I like how respectful and nice Mark is to random people jumping in front of the camera to talk. He just let's them say what they want to say then he go's back to business. He's so sweet.💖
Nothing pleases me more than seeing a person enjoy a Italian Beef sandwich from Chicago for the first time! It's like witnessing your first kiss. Great Chicago series you hit all the staples.
It’s refreshing to see that you guys went far north and Deep South to review the food and didn’t need to add commentary about the neighborhoods. Definitely a true foodie spirit. There is good food all over this city and I am happy to see that you guys revealed that in this video. Bravo
I grew up in Chicago. What makes Chicago so great when it comes to their food scene is the fact that there is so many cultures that bring their food to the table. Polish, Greek, Italian, Jewish and Black culture. It's amazing and delicious.
Definitely. You can take someone not from Chicago and ask “What kind of cuisine do you feel like?” Name a country anywhere in the world and within a 15-25 minute EL ride be there….and it’s 100% authentic. I went to Ethiopia in 2009 and the food at Ethiopian Diamond is just like I had there.
So happy to see you in my hometown Chicago!…What a start, the beef sandwich, the polish, the hot dog, chicken wings and barbecue are all synonymous to what Chicago is all about!….Thank you for highlighting Chicago which is still one of the greatest food cities in the world!….
I traveled all over the world in the NAVY. I tell people all the time. There’s no other place that has better food than Chicago. I’m glad Mark Wiens was able to expose our delicious food and historic culture. Hats off to you bro @markwiens
As a Chicagoan I forgot how blessed we are to enjoy this food. Can’t forget about our deep dish and tavern style pizza. Heck the Mexican food is so good that you take a small trip to Mexican flavor town straight from Windy City. Viva Chicago 🏙️
I love how Mark's brother in law just happens to be a serious foodie as well. I enjoyed learning his personal connection to and fond memories of each place. I had no idea how diverse and rich the food culture was in Chicago. Adding it to my travel destinations for food bucket list now!
The issue that I have when looking at this video is how they viewed the white people junk food which is made from scratch from the bread roll to the preparation of the Italian Beef using a recipe. When they went to Bryon Hot Dogs and Jim's Polish it's still junk food but it's very quick and simple. But when he took him to the black area it's the stereotypical blacks and fried chicken that blacks at one point was trying to call whites "racist" for point that out. And we see a Harold's Chicken logo of a black man in a Santa suit chasing a terrified chicken with an axe. Then he took him to a bbq spot and there's more junk food with buckets of salty meats drenched in sauce, fries, and store bought loaf of white bread. And this is why blacks are number one in heart disease and diabetes.
@@BriRabbitso true… these are definitely THE staples…BUT… this is only the surface. We have some the best of it all. Sit down steak houses, Mexican foods, pizza/Italian ect. I could go on and on. Chicago got it for the foodies 🥰🥰🥰🥰
My husband grew up in Chicago, in Hyde Park. He greatly enjoyed this video. He said he never thought of it, but yes an Italian beef (he says not smart to just take the word of a local who orders it dry) should be so soggy it is a challenge to eat, and seeing the soaked french fries everywhere reminded him how much he loved sloppy joes as a kid, and how he thinks it so perverse that some recipes for them give you a sandwich you can pick up and eat with your hands. As for Harold's, he says he and his friends loved not so much the wings and mild sauce, but light and dark meat with hot sauce, very hot and vinegary, and unlike other battered fried chicken, with a lovely thin crust that did not struggle between being gooey, doughy, or like a wet brick. (He says their Harold's was on E 53rd, with a moving neon sign). It greasy and often took a toll the day after, but much like the alcohol splurges that usually brought on the Harold's attack, offered a unique and colorful experience worth the pain. I can easily see how those who relied on Harold's as a staple rather than a thrill would prefer the mild sauce.
53rd St Harold's is one of the best. Unfortunately, the restaurants are independently owned, and the quality of food is inconsistent from place to place.
I was raised in Chicago brothers born in Chicago and can’t forget the Italian Beef sandwich,pepperoni pizza at Walgreens with a coke slushy and riding our bike to calumet Park and swimming with all my friends
Shout out to Mark's brother in law Derek for taking him to some legendary Chit-town food spots. I've had the same food at these exact same locations growing up, and trust me. The food is exactly as good as described in this video. ✌️
Folks Chicago has the best food in all the USA hands down. I’ve eaten in all the big cities I PROMISE Chicago has anything and everything you can want. Mark did a great job showing you some iconic Chicago staples and there’s still so much more. Mexican,Puerto Rican,Italian! I can go on for days!! Don’t forget Chicago thin crust tavern style pizza it’s the best!!
Mark, Thanks so much for your excellent and exceptional video travelogues . As a native Chicagoan you hit the top of the top ! Lem's is truly, No. 1 and the experience must be had by any visitor Most folks don't understand that ribs or tips that are smoked , and actually NOT fall for the bone are REAL quality ribs - not pre-cooked and boiled. Lem's knows and the smoker they have is their way to cook them. Again, thanks for the terrific tour and say hi to your Bro-In-Law; he knows the real Chicago ! Jonnies and Chicago Dogs are also some of the best around !! Thanks and keep ups the great work.
