chicago food tour inspired by the bear

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Yes, Chef: This ‘Bear’-Inspired Food Tour Avoids Chicago’s Culinary Clichés

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CHICAGO — When customers began asking Theresa Nemetz and Hannah Gleeson, the owner and director of operations of Chicago Food & City Tours, if they had a tour based on the hit FX/Hulu series “The Bear,” they didn’t take the requests very seriously. “Bear” hype was everywhere.

But when the requests continued months after the second season had dropped, they reconsidered.

“When people kept saying to us, ‘Have you thought about “The Bear”?’ twice a week, we thought, you know what? We need to do it. Maybe there’s something to it,” Gleeson said.

There was also a clear model: The episode in season two in which sous chef Sydney takes a tour of Chicago restaurants in search of inspiration.

Tickets for Yes Chef! Chicago: A Bear-Inspired Food Tour became available this month. Sales have been brisk. The public tours run 1 p.m. every other Saturday through December, and private tours are available.

Once the decision was made, Nemetz and Gleeson began to debate which spots to include. Mr. Beef, the River North model for the show’s restaurant, was an obvious choice — but where else? 

Nemetz has run city food tours for 16 years in Chicago and Milwaukee, and she considers herself well-versed in how to plan a tour that satisfies customers and gives them a sense of the city without overwhelming an business. For example, to avoid crowding out other customers, each tour group contains no more than 24 people.

“One of the things we pride ourselves on is how we build relationships with small business owners,” Nemetz said. “We want to highlight the business and tell their story. The conversation usually goes, ‘This is a tour we’re developing. Is it feasible for you, and do you want to make 1,000 of this item over and over again?’”

Another consideration was geography. Although a bus will transport tour participants between neighborhoods, it’s much easier to keep the stops relatively close together.

After a series of interviews and tastings with chefs and business owners around the city, the tour creators settled on an itinerary and menu that includes Italian beef from Mr. Beef, a tartine and seasonal pastries from Publican Quality Breads, dan dan noodles or dumplings from Lao Peng You, a slice of pepperoni pizza from Pizza Lobo, a doughnut from Roeser’s Bakery and, for the grand finale, a single-scoop hot fudge sundae from Margie’s Candies.

In between stops, tour guides point out locations from the show and share tidbits and stories about filming.

The tour creators made a point of avoiding the Chicago cliché of deep-dish pizza.

“We know tourists are thinking, ‘Do Chicagoans eat this deep-dish all the time?’” Gleeson said. “No, we don’t. There’s lots of delicious pizza coming out of Chicago besides that deep-dish.”

The itinerary and menu may change and evolve, depending on the date and time, and restaurants may join or leave the lineup.

Nemetz said the tour isn’t just for Chicagoans or “Bear” fans, adding that Chicago Food & City Tours offers plenty of other options, including trips to Pilsen, Chinatown and the West Loop. But she and Gleeson have noticed a lot of the visitors on the private “Bear” tours are former Chicagoans whose sense of nostalgia was kindled by the show and who want to show off the city to family and friends.

Which is the whole point of the tour: to highlight Chicago’s food and drink and introduce business owners to tourists and explain what they mean to the city and to their neighborhoods. And, of course, to enjoy some really good food.

“I want everyone to feel how Sydney felt that day, when she reset her palate and fell in love with Chicago food again,” Gleeson said.

Public tours of Yes Chef! Chicago: A Bear-Inspired Food Tour run 1 p.m. every other Saturday starting this week. Tours last 3.5 hours. Tickets are $129 and available at chicagofoodtours.com .

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Aimee Levitt

Twitter @aimeelevitt More by Aimee Levitt

Yes, Chef: 6 must-visit Chicago eateries to appease fans of ‘The Bear’

Taste your way through the Windy City at these six famous foodie locations featured in the binge-worthy series

By Roadtrippers

Did FX’s latest hit series The Bear (available to stream on Hulu) leave you drinking from plastic food containers and salivating for a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich? Heard, Chef. While the tension between Carmy and his kitchen crew can be anxiety-inducing, when you watch the perfectly sliced, slow-roasted beef being piled on a toasted Italian bun, topped with giardiniera, and served up wet to the next patron waiting at the counter—you can’t help but wonder where you too can get your hands on this Chicagoan cuisine.

Although the restaurant featured in the series—The Original Beef of Chicagoland—is unfortunately fictional, the show pays tribute to some of the city’s longtime restaurant and food staples during the intro of the infamous seventh episode, “Review.” With Sufjan Stevens’s “Chicago” playing in the background, the episode starts with a montage of the city, which includes a string of foodie locations. 

If you blink at all during this intro, there’s a good chance you’ll miss these culinary nods—so instead of forcing yourself to rewatch the manic chaos, here are the six famous Chicago eateries featured in “Review.”

1. Johnnie’s Beef

Arguably serving the best Italian beef sandwiches in Chicago, Johnnie’s might be the closest you can get to a real-life experience of The Bear , minus the drama. Patrons wait in long lines at the Elmwood Park location to anxiously give quick-hitting orders that are then shouted back to the kitchen, similar to the operations seen in the show. If you’re planning a visit to this stand, be sure to bring cash, know your order before getting in line, and don’t forget to wash down your sandwich and fries with a classic Italian lemonade.

2. Parky’s Hot Dogs

Don’t let the futuristic architecture and vibrant building colors fool you: This iconic stand—famous for its steamed, non-Vienna dogs—has been serving hot dogs and fries in Forest Park since 1947. Parky’s patrons can customize hot dogs to their liking, judgment-free of whatever condiments and toppings they choose (including ketchup). You can also snag burgers, beef and Italian sausages, and more at this longtime family-favorite establishment.

3. Pequod’s Pizzeria

You can’t talk about Chicago cuisine without mentioning pizza, and you can’t talk about pizza without mentioning Pequod’s . This pizzeria puts a twist on its pies that differentiates it from other deep dish rivals like Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and the like. The unique, caramelized crust keeps patrons coming back for more, and is often why this restaurant finds itself at the top of Chicago pizza-ranking lists. The original location can be found in Morton Grove, but most city-goers seek out the Lincoln Park restaurant, which has been open since 1992.  

Related 15 things to do in Chicago

4. Superdawg Drive-In

For more than 70 years, this drive-in has been serving up its famous Superdawg Chicago-style hot dogs in the Norwood Park neighborhood. What started as a means for two high school sweethearts to pay their way through college after World War II is now one of the few original drive-in restaurants remaining in the U.S.—and the only one still standing in Chicago. Easily recognized by the two giant fiberglass hot dogs standing on the top of the building, visitors from all over flock to Superdawg for an authentic taste of Chicago cuisine, and nostalgia that you simply can’t find at other restaurants.

5. Gene and Jude’s

Since 1950, Chicago residents and tourists alike have lined up outside of Gene and Jude’s in River Grove for a taste of its famous Chicago-style hot dogs and hand-cut fries. Unlike Parky’s, these all-Vienna Beef dogs have a limited selection of condiments: mustard, relish, onion, and sport peppers. So don’t even think about asking for ketchup at this establishment, as it’s quite literally not an option. All dogs are topped with fries and available in single or double variations.

6. Wrigley Field

There are few things that are more quintessential Chicago than downing a Chicago-style hot dog while cheering on the Cubbies at Wrigley Field . There’s a plethora of food options at the stadium, but there’s nothing quite as iconic as the official hot dog of Wrigley Field. Made with an all-Vienna Beef dog and topped with mustard, relish, chopped raw onions, sliced tomato, a kosher pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt, you won’t find this dog at any other ballpark—not even at a White Sox game. Even if you’re not a fan of all of the Wrigley-dog toppings, it’s a must-try meal, especially for first-time stadium visitors.

Related Play ball: 9 baseball stadiums to get fans excited for Opening Day

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What "The Bear" Eats

Aug 04, 2023 • Eat & Drink

Many of  The Bear  Chicago filming locations are real restaurants visited by Chef Sydney, played by actress Ayo Edebiri, when she sets off on a food journey across the city in hopes of finding inspiration for their new restaurant.

Don’t worry, Mr. Beef , the inspiration for season one’s “The Original Beef,” is still around and slinging sandwiches. 

Chef Sydney’s journey covers fine dining, Chicago staples, hidden gems, dessert spots, new markets, and must-tries. We’re here to give you a guide to The Bear Chicago restaurants along with nearby spots and experiences so you don’t miss a thing.

First stop on Chef Sydney’s food tour is  Kasama . This casual Filipino restaurant in Ukrainian Village treats you from sun up to sun down. They offer out-of-this-world pastries like the Huckleberry Basque cake and an array of tarts. But get there early, because they run out quickly. In addition to morning treats, Thursday through Sunday night, they dim the lights, bring out the candles, and offer a 13-course fine dining meal for $185. It’s Filipino BBQ at its best with bites you won’t find anywhere else.   

Close to Kasama is another stop Chef Sydney took on her journey— Lao Peng You , where she is served a delectable noodle, scallion, and sesame bread meal.  Lao Peng You  is a Chinese BYOB joint that is almost always buzzing with a crowd. But when you sit down and start digging into favorites like the beef noodle soup with spicy broth, everything else fades away. 

And while you’re in Ukrainian Village, check out  Vertical Gallery , an open space for national/international artists influenced by pop culture, graphic design, illustration, and contemporary urban art. 

Next up on Chef Sydney’s journey is  Avec . It serves modern takes on Mediterranean classics in a tapas style with some added Midwestern love. This restaurant is simple in its wood panel design, but bold and complex in the flavors they offer. From the atmosphere and food to the well-priced bottles of wine, this West Loop spot is a must.

Along with  Avec , West Loop is host to so many great Chicago restaurants that weren’t featured on  The Bear , although not for a lack of quality. Eat a smorgasbord of food at the  Time Out Market , an unforgettable gourmet burger at  Au Cheval , rooftop tapas at  Aba , a Chicago famous sandwich from  J.P Graziano , or try  Girl & the Goat , created by Top Chef Season 4 winner Stephanie Izard. You really can’t go wrong, whatever you choose.  

What isn’t a choice for any Chicago newcomers, however, is trying deep-dish pizza. It’s Chicago’s love language and you can’t call your trip complete without it. And when you research deep-dish, you’ll often be presented with these iconic choices —  Lou Malnati’s ,  Gino’s East , or  Giordano’s . 

Those are great, but if you ask Cousin Richie, there is another fantastic option that makes an appearance on episode 7 of  The Bear  —  Pequod’s . In the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, this deep-dish heaven is right up there with the other deep-dish heavyweights—after all, they’re known for their caramelized crust. Guess you’ll have to try them all to discover your favorite.

But if you simply want a “regular” slice like Chef Sydney, head to Logan Square’s  Pizza Lobo’s  side window to try its delicious Neapolitan pizza. Sydney grabs a classic pepperoni slice, but they have countless unique styles worth trying, like the “spicy meatball,” along with a great outdoor area to sit with friends, enjoy a cocktail, and dig into as much pizza as you can handle. 

Also in Logan Square is Chef Sydney’s dessert stop —  Margie’s Candies . This eclectic sweet wonderland makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule. It has been serving homemade sundaes, which is what Chef Sydney digs into, classic shakes and hand-dipped candies for more than 90 years. 

After you satisfy your sweet tooth, consider sticking around and exploring more of the Logan Square neighborhood. If you’re into live music, take in some toe-tapping blues at   Rosa’s Lounge  or a craft cocktail at   The Whistler . Or if comedy is more up your alley, head to   The Lincoln Lodge   for some gut-busting comedy showcases.

Venturing just outside of the city now,  The Bear  takes us North to Norwood Park for this next spot. And although it may not be in Chicago proper, it still delivers one of the best Chicago hot dogs around. We’re of course talking about the famous  Superdawg .

An old-fashioned drive-in staple since 1948, you simply pull up and place your order into a speaker box and the staff will come out and hook a tray on your car window. And don’t forget to say hi to Maurie and Flaurie, the two 12-foot-tall  Superdawg  statues towering over the whole restaurant. 

