Route 66 offers a true taste of America, and the culinary adventure kicks off here in Chicago, a city that offers some of the best bites in the U.S. For a century, travelers have fueled up here before heading west on this iconic road trip.
During the route’s heyday, Chicago’s diverse immigrant communities helped shape the food culture along the early miles of Route 66: Polish delis, Italian bakeries, and Greek diners all became part of the journey.
Route 66 restaurants
With the recent designation of Navy Pier as the centennial starting point of Route 66, visitors can now begin their journey at one of the city’s most iconic lakefront destinations. From there, the road winds through buzzing neighborhoods and historic corridors lined with beloved eateries that have fed generations of road‑trippers.
Where to eat on Route 66 near Chicago
Make sure to start your drive hungry. Route 66 is filled with options for foodies, families, and beyond.
- Enjoy lakefront dining on Navy Pier, with tons of family-friendly favorites
- Visit historic Chicago restaurants like The Berghoff and Lou Mitchell’s
- Venture outside the city to unique retro spots like Lulu’s Hot Dogs and Henry’s Drive-in.
If you’re embarking on the full 2,448‑mile journey or simply exploring the first delicious miles, here are the must‑eat stops along Route 66 in Chicago and Chicagoland.
Dining near Navy Pier: the centennial starting point of Route 66
In 2026, Chicago named Navy Pier the centennial starting point of Route 66, creating a pier‑to‑pier connection with the Santa Monica Pier and making it the new go-to spot to enjoy a feast of iconic Chicago flavors before heading west.
Before you hit the road, take time to grab a bite and soak in the waterfront views. Grab a Chicago‑style hot dog at America’s Dog & Burger, or lean into local history with a world-famous “Cheezborger” at the Billy Goat Tavern.
For a true taste of the city’s neighborhoods without leaving the lakefront, pick up authentic Garibay Tamales, share a deep-dish stuffed pizza from Giordano’s, or visit Harry Caray’s Tavern for BBQ and a dose of sports nostalgia.
Take in the sweeping views at Offshore Rooftop, or indulge in Garrett Popcorn’s classic ‘Chicago Mix’ as you stroll the Pier. Finally, finish on a sweet note with a five-flavor slice of The Original Rainbow Cone, a South Side tradition since 1926.
Lou Mitchell’s
565 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago
No Route 66 food list is complete without Lou Mitchell’s, the legendary diner that has been feeding travelers since 1923. Known as the “first stop on the Mother Road,” Lou Mitchell’s serves hearty breakfasts, fresh‑baked pastries, and classic diner fare. Don’t miss the warm donut holes handed out as you walk in. It’s a Chicago institution and a rite of passage for anyone starting their Route 66 journey.
The Berghoff
17 W. Adams St., Chicago
Kick off the beginning of your road trip with a classic Chicago experience. Just steps from the original Route 66 route, The Berghoff has been serving German‑American comfort food since 1898. Think schnitzel, sauerbraten, and house‑brewed beer in a historic setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Al’s #1 Italian Beef
Multiple locations, including 1079 W. Taylor St.
Chicago’s Italian beef sandwich is a culinary icon, and Al’s #1 Italian Beef is one of the best places to try it. Slow‑roasted beef, spicy giardiniera, and a jus‑soaked roll make for a messy, unforgettable meal. It’s pure Chicago — and the Little Italy location is a delicious detour just off the early miles of Route 66.
Lulu’s Hot Dogs
1000 S Leavitt St.
Lulu’s Hot Dogs, a family‑run counter‑service spot that feels like a time capsule from Route 66’s golden age, has been a favorite pit stop for locals, truckers, and road‑trippers craving a taste of classic Chicago comfort food since 1968. Think Chicago‑style hot dogs with all the proper toppings (no ketchup in sight), Italian beef piled high and dripping with jus, Polish sausages, char‑grilled burgers, tamales, and hand‑cut fries that come out hot, salty, and perfect every time.
Be sure to snap a selfie with the Route 66 mural splashed across Lulu’s exterior: it’s a bright, retro tribute to the Mother Road that’s become a must‑stop photo op for travelers tracing the highway from its Chicago starting point.
Henry’s Drive‑In
6031 Ogden Ave, Cicero
A beloved, old‑school hot dog stand that’s been standing directly on Route 66 since 1950, Henry’s Drive-In is best known for its “Super Hot Dog” and neon‑bright signage.
Cigars & Stripes BBQ Lounge
6715 Ogden Ave, Berwyn
A rock‑’n’‑roll barbecue joint with a cult following, this one-of-a-kind “BBQ Lounge” is quirky, smoky, neon‑lit, and exactly the kind of offbeat stop Route 66 travelers adore. Great ribs, wings, and character for days.
Del Rhea’s Chicken Basket
645 Joliet Rd., Willowbrook
Once you leave the city and enter Chicagoland, you’ll run into Del Rhea’s Chicken Basket — a Route 66 treasure. Open since the 1940s, this roadhouse is famous for its crispy fried chicken, neon sign, and vintage charm. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains one of the most beloved stops on the Illinois stretch of the Mother Road.
White Fence Farm
1376 Joliet Rd., Romeoville
Another fried chicken icon, White Fence Farm has been serving family‑style meals since the 1920s. The chicken is crisp; the sides are plentiful. It’s a perfect stop for families or groups traveling together. Check out the antique car collection in the lobby and the alpacas and mini goats out by the barn.