I"m glad you've had the Chicago food experience. Chicagoans tell folks almost all the time that you'll have a true foodie experience here. We mean that. From local digs to 5-star restaurants Downtown, you'll go through ethnic foods (Asian, African, Italian, many more European, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Jamaican, Haitian, Bahamian and of course Soul Food), pizza spots, steak spots, hot dog/polish spots and all manners of bars to wash the food down with. I've been to 23 other States and many cities, nothing compares to Chicago food.
As a Chicago native and fellow Foodie, Chicago truly is the Ultimate food destination city! I was blessed as a kid with a dad who loved introducing me to everything Chicago had to offer. As a native Canadian, my dad was totally mesmerized by all the amazing food that Chicago and the surrounding Chicagoland area had to offer. I have traveled all over the US and nowhere else am I able to find EXACTLY what I'm craving, whenever I'm craving it, than Chicago! From Chicago-style favorites to international goodies, Chicago has it all! Pizza (both kinds - and yes, Chicago has TWO kinds!), hot dogs, Italian beef, popcorn, ribs, cinnamon rolls (Ann Sathers), Tamales, and so many other neighborhood favorites! The one thing people tend to forget with a "Chicago Style" hot dog, it's not just the toppings but it's the Weiner! It HAS to be a Vienna brand all beef, natural casing hot dog...that Snaps when you bite it!
Initially, I was questioning your BIL's picks. I'm southside, so Jim's and Johnnie's aren't the go-to places. But then...you jumped to Cal Park for the Harold's and then 75th for the LEM'S!!! Lem's actually brought tears to my eyes and reminded me of better times. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
I moved from Chicago a few years ago and what I miss the most is the food. I’ve been to all of those places. I would add one more to the list and that is greektown gyros. Good job representing chicago street food well!
Man do I love how these are all the normal go to spots when out of towners visit the city but I feel like people always miss out on the Chicago Gyros. They are so uniquely their own and a staple of the city as much as everything else shown in the video.
So glad you got to experience Chicago street food! It’s comfort food for us Chicagoans. Cheap eats that just warms your heart. Thanks for showcasing our street foods!!
Good to see Mark in the hoods I grew up in and navigated throughout my life. This one is special to me Mark. Great choices on the food and your brother-in-law Derek created a “W” for showing people the main thing. That main thing is that Chicago is not Chi-raq especially if you’re a civilian minding your business not trying to be a so called “street “ person. Nobody cares. You have to watch your back everywhere in the world. Chicago is cool. Of course be mindful of your surroundings, but you can go anywhere. Chicago is a great place with a majority of great people. Come and have some great food and fun in my hometown. Love
There is no one I enjoy watching more than Mark Wiens eat!! Omg all that great Chicago food. So excited you were in Chicago Mark!! Always humble and I love your channel.
As a Chicago native, when I tell you this is the most accurate video ever made when it comes to Chicago style food...I mean that with everything I've got...you can't show me a better video than this...he got the right guy to show him the city like frfr...I want a Chicago street food pt2 now...show em the fried sea food over at goose Island shrimp house!!
@@MarkWiensMark will you please come to Canada try some Poutine come to Ottawa the Capital of Canada I love your food videos Mark my name is Philip Quintong
This made me miss home and I was just there last month. I’m glad someone finally did a legit food review in the city. These are the real Chicago staples!
My Dad was stationed in Chicago during the war, and he fell in love with the Church Greater Harvest, The people and the food as a child every year we would be there to worship but nothing could beat our expectations like Gladys' and the amazing street food, and I should also mention formal dining, my dad never wanted us to be slaves to hamburgers and fries, we had to learn to read the menus, and order accordingly, we never had a problem with Chicago only the winters, we would stay home, to this day and things have changed, but Chicago will always be my second home. I love Chicago and your food. Mauh!!!!!!
I've been to all these restaurants for decades and I have to say, locally, we're destroying food competition amongst the nation. You guys have to come here for our food!!! Literally ❤
Awe man, Chicago is full of mouth watering delights, I was born in Chicago but grew up in the suburbs, but that Chicago style of fast food is available in the areas close by as well, not as good as directly in the city, but enough to kill a craving, honestly though, I feel like Chicago has some of the best food in the country 37:49
I should *NOT HAVE WATCHED* *THIS ON AN EMPTY* *STOMACH!* Every dish had my mouth watering. It built up to a Crescendo with Harold's Fried Chicken Them Lems BBQ. I'm tearing down someone's door this weekend.😋
Thank you so much for visiting Chicago! Great to see you try the best classic street food in Chicago. We have badass Mexican food from different parts of Mexico.
Im more impressed they ate all that food in 1 day 😂 and I love Marks reactions to his first bite lol. Thank you for introducing me to the ribs place too. I will be going there this weekend cuz those ribs look toooooo delicious!!
Found your channel back in 2015 while living in Chicago and planning a month long trip to Thailand. Your videos made our trip in Thailand and the food we ate a memory I will cherish forever. Love to see you make it to Chicago and highlight some of the iconic street food. Cheers Mark! 🌶️
I remember when those Polishes was 1.50. They are so good and the pork chops are also good. I have eaten at every one of these places and all of them are excellent.
one of my nephews came here from California he said i don't wanna go home I was like why not he said because i ate the best food I even had here we do have a variety of good food restaurants here...
My mouth waters, because I know how a Chicago dog taste. I love em!!!! Don't forget Chicago pizza-YUM!! And, yes! Chicago beef. When it was straight from the stockyard. MOOOOO!
