Unearth The Voyage
Whether you live in the Land of Lincoln or are just passing through, Illinois is full of takeout gems that compete with sit-down dining. Here are 10 must-try takeout meals across the state – regionally iconic, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for ordering in.
1. Deep-Dish Pizza (Chicago area)
Does any dish scream Chicago louder than deep-dish pizza? With its hearty buttery crust and substantial layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce, it’s a meal to savor. The debate over where to get the best deep dish is as textured as the pizza itself.
Whether you choose Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pizano’s, expect a pie that’s a masterpiece of flavor and indulgence. Satisfying and rich, this takeout is as comforting as a warm hug.
Perfect for sharing with friends or truly indulging solo, it’s a slice of Chicago history you can relish from the comfort of home.
2. Italian Beef Sandwich (Chicago)
Born in the bustling heart of Chicago, the Italian beef sandwich is a storied favorite. Thin slices of seasoned roast beef, marinated in savory au jus, are nestled into a crusty Italian roll.
Topped with spicy giardiniera or sweet peppers, it’s customizable to your taste. Whether ordered dry, wet, or dipped, it offers a delicious, messy experience.
A staple for locals and newcomers alike, this sandwich has a legacy rivaling the city’s skyline. It’s a taste that invites you to savor Chicago’s culinary traditions.
3. Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A Chicago-style hot dog is more than just a sausage—it’s an experience. Topped with mustard, onions, neon-green relish, tomato slices, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt, it’s a vivid symphony of flavors.
The poppy seed bun cradles this masterpiece, demanding respect for its no-ketchup rule. For those seeking a twist, Gene & Jude’s serves up the renowned “Depression Dog” with fries on top.
Iconic and beloved, it’s a taste of classic Chicago street food that’s both nostalgic and unmistakably satisfying.
4. Horseshoe Sandwich (Springfield)
Unique to Springfield, the Horseshoe Sandwich is a hearty, open-faced marvel. It begins with thick Texas toast, crowned with a juicy hamburger patty or choice of meat.
Piled high with crispy fries and smothered in rich cheese sauce, it’s a dish meant to indulge. Variations include chicken or ham, but the essence remains indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect for those seeking a comforting, regional specialty, this sandwich is a hearty embrace of Illinois’s culinary creativity.
5. Chicken Vesuvio (Chicago)
Chicago’s Chicken Vesuvio is a legendary classic, known for its robust flavors. Bone-in chicken and potato wedges are sautéed with garlic, oregano, white wine, and olive oil, then baked to perfection.
The result is a dish that’s crispy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. As a takeout option, it’s a hearty meal that loses nothing in transit.
Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones, Chicken Vesuvio is a taste of Chicago’s culinary tradition that comforts and delights.
6. Shrimp DeJonghe (Chicago)
Originating in early 20th-century Chicago, Shrimp DeJonghe is a timeless taste of the city’s culinary history. Peeled shrimp are generously coated with a buttery, garlicky breadcrumb topping, creating a luxurious casserole.
Infused with sherry, this dish offers a richness that delights the palate. Ideal as a shareable entree or part of a larger takeout feast, it embodies both tradition and flavor.
This Chicago-born dish is an elegant indulgence that promises to elevate your dining experience.
7. Maxwell Street Polish (Chicago)
The Maxwell Street Polish is more than a sandwich—it’s a piece of Chicago’s soul. This creation features a spicy Polish sausage, grilled or fried, nestled in a bun with grilled onions and mustard.
Sometimes adorned with sport peppers, it offers a bold, smoky kick. Born in the historic Maxwell Street district, it’s a nod to the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
Perfect for takeout, this hearty delight is a taste of Chicago’s rich, flavorful history.
8. Stuffed Pizza (Chicago & Suburbs)
For those seeking a different take on pizza, stuffed pizza is a Chicago favorite. With cheese and toppings sealed between two dough layers, it offers a unique textural experience.
Not quite deep-dish, but far from thin-crust, it’s a happy medium that satisfies diverse palates. Popular in Chicago and its suburbs, it’s a rich, filling meal perfect for sharing.
This takeout option offers the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, making it a beloved choice for pizza lovers.
9. Bacon-Wrapped Chorizo-Stuffed Dates (Chicago)
A modern favorite in Chicago’s culinary scene, these bacon-wrapped, chorizo-stuffed dates are a flavor-packed delight. The spicy chorizo contrasts beautifully with the sweet dates, all enveloped in crispy bacon.
Often accompanied by a tangy or spicy dipping sauce, they’re the perfect appetizer to elevate your takeout meal. These small bites pack a hearty punch, offering a taste of Chicago’s innovative dining landscape.
Ideal for sharing, they bring a touch of modern elegance to any meal.
10. Chicago Popcorn & Garrett Mix
While not a full meal, popcorn in Illinois holds a special place. The Garrett Mix, a sweet and savory blend of caramel and cheese popcorn, is a Chicago staple.
Founded in 1949, Garrett Popcorn Shops have perfected this addictive combination. Often ordered in large tubs, it’s a delightful snack to accompany any takeout feast.
This iconic mix offers a taste of Chicago’s flair for flavor, providing a perfect ending or side to your meal.