Chef Sydney then brings us to Chinatown, where she walks through the  88 Marketplace , Chicago’s largest Chinese supermarket. But it doesn’t just offer a wide variety of imported grocery products. On the second floor, there is an extensive food court that includes sushi, Hong Kong-style barbecue, Vietnamese pho, and Chinese baked goods. 

If you do give  88 Marketplace  a try, it will also give you an opportunity to explore Chinatown. Take a walk or rent a canoe in the gorgeous  Ping Tom Memorial Park , get a true craft cocktail at  Nine Bar ,  or check out the array of museums dedicated to Asian and Chinese history like the  Chinese American Museum of Chicago  and the  Heritage Museum of Asian Art .

Of course, we saved the most experimental for last.   Fulton Market’s   Ever, which holds two Michelin stars, is all about brand-new taste experiences.Episode 7 of The Bear, titled “Forks,” uses Ever as inspiration and the filming location for their fictional version of the best fine dining restaurant in the world. It’s where Cousin Richie works for a week and discovers the true power and exultation a phenomenal dining experience can have on its guests. Maybe the real restaurant will do the same for you? Only one way to find out.  

The beauty of Chicago is that this flavor quest brought to us by  The Bear  only scratches the surface of all the food experiences one can have in the city and surrounding areas. So, use  The Bear  Chicago restaurants as a starting point and don’t be afraid to explore and create your own journey. 

Happy eating!

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Dine in the Chicago Footsteps of FX's Hit Series, 'The Bear'

Follow this mouthwatering itinerary—inspired by The Bear—to sample some of Chicago's best and most iconic food.

Amy Lynch is an Indianapolis-based freelancer who loves to write about Midwestern food and travel. A single mom and Indiana University alumni, she enjoys road trips, bourbon, books, live music and breakfast all day.

If you've recently binged season 2 of The Bear on Hulu, you're probably still drooling over all the crave-worthy dishes that Carmy, Syd and the rest of the gang either cooked or consumed. Want to follow their culinary lead? Here's how to fill up a Chicago trip with delicious stops at some of the Windy City restaurants featured on the show. Unless you're a competitive eater, it would be impossible to tackle them all in a day, but a weekend of feasting is certainly feasible.

A quick synopsis of the series: Carmen Berzatto, a young chef working in New York's fine-dining world, returns to his hometown of Chicago to run the family's chaotic Italian beef sandwich shop after the suicide of his brother. Main characters include restaurant manager Richie Jerimovich, chef/baker Marcus Brooks and sous-chef Sydney Adamu.

It All Started With The Italian Beef Sandwich

The first season basically revolved around one dish: The iconic Italian beef sandwich—tender meat piled onto soft French bread topped with peppers, sweet or hot giardiniera and, if you ask for it, served "wet" or "dipped." Chicago claims a deep collection of no-frills establishments dedicated to the cause, each offering its own interpretation. The definitive version is, of course, a matter of personal opinion, but Al's #1 Italian Beef , Johnnie's Beef , Tony's Italian Beef and Luke's Italian Beef are all good bets. Exteriors of The Bear and front-of-house scenes were filmed at Mr. Beef in River North, the OG that reportedly inspired the whole series. If you don't want to stand in line that long, it's fairly easy to find Portillo's locations throughout the city. Assume the stance—step back from the counter and lean forward with your elbows out before biting in—to avoid dripping the tasty debris onto your clothes.

Deep-Dish Pizza Debates

As the series progresses, its locations move beyond just Mr. Beef—and more and more Chicago restaurants are featured. Like Italian beef, the best Chicago deep-dish pizza remains an ongoing and often heated debate. Richie's choice? Pequod's in Lincoln Park, as evidenced by his mad Season 2, Episode 7 dash to pick up a pie he delivers into the capable hands of a chef at Curtis Duffy's Michelin-starred Ever . The humble slices of pizza are then elevated to fine-dining perfection for a table of delighted out-of-towners. (P.S. The scenes of Marcus honing his dessert chops weren't actually filmed in Copenhagen, as the series suggests, but at After , Ever's swanky partnered cocktail lounge.) For something a little more casual, or if deep-dish just isn't your jam, snag a New York-style slice of pepperoni from the walk-up window at Pizza Lobo in Logan Square like Chef Syd does instead.

Going Global in Chicago

Searching for menu inspiration, Sydney visits a variety of the city's restaurants on Season 2, covering a diversity of cuisines and neighborhoods. Kasama in Ukrainian Village just south of Wicker Park creates Filipino-inspired fare and exquisite pastries under the direction of James Beard-recognized chef-owners Tim Flores and Genie Kwon. Another Ukrainian Village entry, cozy Lao Peng You , dishes dan dan noodles, dumplings and soups for slurping, along with Beef Rou Jia Mo (beef shank sandwich) and Dou Hua (sweet or savory tofu pudding).

Sydney also visits Avec and Publican Quality Meats , sister shop to The Publican —and during the show, she speaks to Donnie Madia, a restaurateur with One Off Hospitality, which is behind both Avec and Publican. Within a sleek cedar-paneled dining room, intimate Avec in the West Loop offers an array of Midwest-meets-Mediterranean plates like shakshuka, crispy short rib hummus, and signature chorizo-stuffed dates wrapped in bacon.

Meat, meanwhile, is Publican's claim to fame. Check out the thoughtfully vetted selection of chops, steaks and poultry behind the counter at the Fulton Market butcher shop , then wander across the street to dine on oysters, charcuterie and porky main dishes at the flagship restaurant.

In "Fishes," the penultimate Berzatto family Christmas dinner episode, Uncle Jimmy reminisces about eating chocolate-covered bananas with his dad. Look hard enough, and you may be able to find locally produced Diana's Bananas in the freezer section of select Chicago grocery stores. Cap off your Chicago Bear food journey by indulging like Syd in an old-fashioned ice cream sundae with all the trimmings at Margie's Candies, a nostalgic local dining institution.

The Bear hasn't been officially renewed for Season 3, but there's plenty to check out in Chicago while you're waiting for the news.

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The Bear food tour - Chicago Food & City Tours

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Perfect introduction to Chicago food! Our gude, Phil, was extremely personable and we lined the... read more

Phil gave us an incredible tour. He is knowledgeable, funny, personable, and he knows how to show... read more

The Bear food tour

This tour is a must! Great food, nice pace, tour guide Dave was very fun. Having seen The Bear certainly helps with references but not critical for a good time. Well worth the money, plenty of food and drinks.

Thank you so much for your review of our Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear Inspired Food Tour! We are absolutely elated that you enjoyed yourself. Come see us again soon!

From the first bite of deep-dish pizza to the last crumb of the delicious brownie, my wife and I were immersed in the best culinary delights Chicago has to offer, thanks to our fantastic food tour. Our guide, David, was the heart of this experience. His profound knowledge of the city's food history and his genuine passion, especially for shows like "The Bear", which we both love, added a personal touch to our journey. The tour took us through bustling downtown Chicago, where we savored local favorites like Italian beef, classic Chicago hotdogs, and some mouth-watering popcorn. Each dish was a discovery in itself, representative of the city's rich and diverse culinary landscape. What made this tour truly stand out was David's approach – his warm, grandfatherly demeanor made us feel right at home in the vast cityscape. His anecdotes and insights provided a deeper understanding and appreciation of the food and the city itself. As a first-timer in Chicago, this tour wasn't just about tasting food; it was a comprehensive learning experience that connected us to the city's heart and soul. I would wholeheartedly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Chicago, whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking for a unique way to explore the city. It's an experience you don't want to miss!

Wow, oh, wow! Thank you for your beautiful words and generous compliments! We are absolutely thrilled that you had such a wonderful time on our Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour. David is an exceptional guide, and we are delighted to hear such a wonderful review of his hard work. We pride ourselves on not only being a food tour, but also a tour full of history, architecture, and entertainment. Thank you, thank you, and we hope you come visit in Chicago again soon!

I was looking for something for my husband and I to do on a Sunday afternoon on a recent visit to Chicago and stumbled across Chicago Food & City Tours. After looking at their extensive tour options, we settled on the Gateway to Chicago's West Loop tour. Our tour guide, Terry, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable - doing a fantastic job of giving us a little information about each restaurant and dish as well as tons of information about the West Loop neighborhood and its history. We stopped at six places, experiencing a wonderful variety of dishes that included a beautifully moist meatball and marinara sauce, okonomiyaki (a type of Japanese crepe/pancake topped with chicken and vegetables), homemade filled chocolates, crispy, caramelized chicken dumplings, the best pizza I've had in a long time, and a delightfully moist, tangy red velvet cupcake. It was the perfect mix of stops and walking time and I didn't leave the tour feeling overly stuffed (though I was pleasantly full). We were fortunate to have a smaller group (6 of us) and it was truly perfect. We walked away having made some new friends and with an experience we'll never forget. We'd highly recommend this tour to Chicago natives and tourists alike!

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review! We are thrilled you enjoyed your Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour! We pride ourselves on not only being a food tour, but also a tour full of history, architecture, and entertainment, and we are so happy that you left feeling pleasantly full in body as well as mind.

The places that we stopped at, the stories that were told, and the food we tasted made this a fantastic tour!

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are so thrilled you enjoyed your Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear Inspired Food Tour. We hope you get the chance to visit us again soon and take one of many other wonderful food tours we host.

I'd like to to take moment to say what a WONDERFUL time we had on the Icon Foods of Chicago tour yesterday. The food was delicious and we enjoyed learning the colorful history of the city from our guide David. We'll definitely be back again to sample another of your tours!

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a thoughtful review! We are absolutely delighted that you enjoyed your Iconic Foods of Chicago Food Tour! We pride ourselves on not only being a food tour, but also a tour full of history, architecture, and entertainment, and we are thrilled that you got to experience and learn so many wonderful things. We hope you come back and visit us again soon!

This is an excellent tour which gives you the opportunity to skip the lines at some of Chicago’s most iconic restaurants. The tour represents excellent value for money as, not only do you walk away after three hours with a full tummy, but you also gain some interesting information about the history of the food and the neighbourhoods you visit. Can’t recommend this tour or David, our guide, highly enough!

Wow, thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad you enjoyed your Iconic tour with David and we can't wait for you to join us again!

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Breaking news, trump found guilty of all 34 counts in hush money case, ‘the bear’: inside sydney’s food tour and season 2’s love letter to chicago.

Joanna Calo, who directed the Ayo Edebiri-centered episode "Sundae," speaks with The Hollywood Reporter about answering one of the food-focused drama's central questions: "Who speaks for Chicago?"

By Josh Wigler

Josh Wigler

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[This story focuses on The Bear season two, episode three “Sundae” but contains some full-season spoilers.]

Midway through its second season , The Bear loads the viewer up with an abundance of high-profile actors: Jamie Lee Curtis, Bob Odenkirk and John Mulaney, to name just three. And while the bone-chilling holiday episode (titled “Fishes,” as in “feast of the seven”) rightly warrants more attention than you can throw a fork at, it’s certainly not the season’s first offering featuring familiar faces.

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Much of the episode centers on Ayo Edebiri’s Sydney Adamu , chef de cuisine at the developing The Bear, as she tours a diverse array of the Windy City’s finest restaurants for inspiration. Over the course of her journey, Syd eats at several real Chicago restaurants — some of them institutions, some of them up-and-comers and one of them fictionalized for the show. 

“It was this very cool project of figuring out, ‘Who speaks for Chicago?’” Calo tells The Hollywood Reporter, speaking in her capacity as the episode’s director. “There are so many places we didn’t get to go to, obviously, but we tried to cover all of our bases of what it’s like to eat and be inspired in Chicago.”

In crafting the episode, Calo and company used the real restaurant locations and real restaurateurs in speaking roles (such as One Off Hospitality’s Donnie Madia) to not only build on the Hulu drama’s hard-earned authentic portrayal of life as a food professional, but also to honor the city that’s as much a part of the Bear cast as Syd, Carmy ( Jeremy Allen White ), Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and the rest . Below, THR speaks with Calo about directing the episode and how Sydney’s “Sundae” came together.

How did the world’s awareness of The Bear impact the work done on season two?