Loving this Chicago series, live here and never had a pork chop chop sandwich until seeing this. Hit a couple of these spots over the weekend and they were all packed, a lot of out of state license plates too, I think it's the Mark Wiens effect. Thanks Mark!
ONE THING I LVE ABOUT MARK’S HUMBLENESS, IS HIS ADAPTATION TO ANY SITUATION, I MEAN, IF ARENT SEAT TO ENJOY THE FOOD, DOESNT MATTER, HE EATS STAND UP, IF HE CANNOT FILM INSIDE THE KITCHENS, DOESNT MATTER, HE ENJOY ANYWAY THE FOOD!!! LOVE YOU MARK WIENS!!!
growing up in Elmwood Park 50s-60s, #1 was Armand's on Grand Ave.for thin crust pizza, #2 was Johnnies on North Ave for Italian Beef/pepper and egg sandwiches and Italian Ice. #3 was Gene&Judes for Vienna Beef Hot Dogs, #4 was Russell's BBQ on Thatcher&North Ave........
I moved here 3 years ago, from Baltimore. I tell everyone who asks me how I like it here: "If you are bored or hungry here, it's your own fault!" When I say almost EVERYTHING comes with fries...😂😂..I'm not kidding! I ordered fries, and it came with fries 😂! The mild sauce is a staple, but it reminds me of the mumbo sauce made famous in DC (I don't have to have it honestly, but to each his own). There are so many great places to eat in Chicago, and it's surrounding suburbs. Great episode because you risked your life in some of those locations 😂
@Tyfromthechi647 I've never been disappointed. Your opinion doesn't make me a liar. It means we have different opinions. Have the day you deserve. Take care.
I absolutely LOVED watching this video! I can tell Mark really enjoyed the food!! I'm from Chicago & love the food too! I'm not a fan of ribs & tips, but that hot link & fries looked amazing!! Keep up the great reviews! This 1 was outstanding!!
i was born in chicago, moved to texas at 10, moved back to chicago at 22, and been all around the country, hands down the best food in a major city in america, is at chicago.
I started watching the earlier videos. You eating intestines with fecal stuff still in there....thank goodness you've moved up to clean tube of beef. ..love you all.❤
So glad to see mark in Chicago getting his grub on. Food is one of my main focus every time I go to the city. EVERYWHERE IS GOOD. Some of the best chicken wings I ever had in life came from China town. Cooked and flavored with perfection. Chicago a foodie’s HEAVEN.
The Chicago-style hotdog is something I tried on my first day in Chicago and I instantly fell in love. It's not a real beef if you get it dry. It's depression era wedding food. When the bread gets wet with the au jus, it kind of satisfies like meat. Best way to eat: get a side salad instead of fries. Eat the beef directly over the salad. Whatever falls out of your sandwich will make the salad better.
It pained me when he referred to the au jus as "grease". An Italian beef is actually a pretty healthy meal, lots of protein and much less fat than dogs or burgers.
I was a 12/13 year old the first time I had one. Came to Chicago when I was 10, we did not eat outside of our home. I thought here they make hots here like a hamburger, I was hooked.
Welcome to Chicago! As someone who has worked at Portillo's, to remember what comes on a Chicago hot dog, they taught us MR TOPPS: Mustard, Relish, Tomatoes, Onion, Pickle, Pepper, Salt. Hope this helps!!
Next time you're in Chicago, you neeeeeed to try Al's beef on taylor street and compare it to Johnnies. Al's takes the cake 9 times out of 10, highly recommend
Chicago has the Greatest food in America. I've traveled east, west, north and south. Nothing compare. Italian beef, Gyros, Chinese, Jew town polishes, Harold's, and more. Food from every ethnicity. And no one can beat Garrett popcorn. Lived all my life in Chicago. Retired and moved to warmer climate. I so miss Chicago.💞
I traveled Far, East, west North and south. I love Chicago food, especially the Chinese food available. Picked the habit up in Tokyo, and Manila in the Phillipines.
Please consider taking Derek along with you on some of your travels. He compliments your reviews nicely with his entertaining take on things plus he adds a warm family touch to the channel.
Maxwell's will always be my favorite! Don't get me wrong I love a good Chicago Italian beef! But Maxwell's pork chop sandwich is so delicious! Thanks for bringing light to a few of our Chicago food staples!❤
I love that we can go to most places and get a Chicago dog with raw onions vs grilled onions. Some people prefer grilled, but I reserve those for polishes . Turano and Vienna are the holy grail. While you can't go wrong with wings and mild sauce, it would've been cool to see the reaction to the "crack" lemon pepper. I don't really eat ribs and bbq, but thank you for not making this a pizza war 👏🏼👏🏼 well, done.
Chicago, what an amazing food city. Which one of these places is your favorite? Stay tuned for more Chicago food!
Nawabi hyd biryani place
Don's Dock Seafood
Greek Islands Lombard
Chicago Pizza Oven and Grinder Company..They are known for the upside down pizza
I must visit
I love them all. I think it's a tie for the maxwell street polish and the Italian beef. My son eats at least one a week.
@MarkWiens you got to stop at Mr. Beef!
