Best Fast Food Chain in Illinois named: It's home to the famous indulgent "cake shake"

In a celebration of regional fast food favorites, Food and Wine has declared Portillo's as the best fast food chain in Illinois. Originating from the Chicago area, Portillo's has become a beloved staple for locals and visitors alike, known for its iconic Italian beef sandwiches served on soft French bread and drenched in flavorful jus.

Crinkle-cut fries smothered in vibrant orange cheese are also a must-try for fans of indulgent comfort food.Photo byNeal KharawalaonUnsplash

The fast food chain offers a menu that delights with a range of favorites, including Polish sausages, Chicago-style hot dogs topped with all the fixings, and decadent chocolate cake milkshakes. Crinkle-cut fries smothered in vibrant orange cheese are also a must-try for fans of indulgent comfort food.

No matter where you find a Portillo's location—whether in the suburbs of Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Tampa, or Minneapolis—stepping inside feels like coming home. With a growing number of outlets, the chain maintains its unique sense of place and nostalgia for those who have been deprived of its offerings for too long. Portillo's continues to capture the hearts (and appetites) of fast food lovers, reaffirming its status as an Illinois treasure.