Guy Fieri has traveled across the country, but some of his most memorable food adventures have happened in Chicago. From smoky BBQ to creative fusion dishes, here’s a look back at five of his favorite Windy City spots featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

Smoque BBQ – 3800 N. Pulaski

Smoque BBQ via Facebook
Smoque BBQ via Facebook
loading...

When Guy Fieri rolled up to Smoque BBQ, it was clear from the start that this place was serious about smoked meat. With their focus on Southern BBQ traditions, the pitmasters at Smoque serve up brisket, ribs, and pulled pork that will have you drooling.

Guy couldn’t get enough of the brisket, raving about the perfect balance between smoky flavor and tender, juicy meat. The restaurant’s homemade BBQ sauces—whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or spicy—add the perfect touch to every bite. If you’re a BBQ fan, Smoque is a must-stop.


 

bopNgrill – 6604 N. Sheridan Rd

bopNgrill via Facebook
bopNgrill via Facebook
loading...

Fieri's visit to bopNgrill was all about fusion flavors, where classic American burgers meet Korean-inspired toppings.

bopNgrill via Facebook
bopNgrill via Facebook
loading...

The star of the show was their "Umami" burger, which had Guy raving about the savory bomb of flavor packed into every bite. Loaded with caramelized kimchi, bacon, and a fried egg, this burger is anything but basic. And let’s not forget about their loaded kimchi fries, an unforgettable side dish that Guy couldn’t stop eating. If you're a fan of adventurous flavor combos, bopNgrill delivers.

MORE: Chefs Agree, Illinois Pizza Joint Serves Best Slice in America

AM 950 KOEL logo
Get our free mobile app

 

Del Seoul – 2568 N. Clark St

Del Seoul via Facebook
Del Seoul via Facebook
loading...

At Del Seoul, Guy discovered the magic of Korean street food in the heart of Chicago. Their Korean BBQ tacos, filled with perfectly marinated short ribs and topped with crunchy veggies, were a total hit.

Fieri loved how the tacos brought together bold Korean flavors with a Mexican twist. He also couldn’t resist their Banh Mi sandwich, calling it a "game changer" thanks to its fresh, zesty flavors and tender meat. Del Seoul is where you go when you want a taste of Seoul, without leaving Chicago.


 

Rex Italian Foods – 4431 N. Harlem Ave, Norridge

Rex Italian Foods via Facebook
Rex Italian Foods via Facebook
loading...

MORE: The 5 'Must-Try' Chicago Hot Dog Experiences In Illinois

A family-run gem, Rex Italian Foods blew Guy away with its dedication to authentic Italian deli fare. Fieri couldn’t stop raving about their hand-rolled meatballs and house-made sausage.

Rex’s old-school Italian sub, loaded with perfectly cured meats and fresh mozzarella, was another standout. This spot has been serving the Norridge community since 1969, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite on "Triple D." Whether you’re craving pasta, deli meats, or fresh-baked bread, Rex Italian Foods serves Italian comfort food at its finest.


 

Chilam Balam – 3023 N. Broadway St

Chilam Balam via Facebook
Chilam Balam via Facebook
loading...

Chilam Balam is a small, cozy spot known for its farm-to-table Mexican small plates, and Guy couldn’t stop talking about their inventive take on traditional dishes. One of the dishes that wowed Fieri was their braised pork belly tacos, where every bite bursts with tender, flavorful pork, and tangy, spicy salsas.

The seasonal menu keeps things fresh, with dishes that blend local ingredients with Mexican flavors in the most delicious ways. If you’re after creative, upscale Mexican food in a casual setting, this spot is top-tier.

These five Chicago eateries left Guy Fieri grinning from ear to ear, and after you visit them, you'll understand why!

MORE: 4 Of Guy Fieri’s Favorite Wisconsin Joints On Triple D

LOOK: 20 American foods that raise eyebrows outside of the US

Stacker compiled a list of 20 unusual and uniquely American foods that might raise eyebrows outside the U.S.

Gallery Credit: Charlotte Barnett

LOOK: Here are copycat recipes from 20 of the most popular fast food restaurants in America

More From AM 950 KOEL