Just like fashion, office designs change all the time, especially in the past few years. In the olden days, creativity wasn’t given much thought and strict office rules mandating that employees work in their own cubicles made them uncomfortable.

But would you agree that if an employee is spending 8 hours a day, 5 days a week in this office space, they should feel not only comfortable, but motivated, energetic, and relaxed?

By simply making a few adjustments or choosing a modern office space, you may notice some changes in the atmosphere. People will want to work in a fun environment, they will bring more ideas to the table, and they will probably even be more productive.

So if you’re looking to move to an office that offers more design or to change up the current space, here are some office design trends that can make all the difference when it comes to keeping employees happy in the work place.

1. Flexible Spaces

The key to having a flexible space is that it doesn’t restrict furniture from being moved. It allows desks to be adjusted, meeting areas to be easily accessible, and still offer space for employees and customers to move around. Simply working in a different space can make a big difference in productivity and creativity. This can be accomplished by having an open layout or by having movable walls so that the room can be changed into whatever shape is needed at the moment.

For example, if employees need to concentrate on a particular task or their work requires them to have their sound on, they can easily relocate to a meeting room so they won’t interrupt others. Allowing them to work in different spaces can also give them some stimulation while motivating them to become more efficient.

2. Collaborative Furniture

More companies are now realizing that having furniture in collaborative working spaces is important – and a growing trend in the workspace today. As meetings and shared spaces are a vital part of doing business, having furniture that supports these tasks will not only add to the modern design trend but increase productivity.

It’s easy to find collaborative furniture – being that it’s in. There are also various types, including acoustic pods where small meetings can be held conveniently, large meeting desks with outlets so nobody will have to worry about going in with a full battery beforehand, and freestanding media units that allow employees to project their work on a screen, adjustable tables, task lighting, and a lot more.

3. Technology Innovation

If companies haven’t taken advantage of integrating technology into their strategies and daily tasks, they’re falling behind. But why not make it convenient for everyone by mounting a TV to a wall in the meeting room or setting up screen projectors? Keep in mind that technology is constantly being updated, so it’s important to have the right equipment needed in order to work efficiently.

One growing trend for many companies is the use of laptops instead of desktops, so employees can work remotely. Now that work can be taken with them, it’s important for office spaces to be adjusted as well. There should be power around the office that is easily accessible, video conferencing equipment, presentation screens, data ports, smartboards, wireless charging stations, and open seating that allows employees to easily move around without feeling like they’re invading others’ spaces.

Bluetooth technology is becoming increasingly popular in offices due to its convenience and ease of use. With Bluetooth technology, employees can use their mobile devices seamlessly while they're working at their desk or throughout the office without having to worry about cables getting tangled or having limited range between devices like they would if they were connected via USB cables or Wi-Fi network signals. This type of wireless connectivity helps eliminate clutter that can often occur when there are too many cables lying around.

Install acoustic panels on walls where employees spend most of their time (e.g., conference rooms or workstations). Acoustic panels can help reduce noise distractions by absorbing sound waves instead of reflecting them back into an open space. This will help decrease distractions for workers who are trying to concentrate on specific tasks at hand.

4. Natural Designs

Known as a biophilic design, this growing natural design trend focuses on a stress-free environment. Biophilic design is a type of interior design that incorporates natural elements into the built environment. It can be used to reduce stress and improve health, productivity, and well-being. Hence it’s popularity, more and more office designers are integrating this design into their presentations and recommendations for clients.

Popular characteristics of this new trend include large windows that allow natural light to shine in, large, potted plants, organic color, and materials and patterns with natural colors like brown and green. Use plants and water features to bring nature indoors. Plants can reduce stress and improve concentration. They also add color and texture to your office space. Studies have actually shown that this has helped employees to feel more relaxed, focused, and energetic.

Bringing in natural light through windows or skylights can help increase productivity by reducing stress and improving moods. Natural light also helps reduce eye strain from staring at computer screens all day long. This type of lighting is best when it comes from above, since it allows people to see better while they’re working on tasks that require fine motor skills like writing or typing. If you aren’t able to add windows or skylights to your office space, consider adding large mirrors to reflect light into other areas of the room where there may not be enough natural light coming through windows or skylights alone.

5. Comfortable Work Spaces

If employees are not comfortable in their working space, it’s not likely that they will want to come to work. In other words, if they sit in cheap desk chairs or are confined to cubicles all day, they won’t be nearly as successful as they would be if a little more investment was made towards the workspace. When taking the time and energy to create a modern looking, comfortable space for employees, you may notice higher employee satisfaction, lower turnaround rates, and higher productivity.

Some aspects of comfortable working spaces include open seating areas, such as couches where employees can work on their laptops. Some companies are even in ping pong tables, video games, and areas where employees can take power naps to stay energetic.

