Independence Day is upon us, and while grilling is a popular option, there are plenty of restaurants in Chicago with dishes that exemplify the American spirit. Some of these menu items have a rich history with recipes that date back to the old world. Others were developed by immigrants as modern takes on classic items. Check out this list of American classics, all great ways to celebrate the Fourth of July. Listed in alphabetical order.
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This food is coming in to save the day because freedom is the only answer.
美國's Dog — Baltimore Dog
美國's Dog also opts to give diners a taste of different hot dogs across the country. Even in some unsavory places like Green Bay. The Baltimore Dog is deep fried, and nothing says 'Merica more than deep fried. Especially because Baltimore is where the "Star Spangled Banner" was written. [Photo: Yelp]
第一片餡餅Cafe — Apple Pie
First Slice has three locations (Andersonville, Ravenswood and Manor), and their apple pie has been recognized as one of the best in the country byFood+Wine. Yes, cue the Don McLean. [Photo: Facebook]
Honey 1 BBQ — Rib Tips
Barbecue is always an American pastime, and the crew at Honey 1 do a fabulous job with rib tips, a Chicago tradition. They've done their best to hone their skills from Arkansas to Bucktown back to Bronzeville. [Photo: Facebook]
La Bomba Restaurant — Jibarito
Yes. Puerto Rico is property of the United States, and these wonderful sandwiches were created in Chicago. This is the taste of American ingenuity. [Photo: Facebook]
Mr. Beef — Italian Beef Sandwich
The immigrant-rich history of the thin-sliced beef, used to feed wedding guests in Chicago, dates back to the early 1900s. The street-fare makes it uniquely American. [Photo: Facebook]
Orange Garden Restaurant — Egg Rolls
The American-Cantonese egg roll is a delicacy, and Orange Garden hits all the right notes in crafting a classic. [Photo: LTHForum]
Uncle Remus Chicken and BBQ — Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is an American staple, and the fried chicken at this restaurant in Austin is always crisp and well-seasoned. [Photo: Yelp]
美國n Wildburger — You're My Boy, Bleu
美國n Wildburger gives diners signature dishes from Chicago, Memphis and Washington. But while touring the country, opt for the "You're My Boy, Bleu." [Photo: Facebook]
Frontier — Wild Boar
Frontier is known for its whole-animal service for groups, and none is more infamous than its boar. Customers need to order this five days before, and they'll get slow-smoked meat that was raised on a Texas farm rubbed with spices and brown sugar. [Photo: Facebook]
AMK Kitchen — Dorito Pie
AMK Kitchen just opened in a space that screams Americana. Check out their Dorito Pie, as every red-blooded American needs a dose of processed food. That's sausage, brisket, beans, cheese and jalapeños served over Cool Ranch Doritos. [Photo: Facebook]
Mike Ditka's — Da Pork Chop
The former Bears' coach may not be as big of a celebrity anymore, but at least his pork chop (berkshire chop, apple chutney, cherry jus, mashed sweet potatoes) remains a classic. [Photo: Ditka's]
The Walnut Room — Mrs. Hering's Chicken Pot Pie
Taste the history of American by ordering this classic which is made from a recipe that dates back to 1907. [Photo: Macy's]
WHISK — Ron Swanson Burger
Ron Swanson, the esteemed wood-working American, played by Nick Offerman on NBC's "Parks and Recreation," is the inspiration for this burger: An 8-ounce beef patty, wrapped in a pound of bacon, topped with bacon mayo. [Photo: Facebook]