Top Illinois Restaurant Chains You Need To Try!

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Illinois restaurant chains? Illinois has a vibrant culinary scene, and it's not just about Chicago deep-dish pizza (though, let’s be real, that’s a major draw!). We're going to explore some of the top restaurant chains that have originated in or are super popular throughout the state. So, buckle up, bring your appetite, and let’s get started!

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

When talking about Illinois restaurant chains, you absolutely cannot skip Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. Lou Malnati's is practically synonymous with Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Founded in 1971, this iconic chain has become a staple for locals and a must-visit for tourists. What sets Lou Malnati's apart? It's all about the quality ingredients and the time-honored recipe. The crust is buttery and flaky, the sauce is chunky and flavorful, and the cheese is always perfectly melted and gooey. Each pizza is handmade with care, ensuring that every slice is a little piece of heaven. Lou Malnati's uses a lean sausage, made from a family recipe, which adds a unique and savory flavor to their pizzas. They also use vine-ripened California tomatoes for their sauce, giving it a fresh and vibrant taste. The combination of these high-quality ingredients and the meticulous preparation process results in a pizza that is simply unmatched. Beyond the classic deep-dish, Lou Malnati's also offers other Italian-American favorites such as thin-crust pizza, pasta dishes, salads, and appetizers. But let’s be honest, you’re really there for the deep-dish. The atmosphere at Lou Malnati's is warm and inviting, making it a great place for family dinners, casual gatherings, and special occasions. The staff is always friendly and attentive, adding to the overall dining experience. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is sure to leave you with a lasting impression. So, next time you're in Illinois, make sure to stop by and indulge in a slice (or two!) of their legendary deep-dish pizza. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you. Plus, they ship nationwide, so you can get your fix even if you're not in Illinois!

Portillo's Hot Dogs

Next up on our Illinois restaurant chains tour is Portillo's Hot Dogs. Portillo's isn't just a restaurant; it's an Illinois institution. Known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake, Portillo's has been satisfying cravings since 1963. What makes Portillo's so special? For starters, their Chicago-style hot dogs are the real deal. They feature an all-beef hot dog, nestled in a poppy seed bun, and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and a dash of celery salt. It's a flavor explosion in every bite! But Portillo's offers more than just hot dogs. Their Italian beef sandwich is another must-try item. Thinly sliced beef is simmered in a savory gravy and served on a French roll, often dipped in the same gravy for extra flavor. You can customize your sandwich with sweet peppers or hot giardiniera for an added kick. And let's not forget about their famous chocolate cake. This moist, rich cake is the perfect way to end your meal at Portillo's. It's so good that many people buy it by the slice or even the whole cake to take home. The atmosphere at Portillo's is lively and fun, with vintage décor and a bustling energy. The service is quick and efficient, making it a great place for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Portillo's is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Chicago-style cuisine. So, grab a hot dog, an Italian beef, and a slice of chocolate cake, and get ready for a truly unforgettable meal. It's a true taste of Illinois! Portillo's has expanded beyond Illinois, but it remains a beloved symbol of the state's culinary identity.

Giordano's

Continuing our culinary journey through Illinois restaurant chains, we arrive at Giordano's. Giordano's is another heavyweight in the Chicago deep-dish pizza scene. Founded in 1974, Giordano's has built a loyal following with its stuffed pizza, which is even thicker and cheesier than traditional deep-dish. What sets Giordano's apart is its unique approach to pizza making. Their stuffed pizza features a high-edged crust that is filled with cheese and toppings, then topped with another layer of crust and a generous amount of tomato sauce. The result is a pizza that is incredibly rich, decadent, and satisfying. Giordano's uses a blend of Wisconsin cheeses, which gives their pizza a distinctively creamy and flavorful taste. They also use fresh, high-quality ingredients for their toppings, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. Beyond their stuffed pizza, Giordano's also offers other Italian-American dishes such as pasta, salads, and sandwiches. But let's be real, you're there for the stuffed pizza. The atmosphere at Giordano's is family-friendly and casual, making it a great place for groups of all sizes. The service is friendly and efficient, and the staff is always happy to help you navigate the menu. Whether you're a deep-dish aficionado or a first-time visitor, Giordano's is sure to impress. So, grab a slice (or two!) of their famous stuffed pizza and get ready for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Illinois. Just be prepared to wait a bit – stuffed pizza takes time to bake to perfection!

Harold's Chicken Shack

Let's switch gears from pizza to another Illinois favorite: Harold's Chicken Shack. When you think of Illinois restaurant chains that represent the heart and soul of Chicago's South Side, Harold's Chicken Shack immediately comes to mind. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural icon. Founded in 1950 by Harold Pierce, this legendary chain is famous for its crispy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken, served with a side of hot sauce and coleslaw. Harold's isn't about fancy décor or complicated menus; it's about delicious, no-frills comfort food. The chicken is cooked to order, ensuring that it's always hot, fresh, and incredibly crispy. The secret to Harold's signature flavor is a closely guarded family recipe, which includes a blend of spices that gives the chicken its distinctive taste. The hot sauce is another key element of the Harold's experience. It's tangy, spicy, and adds the perfect amount of heat to complement the crispy chicken. And let's not forget about the coleslaw, which is creamy, sweet, and provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken and hot sauce. Harold's has a unique ordering system. You typically order by the number, such as a