Part of the energy is leaving the kitchen , and seeing more of everyone’s lives, with episode three as a big example: Sydney’s culinary tour of Chicago. Please tell me Ayo Edebiri didn’t have to eat all of this food in a single day.

Not one day, but she ate a lot and I’m so proud of her. ( Laughs .) It wasn’t easy, but she was always down. It was [shot in about] three days. Because of the way the schedule worked out, we really had to knock out the location work, so she ate a lot of really good food. Luckily, it was really delicious! But it was way too much food.

How did you choose which restaurants to feature in the episode? Does it start with the creative, or the practical realities of where you’re allowed to film?

How do these restaurant choices map onto Sydney as a character and what she’s looking to puzzle out for her own ambitions?

Once we realized that we were going to be able to go to all these locations, we started thinking about the menu for The Bear [the restaurant]. Chefs are inspired all the time and it doesn’t end up making it onto the menu. But if we’re trying to tell this really specific story about creativity and how it connects to the project she’s working on, we really wanted to draw a throughline from her ribs dish last season to some dish she would be pitching to make it onto the menu of The Bear. And that’s why we started circling around this ravioli idea. We know we’re getting beef from Publican, and that Avec has an amazing spare ribs and hummus [dish]. Lao Peng You has all of these dumplings that are so good. And then we have the fake French restaurant, Verdana, which we actually shot at Giant , where they have this amazing crepe. We were attempting to tell a story about creative inspiration for an idea and how it can come from all these places, and that Sydney would want to eat all of these different foods and combine them.

What went into filming at the actual locations?

Jason Sterman and Brian McGinn [from Netflix’s Chef’s Table ] came and produced with me. Brian also did some of the B-unit capturing of the kitchens. So we could be doing scenes, but then he’s setting up for just beautiful food and beautiful kitchen movements. I will say, we happened to shoot in incredibly kind kitchens. That doesn’t mean they weren’t being extra kind because we were there, but I think Donnie really lives by creed of hospitality and about taking care of the family that is in his restaurant. That that’s part of why we wanted to talk to Rob; even though Publican I think has a similar ethos, he had had some really good horror stories as well about shitty partners and bad behavior and failures, and those are his true stories and we were able to get him to tell those stories on camera and then use them to amp up Sydney’s fear of both her own failure and her fear about her partnership with Carmy.

How about turning these restaurateurs into actors, essentially?

Are you able to compartmentalize The Bear right now while pencils are down for the writers strike, and work can’t move forward on season three?

I really am, and [creator Chris Storer] is too. Taking a break isn’t the worst thing in the world. I hope we can resolve things, especially after such a strong showing from all the writers. It would be wonderful to end this in a powerful way. The writers really deserve to feel like a powerful force to be reckoned with.

Interview edited for length and clarity . The Bear season two is now streaming on Hulu.

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Here’s every Chicago restaurant spotted during Sydney’s food tour in ‘The Bear’

Avec, publican quality meats and margie’s candies are among the chicago spots featured in a montage of restaurants in the second season of the series..

Jeremy Allen White as Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, and Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu in Season 2 of “The Bear.”

Chuck Hodes/FX

FX’s hit Chicago-based show “The Bear” tells the story of a fictional Chicago restaurant and its scrappy, lovable crew of chefs — but Season 2, episode 3 of the series, titled “Sundae” features some very real Chicago spots.

• ‘The Bear’ dips into the kitchen culture of Chicago’s Italian beef joints

In looking for inspiration for the restaurant’s new, more elevated, menu, Chef Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) goes on a foodie marathon. She hits some of the city’s up-and-coming spots, as well as Chicago classics.

Here’s a list of every restaurant we caught in the montage:

A line of people wait outside of Kasama. (1001 N. Winchester Ave.) Friday, June 30.

Katie Anthony/Sun-Times

Sydney’s first stop is Kasama (1001 N. Winchester Ave.), a Michelin-starred modern Filipino bakery and restaurant in Ukrainian Village. Chefs/owners Tim Flores and Genie Kwon recently took home the James Beard award for best chef Great Lakes region.

If fans want to get the full experience, show writers included Sydney’s breakfast order: A breakfast sandwich with longaniza, a hashbrown, mushroom adobo and a mango tart.

Avec restaurant in the West Loop.

Brian Jackson/Sun-Times File

Sydney spends a good amount of time at Avec , 615 W. Randolph, a Michelin Guide Mediterranean spot in the West Loop.

While she’s there she talks with Donnie Madia, the real-life Chicago restaurateur of One Off Hospitality Group — which is responsible for Chicago spots including Avec and Publican Quality Meats (also featured in the episode).

“This show is a beautiful homage to all the great restaurants and this great city of Chicago,” Madia wrote in an Instagram post about the episode.

One of the dishes featured is a short rib hummus, currently on the restaurant’s menu.

Publican Quality Meats

Publican Quality Meats in Fulton Market

Rich Hein/Sun-Times

Sydney gets a butchering lesson from actual Chef Rob Levitt at Publican Quality Meats (825 W. Fulton Market) in Fulton Market.

The spot doubles as a butcher shop and café, serving up soups, salads and sandwiches. Its full restaurant, The Publican, is across the street and features elevated American food, while Publican Quality Bread focuses on the baked goods.

Pizza Lobo in Logan Square.

Garrett Sweet/Pizza Lobo

What’s a Chicago food montage without pizza?

Sydney grabs a slice of pepperoni from Pizza Lobo (3000 W. Fullerton Ave.) in Logan Square.

“It was loads of fun just having them at the bar filming,” Michael Young, Pizza Lobo’s director of operations, told the Sun-Times. “Seeing it come full circle in the episode felt almost surreal. We’re feeling incredibly fortunate and grateful for the remarkable community support we’ve experienced since the episode dropped.”

Sydney opts for the restaurant’s to-go window, but the eatery also features a giant patio situated right on the corner of Fullerton Avenue and Sacramento Avenue.

And the cooks Sydney tries to poach in a back alley? That’s Pizza Lobo, too.

Giant in Logan Square.

Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times

Featured in a quick montage of delicious-looking food is another Logan Square spot, Giant (3209 W. Armitage Avenue.)

The New American restaurant describes its fare as “ simple, delicious (slightly cheffy) food.”

Lao Peng You

Lao Peng You in Ukrainian Village.

Also spotlighted in the montage is Lao Peng You (2020 W. Chicago Ave.) in Ukrainian Village. The no-reservations, small Chinese restaurant opened in 2019.

Sydney eats the shop’s signature noodles and dumplings while taking notes in the bright dining room.

Margie’s Candies

Margie’s Candies in Bucktown.

Sydney’s final stop — and presumably the inspiration behind the title of the episode — is Margie’s Candies (960 N. Western Ave.) in Bucktown, where she orders a sundae with all the fixings.

The over-100-year-old store serves classic sundaes, milkshakes and candy. The only unrealistic part of Sydney’s visit is that there doesn’t seem to be a line out the door to sit in one of the shop’s old-fashioned booths.

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The Definitive Guide to Restaurants Featured in ‘The Bear’

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FX’s The Bear is a love letter to Chicago’s dining scene, shooting on location at numerous top restaurants complete with cameos from chefs and restauranteurs. Over the course of two seasons, the show has taken a delicious tour of the city and its suburbs, and you can follow along by visiting these 26 spots either depicted or mentioned in the series.

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, The Bear wouldn’t exist.

Superdawg Drive-In

Superdawg is one of the most iconic places to get a Chicago dog, retaining its retro style and rooftop mascots Flaurie and Maurie since 1948. The restaurant can be spotted in the montage that opens Episode 7 of Season 1 and its hot dogs and fries are seen in their signature boxes at the party in Episode 5 of Season 2. The restaurant also has an outpost in suburban Wheeling.

• Open in Google Maps

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The Episode 7 montage is set to Sufjan Stevens’ “Chicago” and kicks off with a nod to the singer-songwriter’s performances at Metro. Since 1982, the independently operated Wrigleyville music venue has nurtured local talent and served as a showcase for national and international acts including R.E.M., Lizzo, and Chance the Rapper.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Metro Chicago (@metrochicago)

Alice's Lounge

Avondale dive bar Alice’s Lounge is renowned for it’s late-night karaoke, making it a great place for industry folk to blow off some steam. Despite feeling a bit out of place with her young classmates at culinary school, Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas) fits right in when she joins them in Episode 5 of Season 2 to take some shots and perform “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” by Freddy Fender.

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Loaf Lounge

Loaf Lounge co-owner and baker Sarah Mispagel served as a consultant for The Bear and she made the decadent chocolate cake The Beef pastry chef Marcus (Lionel Boyce) prepares in Season 1. Whole cakes are available to order with advance notice and slices are always served at the all-day cafe alongside sandwiches, rotating loaves of bread and other sweet treats.

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Gene & Jude's

Another institution spotlighted in the Episode 7 montage, Gene & Jude’s has been slinging red hots topped with sport peppers, mustard, relish, onions and crispy French fries since 1946, moving from Chicago to River Grove in 1950. Generations of customers have visited the small suburban space to scarf down Depression Dogs and tamales standing up. The restaurant doesn’t have any seats and it definitely doesn’t serve ketchup.

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Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) blissfully chows down on a slice of pepperoni pizza while standing in front of Pizza Lobo’s takeout window, making sure viewers know that Chicago isn’t just devoted to deep dish. She also tries to poach some workers catching a break in the alley that leads to Lobo’s kitchen. The restaurant also has a location in Andersonville and both offer large patios with fire pits and bocce courts, serving hot cocktails in the winter and frozen ones year round.

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Pequod's Pizza

Deep dish favorite Pequod’s is featured in Episode 7 of both season 1 and season 2, where it’s mutilated to present to tourists dining at Ever. No micro basil is required to enjoy the rich pie and its famous caramelized crust produced by burning mozzarella on the edges of a cast-iron pan. This location has been around since 1992 and the Morton Grove original dates back to 1970.

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Beck's Chicago

While cameras never set food inside, while Richie enters Pequod’s in Season 2, Episode 7 viewers see a nice shot of Beck’s neon sign. Beck’s is a sports bar partial to Kansas City sports fans with some of the city’s best wings. Beck’s is owned by the same team behind Toon’s, a venerable Lakeview bar.

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Margie's Candies

Episode 3 of Season 2 is named “Sundae” in honor of the treat that Sydney enjoys at Margie’s Candies. The ice cream parlor has been owned by the same family since 1933, serving generations of customers who will wait in lines that stretch around the block for a banana split on a hot summer day. A second location opened in North Center in 2005.

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Verdana French Bistro doesn’t actually exist — the scene in “Sundae” where Sydney visits the restaurant to get advice was filmed at Logan Square’s Giant and its actual chefs can be seen working in the background. Grab a seat at the kitchen counter or on the patio for tempura trout roe bites, a beautiful plate of pasta, and a spritz.

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Roeser's Bakery

Marcus gets inspiration for his Season 1 doughnut experiments by visiting Roeser’s, Chicago’s oldest family-owned bakery, which has been open at the same place in Humboldt Park since 1911. While it’s best known for its custom cakes, Roeser’s offers a wide selection of seasonal treats and is a particularly popular place to pick up paczki on Fat Tuesday.

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Johnnie's Beef

While Mr. Beef is the primary inspiration for The Beef on The Bear , the show also gives a nod to another iconic Italian beef joint as part of the Episode 7 montage. Open since 1961, this suburban spot piles its signature sandwiches with giardiniera and also dishes out hot dogs and charcoal-grilled Italian sausages. Finish the meal by cooling off with a lemon Italian ice.

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The first stop on Sydney’s Chicago food tour in Episode 3 is Kasama, where she feasts on mushroom adobo, a longanisa sausage sandwich with hashbrowns and a mango tart. America’s only Michelin-starred Filipino restaurant , Kasama offers baked goods and casual fare in the morning and transitions to a tasting menu at night. Chefs Tim Flores and Genie Kwon won the James Beard Foundation best chef: Great Lakes award this year.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by kasama (@kasamachicago)

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Potash Markets

Receipts from Potash Markets and Whole Foods can be spotted in Carmy’s (Jeremy Allen White) apartment and he’s shopping there when he runs into his childhood crush. Potash has been selling locally sourced meat, produce, wine and beer in the Gold Coast since 1950. It also offers catering and party platters.

