Chicago’s Best Kept Secret – Try Portillo’s Famous Hot Dogs!

We all know what Chicago is known for around the country, maybe even the world – deep dish pizza, but I will share with you a secret that Chicago natives enjoy just as much – Portillo’s Hot Dogs. Portillo’s has been an iconic Chicago eatery for decades. Portillo’s serves mouth-watering world-famous char-grilled all-beef hot dogs on freshly steamed poppy seed buns. If you’re ready for an unforgettable experience, come to Portillo’s for a deliciously savory hot dog that will leave you wanting more, and at their reasonable prices, you’ll never have to break the bank.

How It All Began

Portillo’s first location was opened by Dick Portillo, as a drive-in restaurant in Villa Park, a suburb of Chicago, in 1963 for $1,100. The unique dining rooms are nostalgic of a 1950s diner, complete with checkered tablecloths, jukeboxes, and revolving doors in some of the first restaurants. Portillo’s quickly grew to become one of the most recognizable restaurants in the city, and Portillo’s hot dog is a favorite to many.

Memories of Portillo’s

Eating out was a treat in our house growing up; a rare occurrence that was generally due to a bonus that my dad received or good grades on our report cards for that specific school year. One place that we loved to eat at was Portillo’s. Though there is now a more modern Portillo’s across the parking lot from the one that we ate at as kids, the old one is near and dear to my heart. As a kid, I loved their milkshakes, fries, and Chicago-style hotdogs, the jukeboxes at the end of the booths, and the fancy revolving doors. I loved the fact that all my favorite songs were playing as we ate together as a family – I love the Oldies. As an adult, I still love the atmosphere, though I tend to lean more heavily towards the Italian Beef sandwich with sweet peppers and extra gravy and forgo the milkshakes, even though I hear them calling for me each and every time. Portillo’s will always be a reminder of sweet memories and amazing food.

Locations and Shipping

Today, it has expanded across five states with more than 60 locations throughout Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, California, Texas, Florida, and Wisconsin. Portillo’s has expanded to “Shop and Ship” to allow the customer to place orders for catered events, as well as Portillo’s merchandise, to be shipped all over the country.

Orders Up

When visiting Portillo’s, take advantage of the opportunity to customize your hot dogs according to your preference. Choose from various toppings, sauces, and other condiments to create the perfect bite. Whether your taste buds prefer mild or spicy flavors, there is something for everyone at Portillo’s!

Toppings, Please!

Here’s some advice when ordering from Portillo’s: don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your hot dogs. While classic toppings like ketchup and mustard are always pleasing, you can add diced onions, pickles, relish, peppers, jalapenos, bacon, and more for an explosion of flavor. And there are sauce options like chili con carne or cheese sauce that can also be added to the mix. For those who like to customize their order, there are over 15 toppings to choose from – get creative!

Chicago Style Portillo’s Hot Dog

The classic Chicago-style hot dog at Portillo’s is the perfect marriage of Vienna Beef frank, poppy seed bun, yellow mustard, relish, tomato slices, diced onions, a pickle spear, a couple of spicy peppers, and a dash of celery salt – yum!

Mix it Up

Portillo’s offers a variety of hot dogs to satisfy any craving. From the classic Chicago style to the famous Italian beef combo dog, there is something for everyone. If you like something more unique, try out the bacon and cheese jumbo dog with thick-cut Applewood bacon and cheddar cheese sauce, or go for something unique like the loaded potato dog – a hot dog loaded with French fries, cheese sauce, and bacon. No matter which combination you choose, you won’t be disappointed!

Quench Your Thirst

Don’t forget to grab a signature Chicago-style beverage like an Orange Crush soda or Shasta Cola, or their famous chocolate milkshake to complete your Portillo’s experience.

Don’t Like Hot Dogs?

If you don’t feel like getting a hot dog, try one of their classic, Chicago Italian beef sandwiches topped with sweet or hot peppers, and melted cheese, and don’t forget to ask for extra gravy. I would also recommend their cheese fries – don’t forget to grab extra napkins!

Visit a Portillo’s Location and Look for Deals & Specials.

If you want the best value for your money, check out the deals and specials at your local Portillo’s location. You can save money by signing up for their loyalty program or getting a meal deal. Some sites may even offer free or discounted items during certain times of day or days of the week.

Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming events at your local Portillo’s, where they may offer free items or samples of their popular menu staples. Whichever way you try their delicious hot dogs, remember to take advantage of any available discounts so you can enjoy them at a great price.

Enjoy Your Delicious Meal! 

Ready to enjoy your delicious Portillo’s Hot Dog? No matter what toppings you choose, one thing is sure – you’re in for a fantastic treat! Take a bite and savor the juicy flavor of the all-beef hot dog combined with the crunchy bun and delicious condiments. Grab your friends or family members and head to one of their locations and enjoy a tasty meal – complete with the right choices in condiments and drinks to make your hot dog experience complete! The only complaint that I have after a meal at Portillo’s is not knowing when I will be back again. Whether you’re in town on vacation or are a lifelong Chicago resident, Portillo’s is the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable meal.