Explore Local Flavors:

Welcome to Wander Wise Rental's culinary guide, where we've handpicked the finest dining establishments to satisfy your palate. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just looking for a delightful meal, our curated list showcases the diverse flavors Chicago has to offer.

Chicago Classics

1. Gene & Judes

Cuisine: Chicago Style Hot Dog
Description: Gene and Jude's stands as a shrine to Chicago's unapologetic street food culture, where the Depression Dog—a minimalist masterpiece of a Vienna beef frankfurter nestled in a steamed seed bun, adorned with hand-cut fries and sport peppers —offers an authentic, no-frills plunge into the soul of the city's culinary roots.
Our Recommendation: Double Dog w/ Fries (Everything on it)mustard, relish, onion, sport peppers
Official Website: Gene & Judes

2. Jay's Beef

Cuisine: Italian Beef
Description: A North-West Side institution where simplicity meets savory transcendence. The star of the show, Jay's Italian Beef, is a testament to the art of less-is-more, a luscious marriage of thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned beef tucked into a soft, yet sturdy, Italian roll, creating a symphony of flavors that echoes the city's blue-collar roots and culinary heritage.
Our Recommendation: Italian Beef w/ Hot Giarnedera "Dipped"
Jay's Beef on Trip Advisor: Jay's Beef

3. Giordano's

Cuisine: Deep Dish Pizza
Description: In the heart of Chicago's pizza landscape, Giordano's stands as a titan—an iconic establishment where culinary craftsmanship meets comfort in the form of deep-dish mastery. Giordano's stuffed pizza, a behemoth of gooey cheese, robust tomato sauce, and meticulously layered toppings encased in a buttery, flaky crust, is not merely a meal but a gastronomic ode to the city's enduring love affair with pizza, making it a legendary institution in the ever-evolving tapestry of Chicago's culinary legacy.
Our Recommendation: The Special (Sausage, Mushrooms, Green Peppers & Onions)
Official Website: Giordano's

4. Jim's Original

Cuisine: Maxwell Street Polish Sausage
Description: Jim's Original is a beacon of South Side tradition, where the iconic Maxwell Street Polish shines as a symbol of unabashed, no-frills deliciousness. This humble sausage sandwich, grilled to perfection and nestled in a fresh bun with mustard, onions, and sport peppers, captures the essence of Chicago's working-class spirit, delivering a timeless and satisfying bite that transcends trends and remains a cherished piece of the city's culinary heritage.
Our Recommendation: Polish Sausage Sandwich & Pork Chop Sandwich
Official Website: Jim's Original

5. Johnnie's Beef

Cuisine: Italian Beef
Description: In the heart of Elmwood Park, Johnnie's Beef stands as a revered institution, a humble sanctuary where culinary simplicity achieves profound greatness. The star of the show, Johnnie's Italian Beef, is an unapologetic masterpiece—a succulent blend of thinly sliced, seasoned beef nestled in a soft Italian roll, crowned with a generous dose of flavorful jus. This iconic sandwich transcends its humble origins, embodying the essence of Chicago's street food culture and elevating every bite into a savory symphony that has stood the test of time.
Our Recommendation: Combo Beef & Sausage
Johnnie's Beef on Tripadvisor: Johnnie's Beef

6. Superdawg

Cuisine: Chicago Style Hot Dog & Burgers
Description:Nestled in the retro charm of Chicago, Superdawg stands as an iconic shrine to the city's hot dog culture—a timeless drive-in where the "Superdawg," a zesty and perfectly dressed creation, takes center stage. Packed with a uniquely seasoned beef sausage, tangy pickles, crisp celery salt, and a dollop of vibrant green relish, all embraced by a cloud-like bun, the Superdawg is more than a meal—it's a flavorful journey through Chicago's culinary history, preserving the essence of a bygone era in every savory bite.
Our Recommendation: Whoopercheesie
Official Website: Superdawg

Local Gems

1. Girl & The Goat

Cuisine: New American
Description: In the bustling culinary tapestry of Chicago's West Loop, Girl & the Goat stands as a culinary luminary—a vibrant celebration of inventive flavors and unbridled creativity. Chef Stephanie Izard's menu is a testament to audacious culinary exploration, featuring boldly crafted dishes that blur the lines between sweet and savory, familiar and unexpected. With a nod to global influences and an unapologetic embrace of the unconventional, Girl & the Goat invites diners to embark on a gastronomic journey where every bite is a harmonious dance of flavors, establishing it as a cherished gem in Chicago's diverse and dynamic food scene.
Our Recommendation: Roasted Pig Face
Official Website: Girl & The Goat

2. Greek Islands

Cuisine: Greek
Description: In the heart of Chicago's culinary mosaic, Greek Islands stands as an enduring beacon of Hellenic hospitality, inviting patrons to savor the rich tapestry of Greek cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere. The menu, a symphony of Mediterranean flavors, showcases the finest in traditional dishes, from moussaka to souvlaki, creating a dining experience that transcends geography and transports guests to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. With its warm hospitality and authentic fare, Greek Islands Chicago remains a beloved culinary destination, where the spirit of Greece comes alive in every flavorful bite.
Our Recommendation: Butterflied Lamb Chops
Official Website: Greek Islands

3. Smoque BBQ

Cuisine: Barbecue
Description: Amidst the aromatic allure of Chicago's barbecue scene, Smoque BBQ emerges as a smoky haven—an unassuming temple where the art of slow-cooked meats takes center stage. Brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, meticulously crafted and patiently smoked, embody a commitment to authenticity that transcends trends. The menu, a flavorful journey through the heart of Southern barbecue traditions, positions Smoque BBQ as a revered destination where each bite is a harmonious symphony of seasoned perfection, solidifying its status as a cherished gem in the city's barbecue landscape.
Our Recommendation: Baby Back Ribs & Brisket
Official Website: Smoque BBQ

4. Gibson's

Cuisine: Steakhouse
Description: Gibson's Steakhouse stands as a paragon of timeless elegance—a culinary institution where the art of steak reaches unparalleled heights. The menu, a symphony of prime cuts and indulgent sides, showcases the commitment to excellence that has made Gibson's a revered name in the city's dining scene. With its opulent ambiance, impeccable service, and steaks that define perfection, Gibson's remains a destination where each visit is not merely a meal but a celebration of the finest in Chicago's steakhouse tradition.
Our Recommendation: Filet Mignon
Official Website: Gibson's

5. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria

Cuisine: Italian, Neapolitan Pizza
Description: Amidst Chicago's diverse culinary tapestry, Spacca Napoli Pizzeria emerges as a Neapolitan gem—a culinary voyage to the streets of Naples in the heart of Ravenswood. The pizza, a masterful dance of simplicity and quality, boasts a thin, blistered crust, vibrant San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a touch of basil, reflecting the authenticity of traditional Neapolitan craftsmanship. With an ambiance that echoes the warmth of Italy and a commitment to time-honored techniques, Spacca Napoli invites patrons to savor a slice of Naples without leaving Chicago—a true haven for pizza connoisseurs seeking the genuine flavors of Italian culinary heritage.
Our Recommendation: Diavola Pizza paired with Polpo e fagioli
Official Website: Spacca Napoli Pizzeria

Plan Your Culinary Adventure

Explore the diverse flavors of our community with these exceptional dining options. Whether you're in the mood for classic Chicago fare or the city's ever-evolving authentic ethnic choices, our picks guarantee a memorable culinary journey. From casual to fine dining, our local establishments are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Discover the culinary treasures that make our community unique, and embark on a delightful gastronomic experience. Bon appétit!