Do you ever get that craving? That irresistible, gotta-have-it-now urge for something uniquely Chicago, something undeniably delicious? For many, that craving points directly to one place: Portillo’s. This isn’t just fast food; it’s an institution, a culinary landmark that embodies the spirit of the Windy City. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the Portillo’s experience or a curious newcomer ready to dive in, navigating the extensive menu can be daunting. While everything on the menu boasts a certain charm, some items rise above the rest, securing their place as true Portillo’s legends. This guide is your compass, steering you toward the best food at Portillo’s and ensuring your visit is nothing short of spectacular.
Portillo’s offers a delightful culinary adventure, but with so many tempting options, it’s helpful to know where to begin. This isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about experiencing the best of what Portillo’s has to offer, creating memories with every delicious bite. From their iconic Italian beef to decadent desserts, the following are the items you absolutely *must* try.
The Star of the Show: Italian Beef
No exploration of the best food at Portillo’s would be complete without a deep dive into their legendary Italian beef. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience. Imagine thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef, simmered to perfection in a savory au jus, piled high on a freshly baked roll. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. But the true magic lies in the customization.
At Portillo’s, you’re not just ordering an Italian beef; you’re crafting your perfect culinary masterpiece. The key decision lies in the “dip.” Do you go “dry,” where the beef is served with just a touch of au jus? Or do you venture into wetter territory? “Wet” means the entire sandwich gets a generous soaking, intensifying the flavors. And then there’s the ultimate commitment: “dipped.” In this scenario, the entire sandwich is submerged in the au jus before being handed to you, resulting in a truly messy, but undeniably delicious, experience.
The choice is yours, but a seasoned Portillo’s enthusiast might suggest starting with “wet” to gauge your tolerance for the rich, savory flavors. And don’t forget the peppers! Adding hot giardiniera or sweet peppers provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the beef, elevating the entire sandwich to another level. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and satisfying.
The Italian beef has earned its reputation as one of the best food items at Portillo’s for a reason. It’s not just the flavor; it’s the history, the tradition, and the sheer craftsmanship that goes into creating this iconic sandwich. It’s the dish people travel across state lines to experience, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
Chicago Dog Perfection
While the Italian beef may be the headliner, the Chicago-style hot dog is a close second in the pantheon of the best food at Portillo’s. This isn’t your average backyard barbecue dog; it’s a carefully constructed work of art, a symphony of flavors and textures that represent the very essence of Chicago cuisine.
Let’s break it down: First, you’ve got the poppy seed bun, soft and slightly sweet, providing the perfect foundation. Nestled inside is an all-beef hot dog, cooked to perfection and boasting a satisfying snap. Then comes the “dragged through the garden” toppings: yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish (neon green!), a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the overall experience. The yellow mustard provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the beef, while the onions add a pungent bite. The relish brings a burst of sweetness, and the pickle spear offers a refreshing crunch. The sport peppers deliver a subtle heat, and the celery salt ties everything together with a hint of savory complexity.
The key to a great Chicago dog is balance. It’s not just about piling on the toppings; it’s about ensuring that each flavor complements the others, creating a harmonious and unforgettable taste sensation. Portillo’s understands this, and their Chicago dogs are consistently ranked among the best in the city. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true flavors of Chicago. When seeking the best food at Portillo’s, this is an essential and iconic choice.
Beyond the Beef & Dog: Other Savory Delights
Portillo’s offers more than just its famous beef and dogs. The menu boasts a variety of other savory options that are definitely worth exploring.
Chopped Salad
For those looking for a lighter, yet equally satisfying, option, the Chopped Salad is a surprisingly popular choice. Don’t let the word “salad” fool you; this isn’t just lettuce and dressing. It’s a hearty and flavorful combination of grilled chicken, pasta, crispy bacon, crumbled blue cheese, diced tomatoes, and green onions, all tossed in a creamy house dressing.