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Lao Peng You

Sydney stops at Lao Peng You in “Sundae” for hand-rolled dumplings served in broth from brothers Daniel and Eric Wat, who also dish out a variety of noodle soups, sandwiches and made-to-order lamb-cumin bread at their BYOB West Town restaurant. Spots are first come, first served as the small West Town space and there tend to be long waits for either a table or to-go order, so a bit of patience is required.

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The green door tavern.

Located just next door to Mr. Beef, The Green Door Tavern is visible in several shots and Richie mentions it’s closing in Season 1 as evidence that the neighborhood is changing. But just like River North isn’t nearly as gritty as it’s portrayed in the show , the bar dating back to 1921 is alive and well, continuing to serve an excellent selection of beer and whiskey along with classic pub grub. Be sure to visit The Drifter, the speakeasy hidden in the basement.

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The Bear creator Christopher Storer spent time working at Mr. Beef and shot scenes both on location at the River North restaurant and in a soundstage recreation of the space. Joe Zucchero, who founded the restaurant in 1979, died earlier this year , but his son Chris has taken over and made a few cameos on the show. The Beef may have transformed into a fine-dining establishment but Mr. Beef, is still slinging its iconic sandwiches.

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Ed Debevic's

Despite having no restaurant experience, Carmy’s dad was inspired to open The Beef after a visit to Ed Debevic’s. Open since 1984, the ‘50s-themed diner in Streeterville is known for its sassy servers, who dress in costume and sometimes dance on the soda counter. Popular with families and parties, the spot features a huge menu including skillets, pancakes, sliders and floats.

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Michael Jordan's Steak House

Marcus mentions his love for the double-smoked maple-glazed bacon at Michael Jordan’s Steak House in Season 1. The Bulls legend’s Magnificent Mile restaurant is a place to splurge, serving flights of filet mignon and New York strip along with warm lobster tail and 23-layer chocolate cake. There’s even a $75 cocktail made with Jordan’s favorite rye and tequila for those really looking to go all out. There’s also a little ‘90s Bulls story in Episode 4, Season 2 with Luca in Copenhagen.

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Ever Restaurant

Ever is the centerpiece of Episode 7 of Season 2, as Richie stages at a fictional version of the restaurant with three Michelin stars and Olivia Colman in the kitchen. Chef Curtis Duffy doesn’t appear in the episode, but viewers can spot his hands plating some of the dishes on the two-Michelin starred restaurant’s 8- to 10-course tasting menu. Many of Ever’s front-of-house staff also were in the show, so diners might recognize their server. Make a reservation through Tock .

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After Lounge

Located next door to Ever, After served as the set for the Copenhagen restaurant where Marcus studies under handsome pastry chef Luca (Will Poulter) in Episode 4. The lounge offers Ever diners a place to extend their meal with a dramatic cocktail but is also a more affordable place for diners to try a bit of chef Curtis Duffy’s food, with dishes including lamb ribs and duck wings.

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Publican Quality Meats

Sydney drops by Public Quality Meats in Episode 3 of Season 2 to get some advice from head butcher and chef de cuisine Rob Levitt, who used his own personal experience for his dialogue. The butcher shop offers sausage and steaks from local farms plus deli meats cured, cooked and smoked onsite and served on slices from sibling spot Publican Quality Bread.

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When Sydney calls in a favor to get kitchen space at the end of Episode 3, she heads to Elske to experiment with pasta after being welcomed by executive chef David Posey, who co-owns the restaurant with his wife and pastry chef Anna Posey. The Michelin-starred spot offers both a Scandinavian-inspired tasting menu and a la carte dishes made with seasonal, local ingredients.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by David Posey (@chefdavidtposey)

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Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Avec hosted The Bear ’s writers several times as they researched the world of fine dining by chatting with chef Dylan Patel and Donnie Madia, the co-founder of One Off Hospitality. Madia plays a big role in Episode 3 as he gives Sydney advice on hospitality, while Patel, general manager Claire McDonal and many other Avec employees are seen going through a pre-service and spotlighting the Mediterranean restaurant’s popular short rib hummus.

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Kendall College

While The Bear is under construction, Nina trains at Kendall College to take over as sous chef. The Loop school offers a highly regarded culinary arts and hospitality management program, and students hone their skills at the Kendall College Dining Room, which makes it one of the most affordable tasting menus in town. It also periodically hosts meals from star alumni. Make a reservation through Tock .

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Ceres Cafe serves as the namesake for Episode 6 of Season 1, where Carmy’s brother Mikey (Jon Bernthal) tells the story of a wild night at the bar in the lobby of the Board of Trade building. Open since 1967, the bar is known for its faceless art deco statue of the namesake goddess and its strong cocktails that have made it a favorite for after work drinks.

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Top 5 Italian Beef Sandwiches in Chicago: ‘The Bear’ Inspired Culinary Tour

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Christopher Parr, is the Editor and Chief Content Creator for…

The Windy City. A legendary playground of gusty winds, iconic skylines, and a food culture so diverse it could make a seasoned gastronome weep with joy. Among the Chicago-style hot dogs and the deep-dish pizzas, the Italian beef sandwich stands tall, the unsung hero, an understated but brilliant masterpiece of culinary heritage. As seen in the FX series ‘The Bear,’ the Italian beef sandwich is a Chicago delicacy that I’ve been privileged to experience numerous times, in places scattered around the city, each with its unique story and flavor.

Let’s trace the humble origins of this sandwich before I introduce you to my top 5 favorite spots to grab this mouth-watering delight in Chicago . A by-product of Italian immigration, the Italian beef sandwich was born in the early 20th century, created by working-class Italian immigrants in Chicago. Sliced roast beef, simmered in a seasoned broth, layered thick on an Italian-style roll, and typically garnished with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera – simple, yet so gratifying.

In the forefront of this Italian beef sandwich history stands with the late Joseph Zucchero, the co-founder of Mr. Beef. The legend himself ran a sandwich shop since the later 70’s, with his creation inspiring the beef sandwich we saw in ‘The Bear.’ Zucchero’s culinary philosophy emphasized robust flavors, quality ingredients, and the sandwich’s beautiful messiness, elements that continue to echo through time in every beef sandwich you bite into today in Chicago.

Where Can You Order the Italian Beef Sandwich As Seen in ‘The Bear’ When Visiting Chicago?

Without further ado, let’s dive into my top 5 places in Chicago where you can order this hearty Italian Beef Sandwich:

• Al’s Beef : No discussion of Italian beef sandwiches in Chicago is complete without Al’s. Their beef is tender, their gravy abundant, and their spicy giardiniera is a hot, pickled dream. Be prepared to get messy, as a true Chicago-style sandwich demands.
• Johnnie’s Beef : In Elmwood Park, you’ll find Johnnie’s, another stalwart of the beef sandwich scene. Their beef is juicy and flavorful, and they serve it with a memorable sweet pepper garnish.
• Mr. Beef on Orleans : This joint is iconic, offering arguably one of the best beef sandwiches in town. Don’t forget to ask for extra gravy – it’s a sin to eat this sandwich dry.
• Buona : With multiple locations around Chicago, Buona is a family-owned business that has been serving beef sandwiches since the 80s. Here, you’ll get a more refined version of the classic, but the quality of the beef and the perfect bread balance make it a must-try.
• Portillo’s : Known for their hot dogs, Portillo’s also does a mean beef sandwich. Served on a perfectly toasted roll, the succulent beef and the right amount of giardiniera combine to create a symphony of flavors in your mouth.

Now, these are my top picks, the headliners of the Italian beef sandwich show in Chicago. But the beauty of this city’s culinary landscape lies in its depth, its neighborhoods teeming with gems waiting to be discovered. A gastronomic adventure lies at every turn, and it doesn’t stop at these five joints. Seek out the small delis, the family-run joints, the elusive food trucks tucked away in bustling alleys. The next great beef sandwich might be there, ready to surprise you, waiting to be unveiled by the eager food explorer.

Because here’s the thing about luxury—it doesn’t always come packaged in a glossy, grand façade. Sometimes, it’s as simple as that perfectly toasted roll, the tender beef falling apart under your bite, the vibrant pop of the giardiniera, the warm, seasoned gravy running down your hands. That’s when you know you’ve hit the jackpot—that you’ve found something truly special, something worth cherishing.

So, if you’re chasing the good life in Chicago, it can very well be found in the humble yet exquisite form of the Italian beef sandwich. But don’t stop there. The city is an open book of food adventures, ready to be explored one bite at a time. Go on, dive in. Taste, savor, and revel in the gastronomic delights that this magnificent city has to offer, because the good things in life come in all sizes, and often, they’re tucked in the form of a delicious sandwich.

When does ‘The Bear’ Season 2 return on FX?

On May 8, FX announced that the second season of ‘The Bear’ is set to launch on June 22. The official press statement for the upcoming season notes, ‘As the team strips the restaurant back to its fundamental structure, they each embark on transformative personal journeys. They’re compelled to face their history and grapple with who they aspire to become moving forward.’

Welcome Back, Chef.

Christopher Parr , is the Editor and Chief Content Creator for Pursuitist, and a contributing writer to USA Today, Business Insider — and the on-air host of Travel Tuesday on Live at 4 CBS. He is an award-winning luxury marketing veteran, writer, a frequent speaker at luxury and interactive marketing conferences and a pioneer in web publishing. Named a "Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger” by USA Today, Parr has also been selected as the official winner in Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ 2023 list of the “Top 50 Best Luxury Influencers and Bloggers in the World.”

Chicago food tours

Chicago’s dining scene is unbelievably diverse — we have world-famous burgers, our own signature style of hot dogs, Michelin-starred fine dining, international cuisine from all over the world, one-of-a-kind pizza styles…the list goes on. It’s more than anyone could eat in a lifetime, but you can try your best on a food tour of the city.

These Chicago food tours can help you get a true taste of the local dining scene, whether you want to hit all the fine-dining hot spots, or try every deep dish pizza the city has to offer. Experience the city’s diverse cuisine on one of these epicurean adventures.

Bobby’s Bike Hike

Work up an appetite with a biking food tour. Cruise through different Chicago neighborhoods on a Bikes, Bites & Brews Tour from Bobby’s Bike Hike , recently named one of the best food and culinary experiences in the world by TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice Awards.

This tour covers a variety of Chicago’s signature dishes, including deep dish pizza, hot dogs, brownies (invented here), and local beers. You’ll learn some history, see unique neighborhoods, and get plenty of tasty bites. Check out other food tours from Bobby’s Bike Hike, including walking tours, Chinatown food tours, holiday sampling tours, and family-friendly options.

Underground Donut Tour

Explore Chicago’s bustling downtown while indulging in some of the city’s best donuts. Underground Donut Tours , the highly rated food tour first established in 2015, takes guests on a two-mile walk through the heart of River North and The Magnificent Mile while sampling sweet treats at four unique donut shops along the way.

Chicago Pizza Tours

Savor the city one slice at a time with Chicago Pizza Tours . These bus and walking tours visit culturally significant and locally owned pizzerias in Chicago’s downtown and neighborhoods. You’ll learn a little about the history and the tricks of the pizza trade — and try different pizzas from off-the-beaten-path spots. Make sure to book ahead of time, since the popular weekend tours sell out fast.

Pizza City USA Tours

Embark on the city’s ultimate pizza tour with a James Beard Award-winning host. Food writer and local celebrity Steve Dolinsky created these Chicago pizza tours that showcase everything from deep dish to tavern style to artisanal Neapolitan pies. Choose from Pizza City USA Tours covering different areas of the city and their unique pizza options, including downtown, the West Loop, or Wicker Park/Bucktown.