I like how respectful and nice Mark is to random people jumping in front of the camera to talk. He just let's them say what they want to say then he go's back to business. He's so sweet.💖
I know cause ol man just jumped in to tell his side real quick didn't he 😂😂 I waa like ummm dang 😮❤❤❤
Respect keeps you alive in Chicago. LOL.... Please remember that as you visit, please! Seriously, though!
How did he even survive this episode?? They call it "Chi-Raq" don't they??
@@Jay-jb2vr thats why he brings a Black friend
Even the bums!
Nothing pleases me more than seeing a person enjoy a Italian Beef sandwich from Chicago for the first time! It's like witnessing your first kiss. Great Chicago series you hit all the staples.
Finally someone went to all the right spots in Chicago!! From north to south
And West (Johnnie’s is technically in suburbs).
@@mic1240 no need to explain, everyone in chicago knows 🙄 lol
well not the Latino spots like in little village or on the east side
It’s refreshing to see that you guys went far north and Deep South to review the food and didn’t need to add commentary about the neighborhoods. Definitely a true foodie spirit. There is good food all over this city and I am happy to see that you guys revealed that in this video. Bravo
Yea it's better to ignore the "obvious" especially in Chicago...or "Chi-raq" as the locals call it..
I grew up in Chicago. What makes Chicago so great when it comes to their food scene is the fact that there is so many cultures that bring their food to the table. Polish, Greek, Italian, Jewish and Black culture. It's amazing and delicious.
also Mexican, Indian, and Chinese…
Puerto Rican food >>>>>
Definitely. You can take someone not from Chicago and ask “What kind of cuisine do you feel like?” Name a country anywhere in the world and within a 15-25 minute EL ride be there….and it’s 100% authentic. I went to Ethiopia in 2009 and the food at Ethiopian Diamond is just like I had there.
@@Ver5587you think Texas and Cali Mexican food is on the same level…you don’t know wtf you’re talking about
@@Ver5587lies you tell 😮😮
So happy to see you in my hometown Chicago!…What a start, the beef sandwich, the polish, the hot dog, chicken wings and barbecue are all synonymous to what Chicago is all about!….Thank you for highlighting Chicago which is still one of the greatest food cities in the world!….
Cant forget the irish food here in the south side this was probs the best vid ive seen tho i went to jims everytime i visted my brother at jst
I lived in Chicago in the 90s and got hooked on Italian Beef sandwiches.....and you cant find them anywhere else but Chicago
Been eating Harold's chicken since the mid 80s and I can taste it through video
Mark has the best food reviews!!! His kindness and respect that he gives to every culture's traditions is amazing.
I traveled all over the world in the NAVY. I tell people all the time. There’s no other place that has better food than Chicago. I’m glad Mark Wiens was able to expose our delicious food and historic culture. Hats off to you bro @markwiens
Couldn't disagree more
Salad as a hot dog
Houston fasho
Most people have no idea. We're definitely spoiled!
Agreed. Thank you for your service. 🫡
Mark needs to collab with Derek more often; they are a great pair/duo. This has been one of my favorite series.
As a 40 year resident of the area, I think they chose five excellent places to represent iconic Chicago street food.
Definetlt nailed it
They forgot Gene n Jude’s
They should’ve gone to Garrets popcorn 🍿
any other places you can recommend? i'm visiting next week!
@@joebatters9438I love how gene and Jude’s slaps the fries all in one with the dog 🤤
Fries in the bag mixed with ketchup and hot sauce. The good days
Yes, who needs crunchy fries when you can get soggy ones.
Yes!!!!!!!!!!
Yes I use to buy them almost everyday when I got out of school 😅without the chicken
That's mild sauce yes sir
@@hyperspeed24 Yes, indeed fries with hot sauce and ketchup in a brown paper bag. The good ole days indeed.
As a Chicagoan I forgot how blessed we are to enjoy this food. Can’t forget about our deep dish and tavern style pizza. Heck the Mexican food is so good that you take a small trip to Mexican flavor town straight from Windy City. Viva Chicago 🏙️
we got some bomb mexican food out in aurora too
@@N0t_p0p18what places do you like in Aurora?
no doubt. i moved to the west coast and really miss chicago italian beefs
I feel like the pizza here deserves its own episode... can't just go to one place
@@N0t_p0p18on god we do 😩😩😩
I love how Mark's brother in law just happens to be a serious foodie as well. I enjoyed learning his personal connection to and fond memories of each place. I had no idea how diverse and rich the food culture was in Chicago. Adding it to my travel destinations for food bucket list now!
The issue that I have when looking at this video is how they viewed the white people junk food which is made from scratch from the bread roll to the preparation of the Italian Beef using a recipe. When they went to Bryon Hot Dogs and Jim's Polish it's still junk food but it's very quick and simple. But when he took him to the black area it's the stereotypical blacks and fried chicken that blacks at one point was trying to call whites "racist" for point that out. And we see a Harold's Chicken logo of a black man in a Santa suit chasing a terrified chicken with an axe. Then he took him to a bbq spot and there's more junk food with buckets of salty meats drenched in sauce, fries, and store bought loaf of white bread. And this is why blacks are number one in heart disease and diabetes.
And this is only touching the surface. Our restaurant industry is AMAZING
There is food from everywhere around the world in Chicago. This barely scratches the surface of anything but shows some real classic stuff.