The Chopped Salad is surprisingly large, making it a great option for sharing or for a substantial meal. The combination of textures and flavors is incredibly satisfying, and it provides a welcome contrast to the heavier options on the menu. Many consider it a surprisingly healthy option (relatively speaking!) amidst the other indulgent offerings. If you’re seeking the best food at Portillo’s, but prefer something a bit lighter, the Chopped Salad is an excellent choice.
Maxwell Street Polish
Another Chicago classic, the Maxwell Street Polish, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful option. This consists of a grilled Polish sausage, typically served on a bun with mustard and grilled onions. The sausage is juicy and flavorful, and the grilled onions add a touch of sweetness and smokiness.
It’s a straightforward and satisfying sandwich that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. If you’re looking for something different from the Italian beef or hot dog, the Maxwell Street Polish is a great alternative. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients, perfectly executed.
Italian Sausage
Like the Italian Beef, the Italian sausage boasts a similar approach to flavors and toppings. You’ll find the same array of pepper options available. Some order a combination of Italian Beef and Sausage, known as a “combo” for a truly hearty meal.
Sweet Endings: Desserts You Can’t Miss
No visit to Portillo’s is complete without indulging in one of their decadent desserts. They offer a perfect sweet ending to a savory meal.
Chocolate Cake
The Chocolate Cake is arguably the most famous dessert at Portillo’s. It’s a moist, rich, and incredibly decadent chocolate cake that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The cake is known for its fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor.
It’s a customer favorite for a reason. It’s the perfect complement to the savory items on the menu, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can even purchase whole chocolate cakes to take home, perfect for celebrations or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings.
Strawberry Shortcake
For a lighter, more refreshing option, the Strawberry Shortcake is a great choice. This classic dessert consists of biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. The strawberries are sweet and juicy, and the whipped cream adds a touch of lightness and sweetness.
It’s a perfect option for those who want a sweet treat without being too heavy. It’s a classic dessert that is always a crowd-pleaser.
Chocolate Cake Shake
For a truly unique and decadent treat, the Chocolate Cake Shake is a must-try. This shake combines the rich flavor of Portillo’s famous chocolate cake with creamy ice cream, creating a truly unforgettable dessert experience. It’s blended to perfection, creating a smooth and creamy shake that is bursting with chocolate flavor.
This isn’t your average milkshake; it’s a truly indulgent treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. It’s a unique and delicious way to experience the flavor of Portillo’s chocolate cake, and it’s a must-try for any dessert lover.
Tips for the Portillo’s Experience
Navigating the Portillo’s experience can be a bit overwhelming, especially during peak hours. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Be Prepared: Portillo’s can get incredibly busy, especially during lunch and dinner rushes. Be prepared to order quickly and efficiently. Have your order ready before you approach the counter or drive-thru speaker.
Customize Your Order: Don’t be afraid to customize your order to your liking. You can add or remove toppings, adjust the “dip” level on your Italian beef, and even request substitutions. Don’t hesitate to ask for exactly what you want.
Drive-Thru vs. Inside: Consider whether you prefer the convenience of the drive-thru or the ambiance of the restaurant. The drive-thru can be faster during peak hours, but dining inside allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace.
Catering: Portillo’s offers catering services for events of all sizes. This is a great option for parties, corporate events, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with authentic Chicago cuisine.
Conclusion
Portillo’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a Chicago institution. While the menu offers a wide variety of options, the items highlighted in this guide represent the best of the best. From the iconic Italian beef and Chicago dog to the surprisingly delicious Chopped Salad and decadent desserts, these are the dishes that you absolutely must try on your next visit. They truly represent the best food at Portillo’s.
So, the next time you find yourself craving that unmistakable Chicago flavor, head to Portillo’s and treat yourself to one of these must-try menu items. And don’t forget to share your own favorites! Whether you’re a seasoned Portillo’s enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this beloved Chicago landmark. Embrace the experience, savor the flavors, and discover why Portillo’s has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of so many. Enjoy the journey through the best food at Portillo’s!
