My Scoop on Good Eats in the Loop!
One of my all-time favorite things about going to school in Chicago and living in the Loop is all of the great food around here. Check out this list of some of my favorite spots!
1. Tilly Bagel
This bagel shop is my favorite way to start my day in the Loop because it’s so close to the University Center! Their tomato grilled cheese bagel with sun-dried tomato cream cheese is my go-to, but with such a wide variety of flavors, there’s certainly a unique bagel and cream cheese combo for everyone. They also have a bagel of the week which can be savory, sweet, or spicy. Check out their seasonal cream cheese too, if you’re looking to change things up! It’s a popular spot, so make sure to stop by early to get your favorite bagel.
2. Devil Dawgs
Devil Dawgs is my favorite place to pick up a quick treat to get me through finals week. I think they have a great Chicago dog, but they also offer a surprisingly wonderful Italian beef for a hot dog place. Although their shakes may cost a pretty penny, I promise the chocolate marshmallow will rock your world. I also recommend joining their “Dawg Pack” rewards program to save some money—especially if you become as addicted to their food as I am. It’s also just kind of fun to tell people you’re part of the “Dawg Pack!”
3. Gino’s East
Gino’s East is a classic spot that I bring my family when they come for a visit. My favorite item on the menu is the spinach mozzarella sticks—and if you’re feeling really crazy, you can even get them tossed in buffalo sauce! They also pair nicely with the giardiniera ranch if you only want a little bit of spice. The appetizers at this place are all fantastic, and I love the vibes inside, especially since the recent renovation!
4. Pizano’s Pizza and Pasta
The items to look out for at Pizano’s are the specialty cheesy garlic breads. While they always have the regular cheesy garlic bread, their specialty ones are what really stand out. From Italian beef garlic bread to spinach and artichoke garlic bread, the only downside is that they come and go. I love ordering giardiniera on their pizza, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with whatever you order here! That said, I definitely recommend checking out those specialty garlic breads!
5. Amorino
If you’re a sweet treat fan like me, this gelato shop is the perfect place to treat yourself. Their chocolate hazelnut flavor is ridiculously good, and I love pairing it with a lighter flavor like mango or raspberry. Their flower shaped gelato cones have an impressive presentation, and they also offer huge macarons filled with gelato. I guarantee this place will impress you and whoever you chose to enjoy it with. Chances are, you’ll find yourself coming back to try even more flavors!
I hope you’ll come try some of these places here at DePaul—I’m hungry just thinking about them!
~Tessa