So on my last trip to Chicago, the city’s famous hot dogs and pizza didn’t make it to eating itinerary. I’m proud to say that despite having every meal planned, I still managed to fit in a tasting of Portillo’s and Lou Malnati’s.
I really wanted to try Hot Doug’s or Franks ‘n Dawgs but they were just too far and Portillo’s happened to be a few blocks away while I was out with Dumpling Man and his old high school buddy, See Fut Gwai. Even though it was just 2 hours before our dinner reservations at Next, Dumpling Man and I wanted to see what all the rage was with Chicago and it’s hot dogs.
Hot Dog relish, mustard, onions, tomatoes, pickle, sport peppers
I’m not so sure I understand what the big deal is about the hot dogs here. It was good, but not great. The noticeable absence of ketchup bothered me. I just LOVE piling on the red stuff, but I guess that’s considered criminal in Chicago. Dumpling Man was giving me the evil eye as I chowed down on the hot dog since dinner was so soon. He can be such a dictator sometimes.
Anyways, I’m glad I finally tried a true Chicago hot dog. I can honestly say I’m quite content with just a good ole Costco hot dog. I don’t need pickles, peppers, and tomatoes on my dogs, just everything else AND lots of ketchup!
Overworked. Underfed. 