The Oldest Restaurant In Illinois’ Chicago Loop Is A Culinary Masterpiece

The Chicago Loop is the busiest part of the Windy City, and it's packed with restaurants and shops. One tavern has been here for longer than any of us have been alive, and it's such a part of the city's history that it's worth a visit from any place in Illinois. Here's what you'll find when you visit the historic Berghoff restaurant in Chicago, Illinois:

When The Berghoff first opened in 1898, its location in the heart of the Chicago Loop made it one of the most popular taverns in the bustling city.

Founder Herman Berghoff, a German immigrant, had first begun brewing his beer in Indiana. During the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, he sold the beer and it was tremendously popular. Soon, the Chicago location opened to sell the Dortmunder-style beer, and the tavern also fed patrons for free.

Prohibition caused a bit of trouble for the bar - after all, it was known for its beer! Berghoff stayed afloat during the booze-free times by selling "near beer," which was legal and contained hardly any alcohol. "Bergo" soda also appeared on the menu, along with a selection of German food that kept hungry patrons coming in for years.

When Prohibition ended in 1933, The Berghoff was granted the first liquor license in Chicago. Every year, it's renewed as "Chicago's Liquor License No. 1."

The Berghoff is still a fine place to stop in for a drink, and nowadays the food is as road-trip worthy as the beer!

The menu features German-American cuisine, with everything from simple corned beef sandwiches...

... to pierogi plates that are practically overflowing with dumplings.

Of course, you can't go wrong with a good, old-fashioned steak and potato dinner!

You'll find that Berghoff's attention to detail in pairing sides and choosing fresh ingredients goes a long way in any dish that comes out of this kitchen.

Save room for dessert, too! The delicious apple strudel is their signature sweet treat, and it's the perfect way to wrap up a dining experience in one of Chicago's most historic restaurants.

You can find the menu on The Berghoff website, and if you follow this Chicago Loop restaurant on Facebook, you'll find information about any specials and features being offered.