One of the easiest ways to improve the comfort level of your employees is by providing ergonomic chairs. Ergonomic chairs have been designed specifically with comfort in mind and provide support for both back and neck. This can help prevent muscle discomfort and injury while at work. Ergonomic chairs also include features such as arm support and adjustable backrests, which can help keep an employee’s head at eye level while working at a desk or computer station.

Carpeting and flooring can also help improve employee comfort levels. Carpeting provides extra cushion for those who may be standing for long periods of time during their work day. For example, carpeting could be installed under desks where employees are standing most often or have been standing for prolonged periods of time throughout the day (e.g., retail sales associates). Carpeting can also be installed in break rooms or other areas where employees may spend a lot of time on their feet.

Moving to a New Office?

Whether you’re looking to move for business reasons or simply want a new, innovative working environment, you will want to work with a professional moving company that can handle the process for you. Especially with new furniture or fragile belongings, it’s important that they arrive to your new space in the same condition as before they left. So it’s important to find movers that are experienced, trained, and licensed so you can focus on the benefits of your new office space.

The professionals at Chicago Office Movers not only have over 35 years of experience in the commercial moving industry, but are fully equipped to plan, organize, pack, relocate, and install all of your furniture and equipment at your new location. We ensure to handle all parts of the moving process so you and your employees can stay focused on work with little interruption.

If you are undergoing any office renovations, Chicago Office Movers will proudly relocate and store your furniture during the remodeling process. This will allow you to get that modern office look and not have to worry about your furniture in the process.

Free Estimate

For more information or a free estimate on our office moving services, contact Chicago Office Movers at 312-244-2246 or fill out a contact form. We look forward to working with you soon!

Everyone has to move sometime or another, but seasoned moving customers are well aware that not all moves run smoothly. Professional movers can speed up the moving process, but choosing the right company is also important. If you don't do the research beforehand, a bad moving company can make your moving process even more of a headache. Just as each moving company will differ in their services and prices, it’s extremely important to know what to expect on moving day. So you’ll want to do your homework and research as many vendors as possible.

When researching, keep an eye open for scams and rogue movers, as they will never have your best interest in mind. Once you have a list of movers, here are 11 things to consider when looking for a moving company:

1. Get a Complete Estimate

Any estimator that does a quick walk-through of the building will not catch all of the details when giving you the quote. When calculating, they should ask questions about what exactly you will be bringing with you to your new location. Just be prepared to answer the questions regarding which items will not be going on the truck and will need to be decommissioned:

• Donated
• Thrown away
• Sold
• Left behind to new owners
• Given away
• Transported yourself

Chicago Office Movers can help you with decommissioning items to local non profit organizations.

2. Choose a Company with One Name

You might be surprised to find that a number of companies operate under various names to avoid being assessed by the Better Business Bureau and other online review platforms. Make sure the company has an address that is local and information about their licensing and insurance.

Check for any other name the company “does business as” in addition to their state and federal license numbers. Also make sure to check their online reviews, reviewing any complaints and compliments about them.

3. Never Pay a Large Deposit

While some can’t be avoided, reputable moving companies will not require a large deposit before moving. The service – at least the majority - should be paid at the end of the move. Otherwise they may disappear with your belongings and you have a lawsuit on your hands. When you do pay, use a credit card to protect against possible fraud.

4. Create an Inventory

When walking through your home, the estimator will take an inventory of all your items and furniture to determine the bulk weight of the home. They should also be thorough and check all storage areas, including drawers, desks, lobbies, bookcases, and filing cabinets.

A significant factor of the moving cost will be the overall weight of your belongings as well as the amount of space it will take up on the truck. When presented with the estimate, look it over carefully and make sure you understand everything on it.

5. Look at Reviews

More and more potential customers are trusting online reviews as if they were recommendations from their friends and family. A reputable moving company will have an overall high rating, provided that they have served their customers well.

When researching these reviews, you will find that few to none will have a perfect score. This is OK. Some customers just can’t be satisfied. But it will be up to you to decide which company to hire based on what others have said.

6. Be Aware of Extra Fees

Keep in mind that many moving companies – even those that are reputable – will add on additional fees for specific cases. Things like going up and down more than one flight of stairs, narrow streets, truck transfers, and moving to or from 2-story homes are all likely to result in additional fees. However, this should be noted in the initial estimate, so you won’t come across any surprises when you get the final bill.

You can also call the company ahead of time if you are unsure of whether or not something will incur an additional fee. Just keep in mind that all movers are different; therefore, while one company may include going up multiple staircases in the service, it may be counted as extra in another.