Chicago Food Tours

Chicago Food Tours gives you a sense of the melting pot that is Chicago’s restaurant scene. Get a taste for the classics on their Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour, which lets you sample the city’s most well-known eats (pizza, hot dog, Italian beef, popcorn, and brownies) in less than three hours — plus you get to skip the lines. They also offer food tours of foodie-favorite neighborhoods, like Pilsen, the West Loop, and Chinatown, along with the new Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear-Inspired Food Tour that follows in the footsteps of the hit show The Bear .

Chicago Beer Experience

Want more pub than grub? Check out Chicago Beer Experience , which celebrates one of the world’s most beloved beverages in the craft beer capital of the country. Choose from three neighborhood routes that are guided by certified beer experts, like the Sin & Suds tour that explores Al Capone’s old stomping grounds. The tours include tastings of locally made brews, and a dose of local history as well.

Spice of Life Tours

Explore Chicago’s “Little India” in the West Ridge neighborhood with Spice of Life Tours . Devon Avenue is the center of a thriving Indian/Pakistani community, with plenty of authentic, locally owned restaurants and specialty food shops. Your expert guide will lead you on a relaxed but in-depth tour where you’ll sample flavorful South Asian cuisine, stop by a spice market, visit a temple, and try out cultural activities like henna tattoos.

Chicago Foodways Tours

Go “deeper than deep dish” with Chicago Foodways Tours . Get your fill of Chicago’s culinary history and diversity from a seasoned local and trained chef. These food and culture walking tours guide you through the past and present of the city’s immigrant neighborhoods, like their Saigon to Stockholm Tour that takes you into Chicago’s Vietnamese and Swedish enclaves. 

Please note: some of the above tours are available seasonally and are weather dependent. Please check with each tour company for availability.

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As The Bear proves, there’s more to Chicago’s food scene than deep pan pizza

It’s time to dig out your blood-pressure monitors, because tense Chicago-set foodie dramedy The Bear is back for a second series. Returning to Disney+ this week, it sees high-achieving chef Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Golden Globe winning Jeremy Allen White) continuing in his role as boss of takeaway joint The Original Beef in Chicago. But this time, his team is giving the place a facelift, hoping to elevate it to respected award winner. All of which can’t help but nudge viewers towards booking a gourmet getaway to Chicago. Here’s the menu…

The Bear is predominantly filmed at a genuine restaurant called Mr Beef on 666 North Orleans Street. Inside, it’s every bit as no-frills as The Original Beef but the neighbourhood isn’t as sketchy as depicted on TV. This is too-cool-for school River North district, where classic red-brick civic buildings house hip barbershops and speakeasy bars; what was once a factory is now a contemporary art gallery, and you can’t move for delicious diners.

After you’ve eaten your onion rings and beef sandwich at Mr Beef (remember to dip the ends of the bread in gravy), move on to The Mart (themart.com). In this vast ex-warehouse, you’ll find restaurants and boutiques, as well as studios used by local designers. The Mart is also on the banks of the Chicago River: grab a coffee on a waterfront terrace, or go for a walk in preparation for the next meal…

Then, as the sun sets on Chicago’s sparkling skyline and the sky turns crimson, make for Three Dots and a Dash, a tropical tiki bar (threedotschicago. com). Lurid cocktails with names like “Idle Hands” and “Pain - killer” are served in preposterous vessels such as wooden skulls and bamboo canes.

Next morning, it’s time to call in the experts: a Chicago Greeter. These are passionate know-it-all locals who give free city tours on foot. You choose the neighbourhood; they give their time (2–4 hours; choosechicago.com/ chicago-greeter/). It’s that simple. We suggest you explore arty Wicker Park, a trendy tranche of the city where bars, clubs and restaurants congregate; it’s also where many exterior scenes are set in The Bear. Start around Six Corners, a buzzing area where Damen, Milwaukee and North Avenues intersect.

Your Chicago Greeter will take it from here, perhaps pit-stopping at Ipsento 606 coffeehouse for a blow-your-head-off cortado (ipsento. com). If you fancy a doughnut to go with your coffee – akin to the confections that obsess The Bear’s pastry chef Marcus (Lionel Boyce) – stroll on to Stan’s Donuts on Damen Ave (stansdonuts.com). Of course, the standard cinnamon, glazed and powdered-sugar varieties are on Stan’s menu, but we reckon Marcus would choose the signature Peanut Butter Pocket sprinkled with chunky chocolate chips.

Day three: let’s take to the water. A brilliant way to put this city – home of the skyscraper – into perspective is a boat cruise along the Chicago River, as the show’s sous-chef Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) does to clear her head. There are lots of companies to choose from, so let us point you straight to Wendella, whose Chicago River Architecture Tour includes tales from The Wrigley Building, NBC Tower and iconic Marina City (the 1960s skyscraper that looks like two tall stacks of white scalloped plates and has also appeared in The Good Wife, Ozark and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off). It’s a scintillating 90 minutes: Wendella promise they “like their drinks stiff, not their tour guides”, so you can bank on an on-board bar, as well as some captivating storytelling (wendellaboats.com).

Full yet? Thought not. End your foodie foray around Chicago at Kendall College, culinary school extraordinaire. Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you don an apron and cook your own dinner – though that’s what The Original Beef chefs are expected to do in series two, having been sent here to hone their skills. Instead, book a table at its little-known Dining Room, with spectacular views of the city skyline. In this living classroom, college students prepare and serve meals to paying guests as part of their training; it’s not an experience you’ll find in any guidebook (kendalldiningroom.com). On the other hand, The Bear may change that, thanks to the crew filming here and making its aprons cult items. So are you going to book your table or not? “Yes, chef!”

KATIE BOWMAN

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Watching The Bear Season 3 Is Even Better With These Chicago-Inspired Foods

I f you're already getting amped about Season 3 of "The Bear,"  you're not alone. According to The Walt Disney Company (owner of Hulu) "The Bear" Season 2 broke records when it became the most-watched FX show on Hulu. Season 3 will drop on June 27, 2024, and you can bet thousands of fans will be streaming it to see what unfolds for Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), and the rest of the crew at the newly revamped and re-opened restaurant, The Bear. Based on the previous seasons, we're sure there will be tons of trials, tribulations, and emotional upheavals.

Even with all the anxiety-inducing chaos cooking going on in the show  (or perhaps precisely because of that), it's hard to watch "The Bear" and not crave some of the dishes featured. According to The New York Times , after the show launched in 2022, it  sparked a Chicago beef boom with people flocking to restaurants in search of Italian beef sandwiches. If you're looking for some dishes that will transport you to the Windy City, these are a few classic Chicago foods you can snack on while watching "The Bear" Season 3.

Read more: The Best Steakhouse In Every State

Italian Beef Sandwich

As any fan of "The Bear" knows, the Italian beef sandwich was the signature dish of The Original Beef of Chicagoland. While it remains to be seen whether the sandwich will remain on the menu at The Bear now that there's more of a fine-dining focus, it will always be part of its roots and Chicago's. According to Red Sauce America , the sandwich was created by Italian immigrants who worked in Chicago's Union Stockyards. The workers would bring home tough cuts of beef and braise them, thinly slice the meat, and eat it in sandwiches.

There are several ways Italian beef sandwiches differ from other roast beef sandwiches . First, the beef is bathed in beef jus before being added to the sandwich. Some cooks also dip the whole sandwich in the gravy. In addition, the bread must be a French roll. Finally, the sandwich is topped with sweet peppers and giardiniera (pickled vegetables). If you happen to be in Chicago, some of the best Italian beef sandwiches that bring "The Bear" to life can be found at Al's #1 Italian Beef (the original Italian beef sandwich spot) and Portillo's.

Lollipop Chicken Wings

If you're planning a viewing party for Season 3 of "The Bear," lollipop chicken wings are the ultimate party snack. These tasty treats consist of chicken wings that have been cut so that the meat slides down to one end of the bone. They're deep-fried or baked with the bone in and tossed in sauce. The bone makes for the perfect handle to grab a wing and devour the tender, sauce-slathered meat with less mess than your typical chicken wing.

The world can thank Chicago for lollipop chicken wings. The creator was a man named Nai Tiao, who drew inspiration from a Korean dish called gam pong gi to create the wings. Tiao adapted the dish, cutting the wings lollipop style and slathering them in a sweet chili sauce. You can still sample his famous lollipop chicken wings at Great Sea Restaurant today. The dish is so popular that many have created copycat recipes, including celebrity chefs like Guy Fieri and Gordon Ramsay. You can create your own at home with any store-bought sweet chili sauce. We also highly recommend BBQ chicken lollipops  with a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce.

Deep-Dish Pizza

One of Chicago's most iconic dishes is the beloved  deep-dish pizza . Unlike many other pizza styles you'll find across the country, these unique pies are cooked in deep cast-iron or steel pans. The pan is oiled before a thick layer of dough is pressed into it. Then comes a layer of cheese, a layer of meat and veggies, and finally a topping of tangy tomato sauce.  The result is an ultra-tall pizza with a crunchy crust and an over-the-top cheesy, meaty filling.

The first deep-dish pizza was created at Pizzeria Riccardo (later named Pizza Uno) on Chicago's North Side in the early 1940s. According to America Domani , owners Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo wanted to create a pizza that stood out from the thin-crust versions that were being served at taverns around town. Their solution was a massive pie packed with tons of toppings. The dish eventually took off and even spawned another Chicago creation: the stuffed pizza. Deep dish pizza is different from stuffed pizza in that the latter has an extra crust on top that is typically topped with tomato sauce.

Rainbow Cone

Season 3 of "The Bear" is premiering right on the heels of the first day of summer, making this the perfect opportunity to try one of Chicago's most famous warm-weather treats: the Rainbow Cone. Cool, creamy, and colorful, this super-stacked ice cream cone consists of multiple layers of ice cream in an array of hues. It's on our list of over-the-top desserts everyone should try at least once not just for its novelty, but also for its delicious combination of flavors.

Joe and Katherine Sapp opened the first Rainbow Cone in Chicago in 1926. They put a creative twist on their ice cream cones by offering five flavors on one cone. The ice cream was also sliced instead of scooped. To this day, the signature cone features chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), and pistachio ice cream topped with orange sherbet. Original Rainbow offers several other variations as well including chocolate and mint chocolate chip, orange sherbet and vanilla, and a decadent chocolate peanut butter creation. You can mix and match your own versions at home. Just remember to slice, not scoop.

Chicago Hot Dog

The Chicago-style hot dog is another dish that defines Chicago's food scene. This regional hot dog style came about during the Great Depression. German immigrants had already brought sausages to the city in the century prior, and the humble hot dog became the ultimate working man's meal because it was cheap and easy to make and eat. During the Depression, vendors began adding inexpensive toppings like onions and tomatoes to make the hot dog more of a meal. Legend has it that Fluky's invented the precursor to the Chicago hot dog in 1929. The dish was called the "Depression Sandwich" and it sold for a nickel.

According to Hot Dog Chicago Style , there are a few very important  differences between Chicago hot dogs and regular hot dogs . First, the bun must be a steamed poppy seed bun. Second, the sausage must be beef and it must be steamed. Finally, there are seven toppings and they must be added in a particular order. Starting from first to last, these include yellow mustard, relish, fresh chopped onions, sliced tomato, a dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. And as any Chicagoan will tell you, ketchup has zero business being anywhere near a Chicago hot dog.

Cracker Jack

When you think of classic ballpark snacks, Cracker Jack is probably included in the list. With its enticing combo of sweet candied popcorn and salty peanuts, it's easy to see why this crunchy snack became an all-American favorite. The confection was created in Chicago by two German-born brothers named Frederick William Rueckheim and Louis Rueckheim during the late 1800s. At the time, "crackerjack" was a slang term used to describe something top-notch. 

Cracker Jack really took off when Jack Norworth included the candy's name in the song "Take Me Out to the Ball Game." From that point on, the snack became intrinsically associated with baseball and ballpark foods. When Cracker Jack began adding prizes in the boxes, the candy exploded even more in popularity. Today the company is owned by Frito-Lay. The recipe is still pretty much the same as the original, although a  Huffington Post article from 2013 reported that Frito-Lay tweaked the formula to include more peanuts in response to consumer demand. As for the prize inside, that has most definitely changed with the times. Now you'll find a code in the bag that takes you to online games.

