Next stop on my great American tour was the midwest, starting with Chicago. I had the best tour guide, Jane aka Ms. Cho. I honestly don’t remember the last time I went to Chicago, but I did go a while ago. Once I saw the “beach” with the Chicago skyline in the background, I was in love. I loved how there were so many people outside running, biking and hanging out at the beach. However, I was kindly informed by my friend Joe that it’s pretty cold and miserable during the winter.

Besides the amazing weather and timeless architecture, I enjoyed all the good Chicago food. In case you missed my gazillion instagram posts, I had the signature Chicago-style deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s and a Chicago-style hot dog from Portillo’s. I definitely found the food to be a bit too salty at times, but it was still satisfying.

I enjoyed Little Goat Diner which was started by Stephanie Izard. She was the only woman to win Bravo’s Top Chef. We actually did see her at the restaurant to come out and talk to some fellow diners. I was so surprised to see Korean food like kimchi in some of her dishes! I had to try the  kimchi & bacon & eggs & pancakes. They were surprisingly good and the kimchi was ripe as I like it. I heard that they actually make the kimchi there. I wonder where she gets her recipe from.

In the short time I was there, I definitely felt like I ate my way through Chicago. I also happened to be there in time for the taste of Chicago, which happens once a year, which meant a lot more eating. Chicago, I’ll be back again sometime. You’ve got a piece of my h e a r t.

Stay tuned for more on my midwest travels to Michigan to see Melody!