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September 11, 2025 9 mins

If food is your favorite travel companion, Chicago may be your ultimate destination in the U.S. Beyond its iconic hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, the Windy City is bursting with flavors that tell stories of immigrant traditions, culinary innovation, and neighborhood pride. Every corner offers something delicious, whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred tasting menu, lining up for a beloved Italian beef sandwich, or uncovering lesser-known haunts.

Today, host Angie Orth is back with Chicago insider and veteran travel journalist Kit Bernardi on the rooftop of the Virgin Hotel. She shares her top must-try food and drink experiences, from classic dishes that built Chicago’s reputation to unexpected neighborhood treasures. Kit maps out a flavorful itinerary across the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. 

You’ll hear about iconic bites like Italian beef, deep-dish pizza, and the famed Vienna hot dog. You’ll learn where to book for an elevated night out at award-winning spots, including a Michelin-starred brewery. You’ll also hear how to “set-jet” with a food tour that hits filming locations and beloved bakeries featured in the hit show The Bear.

What You’ll Learn:

01:13 The Chicago staples you have to try first

02:45 Michelin-starred spots and hidden cocktail bars

04:10 Where to “set-jet” The Bear

06:05 The neighborhoods that give Chicago its flavor

08:12 Blending tradition with constant reinvention

Connect with Kit Bernardi:

Website: https://kittravels.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitbernardi/

CTA: What’s your favorite Chicago foodie find? Tell us about it in the comments!

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

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