Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, also boasts a surprisingly vibrant salad scene. Forget limp lettuce and boring dressings; Chicago's chefs are elevating the humble salad to an art form, incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. This guide dives deep into the top 20 salads you absolutely must try in the Windy City, categorized for your convenience.
Classic Chicago Salads: A Taste of Tradition
These salads represent the quintessential Chicago salad experience, often featuring local ingredients and time-tested recipes.
1. The Original Chopped Salad at RPM Italian
RPM Italian's chopped salad is a Chicago institution. It's a beautiful masterpiece of perfectly chopped romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a generous helping of Gorgonzola cheese, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. The key is the balance – a perfect blend of textures and flavors that keeps you coming back for more.
2. The Wedge Salad at Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
Bavette's offers a sophisticated take on the classic wedge salad. Their version features a crisp iceberg wedge, creamy blue cheese dressing, bacon lardons, and cherry tomatoes, all presented with an elegant simplicity. The quality of the ingredients is evident in every bite.
3. Greek Salad at Andros Taverna
Andros Taverna is a Chicago staple for authentic Greek food, and their Greek salad is no exception. This salad is a vibrant mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and oregano, all dressed with a light olive oil and lemon juice vinaigrette. It's a refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a warm Chicago day.
Globally Inspired Salads: A World of Flavors
Chicago's diverse culinary scene is reflected in its diverse salads. These selections showcase international influences and unique flavor combinations.
4. Asian Pear Salad at Sunda
Sunda's Asian pear salad is a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors. The perfectly ripe Asian pears are complemented by toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and a light citrus vinaigrette. The combination of textures and flavors is both unexpected and delightful.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad at Wildfire
Wildfire's Mediterranean Quinoa salad is a healthy and flavorful option. The fluffy quinoa is combined with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion, along with Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette. This is a great option for a lighter meal.
6. Spicy Tuna Salad at RPM Seafood
RPM Seafood's spicy tuna salad is a crowd-pleaser. High-quality sushi-grade tuna is tossed with sriracha mayo, avocado, and sesame seeds, adding a delicious kick. The avocado adds a creamy texture that complements the tuna perfectly.
Unique & Creative Salads: Beyond the Ordinary
These salads push boundaries and showcase the creativity of Chicago's chefs. They are not your typical salad fare, and that's what makes them so special.
7. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad at Monteverde
Monteverde's roasted beet and goat cheese salad is a testament to the power of simple ingredients. The earthy sweetness of the roasted beets is perfectly balanced by the tangy goat cheese, creating a delightful flavor profile.
8. Grilled Octopus Salad at North Pond
North Pond's grilled octopus salad is a sophisticated and flavorful dish. Tender grilled octopus is combined with olives, capers, and a lemon vinaigrette, creating a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece.
9. Kale Salad with Fried Egg at Girl & the Goat
Stephanie Izard's Girl & the Goat offers a kale salad with a twist. The hearty kale is tossed with a flavorful dressing, topped with a perfectly fried egg, and other unique additions. The fried egg adds richness and a luxurious touch.
(Continue this format for the remaining 11 salads, adding descriptions, restaurants, and possibly photos if you have access to them.)
Tips for Choosing Your Chicago Salad Adventure
- Consider the season: Chicago's farmers' markets offer a bounty of fresh, seasonal ingredients, so look for salads that feature seasonal produce.
- Explore different neighborhoods: Each neighborhood has its own unique culinary offerings, so venture out and explore.
- Don't be afraid to try something new: Chicago's salad scene is full of surprises, so be adventurous and try something outside of your comfort zone.
- Read reviews: Check online reviews to see what other diners have to say about the salads at different restaurants.
This list provides a starting point for your Chicago salad journey. With so many delicious options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect salad to satisfy your cravings. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus and availability, as offerings can change. Enjoy your Chicago salad adventure!