7. Be Aware of the Packing Process

Keep in mind that if you decide to pack your items yourself, the mover is not responsible for any damage to them. But if the mover does packing and things are broken in the process, they should be covered under the mover’s insurance policy.

Before hiring the company, ask about their packing experience and the materials they use to protect items. This will be helpful to know when they pack up your inventory, machinery, or special equipment.

8. Know Your Moving Contract

While some companies vary, there are generally 3 different kinds of moving contracts:

• Binding Estimate. This includes a guaranteed price for the move that includes all additional fees and requested services. If you want to add on additional services after the contract is made, these fees need to be paid within 30 days after the move.
• Non-Binding to Exceed Estimate. This prevents the company from charging for overages to the original quote they provided. The estimate given is the maximum you will need to pay for the services provided.
• Non-Binding Estimate. This means the mover cannot charge any more than 10% above the original estimate. Just know that the overage must be paid within 30 days of the move.

9. Report Any and All Problems

It’s understandable that not all damage to your items will be noticed right after the move. But you are given 9 months to report any damage or other problem to the moving company, as well as to file an insurance claim. So if you open any box a year later and find something shattered, it’s too late.

On moving day, open as many boxes as you can after they arrived at the new location and be thorough when checking for damage. All problems should be listed in details on the mover’s copy of the final bill, and make sure to check it for any changes before signing it.

After making your claim, the mover has 30 days to acknowledge it and 120 days to deny or accept charges for it.

10. Never Sign a Blank Moving Contract

Rogue moving companies may present you with a blank moving contract before adding services and charges to it. Never sign it. Everything – and absolutely everything – must be listed in detail, including extra fees, pickup, and delivery dates.

Always read your contract carefully, checking that all of your items are listed, before signing. If a computer wasn’t listed on the inventory form before the driver pulls out of your garage or parking lot, you shouldn’t expect it to be in the box. You also won’t be able to file an insurance claim for it because it wasn’t listed on the contract.

11. Choose Insurance and Protection Plan

Reputable moving companies will offer a number of insurance plans you can add on to protect your belongings. This way the moving company will assume liability for the value of your belongings moved. Be sure to take a detailed estimate of the overall value of your items before choosing the insurance coverage.

Choose a Reliable Moving Company

While some moving companies can offer better solutions for customers than others, it’s crucial to find a reputable moving company that keeps your best interests in mind. From start to finish, the service should be professional, friendly, and financially accurate. Remember to always stay on the lookout for red flags such as asking you to sign blank contracts, missing items from the inventory, and “rough” estimates.

Work with Chicago Office Movers

If you live in the Chicago metropolitan area and are looking to move your business, check out our professionals at Chicago Office Movers. Our union movers are dedicated to professionalism while keeping your best interests in mind. We understand that many items and furniture within a business are fragile as well as the information that must be kept confidential. As we conduct hundreds of moves every year, we know the best ways to make the process as smooth as possible.

In addition to our services, each of our movers is background-checked, trained, certified, and experienced to provide you with the peace of mind you need during the transition. Our staff will also be able to handle all aspects of the moving process for you, including move management, packing, furniture assembly, decommissioning, and more.

Our union movers will work with you every step of the way. This includes providing additional information like answers to frequently asked questions, a Commercial Moving Timetable Checklist, what to expect from the process, and more.

Contact Us

For more information regarding our commercial moving services or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (312) 244-2246.

Homeowners who work remotely will need a home office. Sometimes, a residential home or apartment has limited space. When space is tight and work needs are pressing, property owners can find workarounds. Here are ways to create a functional home office in a small area.

1. Find a nook

The first step in creating a small home office in a limited space is to find an appropriate nook. Ideally, this place will be quiet and have limited distractions. A property owner should be able to accomplish work tasks without disruptions—making finding the right space paramount.

Someone who lives in a home with multiple bedrooms has plenty of home office location options. Simply turn one of the unused bedrooms into a functional office space. Or, if the home is a studio apartment, consider setting up room partitions to separate the work and living spaces.

The empty space under the stairs can be transformed into a small office. A hallway offers plenty of horizontal space for a creative home office. A walk-in closet or wardrobe area can be updated to serve work needs. In such tight spaces, every inch is put to good use.

The office nook should be a quiet one. This means finding a space where other householders do not normally congregate. Avoid setting up the office in the center of the busy kitchen, for instance. A functional home office keeps the professional and personal life separate.

2. Install equipment

A computer, office accessories, and a printer will need a desk upon which to sit. When looking for desks, choose one that maximizes the limited office space. Homeowners have multiple options: L-shaped desks that fit into corners, writing desks propped against the wall, or floating desks.

A flip-down desk can be made upright when not in use. Consider that spaces can have multiple uses. A dressing table in the guest bedroom can double as a work desk. Alternately, turn a nightstand, dining table or coffee table into a temporary or permanent workstation.

