Gino's East
One of the most famous things about Chicago is its unique style of pizza. Chicago pizza is a thick, tomato-laden affair, usually strewn with numerous additional ingredients on top. Gino's East, located around the corner from Michigan Avenue on East Superior Street, is one of Chicago's most popular pizza restaurants, and an excellent representation of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza.
Gino's pizza, served since 1966, has proved so popular that it is now sold frozen by mail. Those visiting in person, however, will experience the added bonus of Gino's grotto-like ambiance, including the wood fixtures into which generations of visitors have scratched their initials.
Gino's East
162 E. Superior St.
Chicago, IL 60611-2916
312-266-3337
ginoseast.com
Bistro 110
Bistro 110 is an excellent neighborhood bistro located on Pearson Street and steps from the Water Tower and Michigan Avenue. The restaurant, led by renowned chef Dominique Tougne, serves such Gallic favorites as French onion soup, escargots, roasted duck, quiche Lorraine and pommes frites.
The dessert menu includes chocolate mousse, crème brulée and an assortment of dessert wines. Bistro 110 also serves several signature cocktails, including "French Heaven," a combination of Grey Goose vodka with St. Germaine liqueur and a splash of sour mix. The restaurant features an outdoor patio, cocktail lounge and contemporary art murals.
Bistro 110
110 E. Pearson St.
Chicago, IL 60611-2078
312-266-3110
bistro110restaurant.com
Morton's the Steakhouse
Morton's the Steakhouse has gone from a local, State Street steakhouse to a publicly traded company (NYSE symbol: MRT) and "the world's largest owner and operator of company-owned upscale steakhouse restaurants."
The chain boasts 76 locations around the United States. Steaks served at Morton's include double-cut filet mignon, porterhouse, New York strip steak, rib eye and prime rib. Other entrées served include lamb chops, yellow fin tuna and Alaskan King crab legs. Morton's wine list features a minimum of 200 choices, and a certified sommelier is on staff.
Business attire or smart casual wear are recommended for dining at Morton's. Reservations are not required, but are recommended.
Morton's the Steakhouse
1050 N. State St.
Chicago, IL 60610-2855
(312) 266-4820
mortons.com