Four Chicago Restaurants to Visit for Tourists

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Most of the time when tourists travel anywhere it can be exceedingly difficult to identify tourist traps and find true local gems. When visiting the Windy City this is no different and finding the right places to eat as a tourist is just as difficult as any major city. In order to give some direction to those visiting Chicago, here are a few great establishments to visit when exploring Chicago that are delicious despite being famous.

1. Lou Malnati's

This list of course could not be complete without at least one mention of the food that comes to mind when anyone thinks about Chicago. Deep dish pizza is as strongly tied to Chicago and is ingrained into the history and soul of the city. Lou Malnati's is one of the best deep dish chains around Chicago and just as many locals love visiting Lou Malnati's so even if you are new to the city, Lou Malnati's is sure to impress. The most popular option at Lou's is their 'Malnati Chicago Classic' pizza. Make sure to come into the restaurant hungry because one thing is for sure, Chicago deep dish pizza is heavy.

Lou Malnati's can be found all across the city and many of the surrounding suburbs. One of the best establishments can be found at 1120 N State St.

2. Au Cheval

Another great restaurant that every person in Chicago loves is Au Cheval. Au Cheval has won many awards and accolades representing some of the best burgers in the nation and will be a must visit for any tourist in the area. Make sure to come early as Au Cheval does not take reservations online or over the phone. You will have to come in person to put your names down and beware the wait times can last for hours during the busier meal times on weekends. The most famous item on the menu here is definitely their cheeseburger. Additionally, there are add ons available such as their fried egg or thick cut bacon. For those looking for the richest experience definitely try out both of these add ons for the burgers.

In case you are not the type that wants to wait in lines or are crunched for time, there are also sister establishments to Au Cheval called Small Cheval which serve almost the same items and normally never has wait times over an hour.

Au Cheval can be found located at 800 W Randolph St.

3. Cindy's

Cindy's is not actually on this list for the food but instead for the experience. Despite being known to be a tourist attraction, the establishment is not a tourist trap at all but a breathtaking experience. This is because Cindy's has what is arguably the best and most beautiful rooftop view of all of Chicago. The view is exquisite looking out onto Lake Michican, Millenium Park, and the Bean. The rooftop bar is also a wonderful option for those that are not looking for a full meal but instead a few drinks while enjoying the impeccable view.

Cindy's can be found located inside of the Chicago Athletic Association building at 12 S Michigan Ave.

4. The Gage

While there are many things to do around Chicago, many of the tourist attractions are all located around Millenium Park. While you spend the day exploring the area around Millenium Park, The Gage is a great restaurant right around that area that is arguably the most well liked gastropub all across the city. The menu is full of pub foods that will be satisfying to everyone with a huge slection of craft beers and whisky to pair with the food. Some of the most popular options on the menu at The Gage include their scotch egg or the venison burger. The establishment also offers patio seating which can be great in the warmer months.

The Gage can be found located at 24 S Michigan Ave.

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