Butter Chicken Calzone

If you're craving comfort food , but not sure what route to go, consider the butter chicken calzone. This creative concoction was first introduced at Chicago restaurant Superkhana International and it now has legions of fans who can't get enough of the Indian-Italian fusion dish. Chefs Zeeshan Shah and Yoshi Yamada take rich, creamy butter chicken and pile it into naan bread, then add mozzarella and Amul cheese. The bread is folded over and baked to a beautiful golden brown, then brushed with ghee and sprinkled with salt.

If you can't make it to Superkhana International, it shouldn't be too difficult to construct your own butter chicken calzones at home. The trick is to find a good butter chicken recipe . Although Shah and Yamada use their own version of naan bread for their calzones, you can make things easier for yourself with a quick no-knead pizza dough . The chefs shared a version of the recipe on Food & Wine  that suggests brushing the calzones with an egg wash and baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes. Be sure not to skip the final brushing of ghee, as it adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.

The jibarito sandwich is a Chicago invention that was inspired by Puerto Rico. Creator Juan C. Figueroa told the Chicago Tribune that he read about a  sandwich made with fried plantains as a replacement for bread in a Puerto Rican newspaper. He created his own version of the sandwich, which he called the jibarito, and began selling it at his Borinquen Restaurant in 1996. The sandwich was an instant hit. It wasn't long before other restaurants started capitalizing on the trend. Now you can find jibaritos all over the Midwest and as far afield as Florida and California.

A typical jibarito sandwich is made with deep-fried green plantains, thinly sliced steak, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo. However, you can also find variations of the sandwich with chicken, shrimp, or pork instead of steak, and vegetarian versions. Some also include cheese and garlic oil. The one constant is the plantain. According to an ABC Chicago article, the plantain should be sliced in half, deep-fried, then flattened and fried again to give it extra crunch. Figueroa said he also received requests for the sandwich made with ripe plantain, which he called a jibarita.

Garrett Mix

For many Chicagoans, gourmet popcorn is synonymous with the name Garrett. The first Garrett Popcorn Shop opened in downtown Chicago in 1949 and served a selection of air-popped popcorn seasoned in copper kettles. Flavors included Plain, Buttery, CaramelCrisp, and CheeseCorn. Customers soon realized that if you mixed the CaramelCrisp and CheeseCorn flavors, the result was a delicious sweet and tangy mix. Garrett officially put the mix on the menu in 1977 calling it Garrett Mix. Locals also call it "Chicago Mix." 

In the early 2000s, Garrett's Popcorn began expanding beyond Chicago. You can now find shops all over the United States, as well as in places like Singapore, Dubai, and Tokyo. The company also ships products around the world. The Garrett Popcorn website states that whether you pick up your Garrett Mix in a shop or have your popcorn shipped, it will be cooked fresh that day. If you're looking for a great gift for someone in your life who also loves "The Bear," consider getting them a tin of Garett Mix. You can also create your own mix with the company's Build Your Own Tin, which earned the number one spot in our list of popcorn tins rankings  based on customer reviews.

Flaming Saganaki

Flaming saganaki is often cited as one of the must-try foods you should be ordering at a Greek restaurant . However, the dish didn't originate in Greece — it was conceived in Chicago. There is a great deal of debate over which spot started serving the dish first, but most people can agree that by the mid-1970s, restaurants all over Greektown were lighting plates of cheese on fire. Back in those days, flambé dishes were the height of haute cuisine. Unlike many other flaming dishes that have fallen out of fashion, flaming saganaki is still a popular dish in Greek restaurants across the United States.

This fiery not-so-Greek dish is typically made with a semi-hard cheese like kasseri. It's often dredged in egg and flour, then pan-fried until golden. The final touch is a splash of ouzo or brandy that is ignited. Some people douse the flames with lemon juice and serve the cheese with crusty bread. Do we recommend making it at home? Cue that scene from "The Bear" where Carmy accidentally lights the stove on fire. You might be better off making regular saganaki at home sans the flames. Or better yet, get the full flaming experience at a Greek restaurant.

Sweet Steak Sandwich

The Italian beef sandwich may get the lion's share of recognition when it comes to famous Chicago sandwiches , but many locals say the sweet steak sandwich should also be on your bucket list. According to the Chicago Tribune , Edward Perkins Sr. of Taurus Flavors created the sandwich by taking inspiration from the Philly Cheesesteak but adding Chicago elements. Although Taurus Flavors unfortunately closed when a car crashed into the building in 2019, Home of the Hoagy is still keeping the tradition alive.

Also called a supreme hoagy, the sweet steak sandwich features chopped beef piled into a submarine roll, topped with cheese, green peppers, and sliced tomatoes, and doused in red sauce. The sandwich gets its name from the sauce, which is slightly sweet, smoky, and tangy. The soft roll soaks up all the sauce, making it a messy but very satisfying meal. Podcaster Jacoby Cochran of City Cast Chicago says the sandwich is so popular that people will wait in line for up to an hour at Home of the Hoagy just to get their hands on one of the saucy steak sandwiches.

Many people say you haven't truly tried a taste of Chicago until you've downed a shot of Malört . The bitter liqueur dates back to the time of Prohibition when a Swedish immigrant named Carl Jeppson created the potent libation. He based the recipe on a Swedish digestif containing wormwood. Jeppson managed to bypass Prohibition laws by promoting his product as a medicinal, so the authorities assumed no one would consider consuming it for fun. How wrong they were.

Despite having an acquired taste, Jeppson's Malört has a huge fan following. The Chicago Sun Times reported that this is largely due to a man named Sam Mechling who went on a mission to raise awareness about the concoction in the late 2000s. He created social media pages that now sport countless memes poking fun at the drink's potent taste. If you want to drink Malört like a local, have a Chicago Handshake: a shot of Malört followed by a chaser of Old Style beer.

Shrimp De Jonghe

If you're looking to add a fine-dining twist to your Chicago food repertoire, Shrimp de Jonghe is a good place to start. This decadent dish features shrimp baked in a blend of butter, sherry, garlic, and herb-infused bread crumbs. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery sauce, and the breadcrumbs add a nice crunch to the tender meat. The dish works well as an appetizer, but can also stand alone as the main star of a meal.

Shrimp de Jonghe dates back to the late 1800s when Henri de Jonge and his family were running the successful De Jonghe Hotel and Restaurant on Monroe Street in Chicago. There is some debate over whether De Jonge himself invented the dish or the restaurant's chef Emil Zehr was the actual creator. Either way, it was such a popular dish that restaurants across the city began to replicate it. The De Jonghe Hotel closed in 1923 when it was caught selling alcohol in violation of Prohibition laws. However, Shrimp de Jonghe endures as a much-loved dish to this day.

Chicago may not have as robust a barbecue scene as other cities like St. Louis or Memphis, but residents of the Windy City do love their smoked and slow-cooked meats, and rib tips are a go-to dish for many Chicagoans when they're craving barbecue. This particular cut of meat became popular in the early 20th century when thousands of Black Americans migrated to the city from southern states and brought their barbecuing traditions with them. Rib tips were an affordable cut, so they made it into many smokers, particularly on Chicago's South Side where you can find a plethora of barbecue restaurants selling them today.

Rib tips are the end parts of pork spare ribs that are trimmed off when a butcher is making square cuts like St. Louis ribs. These leftover  cuts of ribs contain a lot of cartilage, so they need to be cooked slowly to break down some of this. The end result is a rich, fatty meat with a bit of chew. The smoking process also gives the ribs a nice bark on the outside. Many Chicago barbecue joints serve rib tips as a combo with hot links, French fries, and white bread, all of which are doused in tangy barbecue sauce.

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'The Bear' dishes up a sneaky, smart show that's just as manic as restaurant life

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The Bear Season 2 Food Guide: Every Eatery That Features In The Hit Series

By Hugo Mathers

18th Jul 2023

We didn’t have to wait long for the return of the standout FX series  The Bear .

One of the biggest breakout TV shows of 2022 is already back for its second season, along with its chaotic (and strikingly accurate) depictions of Chicago kitchens and effortlessly wearable  workwear aesthetic.

If you're out of the loop, the multi-award winning Disney+ series is a comedy-drama about a young, successful chef (played by the legendary Jeremy Allen White) who returns to his hometown of Chicago to run his deceased brother’s sandwich shop, the fictional 'The Original Beef of Chicagoland'. 

However, season two features a bunch of real-life and much-loved Chicago restaurants, from Michelin starred and James Beard Award winners to bakeries and butchers to takeaway pizza joints. We’ve rounded them up so you can find them next time you’re peckish in the Windy City. 

Read on to cop the entire list of restaurants that fature in season two of  The Bear.

River North

Even though The Original Beef of Chicagoland doesn’t exist, it’s actually inspired by River North’s Italian beef restaurant, Mr Beef , that started out as a stand back in 1979. The show’s producer Chrisopher Storer is friends with Mr Beef’s owner Chris Zucchero, and the real-life venue provides the storefront for the fictional restaurant.

Ukrainian Village

In episode three, Sydney heads out on a foodie tour of Chicago in search of inspiration for the restaurant’s new menu. Her first stop is popular Filipino bakery and restaurant, Kasama , where she orders their famous breakfast sandwich with longaniza, a hash brown, mushroom adobo, mango tart, and a matcha latte. This James Beard Award winner (and first Filipino venue to win a Michelin star) is run by a husband and wife team and located in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village neighbourhood. 

Lao Peng You

Sydney’s Chicago food tour takes her to the famous Ukrainian Village restaurant Lao Peng You . Known for their homemade noodles and dumplings, the BYOB Northern Chinese spot is run by two brothers, Daniel and Eric Wat, who also make cameos throughout the episode. You can spot their real-life Cong You Bing, a type of scallion pancake, being rolled out too.

Margie’s Candies

In the same episode, named Sundae , Sydney ends her food tour at Margie’s Candies for some sweet indulgence. Located in Bucktown on the north side of Chicago, and famous for its gigantic sundaes served in clamshell dishes, Margie’s has been selling ice cream, shakes and candy for over 100 years. 

Logan Square

Episode three also sees Sydney chat to another chef at a fictional French restaurant. This is actually Logan Square’s  Giant , and the scene features their real chefs working in the background of the shot.

While on the hunt for inspiration, Sydney ends up hanging out with famous restaurateur Donnie Madia (who at one point actually worked at Mr Beef) at his Mediterranean-meets-Midwest restaurant, Avec . Sydney gets a menu briefing from chef Dylan Patel, and tries to steal some of their staff. 

Publican Quality Meats

The whistlestop tour finds Sydney at West Loop’s artisanal butcher, Publican Quality Meats , which serves up homemade charcuterie, sandwiches and pop-up dinners. Their head butcher gives Sydney an intro to beef butchery, as well as offering some words of warning.

In the seventh episode, Richie visits a fictional upscale diner to discover the essence of hospitality. The real-life restaurant used for filming is Ever , a renowned two Michelin-starred venue operated by chef Chris Duffy and his long-term collaborator Michael Muser. 

Pequod’s

Lincoln park.

While Richie is working, he pops out to fetch a deep dish pizza at the request of a customer. He ends up at one of Chicago’s most popular pizza spots, Pequod's Pizza , famed for their infamous deep dish pies. 

Weber’s Bakery

Garfield ridge.

Opened in 1930, Weber’s is a Chicago institution and famous for its range of cakes, tortes and donuts. In episode three we see Richie’s daughter, Eva, recount his ex-wife’s promotion, getting the mysterious “good cake” from Weber’s Bakery.

After 

Ever’s cocktail lounge, After , also makes a sneaky appearance. The scenes where Marcus travels to Copenhagen to perfect his pastry skills, are actually shot back in Chicago at this bougie bar.

If you can't get enough of  The Bear,  head over here to check out how to recreate the show's seamless chef aesthetic.

Image credit: Salt Your Pasta Water, Kasama, Lao Peng You, 2 Hangry Chix, Joe Amabile, Avec Restaurant, Publican Quality Meats, Elske, Weezie Eats, Ever Restaurant, After

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More On …

Chicago’s streaming obsession returns to Hulu in June. Now that the gang has opened a fancy restaurant, what can we expect?

