Iconic Chicago Food Wine Pairings
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs with French Red Wine
Chicago’s hot dog scene shines at Redhot Ranch. Their beef franks come in soft buns with celery salt, relish, onions, and sport peppers.
Pickle and mustard add tang. Pair this classic with a chilled Vignes du Maynes 2022 Chénas Petites Pierres.
This light French red complements the meaty flavors without overpowering them.
Thin-Crust Pizza and California Rosé
Tavern-style pizza is a local favorite. Middle Brow offers this thin, crispy-crust pizza on Tuesdays.
A simple version with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni works well. Try it with Tribute to Grace Grenache Rosé from California.
This wine’s crisp taste and mineral notes match the pizza’s flavors year-round.
Shrimp Dish with Burgundy White Wine
Shrimp DeJonghe is a historic Chicago dish. Hugo’s Frog Bar and Chop House serves a tasty version.
The buttery, garlicky shrimp pairs nicely with Sylvain Pataille 2019 Bourgogne Aligoté.
This white wine’s bright acidity cuts through the rich flavors of the dish.
Popcorn Mix and Aged Port
Garrett Popcorn Shops’ signature mix blends sweet caramel corn with cheesy popcorn. This combo of flavors goes well with Taylor Fladgate 20-year-old Tawny Port.
The port’s caramel notes and slight saltiness mirror the popcorn’s taste profile.
Peking Duck and Light Red Burgundy
Sun Wah BBQ’s Beijing Duck Dinner is a multi-course feast. The crispy-skinned duck pairs well with Louis Chenu Pere & Filles 2021 Savigny-Les-Beaune Premier Cru Les Lavieres.
This light Burgundy red has fruity notes that complement the duck’s savory taste.
Italian Beef Sandwich and Chicago Liquor
Mr. Beef serves a classic Italian beef sandwich. It’s packed with thin-sliced roast beef and spicy giardiniera on French bread.
Dipping the sandwich in meat juices adds flavor. Chase it with a shot of Jeppson’s Malört, a bitter Chicago-made liquor.
Its grapefruit notes and strong finish cut through the sandwich’s richness.
