A NEWBIES GUIDE: 5 food places you never knew existed in Chicago

After being named 2017 restaurant city of the year, Chicago continues to put out some of the best food in the country. From classic Chicago dogs, to unbelievable farm to table restaurants there's a little something for everyone.

Since I'm located in one of the 'up and coming' area's in the city I'll focus on the area around Humboldt Park.

1. Salsa Picante- 949 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Located in Ukranian Village/Humboldt Park, this mom and pop Mexican hide-out is authentic and well priced for lunch or dinner. You can get your drink on BYOB style while eating cilantro, onion, and your choice of meat tacos, or choose a burrito which is bigger than your face. Need white cheese dip in your life? (Yes, I said white cheese dip,. Yes, there is a difference from Yellow..It's better) Salsa Picante has the best deal when it comes to your favorite appetizers: Choose 2 for 6.99 Guac, Cheese dip, or Salsa. Plus, ask for their homemade hot sauce. YOU WON'T REGRET IT!

2. Humboldt Haus Sandwich Bar-2956 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

You know those days when you're hungover, and the only thing that's going to get you through the shakes is a sandwich. If you're thinking Jimmy Johns or Subway think BIGGER AND BETTER. Humboldt Haus is a hole-in-the-wall liquor store/bar/Sandwich shop. Yes, you read that correctly. First, the FOOD. There's a hot and cold menu (Hot menu isn't always out..so just ask). I am NOT a vegeterian (I'm trying to be though.. I love my animal friends) but their Veggie sandwich is the BEST sandwich I've ever had. Whatever the dressing is they use, it's a winner. The Italian is a safe go to, they load that sucker up! Dine in or take out, you can't go wrong. Second, the BAR. This place has an incredible selection of craft beer on tap. It's your local go-to watering hole, and always has the low-key atmosphere you're wanting on the weekends. Third, you can literally walk into their liquor store through the bar/shop. The staff is knowledgeable about all beers/liquors in stock. One of the bartenders even helped me choose a beer similar to what I had dining in. MUST GO NOW. This place is a 'must have'.

3. Spinning J-1000 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Pies, milkshakes, and soda's OH MY! That's only the beginning. This early 1900 spot has some of THE BEST pies in town and the menu changes every day! You can't go wrong from with any of their fresh pies. Also, worth trying is the Cinnamon Roll. Literally the best Cinnamon Roll I've had. It's bigger than two of my chihuahua's put together. DO NOT FORGET: Milkshake. Must have. Don't think this is just any milkshake, because it's not. It's the best thing you will ever put into your mouth, so savor this. I recommend the malted milkshake (it's better than Johnny Rockets). Now for their Soda's, which is an entirely different ballgame. Craft Soda is new to me, but they make their syrup in house which adds to the freshness flavor. It's a very cool atmosphere, nothing like it in the city.

4. Flying Saucer-1123 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Have you ever wondered...Where is that perfect breakfast spot in Chicago? Think no more! Flying Saucer is open from 8am-3pm every day, serving breakfast and brunch for both vegetarian's and normal dwellers. My personal favorite is the veggie biscuits and gravy with No eggs and double the house potatoes. If you're fearful of the 'veggie' part just get it normal. It's another BYOB restaurant, so make sure to stop and get your OJ and Champagne to make some mimosas! Easy to get seated, and it makes you feel like you're at home. Well, besides the bill that comes at the end.

5. Fatso's Last Stand-2258 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Running low on funds but too lazy to cook your ramen noodles? No fear, Fatso's last stand is here! I began the New Year thinking that I was going to get fit but I started it off with going to Fatso's at least once a week. WHAT A STEAL! This place has THE BEST burgers, dogs, fried shrimp, and brats in the city. If you're a vegetarian, no worries! Try the veggie dog with fries for $4.99 and make sure you get all of the Chicago toppings on top! The dog itself is made out of egg white, and veggies. It's then deep fried it greatness adding an incredible crunch to your Chicago-style dog! It's good drunk or sober, so don't miss out.

#Food #Chicago