Next Time You’re in the Windy City, Consider the Following Indulgences 

Known for its skyline, diverse culture and extreme winters, many people overlook another cornerstone of Chicago, something that locals and frequent visitors have long touted as supreme: its food and entertainment. While pizza may come to mind, Chicago has much more to offer. Check out the following restaurants and festivals to experience the best of the windy city.

Foodie Indulgences

Festivals come and go, but certain restaurants have made names for themselves year-round. Next time you find yourself in Chicago – for business or pleasure – don’t miss out on these indulgences.

Everest 440 S. La Salle St, 40^th floor
For fine dining experiences, Everest takes the cake. World-renowned for high-end French cuisine, the restaurant’s menu varies based on the season and is accompanied by an extensive 1,600 wine collection. Diners are presented with one of two seven-course dining options or multiple three- and four-course meals. If the food isn’t enough to prompt a visit, the establishment’s location on the 40^th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange overlooking the city should seal the deal.

Smoque BBQ 3800 N. Pulaski Road
Smoque BBQ takes barbeque seriously, as demonstrated by the manifesto displayed on its homepage. For those wondering what Chicago-style barbeque really is, or looking for a rack of ribs to commit to memory, Smoque – with smoky meat, light sauces and mouthwatering sides – will do the trick.

C Chicago 20 W. Kinzie
Haven’t thought of this Midwestern city as a seafood haven? Think again. Under the professional hand of Chef Bill Montagne, C Chicago offers a sea-to-table fine dining experience that can be hard to find away from the Mediterranean coast. Seafood is delivered daily, and simple, local ingredients are used to enhance flavor without going to extremes.

Hot “G” Dog 5009 N. Clark St.
A trip to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without a Chicago-style hot dog. Known for its traditional take on a hot dog, other options include vegetarian dogs, sausage, fire dogs and famous duck-fat fries. Simple, to the point and delicious, Hot “G” Dog will quiet any hot dog craving.

Giordano’s Multiple Locations in and Surrounding Chicago
Acclaimed “Chicago’s Best Pizza” by multiple sources including NBC, CBS Chicago, New York Times, Chicago Tribune and more, the local chain is a can’t-miss if Chicago-style pizza is even a passing thought. Pioneers of the stuffed pizza, Giordano’s history is as rich as the history of the city itself, with enough locations to make it convenient for any travel plans.

Margie’s Candies 2 Locations: 1960 N. Western or 1813 Montrose Ave.
Established as a Chicago favorite in 1913, Margie’s Candies brings more than 100 years of history and deliciousness to the table. Featuring homemade candies and ice cream, the shop is known for its classic banana split, hot fudge and caramel sauce, which can be purchased by the jar. Everything in the store, including waffle cones, are made fresh daily, offering a refreshing break from fro-yo and other trendier ice cream shops.

Can’t-Miss Festivals

While there’s something to be said for established restaurants, festivals bring the best of the best together in one location for fun that’s often worth traveling for. Check out a few of the best festivals in Chicago.

Lollapalooza July 31 – August 2
Filling 115 acres and three days with music, fresh food – sourced from local markets – and restaurants and artwork for purchase, Lollapalooza offers a little something for everyone. 2015 headliners include Metallica, Paul McCartney, Kid Cudi, Of Monsters and Men, Alabama Shakes and dozens of other bands and performers. For a break from everyday monotony or to send summer out the right way, consider adding Lollapalooza to your itinerary.

Taste of Chicago Mid-July Annually
While this year’s festival – the 35^th Annual Taste of Chicago – has come and gone, there’s no reason not to plan to attend next year. The festival, held on the scenic lakefront, is one of the country’s premier outdoor food festivals, one of the largest in the world. Featuring free admission, visitors have access to culinary demonstrations, restaurants, local music and well-known headliners.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Nov. 21
Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is the largest evening holiday celebration in the U.S. Lasting all day, the festival features a tree-lighting parade, holiday shopping opportunities, concerts, local eats and more. More than 1.2 million attendees travel from around the world to experience what this festival has to offer.

Chicago International Film Festival Oct. 15-29
Thinking an overseas trip is necessary to experience the crème de la crème of Hollywood? The Chicago International Film Festival is determined to change that. Started in 1964 and presented by Cinema/Chicago, the festival highlights independent film directors and yet-to-be-acclaimed films, along with international screenings and other groundbreaking movie-related events.

Chicago Air and Water Show August 15-16
Held along the Chicago lakefront, the Chicago Air and Water Show is the longest-running, largest free show of its kind in the country. Headlined each year by the Blue Angels along with other performers, the show brings awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping air and water stunts to the forefront, creating an event that’s designed to inspire the entire family. The show features traditional fair-style foods with a Chicago twist on favorites like hot-dogs, burgers, ice cream and more. On average, two million people turn out to view the show.

Chicago offers more than wind and a beautiful skyline. By digging a little deeper and planning accordingly, the city becomes a haven for foodies and festival-lovers alike. If business brings you to Chicago, try to find a way to incorporate the restaurants and events above to enhance the trip.