago eats!
Types of Food & Pizza Tours in Chicago
Deep Dish Pizza Tour
Compare different pizza styles at legendary pizzerias.
Neighborhood Food Tour
Explore ethnic neighborhoods with 6-8 tastings.
Chicago Classics Tour
Sample hot dogs, Italian beef, pizza, and popcorn.
Craft Beer & Food
Combine Chicago cuisine with craft brewery visits.
What to Expect on Your Chicago Food & Pizza Tours
Duration
Tours last 3-4 hours with 6-8 tastings replacing lunch or dinner.
Deep Dish Pizza
Try authentic Chicago deep-dish with thick crust, layers of cheese, and toppings.
Chicago Hot Dog
All-beef frank, poppy seed bun, relish, onions, tomato, pickle - NO KETCHUP!
Italian Beef
Thinly sliced beef on French roll dipped in au jus - messy and delicious!
Neighborhood Exploration
Walk vibrant areas like Pilsen, West Loop, and ethnic enclaves.
Food History
Learn how immigration and innovation shaped Chicago's culinary scene.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Deep dish takes 45 minutes to cook - order ahead or go for lunch to avoid wait!
Lou Malnati's, Pequod's, and Giordano's are top deep-dish spots.
Chicago hot dog rule: NEVER ketchup! Locals are serious about this.
Garrett Popcorn: Get Chicago Mix (cheese + caramel) - addictive!
Italian beef: Order "dipped" (bread soaked in au jus) for authentic experience.
West Loop is Chicago's restaurant row - Michelin-starred and trendy spots.
Food tours replace meals - come moderately hungry, pace yourself!
Bring cash for tipping and some vendors - not everywhere takes cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is Chicago deep-dish pizza?
A: Deep-dish is Chicago's signature pizza - thick crust filled with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce on top (reverse order!). It's eaten with fork and knife. Takes 45 min to bake. Famous spots: Lou Malnati's, Pequod's, Giordano's. Must-try in Chicago!
Q:Where is the best pizza in Chicago?
A: Deep-dish: Lou Malnati's (classic), Pequod's (caramelized crust), Giordano's (stuffed). Tavern-style thin crust: Vito & Nick's, Piece Brewery. Locals debate endlessly! Try multiple on pizza tours. Each has devoted fans. All excellent!
Q:What is a Chicago-style hot dog?
A: All-beef hot dog on poppy seed bun with yellow mustard, chopped onions, bright green relish, tomato slices, pickle spear, sport peppers, celery salt. NEVER ketchup (serious rule!). Portillo's and Superdawg are classics. $3-5. Quintessential Chicago!
Q:How much do food tours cost?
A: Walking food tours: $55-80 (3-4 hours, 6-8 tastings). Pizza tours: $60-90. Neighborhood tours: $65-95. Includes food, guide, sometimes drinks. Tours replace meals - good value. Private tours $150-300 for group.
Q:Can vegetarians do food tours?
A: Many tours accommodate vegetarians with notice! Chicago has excellent veggie options. Deep-dish pizza works well. Hot dogs harder but possible. Communicate dietary needs when booking. Some tours specifically vegetarian/vegan. Food scene is diverse!
Q:What is Italian beef?
A: Italian beef is Chicago specialty - thinly sliced seasoned beef on French roll "dipped" (soaked) in au jus with giardiniera (spicy pickled veggies) or sweet peppers. It's messy, delicious, and very Chicago! Portillo's and Al's Beef are famous.
Q:When is the best time for food tours?
A: Year-round available! Lunch tours (11 AM-2 PM) or dinner tours (5-8 PM). Summer great for outdoor eating. Winter offers cozy deep-dish weather! Weekend tours more social. Book ahead for popular times. Come hungry!
Q:What is Garrett Popcorn?
A: Garrett Popcorn is Chicago institution famous for "Chicago Mix" - sweet caramel and sharp cheddar popcorn mixed together. Sounds weird, tastes amazing! Lines out the door but fast-moving. Multiple locations. Great Chicago souvenir!
Why Visit Chicago?
Iconic skyline and architectural masterpieces
World-class museums and cultural institutions
Famous deep-dish pizza and diverse cuisine
Beautiful Lake Michigan and waterfront
Vibrant neighborhoods and friendly culture
Perfect blend of urban sophistication and charm
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Chicago enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are warm (70-85°F/21-29°C), winters are cold (20-35°F/-6-2°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.
Best Months
May to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
Peak Season
June to August brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
Off Season
November to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and occasional snow.
Plan Your Chicago Trip
Transportation Tips
Excellent public transportation with L trains, buses, and Metra. Walking is perfect for exploring downtown, and ride-sharing services are widely available.
Car Rental Deals in Chicago
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Chicago adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Chicago
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Expedia USA.