SPOILER ALERT!

A fter being positively showered with Emmys and Golden Globes, FX’s The Bear is back! Will our beloved characters continue to eviscerate one another’s self-esteem? Will Jeremy Allen White’s crystal-blue eyes finally merge with Lake Michigan? Will Ebon Moss-Bachrach make me cry to Taylor Swift again? Will this drama series commit category fraud once more next awards season? We hypothesize.

Where We Left Off

It’s been a year since we caught up with Carmy and crew, so here are the refresher headlines:

The revamped restaurant (now a fancy one) opened its doors to friends and family. While trapped in the walk-in freezer, Carmy (accidentally) breaks up with Claire, as he (feels he) can’t simultaneously be the best chef in the world and have nice things. Richie (a.k.a. Cousin) “wears suits now.” Something romantic seems to be brewing between Sydney and Marcus, which is major Sweetie4Sweetie hours. Oh, and Carmy and Sugar really, really need to get Uncle Jimmy his money in 18 months for tax- and/or real-estate-related reasons I didn’t quite understand.

The Filming Tea Leaves

Through social media (especially the X account @filming_chicago ), we’ve gotten a glimpse into what’s next. For real: SPOILERS AHEAD.

We’ll hop in the Wayback Machine: The crew spent multiple days shooting at Mr. Beef, and considering that in real life it’s still an Italian beef joint — and that Jon Bernthal (who plays Carmy’s late brother) was spotted at the Orleans Street shoot — we can expect flashback scenes, if not a full flashback episode, as the show is wont to do.

Someone kicks it: Nearly the entire fictional staff was spotted in black attire on the steps of St. Mary Catholic Church in Evanston. Are they honoring Marcus’s mother, or will a more central character get the chop?

Another beefcake at the Beef: Wrestler-turned-actor-turned-naked-guy-at-the-Oscars John Cena visited Chicago in March. He posted a photo of the exterior of Mr. Beef, and Grant Achatz posted a photo of himself with Cena and Cena’s wife. Was he here to get bodybuilding tips from White, or will he appear on a show that can’t resist celebrity cameos?

Ayo Edebiri will direct: The show’s youngest lead will helm an upcoming episode, at creator Christopher Storer’s request, according to a Vogue profile. Edebiri (Sydney) was spotted directing Liza Colón-Zayas (sous chef Tina) outside a Pilsen storefront in April.

Food media enters the chat: A 53-second clip from season 3, leaked from a Walt Disney Company shareholder presentation, briefly made the rounds on social media before the Mouse shut it down. In it, the Fak brothers unveil a surprise for Carmy: 10 framed photos in the back office of “every major food critic” for easy spotting. The Faks have written some descriptors under each, including some unkind words for a critic who maaaay or may not be based on someone on this very magazine’s masthead.

A Double-Header Spring Production

In March, FX announced The Bear had already been renewed for season 4 and the two seasons would be filming back to back. Rumors have swirled that the fourth will be the show’s final season. Word is, production could wrap by early June, what with the suddenly hot cast in high demand. So keep your eyes peeled for clues to season 4. The Bear has used at least two aliases while shooting: Kubelik , presumably a nod to the midcentury Chicago Symphony Orchestra director, and Windy City Law , a show I, frankly, would inhale faster than a Mr. Beef hot and dipped.

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Best chicago food: 20+ signature dishes you must try on your next visit.

Best Chicago Food: 20+ Signature Chicago Dishes

Your No. 1 reason for visiting Chicago is the food. Believe me, you’re not the only one that loves Chicago foods.

The city has been a foodie haven since its inception and publications like Conde Nast Traveler, Bon Appetit and USA Today have all praised its culinary scene. With over 8,000 restaurants, hundreds of Chicago food festivals, a smattering of Chicago food trucks, and at least one legendary tamale guy, it can be hard to choose where your next meal will be.  After all, you want to make sure you take a big bite out of Chicago’s most popular food creations, right?

There’s no reason to fear:

The city is known for certain iconic dishes no visitor to the city can pass up. We’re here to help you focus on the true taste of Chicago and show you where locals go to satisfy their cravings. In this Chicago food guide, we’ll give you a list of 20+ Chicago signature dishes you must try when you’re eating your way through the city.

Hungry? Let’s dive in.

#1 Deep-Dish Pizza from Lou Malnati’s

Photo Credit: Chicago Food & City Tours

Let’s kick things off right - with THE most famous Chicago dish of all time . This is why you came to the city! To finally sink your teeth into a thick wedge of melted cheese, personalized toppings and zesty tomato sauce.

Why is this so important?

There are many fierce competitors claiming that they have the best Chicago deep dish pizza, but Lou Malnati ’s is the crown jewel. Its unique butter crust sets it apart and every single inch of the aluminum pan is covered in a lip-smacking layer of high-quality ingredients.

Insider Tip: There’s often a long wait at this Chicago cult classic, but you can sink your teeth into Lou Malnati’s irresistible crust much sooner if you make a late-night trip or visit for an early lunch. Or, even better, join us there on our Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour for the VIP experience.

#2 Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich at Al’s Italian Beef

Photo Source: Al's Beef

There may be debates about who has the best Chicago deep dish pizza, but there’s no argument over who makes the best Chicago Italian beef. The most Chicago of all Chicago sandwiches, Al’s Italian Beef ’s specialty is a flavor bomb: slices of roasted sirloin cooked in a seasoned broth are stuffed inside an Italian-style roll thick enough to soak up the meat’s juices.

The best part?

Al’s allows you to customize your experience so you can get your sandwich just so. Diners can order it “dry” (only a touch of gravy), “wet” (extra gravy) or “dipped” (soaked). You can also top it off with a variety of cheeses, sweet pepper or a hot giardiniera for an extra kick.

Insider Tip: Al’s Italian beef sandwich is one of the many delicious Chicago signature dishes you can try in   Iconic Foods of Chicago Food Tour . Chicago Food & City Tour's expert guides will share this and other must-have foods like deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, all while giving you some background on what makes Chicago food great. It’s an easy way to cross off items on your foodie wish list while learning more about this fantastic city.

#3 Basic Fried Chicken Dinner at Harold’s Chicken Shack

Photo Source: Stu Spivack

Harold’s Chicken Shack is such a Chicago staple that it’s been referenced in hip-hop hits by legendary rappers like Lupe Fiasco and Common.

Try this rapper’s delight yourself:

Head to Harold’s for the standard fried chicken dinner, which includes cooked-to-order chicken with a side of fries, coleslaw, and two slices of white bread to scoop up every drop of their tangy hot sauce.

Think all Harold’s birds are created equal? Think again.

We recommend Harold’s No. 88 for overall quality, Harold’s No. 55 for its traditional setting, Harold’s No. 36 for its location, and Harold’s No. 47 for hungry Blackhawks fans.

#4 Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Chicago Doughnut at Do-Rite Donut

Photo Source: @thebitesizedbaker

When the doughnut craze hit the city, there was one ring to rule them all: Do-Rite Donut ’s Buttermilk Old Fashioned Donut.

This treat is the one thing folks always leave our Buildings and Bites tour raving about.

Crunchy on the outside, pillowy on the inside, and coated in a vanilla-bean glaze, this doughnut reaches perfection when dunked in coffee.

It’s a classic take on a breakfast staple that shines precisely because of its simplicity—though we totally understand if you want to have it for lunch, dinner, or as midnight snack.

#5 Chicago-style hot dogs at Portillo’s

Photo Source: WGLT.org

You’ve seen them on sticker, posters, and t-shirts. It's been admired by the likes of Chefs Grant Achatz, Rick Bayless and the late, great Anthony Bourdain. Now is your chance to try the Chicago-style hot dog, the dish that truly captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Don’t sleep on this dog:

At Portillo's , you get the quintessential example of this Chicago signature dish: an all-beef frankfurter tucked into a steamed poppy seed bun, topped with relish, celery salt, chopped onions, sliced tomatoes, sport peppers, and a pickle. It’s the pièce de résistance of our Iconic Foods of Chicago Food Tour .

Squeeze mustard — never ketchup, for God’s sake — on that beauty and you’re good to go.

#6 The Famous Kuma Burger at Kuma’s Corner

Photo Source: Chicago Food & City Tours

Only in Chicago could a joint that blasts heavy metal music, refuses to carry Budweiser, and stirs a controversy with the Catholic Church, be adored. Kuma’s Corner has become a destination in every food lover’s pilgrimage.

Depending on what you order, your burger may include bourbon poached pear, roasted poblano peppers, avocado mash and other inventive ingredients.

Still, the one that most people return to is The Famous Kuma: 10 ounces of prime ground beef served with applewood smoked bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and red onion. A fried egg crowns this imposing patty, securing its epic status.

It gets better:

Though Kuma’s may have an edgy attitude, their heart is pure gold. They make sure to have a selection of vegetarian offerings, including an Impossible Burger. Every month, they pick a different charity to donate to. They also support local, homegrown producers and breweries, making it an extremely Chicago experience .

#7 Jibarito at Papa’s Cache Sabroso

Photo Source: Papas Cache Sabroso

The jibarito is yet another original Chicago sandwich, created by our vibrant Puerto Rican community. Though it may look like a regular sandwich, there is one element that sets it apart:

There’s no bread!

Instead, crispy plantains hold together layers of meat, cheese, lettuce and tomato. The condiment of choice is garlic-flavored mayonnaise. Steak tends to be the typical filling, but we stan the chicken jibarito at Papa’s Cache Sabroso in the city’s quintessential Boricua neighborhood, Humboldt Park.

#8 Butter Toffee at The Fudge Pot

Photo Source: The Fudge Pot

Make your Chicago visit a little sweeter by heading to The Fudge Pot , an Old Town mainstay for over 50 years. Chocoholics can’t go wrong with any of their offerings, but we’re particularly fond of their Butter Toffee. One of their most sought-after products, the buttery sweet caramel is covered in either dark or milk rich chocolate and finished off with a generous sprinkle of crunchy nuts.

That’s not all:

The Fudge Pot has gift boxes that make the perfect Chicago present for your loved ones back home. Don’t have room in your carry-on? No worries because it also ships nationwide.

Insider Tip: Looking for other Chicago souvenirs for your favorite gourmand? Chicago Food & City Tours offers gift certificates for that person in your life who is always hungry for exciting experiences.

#9 Malbec Beef Empanada at 5411 Empanadas

Photo Source: Groupon

There’s so much to do in Chicago, it’s tempting to forego a sit-down meal and opt for the portable capabilities of street food. Behold, then, the mighty empanadas at one of Chicago’s best food trucks: 5411 Empanadas . Baked to a dark golden hue and served with a side of herbaceous chimichurri sauce, they’re easy to carry around and even easier to eat.

Our go-to order?

The Malbec Beef, a blend of shredded Angus beef slow roasted in red wine reduction.

#10 Green Chicken Tamal at 5 Rabanitos

Chicago’s Mexican population is one of the largest in the country and their cuisine is woven tightly into the fabric of the food scene here. If you're searching for authentic, tasty Mexican fare, Pilsen is the neighborhood to go to. 

A standout on the scene is Chef Alfonso Sotelo and his team at 5 Rabanitos , who haven't yet figured out how to make a bad dish. Their ceviche, their tortas, their tacos, and their enchiladas are all a cut above.  We recommend giving their green chicken tamal a try - it'll put most other tamales to shame.  

Want to make your own? 

Join us on our Street Foods of Pilsen tour and you'll get to try your hand at rolling your own tamal. But don't worry, we won't make you eat the one made!

#11 Lemon Italian Ice at Miko’s Italian Ice

Photo Source: Miko’s Italian Ice

Nothing says summer in Chicago like grabbing a cup of cool and colorful Italian ice at Miko’s . The sorbet-like dessert is made exclusively out of crushed, frozen fresh fruit and is completely dairy-free. Though Miko’s boasts exotic flavors like cucumber and guava, nothing beats the classic lemon on a hot July night.

