Every year LTHForum.com releases an updated list of "Great Neighborhood Restaurants," which celebrates the many amazing local establishments around town. Though you can endlessly debate what was included and was left off, it's always a fascinating mix of old school joints and new chef-driven concepts. More

The lightly seasoned breading fiercely adheres to the shrimp and stays crunchy down to the last bite. And the shrimp themselves are perfectly pink and toothsome, each bite exploding with a briny flavor that is enhanced by the slightly spicy cocktail sauce that comes on the side. More

Here's the thing: Most people think that the Chicago dog has an inflexible formula, one set down from on high, which mandates a certain seven toppings that must be included or the whole deal is off. But the reality I've encountered over the many years I've been searching for the best hot dog in Chicago is far more varied and interesting. Here's the guide to make sense of it all. More

I've only been writing TGI Fry-Day for about a month and a half, which means I've barely dipped my toe into the bubbling fry pot that is Chicago. But that doesn't mean I just started eating fried food. If I'm wet behind the ears, it's only because I had an itch in the middle of my order of fried pickles. Submitted for your approval, here are my top five fried obsessions from 2011. More

The half-mile stretch of Western Avenue just north of the Blue Line stop (roughly from Cortland to Belden) is not exactly the most elegant road. But while it is easy to zoom by without noticing the scenery, you'd also miss one of my favorite places to eat in the city More

Back in 2009, I set out on a simple quest to find the best places to eat in Chicago while standing up. I didn't come close to covering all of the scene in those short six months, and now with a whole new crop of food truck pioneers on the scene, I'll have no trouble uncovering more options. But first I thought it would be best to start off with a look back at the best of Standing Room Only to showcase where I've already feasted. More

No matter how careful you are, you'll eventually make the trek out to Hot Doug's to find the doors locked. Happens to the best of us. Luckily, there are a number of amazing restaurant options around the area, including a number of different cuisines. Just don't try to get a hot dog. More

Redhot Ranch 2072 N. Western Avenue, Chicago IL 60647 (map); 773-878-9898 The Short Order: Brand new joint serving up hot dogs the old way. Want Fries with That? Come with every order, and you'll eat each one. Want Ketchup?... More