Have you ever wanted to eat a Big Star taco and a Leghorn fried chicken sandwich at the same time but struggled with the logistics? Of course you have. Dream bigger, my friend, because the future is here. Earlier this summer, United Center and Levy Restaurants announced plans to host local favorites in the arena under the name Chicago’s Plate. Big Star, Lillie’s Q, Publican Quality Meats and Lotties were all on the list, and Chicago foodies rejoiced. Now, we have more details on the 90-plus new menu options that will be available to hungry visitors this fall. I had the chance to stop by United Center to sample the fare and check out the new digs. I rounded up my favorites and gave them fitting superlatives, yearbook style.
Most photogenic: Big Star Queso Fundido nachos
Smothered in cheese, chorizo and poblano peppers, these nachos will make you wonder how you ever enjoyed that neon orange sauce arenas churn out daily. And though you won’t be enjoying it on Big Star’s sunny patio, this dish is still Instagrammable with the Blackhawks playing in the background.
Biggest sweetheart: Publican Quality Meats green chile sausage
Fennel slaw, lime aioli, mint and queso fresco meet and fall in love on a lobster roll. Skip the classic dog and jump in line at PQM for a gourmet sausage that might just convince you to buy playoff tickets.
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Most likely to tide you over ’til halftime: Leghorn Chicken fried chicken sandwich
Available on a bun or biscuit (always go with the biscuit), this chicken sandwich isn’t messing around. It’s served with a blanket of hot sauce and crunchy pickles, which makes it a complete meal in my book. Add on organic kale salad, fries or hush puppies if you’re sharing with a friend.
Best mess-to-taste ratio: Jake Melnick’s buffalo wings
These classic buffalo wings are indeed messy, but I don’t think anyone is going to judge you while they’re staring at Joakim Noah’s bun (just me?).
Best souvenir: Big Fat Cookie black and white cookie
Whatever you do, don’t leave the United Center without one of these cookies. There’s no false advertising happening here; they are both big and fat (and insanely awesome). The black and white variety is made with half chocolate-chip cookie dough and half triple-chocolate dough. Grab one on your way out to cut down on road rage tendencies in the parking lot.
Best way to soak up a $9 beer: Lillie’s Q Walking Taco with pimiento cheese chips
Crispy kettle chips topped with tender pulled pork, coleslaw and Lillie’s Q housemade sauce? Get inside me. And if you must fork over all your money to get a decent beer, this is the snack you’ll want to accompany it.
Best dressed: Sweet Mandy B’s cupcake
If you’ve got a sweet tooth that can’t be satisfied with a cloud of cotton candy, you’ll want to grab one of these sprinkle-covered cupcakes at halftime. Also a good way to say sorry for spilling your neighbor’s beer.
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