#12 Tony’s Dry Chili Chicken at Lao Sze Chuan

Photo Source: LA Weekly

Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood is like a city within itself, bustling with enough food courts, restaurants, noodle shops, bakeries, and teashops to keep us fed for days. Lao Sze Chuan stands out by providing elevated Szechuan dishes that raise the diner’s expectations of what Chinese food can be.

Case in point:

Chef Tony Hu’s dry chili chicken is a must-eat, especially if you prefer your stir-fries with a kick.

Tender bites of chicken are tossed in a savory blend of ginger, garlic, green onion, Szechuan peppercorns, and a generous handful of dried chilies for a kind of spicy that hurts so good.

Insider Tip: Interested in learning more about traditional Chinese cuisine but don’t know where to start? Chicago Food & City Tours’ Chinatown Adventure Food Tour explores the hidden gems of one of the city’s most enigmatic neighborhoods. In addition to Szechuan specialties, you’ll try Hong Kong Dim Sum, sweet milk egg tarts, delicious bubble tea, and more.

#13 Pulled Pork at the Smoke Daddy

Photo Source: The Smoke Daddy

Long before you see Wicker Park’s Smoke Daddy , you’ll smell the intoxicating wafts of smoked meat lingering in the air. The barbecue is described as “Memphis-Texarkana” and, though we don’t know exactly what that means, we can definitely say it makes our taste buds sing. The slow-cooked pulled pork is no-frills but absolutely heavenly.

#14 Saganaki at Greek Islands

Photo Source: 10Best

If you’ve ever ordered a plate of flaming, sizzling hot cheese just so you can yell, “Opa!”—well, you have Chicago to thank for that thrill.

It’s a Greek restaurant standard:

But saganaki was actually invented right here in the city!

Greektown’s Greek Islands has been keeping the torch alive with their focus on authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and lively atmosphere. Their version of saganaki is a gooey tribute, smothered in lemon juice and served with piping hot pita for ultimate satisfaction.

#15 Edible Balloon Dessert at Alinea

Photo Source: Business Insider

Though Chicago is a city that prides itself on tradition, it is also a city that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. Enter Alinea , a Michelin-starred restaurant that has consistently been named one of the Top 50 restaurants in the world.

Since its opening, Alinea has redefined what fine-dining can be and nothing exemplifies that better than its edible balloon made from green apple taffy.

Get your phones ready:

This is one dessert that you’ll need to prove actually happened.

#16 Caramel Cake at Brown Sugar Bakery

Chicago has been a center of black culture since its very founding and there are a wide variety of eateries that pay homage to that. Case in point is Brown Sugar Bakery , a popular South Side venue.

Owner Stephanie Hart serves up a slice of her southern roots with decadent cakes, cupcakes, and puddings that taste like grandma’s cooking.  The deliciousness at Brown Sugar Bakery did not go unnoticed.  In 2019, the bakery was nominated for a James Beard award.

#17 Garrett Mix at Garrett Popcorn

Photo Source: Garrett Popcorn

If your understanding of popcorn is based solely on the sad, dry kernels of a microwave bag, then Garrett Popcorn is about to blow your mind. Since 1949, Garrett Popcorn has been serving handcrafted, freshly made, kettle popcorn to the masses (including the lucky folks on our Iconic Foods of Chicago Food Tour ).

Their menu items go from plain for your Aunt Jane to Buffalo Ranch for your sassy friend Ange. We love the Garrett mix though because it blend the savory taste of cheddar cheese with the crème brulee sweetness of caramel. As the meme says, why not both?

#18 Carne Asada Tacos at L’Patron

Photo Source: Yelp

What pizza is to New York, tacos are to Chicago: we use it to fuel the party. Nothing will make you feel more prepared to take on a night of barhopping than the carne asada tacos.

Enter Logan Square’s laid-back L’Patron , the best Chicago taco.

Each corn tortilla is brimming with tender chunks of charred steak marinated in lime juice and a secret family seasoning.

#19 Egg Custards at Saint Anna

There are so many pastries, baked goods and desserts to love at Saint Anna - but we tell our Chinatown Adventure Food Tour guests that it’s the egg custards that you can’t miss.

If an old-fashioned European pastry got married a traditional Chinese dessert, this delicious creation would be their firstborn.

Insider Tip: The best time to hit Saint Anna for an egg custard or seven is the afternoon. Fresh batches will be just coming out of the oven for the British afternoon tea tradition. You’re welcome.

#20 Tamales from The Tamale Guy

Photo Source: Eater Chicago

He appears late at night in some of the darkest corners of the city. His name is mentioned in hushed, reverential tones amongst Chicago residents. Many have tried to follow his footsteps , but most have failed.

Who could this be?

It’s Tamale Guy , Chicago’s own version of a superhero and he is here to save you from pangs of late-night hunger.

The Tamale Guy appears in neighborhood dive bars, armed with a cooler that contains his secret weapon: steamed, corn tamales ready to soak up any alcohol swishing around in your stomach.

They ain’t pretty — but damn, are they good.

Cheese and chicken, smothered in green sauce or without, this is one Chicago dish that will hit the sweet spot.

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Cast members Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri will make a return in The Bear’s third season, which starts filming in Chicago next week. Network executives have said the season will start streaming in June.

Courtesy of Chuck Hodes/FX

The Bear Season 3: What we know so far, from filming schedules to plot predictions

After cleaning up at the Emmy Awards in January, The Bear is getting back to work in Chicago.

Filming begins next week in Chicago for season three of the hit FX show, created by Christopher Storer, which has served up our city’s grit, beauty and food scene to hungry audiences since its debut in 2022.

But now that Carmy (White), Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), “cousin” (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and the crew have transformed the grimy fast-casual family restaurant into a sophisticated fine dining spot, where can the series go from here?

The Bear lead actor Jeremy Allen White originally hails from Brooklyn, but prior to the Bear, he starred in the Chicago-set show ‘Shameless’ for 10 years. He posed for this portrait in 2022 in the WBEZ studios while promoting the show’s first season.

Jason Marck / WBEZ

One thing seems certain: A show about a successful restaurant with no problems does not make for very good television, as Columbia College TV and film professor Eric Scholl pointed out.

“So that’s one thing I know they’re not going to do,” Scholl said.

Here’s what we know so far, from filming schedules to plot predictions:

Who is signed on to return for season three of The Bear?

We know Jeremy Allen White has been prepping in the kitchen , Ayo Edebiri teased being back in Chicago on social media and Ebon Moss-Bachrach recently talked about what he wants to see for his character in the third season on the red carpet. But other than the show’s stars, the season three cast list has been tightly guarded.

White poses with castmates Edeberi (center) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (right) in the press room at the 81st Golden Globe Awards on Jan. 7, 2024, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif.

Chris Pizzello

Last season, some big guest stars made appearances, including Bob Odenkirk, Jamie Lee Curtis, Sarah Paulson and John Mulaney, who all showed up as family members in the chaotic and memorable “Fishes” episode set at Christmastime.

When asked to share insights on who may show up on screen for season three FX chairman John Landgraf said at a recent press event , “unfortunately, I can’t. I was surprised as you were when the Christmas episode came through the door.”

Oscar winner Olivia Colman also appeared as Chef Terry in the episode “Forks,” when Richie gets a crash course in fine dining. White told Deadline that Colman is among the guest stars he would love to see return.

You can be pretty certain some Chicagoans will appear on screen. Hometown actors have filled the series’s supporting cast in past seasons. And recently, there have been calls for extras for the latest season.

Where are they filming The Bear in Chicago?

While we know the show is set to start shooting here next week, the exact locations or neighborhoods have not been shared. Jonah Zeiger, head of the Chicago Film Office, said locations are kept on the downlow, especially for high-profile shows like The Bear .

Season two featured locations around Chicago — even beyond River North, where the fictitious restaurant inspired by real-world Mr. Beef is located. Some actual Chicago spots featured in last season include the Michelin-starred Kasama, the West Loop staple Publican Quality Meats and local sweet shop Margie’s Candies.

The Bear takes viewers into the high-stakes world of opening a restaurant and was filmed on location in some actual Chicago dining destinations, including Kasama, Publican Quality Meats and Margie’s Candies.

And, if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the stars while they’re in town, we know Ayo Edebiri is a fan of the South Side restaurant Oooh Wee It Is . After winning a Golden Globe in January, Edebiri gave the soul food restaurant a shout out, saying it’s some of the best food she’s ever had. The restaurant’s owner said he had no idea the actress had visited.

As for how long The Bear cast and crew will be in town, Zeiger said a season of TV tends to take two or three months to film.

When does season three of The Bear come out?

New episodes of The Bear will drop in June, FX chairman John Landgraf told reporters last month .

Landgraf also said he had “no doubt” the entire season will be released at once — the way the first two seasons were — as opposed to week to week. Season one of The Bear had eight episodes and season two had 10.

What can we expect from a third season of The Bear?

Season two provided some hints on where The Bear may be going next, said Eric Scholl, a Columbia College professor whose expertise includes TV analysis.

One possibility, Scholl said, is that Carmy becomes everything he hates. Scholl says it’s possible we’ll see more Carmy turmoil in season three, either brought on by generational trauma (a theme that writers started to explore more consistently in season two) or PTSD from the grueling chef Carmy used to work for.

We’re also likely in for a breakup of some kind, Scholl said.

Season three can be tricky for any popular TV series. If you stay the same, viewers will get bored, but if you change too much, you risk losing your core audience.

FX via Associated Press

“You’ve set up all these nice, balanced relationships, and essentially what you do in season three is you break them. So the question is, how do you break them? That’s where it gets interesting,” he said. That could be a personal breakup between Carmy and his love interest Claire (Molly Gordon), who was introduced in season two, or perhaps a professional breakup with a character like Sydney or Richie, AKA “cousin.”

Scholl said the challenge of a third season is the same for all shows: If you stay the same, viewers will get bored, but if you change too much, you risk losing your core audience.

“That’s what [ The Bear is] going to have to balance. In a show that reinvents itself, how much can you reinvent and have it still be the same show? And they were successful doing that once? Question is: How do you do it a second time?”

Season three also requires shows to get down to the nitty gritty: A series can no longer present more questions than answers. That’s where Lost ’s third season went wrong, Scholl said. Instead, The Bear might look to Breaking Bad for an example of what Scholl considers a third season done right — that show, he said, managed to develop the main character in substantial ways in season three while introducing compelling new characters who were believable for the audience.

How has The Bear done so far?

FX and Hulu — the Disney-owned streaming platform where The Bear can be binged — did not release actual viewership numbers for the series. But last summer, Nielsen ratings showed The Bear drew 853 million streaming minutes the week season two dropped.

And, according to FX and Hulu, the season two debut of The Bear was the most-watched premiere of any FX show released on Hulu, as previously reported by Variety .

Awards season this year only seemed to put a brighter spotlight on the show’s cast and creative team. The show won big at both the Golden Globes and Emmy Awards last month. There’s also the ripple effects of Jeremy Allen White’s thirst-trap underwear campaign.

Why are Chicagoans in particular so enamored with The Bear?

Despite Carmy’s questionable 773 tattoo and arguments that the series doesn’t portray Chicago as accurately as, say, HBO’s South Side , The Bear does seem to have won over both local and nonlocal diehards.

“It really couldn’t be made anywhere else; it just wouldn’t be the same project,” Jonah Zeiger with the Chicago Film Office said. “I’d love to see more and more shows and projects that are really pure Chicago, and yet they’re getting a national and even a global audience.”

Scholl, the professor, said the show’s success can be attributed to a few different things. For starters: Everyone eats. Everyone is familiar with going to restaurants. And a lot of people can relate to working in the food service industry. He said it’s the right mix of being familiar, but also offering a look into a world that not everyone knows if you only ever sit in a restaurant’s dining room.

But for Chicagoans: Scholl said The Bear ’s credibility mainly comes from being shot in the city when other Chicago-based shows have been shot in Los Angeles or Toronto.

“That feeling of really being a part of the city is, I think, what gives it a realistic feel that makes people really connect to it, especially people in Chicago,” he said.

Courtney Kueppers is an arts and culture reporter at WBEZ.