Best Snacks in Chicago

Chicago has many amazing qualities, but the best part is the overabundance of food choices. Every type of food you can imagine is at your fingertips (or an EL ride away.) There are a ton of amazing Chicago restaurants that deserve your attention, but sometimes, you just need a snack! What's better than a bit of custard on a sweaty summer day? Or a refreshing smoothie? I can't think of much.

There's nothing better than yummy cold ice cream to cool you off. There are a million Baskin Robbins around the city, if that's your jam, but if you want something a little creamier, head to Lickety Split in Edgewater. They serve custard that is out of this world, and you can even add an espresso shot to it if you need a pick me up.

Another great ice cream option is Taste of Heaven in Andersonville. Taste of Heaven also serves cupcakes, cookies, pies, and sandwiches, but I go for the cookies n cream ice cream. Yum.

If Taste of Heaven is full (or out of the cookies n cream), walk on down the street to George's Ice Cream and Sweets for their ability to incorporate nutella on the menu of about a bajillion ice cream combinations.

It's not a successful snack voyage if you don't get have some evidence on your face and clothes. If you're in for something messy and sweet, look no further than the beignets at Jimmy's Pizza Cafe. They're perfectly covered in powdered sugar and are the best outside of the famed Cafe Du Monde in New Orleans. Hey, while you're there, have a slice of pizza for a little grease if you're extra hungry.

If you want to get your fingers a little sticky, head on over to Glazed and Infused for some creative (and gigantic) donuts. You'll probably need to share. My favorite is the vanilla glazed, but I'm pretty boring.

To round out the sugar high you have going, Molly's Cupcakes are officially the best cupcakes in the land. It's been ruled as such. They are moist and delicious, with creative pairings and flavors, and a create your own option to please everyone.

Not to be outdone, if you see the Chicago Cupcake food truck, you should give those a whirl, too. They're not your traditional cupcake (think cross between cupcake and cheesecake) and must be shared because of the richness, but they're yum-o.

This is almost blasphemous to say, but the best cookie goes to Jason's Deli. Yes, really! It's perfectly chewy and warm every time.

If you're needing some sugar, but want it in a healthy way- Loop Juice has amazingly delicious healthy juices and smoothies- all made right in front of your eyes. (This will be the only healthy recommendation, don't worry.)

You're probably either in a sugar coma by now, but in the off chance you need something savory, try some bao (steamed buns) at Wow Bao. This can be a meal, or you can get one or two for a snack. They're filled with savory or sweet, but I love the savory options the best.

If you're in need of salt, then try out Garrett Popcorn. You'll smell it from a block away.

If you have a minute to sit, head over to L'Patron Tacos and order their chips & guac. Best in the city!

Magen is a Chicago and Travel blogger who is currently thoroughly enjoying the glorious sunshine. She frequently posts about restaurants and entertainment in and around Chicago on her blog.