Five top spots to imbibe in Chicago

Deep dish pizza is a must-try when in Chicago. Photo / Supplied

Megan Singleton uncovers five of the best places to eat and drink in Chicago, from local-style popcorn to a two-Michelin Star restaurant.

Deep dish pizza

Ask three people in Chicago where the best deep dish pizza place is and you'll get three different answers. I'm going to suggest, if you have only one night to dine on such naughty food, you go to Giordano's. The crust is crispy, the cheese gooey, add your fillings (if you want them) and the tomato sauce is on the top. A small is plenty for two.

Garrett Popcorn

Another icon of Chicago is the cheese and caramel popcorn. Trust me, it's outstanding. I visited the flagship store on Michigan Avenue and got a tour of the basement kitchen. They only have seven recipes and have been operating since 1947. Make a beeline here at the end of your shopping day.

Cashew caramel popcorn being made at Garrett Popcorn in Chicago. Photo / Megan Singleton

Eataly

If I said this was a food hall you'd probably thumb your nose, but to pop into Eataly for lunch, a snack, coffee or even dinner, is to see just how cool the food hall idea can be. It's Italian, of course, and just the gelato nook will have you hooked. But for great coffee visit Il Gran Bar Lavazza, pick up wine, order a pizza, buy truffles and fresh produce. It's all here.

Signature Lounge

For the best sunset views in the city, head to the 96th floor of John Hancock Center. But have your camera ready for more than the view because I found the weirdest cocktail you ever did meet. Bacon-infused whisky. It's a delicious mix of whisky, butterscotch schnapps and a crispy piece of bacon standing in it. A smoky and winter-warmer for your soul.

Sixteen at Trump

The Donald has put New Zealander Morgan Eagles in charge of Food and Beverage at his Chicago hotel and to dine at his two-Michelin Star restaurant, Sixteen, is to experience more than just food with a flourish. The view takes you down the river to the lake and at Christmas time they have real reindeer living on the veranda. Come for lunch or dinner and prepare to be treated like royalty.

Maine lobster with potato gnocchi at Sixteen restaurant in Chicago. Photo / Megan Singleton

Click here for more photos from Megan's lunch at Sixteen.