Everyone in Chicago is
@@BriRabbitso true… these are definitely THE staples…BUT… this is only the surface. We have some the best of it all. Sit down steak houses, Mexican foods, pizza/Italian ect. I could go on and on. Chicago got it for the foodies 🥰🥰🥰🥰
My husband grew up in Chicago, in Hyde Park. He greatly enjoyed this video. He said he never thought of it, but yes an Italian beef (he says not smart to just take the word of a local who orders it dry) should be so soggy it is a challenge to eat, and seeing the soaked french fries everywhere reminded him how much he loved sloppy joes as a kid, and how he thinks it so perverse that some recipes for them give you a sandwich you can pick up and eat with your hands. As for Harold's, he says he and his friends loved not so much the wings and mild sauce, but light and dark meat with hot sauce, very hot and vinegary, and unlike other battered fried chicken, with a lovely thin crust that did not struggle between being gooey, doughy, or like a wet brick. (He says their Harold's was on E 53rd, with a moving neon sign). It greasy and often took a toll the day after, but much like the alcohol splurges that usually brought on the Harold's attack, offered a unique and colorful experience worth the pain. I can easily see how those who relied on Harold's as a staple rather than a thrill would prefer the mild sauce.
I was pissed off when dude said he gets his beef dry...I was like dude who raised you lmao
53rd St Harold's is one of the best. Unfortunately, the restaurants are independently owned, and the quality of food is inconsistent from place to place.
Ordering a beef dry is like ordering a well done ribeye with a side of ketchup.
I was raised in Chicago brothers born in Chicago and can’t forget the Italian Beef sandwich,pepperoni pizza at Walgreens with a coke slushy and riding our bike to calumet Park and swimming with all my friends
Shout out to Mark's brother in law Derek for taking him to some legendary Chit-town food spots. I've had the same food at these exact same locations growing up, and trust me. The food is exactly as good as described in this video. ✌️
Straight heartburn 😅
Does he have a channel?! I lov him!
yep
Those were some legendary spots. I like my wings with the lemon pepper and mild on the side. And I’m a JJ’s guy
@@Lpm920 J&Js is classic! The catfish dinners with extra hot sauce on tha side was my go to.
It’s about time someone does Chicago right ,.. nothing but OG places ❤ thanks for showing the spots in Chicago
Frfr Iykyk 💪🏾
Chicago or "chi-raq" can't even do itself right
Folks Chicago has the best food in all the USA hands down. I’ve eaten in all the big cities I PROMISE Chicago has anything and everything you can want. Mark did a great job showing you some iconic Chicago staples and there’s still so much more. Mexican,Puerto Rican,Italian! I can go on for days!! Don’t forget Chicago thin crust tavern style pizza it’s the best!!
Yes! Tavern style is the real Chicago pizza. Chicago food is definitely the best city to eat in North America.
im from chicago and that is a very false statement lol
nyc got you beat easily
@fliptaktikz Which part that's a false statement to you?
@@blvdnights1908don't mind
He's a troller
Mark, Thanks so much for your excellent and exceptional video travelogues . As a native Chicagoan you hit the top of the top ! Lem's is truly, No. 1 and the experience must be had by any visitor Most folks don't understand that ribs or tips that are smoked , and actually NOT fall for the bone are REAL quality ribs - not pre-cooked and boiled. Lem's knows and the smoker they have is their way to cook them. Again, thanks for the terrific tour and say hi to your Bro-In-Law; he knows the real Chicago ! Jonnies and Chicago Dogs are also some of the best around !! Thanks and keep ups the great work.
I"m glad you've had the Chicago food experience. Chicagoans tell folks almost all the time that you'll have a true foodie experience here. We mean that. From local digs to 5-star restaurants Downtown, you'll go through ethnic foods (Asian, African, Italian, many more European, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Jamaican, Haitian, Bahamian and of course Soul Food), pizza spots, steak spots, hot dog/polish spots and all manners of bars to wash the food down with. I've been to 23 other States and many cities, nothing compares to Chicago food.
@@StrigWilson Both included in Asian and African cuisines.
Man please go to Southside African Restaurant 😭😭they have the best Egusi I’ve ever tasted so far. Where is the Bahamian and Haitian restaurants??? 👀 👀
@@Queen-ConsciousYa The Haitian and Bahamian spots are both up north. Rogers Park-esque.
As a Chicago native and fellow Foodie, Chicago truly is the Ultimate food destination city!
I was blessed as a kid with a dad who loved introducing me to everything Chicago had to offer. As a native Canadian, my dad was totally mesmerized by all the amazing food that Chicago and the surrounding Chicagoland area had to offer.
I have traveled all over the US and nowhere else am I able to find EXACTLY what I'm craving, whenever I'm craving it, than Chicago!
From Chicago-style favorites to international goodies, Chicago has it all!
Pizza (both kinds - and yes, Chicago has TWO kinds!), hot dogs, Italian beef, popcorn, ribs, cinnamon rolls (Ann Sathers), Tamales, and so many other neighborhood favorites!
The one thing people tend to forget with a "Chicago Style" hot dog, it's not just the toppings but it's the Weiner! It HAS to be a Vienna brand all beef, natural casing hot dog...that Snaps when you bite it!
Initially, I was questioning your BIL's picks. I'm southside, so Jim's and Johnnie's aren't the go-to places. But then...you jumped to Cal Park for the Harold's and then 75th for the LEM'S!!! Lem's actually brought tears to my eyes and reminded me of better times. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
I love the joy of your brother in law every time he takes a bite of one of the meals.
