The hit TV show The Bear has put an increased spotlight on the incredible innovations found in Chicago’s modern food scene. But these famous Chicago restaurants have been beloved for generations and, in some cases, more than 100 years!
Miller’s Pub
A Loop Mainstay: The Canadian baby back ribs are the house specialty, but Miller’s Pub has a versatile menu–salads, steaks, wings, seafood–and a large beer, wine and spirits list to cater to its diverse clientele. Opened in 1935, the Gallios brothers purchased Miller’s in 1950, but they didn’t have enough money to change the sign, and the name stuck.
If the Walls Could Talk: Miller’s was a famous late-night hangout for the biggest celebrities of Hollywood’s Golden Age, including Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe. Check out the hundreds of signed photos throughout the restaurant.
Lou Mitchell’s
Start the Day Right: A West Loop institution, Lou Mitchell’s is the definitive local diner. Since 1923, the Mitchell family have cooked traditional breakfasts and lunches, while boasting house-baked breads and the “world’s finest coffee.”
Free Sweet Treats: Guests are greeted with donut holes, and women and children get Milk Duds, which were created in Chicago. Lou Mitchell was a friend of the manufacturer’s owner.
Garrett Popcorn
Simply Irresistible: Opened in 1949, Garrett Popcorn is celebrated for its signature mix, an irresistibly sweet-and-salty combination of caramel and cheese popcorns. Follow the aroma of caramel filling the street to find one of the many downtown shops.
Sharable Souvenirs: Garrett’s has stands at both local airports. Pick up a fresh bag or tin to give to your friends, co-workers or pet-watchers.
Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen
Piled High: Located in the South Loop, Manny’s is one of the few remaining Jewish delis in the city. The menu has diversified, but it’s the classics that has made Manny’s one of the most famous Chicago restaurants since 1942. Go for the overstuffed corned beef and pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup and, for breakfast, challah French toast.
Take Some Home: Visit the adjacent bakery and gift shop, where you can buy beautifully decorated cookies, horseradish mustard and potato pancake mix.
The Berghoff
Humble Origins: Established as a brewery and tavern in 1898, The Berghoff transitioned to a full-service German restaurant during Prohibition. It was awarded Chicago’s first liquor license upon Prohibition’s repeal. The Loop institution still serves up its sausages, schnitzels and other Old World favorites.
Family Tradition: The Adams Street Brewery builds on Herman Berghoff’s legacy, with 13 varieties of beer made on the premises.
Walnut Room
Early 20th Century Class: Marshall Field’s is now Macy’s, but the elegant-yet-accessible Walnut Room remains. It started as a tea room in 1890, and grew to a restaurant in 1907. Mrs. Hering’s chicken pot pie, which legend states was the impetus for the Walnut Room, is still on the menu. It still hits the spot, particularly on cold days.
Don’t Forget Dessert: Just outside the Walnut Room, pick up a box of Frango chocolate mints, which have been sold exclusively in the store since 1929.
Italian Village
Signature Dish: Italian Village is the birthplace of chicken Vesuvio, where chicken and potatoes are cooked together in a garlic-and-wine sauce. The city’s first Italian restaurant, Alfredo Capitanini established Italian Village in the Loop in 1927. It has stayed in his family through four generations.
More Than Just Pasta: Bar Sotto, an outstanding lounge with one of the best Italian wine lists in the city plus great cocktails and small bites, is located below the restaurant.
Margie’s Candies
Genuinely Retro: The Poulos family opened Margie’s Candies in Bucktown in 1921. The cozy ice cream shop offers 30 flavors, which can be made into 50 sundaes and milkshakes. Margie’s also sells homemade chocolates and toffee.
Fab Guests: The Beatles stopped at Margie’s after their 1965 Comiskey Park concert and had Atomic Buster sundaes. The display case near the entrance is filled with Beatles memorabilia.