Restaurant Review : Portillo's
I personally wouldn't go out of my way to seek a snack I would usually order at a baseball stadium, but after my friend Vivian raved about Portillo's, I gave it a try.After an early morning flight, a sitting on the L-train and stopping by the hotel, I found myself in front of the Rock N Roll McDonald's, only to discover that my destination sat across the street.Upon entering the restaurant, you swirl through a revolving door and immediately you're met with decorations resembling a vintage cafeteria. It's astonishing and you have to stop before looking at the food windows because there's a woman hanging from a swing, airplanes, painting sprawled against the wall, athletic jerseys and more. Before, during or after, make sure you glance around at everything in the venue. You can watch the staff put together your meal, wrap it up and stash in your grab bag.Packing comes out classic with styrofoam cups, brown bags (but actually branded) and ready togo. Whether or not you decide to venture out of the restaurant, or into the seating area, do so quickly because around lunch time, it's difficult to find a seat!The most delicious part of the meal (whether you like your dessert first or last is up to you!) is the chocolate cake milkshake. It tastes just as the name describes it in creamy, delicious form. Careful to not get a brain freeze! Onion rings taste triple fried with a extra crunch and possibly barely any onion. Still, if you enjoy fried food, this will send you up to heaven and back down to Earth in one bite. Italian beef is a must in the Windy City, and for the extra spice, try the hot and sweet peppers that's garnished with the shreds of meat.Below is the original Chicago-style dog. It's topped with peppers, tomatoes, onions and a sliver of pickle. No sauce needed. While everything is on the greasy side, there's always a time and place to get your fix and Portillo's is the way to go. Portillo's is located on 100 W Ontario Street Chicago, IL. Open till 12 a.m. try and beat the rush because it's a first-come-first-serve venue.