#chicago-cuisine

#chicago-cuisine

Chicago has a reputation as one of the best food cities in America, but despite the city's well-documented love of local favorites like deep-dish and Italian beef, there is a "pizza" specialty there that many people don't know about. Pizza is in quotes there because even compared to the unusual deep-dish offerings, this snack stretches the definition of the word and isn't even on the menu at most Windy City pizza joins. Instead, it's a staple of hot dog stands and local fast food joints.

Many U.S. cities are renowned for vibrant, thriving food scenes and a history of contributions to the culinary landscape of the country. Few can boast the history of Chicago, and if you're thinking about deep-dish pizza, that's just the beginning. Did you know you can make a case that Chicago is truly the birthplace of McDonald's? Ray Kroc's first location was opened in Des Plaines,

Anthony Bourdain may have been a lifelong New Yorker, but second to NYC, he was singing the tune of Chicago. He once named Chicago as "the only other real metropolis in America" (via NBC5), and in the Chicago episode of "Parts Unknown" (which aired in 2016, just two years before the chef's death), he declared, "Chicago is a town, a city, that doesn't ever have to measure itself against any other city."

Endless options reign supreme - both are bolstered by huge immigrant populations that bring depth of flavor, character, and community to each neighborhood and borough. Their unique characteristics and signature dishes can both be appreciated at the same time; for food-lovers, chefs, and critics alike, both Chicago and New York should be at the top of your list of cities to explore with a healthy appetite.

"The best part about being from Chicago is learning all that hospitality, bringing it here to L.A.," Storer said.

"The personality you see on Instagram, in confirmation emails, in the food, and the dining room is all the same. I'm a human, you're a human, and let's communicate like that. I mean it's not too long before the robots take over."

Pizza Pushers uses a focaccia base for its dough, resulting in the light and airy crust that Detroit style is known for. In addition to traditional toppings like pepperoni and sausage, the restaurant also offers pies with vodka cream sauce and pickled jalapeños. Even for city dwellers, it's worth a commute.