Chicago has long been known for its deep-dish pizza and hearty hot dogs, but as someone who loves to explore new flavors, I’ve discovered that the city offers an incredible array of international dishes that reflect its rich cultural diversity. From savory Italian pastas to flavorful Mexican street food, Chicago is truly a global culinary destination.

One of my favorite finds has been Parachute, a Korean-American restaurant in Avondale. The moment I walked in, the fusion of flavors blew me away. Their Kimchi Toast, topped with crispy, spicy kimchi and a rich, runny egg, is a perfect example of how Chicago chefs are bringing the best of Korean flavors to new audiences. Each bite is an explosion of umami, and it’s the kind of dish that makes you rethink traditional comfort food.

If you’re craving something a bit more traditional, Pizzeria Portofino in River North brings authentic Italian cuisine to life. Their Fritto Misto, a delicate assortment of fried seafood, is a delicious, crispy tribute to Italy’s coastal flavors. It’s paired with a refreshing glass of wine, and every bite feels like you’ve been transported to a sun-soaked terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.

Portofino Large Format Spritz

On the other end of the spectrum, I stumbled upon La Chaparrita, a humble Mexican taco joint in Little Village. Their Tacos de Pastor are a revelation, with marinated pork, grilled pineapple, and fresh cilantro piled onto soft, warm tortillas. It’s a perfect reflection of the street food culture in Mexico, and the flavor is as authentic as it gets.

In Chicago, dining is an international journey—every dish tells a story, and every bite is an adventure.