I love Marks enthusiasm. He is like a little kid in a candy store.
I moved from Chicago a few years ago and what I miss the most is the food. I’ve been to all of those places. I would add one more to the list and that is greektown gyros. Good job representing chicago street food well!
Man do I love how these are all the normal go to spots when out of towners visit the city but I feel like people always miss out on the Chicago Gyros. They are so uniquely their own and a staple of the city as much as everything else shown in the video.
Omg i know its painful like me and NJ great food boom moved to NY trassssssh
35 years later: I STILL miss Chicago food!!
So glad you got to experience Chicago street food! It’s comfort food for us Chicagoans. Cheap eats that just warms your heart. Thanks for showcasing our street foods!!
Got to say you were taken to some of the best real deal places. Whoever planned this trip out 👍 good job!
Good to see Mark in the hoods I grew up in and navigated throughout my life. This one is special to me Mark. Great choices on the food and your brother-in-law Derek created a “W” for showing people the main thing. That main thing is that Chicago is not Chi-raq especially if you’re a civilian minding your business not trying to be a so called “street “ person. Nobody cares. You have to watch your back everywhere in the world. Chicago is cool. Of course be mindful of your surroundings, but you can go anywhere. Chicago is a great place with a majority of great people. Come and have some great food and fun in my hometown. Love
Mark in the trenches 😂 you know exactly where he at
MY City, I grew up on Harolds, Leon's BBQ, Lem's and Taurus steak sandwich Mmmm. ChiTown has the BEST of BEST food hands down!!!
All the best. I grew up on those too. 😋
Leon’s off cottage was on point the smell man I miss it
@@Zaiden3659can't forget about home of the hoagy on 111th. Best steak sandwiches.
There is no one I enjoy watching more than Mark Wiens eat!! Omg all that great Chicago food. So excited you were in Chicago Mark!! Always humble and I love your channel.
How does he eat so much food in one day?!
Well!!!! Thanks a friggin lot!! U made me so hungry, and missing Chi-town. Lol. I miss the food sooooo much. Loved seeing you appreciate the food.
We love you, Mark! Thank you for shining your platform on some of Chicagoland’s diverse food selections. You and your family are world class!🇺🇸
Thank you very much, we had an amazing time in Chicago!
@@MarkWienswhats the relation to your brother in law ?
He is married to Mark’s sister
Oh!!!!wow see you at Chicago in USA there amazing and friend very good mrak's
@@MarkWienscome to Canada Mark come to Ottawa the Capital of Canada
As a Chicago native, when I tell you this is the most accurate video ever made when it comes to Chicago style food...I mean that with everything I've got...you can't show me a better video than this...he got the right guy to show him the city like frfr...I want a Chicago street food pt2 now...show em the fried sea food over at goose Island shrimp house!!
Yes!! Facts.
Yes goose island fish & chips
Goose Island!!! Oh yes!!
Mark's appreciation for food that he radiates is absolutely inspiring!
No matter where he is around the world, he is in bliss if he's around food!
Thank you for your support and encouraging words!
npc
@@MarkWiensMark will you please come to Canada try some Poutine come to Ottawa the Capital of Canada I love your food videos Mark my name is Philip Quintong
@@MarkWiensOttawa is my hometown my city Ottawa is the Capital of Canada
Born & raised this’s a very good representation of “Home” but so much more!
This made me miss home and I was just there last month. I’m glad someone finally did a legit food review in the city. These are the real Chicago staples!
And the homicides too...
My Dad was stationed in Chicago during the war, and he fell in love with the Church Greater Harvest, The people and the food as a child every year we would be there to worship but nothing could beat our expectations like Gladys' and the amazing street food, and I should also mention formal dining, my dad never wanted us to be slaves to hamburgers and fries, we had to learn to read the menus, and order accordingly, we never had a problem with Chicago only the winters, we would stay home, to this day and things have changed, but Chicago will always be my second home. I love Chicago and your food. Mauh!!!!!!
I’m a Chicagoan and we are one of the country’s best food city, thank you Mark for stopping by our Windy City for some amazing food!
Facts there’s everything here in Chicago, so you honestly can never get bored of trying new food and experiencing new cultures
We definitely is ❤
Best pizza in the world even better than overrated pizza from Italy.
@@Ryannhawkins88 facts
@@jorgerebollo3066pump the brakes on that one
I've been to all these restaurants for decades and I have to say, locally, we're destroying food competition amongst the nation. You guys have to come here for our food!!! Literally ❤
Awe man, Chicago is full of mouth watering delights, I was born in Chicago but grew up in the suburbs, but that Chicago style of fast food is available in the areas close by as well, not as good as directly in the city, but enough to kill a craving, honestly though, I feel like Chicago has some of the best food in the country 37:49
Love the charisma of Derek! You both were great together.
I go to Chicago every year and every time I go I like trying new spots! I’ll be in Chicago in 2 weeks and I’m going to all these places.
Did u try the places?
Every time I watch your videos I get so hungry my friend 😅thank you Mark for your great work
Thank you for visiting the Chicago Southside. Videos like this contribute to the economy by bringing much needed tourism.
Nah, too dangerous 💯
I should
*NOT HAVE WATCHED* *THIS ON AN EMPTY* *STOMACH!*
Every dish had my mouth watering.
