Where to Find Comfort Food in Chicago

Every city defines comfort food differently and in Chicago — the land of deep-dish pizza — Italian food is on the table and so is Mexican, Polish and German. Here is a look at some colder weather indulgences. The only requirement necessary for these meals to qualify as comfort foods is an intense desire to crawl happily into bed and sleep through winter after eating them.

If you are a person who thinks deep-dish pizza does not go far enough when it comes to cheese, sauce and dough, then you will want to try Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company. It is here you will find pizza pot pie. If any incarnation of pizza imbues comfort food more than pizza itself, this is it.

Head to the north of the city and Devon Street if Middle Eastern BBQ is what you crave. At Khan Barbeque, vegetarians and carnivores alike can feast on the delights of meat skewers and masala; particularly delicious are the lentils and the Tandoori chicken.

Comfort food does not need to be heavy. If you agree, then try High Five Ramen in the West Loop. This unassuming subterranean ramen shop serves the best of the best when it comes to noodles. Of particular interest is the shoyu ramen with pork belly. You can spice your ramen with full, half or no spice. If you misjudge your tolerance level, you can always order a coconut painkiller sweet slushy cocktail to numb the pain.

And sometimes, classic Southern comfort food is what you need and crave, so try Big Jones in Andersonville. The fried chicken is juicy and the shrimp and grits offer the perfect kick. They also have an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection.