Whether or not you're observing Lent, you know Chicago goes wild for Mardi Gras. After all, it's the last day before 40 days of fasting and Friday fish fries kick in. Since it's our last day to indulge, we came up with a list of all the things we want to eat and drink before we limit ourselves until Easter.
Paczki from Delightful Pastries. If you haven't already, head on over to the closest Delightful Pastries and see if you can get your hands on as many of these delicious Polish pastries as possible. No one's watching.
Doughnuts from Doughnut Vault. Some places are probably out of paczki already, and that's sad, but fine. Just make sure you get a doughnut to help wipe away your tears.
Tacos at Los Comales. Clearly the correct choice to follow up your mid-morning doughnut. Your favorite fillings (we really like the chorizo), all packed into a delicious tortilla.
Black pepper rigatoni at Charlatan. It made our 100 best entrees list last year–spicy and covered in Parmesan with a wild boar ragu.
Toasted Marshmallow Milkshake at Good Stuff Eatery. Who cares if it's snowing outside? If ice cream's your downfall, you know that milkshakes are only two steps behind–and this one has a toasty marshmallow on top.
Carrot cake cupcake at Sweet Mandy B's. We'd settle for just about any cupcake, but the carrot cake cupcake at Sweet Mandy B's has stolen our hearts.
Pizza at Pequod's. It's truly one of the best, whether you like thin crust or long for a thick deep-dish slice with crispy cheese edges.
Chicken and waffles at Longman and Eagle. Do we even need to say more about this one?
A Chicago Double from M Burger. Let's be real, who can really go 40 days without a burger in this city? You know you can't resist that pickle-y goodness.
Crispy fries at Au Cheval. These have Mornay sauce, garlic aioli and a fried egg, making them some of the most over-the-top French fries you can find in Chicago.
Spare ribs from Honey 1 BBQ. So indulgent, so tender. But not just the ribs, give us pulled pork, hot links and brisket–we'll take it all.
Lobster roll at Shaw's Crab House. Mayo and tender lobster pieces in a bun? Yes please.