It built up to a Crescendo with Harold's Fried Chicken
Them Lems BBQ.
I'm tearing down someone's door this weekend.😋
Yoooo I was💨💨while watching dammit and harolds is closed
I love when Derek has the time to do food vlogs with Mark! ❤ Y'all vibe very well together. Everything looks so good!
😂😂😂❤❤
Chicago has the best food in the WORLD!!! Born and raised in the best City!!
I love his excitement about trying food. Mark tried Southside establishments and I loved it.
Thank you so much for visiting Chicago! Great to see you try the best classic street food in Chicago. We have badass Mexican food from different parts of Mexico.
Long live the elotes man
I’m from the area and I am truly happy to see you do Chicago.
I’ve been to all of those places many times and I’m elated to see you showcase them.
Im more impressed they ate all that food in 1 day 😂 and I love Marks reactions to his first bite lol. Thank you for introducing me to the ribs place too. I will be going there this weekend cuz those ribs look toooooo delicious!!
Curts in South Holland & Wilmas in Dolton or the one Downtown!!!
This channel is so enjoyable because of the absolute contentment and joy you see when you eat. It's FANFRIGGINTASTIC.
Found your channel back in 2015 while living in Chicago and planning a month long trip to Thailand. Your videos made our trip in Thailand and the food we ate a memory I will cherish forever. Love to see you make it to Chicago and highlight some of the iconic street food. Cheers Mark! 🌶️
When he started dancing at LEMS……… Baby yes it makes you dance.
I remember when those Polishes was 1.50. They are so good and the pork chops are also good. I have eaten at every one of these places and all of them are excellent.
Best Pork Chops besides homemade!
I want to go to Chicago just to eat food ❤
It’s about to get Cold there… hurry up
Go in the spring you will have a great time! 👍
Wear a vest
one of my nephews came here from California he said i don't wanna go home I was like why not he said because i ate the best food I even had here we do have a variety of good food restaurants here...
DO IT but in the summer time
As a Chicago native, I can confirm , sounds made while eating these foods are in fact 100% real and true to fact.... 😋😆🤙
Agree
As a Chicago native I can second that!!!
Sounds bias but I'm not doubting it. I say that because new Yorkers and people from Detroit say the same things
Gunshots?
100% 😂😂😂
Love these US episodes with your brother in law. He is a great guest host.
My mouth waters, because I know how a Chicago dog taste. I love em!!!!
Don't forget Chicago pizza-YUM!!
And, yes! Chicago beef. When it was straight from the stockyard. MOOOOO!
Loving this Chicago series, live here and never had a pork chop chop sandwich until seeing this. Hit a couple of these spots over the weekend and they were all packed, a lot of out of state license plates too, I think it's the Mark Wiens effect. Thanks Mark!
ONE THING I LVE ABOUT MARK’S HUMBLENESS, IS HIS ADAPTATION TO ANY SITUATION, I MEAN, IF ARENT SEAT TO ENJOY THE FOOD, DOESNT MATTER, HE EATS STAND UP, IF HE CANNOT FILM INSIDE THE KITCHENS, DOESNT MATTER, HE ENJOY ANYWAY THE FOOD!!! LOVE YOU MARK WIENS!!!
Derrick is a great eating partner… a natural
growing up in Elmwood Park 50s-60s, #1 was Armand's on Grand Ave.for thin crust pizza, #2 was Johnnies on North Ave for Italian Beef/pepper and egg sandwiches and Italian Ice. #3 was Gene&Judes for Vienna Beef Hot Dogs, #4 was Russell's BBQ on Thatcher&North Ave........
I moved here 3 years ago, from Baltimore. I tell everyone who asks me how I like it here: "If you are bored or hungry here, it's your own fault!" When I say almost EVERYTHING comes with fries...😂😂..I'm not kidding! I ordered fries, and it came with fries 😂! The mild sauce is a staple, but it reminds me of the mumbo sauce made famous in DC (I don't have to have it honestly, but to each his own). There are so many great places to eat in Chicago, and it's surrounding suburbs. Great episode because you risked your life in some of those locations 😂
You and your brother in law make a great team! Excellent chemistry
Lem's rib tips are unmatched on the Southside! ❤
Please stop lying
@Tyfromthechi647 I've never been disappointed. Your opinion doesn't make me a liar. It means we have different opinions. Have the day you deserve. Take care.
😂😂 terrible @@Tyfromthechi647
Derek is a whole vibe. such a nice man and proper foodie. love seeing him in your videos!
I absolutely LOVED watching this video! I can tell Mark really enjoyed the food!! I'm from Chicago & love the food too! I'm not a fan of ribs & tips, but that hot link & fries looked amazing!! Keep up the great reviews! This 1 was outstanding!!
Kudos to Derek for taking you to the right places. Mark love all your videos was nice to see you hit my home town.
As a chicago native and moved away. Oh how watching is so satisfying but also wishing i can have every meal you all just at.
Omg! I love every minute of this video! I will be there in few weeks! Thank you sooo much for this amazing reviews! Can't wait!
Born and raised in Chicago and we do have the best food hands down you can never go wrong 💯
So true and NOLA is probably our only competition in the states lol
@@Queen-ConsciousYaI agree 100 percent, Nola got it real good!! I want to give them the medal.
