As autumn rolls in and the football season begins, many fans seize the opportunity to discover new places by following their favorite teams, both NFL and college alike, to their away games. When the team you cheer for winds up in Chicago, it's not just about the game – particularly since Chicago is home to some of America's most iconic food experiences.

Once you've landed in the Windy City, there's an impressive array of dining choices awaiting. From the city’s famous hot dogs, pizzas, and Italian beef sandwiches to Michelin-starred fine dining, Chicago's culinary world beckons. While the main draw may be the football game, ensure to reserve a little time to visit Chicago’s finest eats.

In the heart of Chicago’s food scene, the Chicago-style hot dog holds a special place – a Vienna Beef frank, adorned with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun. One place to try this delicacy is Devil Dawgs, with several locations citywide, including one in the South Loop neighborhood, close to Soldier Field. Notable chefs, Andrew Brochu and Matthias Merges, have lent their talents to the menu, elevating the humble hot dog experience. For those following a plant-based diet, don't fret! Here, you can enjoy a vegan version of the famous Chicago-style hot dog.

A Chicago visit isn’t complete without tasting a bit of Chicago-style pizza, in any of its many forms: deep dish, stuffed, pan, or tavern style. Make a beeline to Uptown for the rising pizza sensation, Milly’s Pizza in the Pan, run by Robert Maleski. Reserve your pizza in advance, as they make only 60 pizzas a day, often selling out before opening the doors to customers.

Chicago boasts beautiful waterfront dining, thanks to the sinuous river that threads its way through the city. Taste the culinary marvels of the highly acclaimed Chicago Cut Steakhouse, set along the scenic Riverwalk, famous for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine choices suited to any party's size.

Step into the former warehouse district, now known as the Fulton Market District, hosting an appealing mix of residences, business spaces, restaurants, and art venues. Visit Time Out Market Chicago to sample the variety of unique bars, restaurants, and food stalls. Then, why not visit Gaijin, Chicago's pioneer okonomiyaki restaurant headed by Chef Paul Virant. They serve delectable versions of this savory Japanese pancake and refreshing kakigori.

Before taking your seat in Soldier Field, brunch at The Dawson, in the River West area, is a great idea. Pick from a menu that includes ricotta pancakes, smoked brisket hash, birria grilled cheese, and even chicken fried lobster. You can also kick off your game day with bottomless mimosas, a festive alternative to tailgating.

If you’re game for more football, Jake Melnick’s in River North is one of the city's most reputable sports bars, promising exceptional wings. The offerings range from Nashville Hot to Whisky BBQ and the original buffalo wing flavor. For the daring, Jake Melnick's offers the XXXX scorching hot wings with habanero, ghost pepper, scorpion, and reaper peppers. If you can finish the entire meal, you'll be rewarded with a free meal and a bragging-right t-shirt.

Don’t forget to bag some of Garrett Popcorn before you leave town. Known worldwide for the Garrett Mix, a unique blend of caramelized and cheddar-flavored popcorn, it's been a classic snack for 75 years. Convenient locations at both O’Hare and Midway airports make for an easy pre-flight grab. As one of the largest gourmet popcorn makers nationwide, they've produced more than 122 million gallons of popcorn in 2023 alone.