This and the replies are on point. It's Chicago and NOLA, no doubt
I grew up next to johnnies. I’m so happy that my favorite food RUclipsr is getting to try my local food! Hope you had a great time, Mark
Thanks for shining a light on the city!! You definitely got an authentic taste of Chicago ❤
i was born in chicago, moved to texas at 10, moved back to chicago at 22, and been all around the country, hands down the best food in a major city in america, is at chicago.
Love it, as an overweight Chicagoian, you're right it's a foodie city. And Johnnies....much 💕
OMG IWOULD HAVE LOVED TO SEE MARK OUT HERE! SO GLAD YOU CAME AND REALLY SHOWED THE GEMS OF THE CITY!
Good job representing us. Truly legendary restaurants. Honorable mentions Fred & Jacks, Al's Beef, Docs, and Italian Fiesta.
You two together are so cool to watch.. so natural. So real... this is awesome.. wow.. great vid. U are very happy
Johnnies Beef rules! My family has been going there for 65 years, and it never fails 🥰
Please do more video's with him. So chill. Pretty sure the juicy beef blew Mark's brain.
Is this a TV show. Damn the production is soooo goood
I started watching the earlier videos. You eating intestines with fecal stuff still in there....thank goodness you've moved up to clean tube of beef.
..love you all.❤
I saw that bite too. He bout melted in his head
These simple videos are his best, just kicking back eating hot dogs, chicken wings, maybe some hamburgers. Love it.
I just found this channel and I’m shocked, BEST FOOD CHANNEL ON THE INTERNET!!!
So glad to see mark in Chicago getting his grub on. Food is one of my main focus every time I go to the city. EVERYWHERE IS GOOD. Some of the best chicken wings I ever had in life came from China town. Cooked and flavored with perfection. Chicago a foodie’s HEAVEN.
The Chicago-style hotdog is something I tried on my first day in Chicago and I instantly fell in love.
It's not a real beef if you get it dry. It's depression era wedding food. When the bread gets wet with the au jus, it kind of satisfies like meat. Best way to eat: get a side salad instead of fries. Eat the beef directly over the salad. Whatever falls out of your sandwich will make the salad better.
YES! Gotta get it dipped
It pained me when he referred to the au jus as "grease". An Italian beef is actually a pretty healthy meal, lots of protein and much less fat than dogs or burgers.
I was a 12/13 year old the first time I had one. Came to Chicago when I was 10, we did not eat outside of our home. I thought here they make hots here like a hamburger, I was hooked.
Welcome to Chicago! As someone who has worked at Portillo's, to remember what comes on a Chicago hot dog, they taught us MR TOPPS: Mustard, Relish, Tomatoes, Onion, Pickle, Pepper, Salt. Hope this helps!!
Celery seed (vs salt) and poppy seed bun for true Chicago hot dog
Next time you're in Chicago, you neeeeeed to try Al's beef on taylor street and compare it to Johnnies. Al's takes the cake 9 times out of 10, highly recommend
Chicago has the Greatest food in America. I've traveled east, west, north and south. Nothing compare. Italian beef, Gyros, Chinese, Jew town polishes, Harold's, and more. Food from every ethnicity. And no one can beat Garrett popcorn. Lived all my life in Chicago. Retired and moved to warmer climate. I so miss Chicago.💞
Bmore has the best food
I traveled Far, East, west North and south. I love Chicago food, especially the Chinese food available. Picked the habit up in Tokyo, and Manila in the Phillipines.
Derek should be a full time co-host. You guys are great together and he’s very likable.
He annoys me actually a little … always looks hungry like chill my ninja stop staring at the food and taking big bites .. the food ain’t going nowhere
I thought it was forrests auto review
Uncle Remus Chicken also
What about our Pizza come on now...
@@JointKingh D1 hater lmao
Please consider taking Derek along with you on some of your travels. He compliments your reviews nicely with his entertaining take on things plus he adds a warm family touch to the channel.
Da heat!!!
That boi is already fat enough. You want him to die young?
I’ve never seen a person as sincere about the food he eats. Your great
All the videos with Derek are so fun man, I love the one where you eat Texas BBQ :D
I love when Derek has the time to do food vlogs with Mark!
I lived in Chicago for 1 year, the winters were too much for me but the food is amazing. I love to visit just for the food.
Yeah the winter is brutal! I love it in the spring time
Mmmm the Italian beef... OMG!! I'm suffering! I need that sandwich RIGHT NOW!!! 😂 Mmm yum delish...❤❤❤
Maxwell's will always be my favorite! Don't get me wrong I love a good Chicago Italian beef! But Maxwell's pork chop sandwich is so delicious!
Thanks for bringing light to a few of our Chicago food staples!❤
Love mark and his personality genuinely a genuine kind soul
I love that we can go to most places and get a Chicago dog with raw onions vs grilled onions. Some people prefer grilled, but I reserve those for polishes . Turano and Vienna are the holy grail. While you can't go wrong with wings and mild sauce, it would've been cool to see the reaction to the "crack" lemon pepper. I don't really eat ribs and bbq, but thank you for not making this a pizza war 👏🏼👏🏼 well, done.
NOBODY HAS A BETTER VARIETY OF CLSSIC/ICONIC FOOD THAN MY HOME CITY CHICAGO HANDS DOWN & HE WASN'T DRIPPING IN GREASE HE WAS DRIPPING IN JUICE‼️