In small nooks with laminate flooring, add a faux fur rug to soften up the workspace. Keep office supplies, such as staples and paperclips, nearby. Divide drawers, reuse jars, or utilize hanging hooks to create inventive storage spaces for the office supplies.

Even when the space is small, a home office should feature ergonomic office furniture. Opt for a chair with back support. Ideally, the chair’s height will keep the user at eye level with the computer screen. This setup promotes healthy blood flow and reduces back and shoulder problems.

A small office space may prompt homeowners to use a desk chair that doubles as dining room seating. No matter what type of chair is utilized in a small home office, it should slide easily under the desk. For this reason, avoid choosing a wide office chair with bulky armrests.

3. Utilize vertical space

A small workstation may have limited horizontal space. Workers, however, can efficiently utilize the ample vertical space. The full height of the wall can be used for shelving. Drawers can be stacked. Repurpose the area below the desk and optimize storage space.

4. Add lighting

Natural or artificial lighting is important in a small home office, especially for those who work long hours at the desk. Two sources of light are recommended: a main light and a desk lamp. Combine overhead lights with adjustable lamps for ample lighting in the small area.

If practical, set up the home office near a window. Exposure to sunlight is important for not only physical but emotional well-being. Sunlight gives the body a healthy dose of vitamin D, while helping workers feel emotionally charged and alert.

5. Organize cables

A home office will be fitted with technology, from computers to printers. Electronics will cause a chaotic clutter of cables. Keep productivity up by maintaining a clean, clutter-free work environment. Tuck the cables away behind the walls. Prevent tangled cables by using bread clips.

6. Limit distractions

A small home office may have limited desk space. Nevertheless, it is important to keep essentials nearby. A water bottle or coffee mug, for instance, takes up minimal desk space, but keeps the worker refreshed throughout the workday. A visit to the kitchen, on the other hand, can be distracting.

7. Add accessories

House plants are perfect office accessories. Potted plants add visual interest as well as introduce a continual supply of oxygen to the home office space. Plants help to keep the home office user calm, as a result. Consider adding vertical shelving for the plants if desk space is limited.

While the smallest home or apartment can be creatively transformed to accommodate a home office, your company may be planning to relocate to a bigger or smaller facility. If so, choose a top-notch commercial mover, like Chicago Office Movers. We help companies of all sizes relocate successfully.

Work with a Commercial Mover

A corporate move requires months of planning. At Chicago Office Movers, we’ll support you throughout the relocation process. Our experienced specialists offer advice and planning strategies. Moving crews are available to both pack and unpack office goods. We also provide short- and long-term storage.

Your office move will be handled with utmost care by our licensed, union movers. We have experience safely relocating a variety of delicate office goods, including IT systems, science lab equipment, and fragile electronics. We move office furniture of all sizes, as well as machinery and cubicles.

Working with Chicago Office Movers ensures that your business resumes operations in a timely manner. Disruptions to employee productivity are minimal when our movers handle the packing for you. Once at the new destination, our efficient unpacking services have your company back up and running fast.

Contact Us

Choose Chicago Office Movers for your upcoming office relocation and join the ranks of our countless satisfied corporate customers, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent. We facilitate a smooth office relocation that stays within budget and on schedule.

Contact us today at 312-244-2246 for a free estimate.

Chicago’s tree-lined streets are covered in the fallen yellow and crimson leaves of autumn. While nature is preparing to rest for the winter, Chicagoans are anticipating the year’s many local fall events. Here’s just a handful of pickings of satisfying Chicago events.

The crisp autumn weather in Chicago makes the many outdoor events pleasant and inviting. September temperatures hover around a comfortable 74 degrees Fahrenheit. When November rolls around, expect cooler weather, averaging 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Dress appropriately for Chicago’s fall events.

An array of welcoming Chicago events suits a wide range of people. Families with young children will find plenty of wholesome activities in which to participate. Groups of friends can enjoy adult nights’ out in the city. Romantic couples, too, have many opportunities to see the city’s spectacular sights.

Fall Events for the Family

1.      Apple Picking

September is ripe for afternoons of apple picking. Orchards near Chicago offer families the chance to pick the red, ripened fruit and sip apple cider. County Line Orchard is one farm where families can pick 30 varieties of apples, take tractor rides, and get joyfully lost in winding corn mazes.

2.      Pumpkin Patches

Pumpkin patches are a winning fall attraction around Chicago. Family-owned Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch hosts an annual Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch. Youngsters can slide down the Giant Pumpkin Slide, listen to the farm’s Singing Chickens, and ride on the fantastical Pumpkin Express Train.

3.      Corn Maze

The world’s largest corn maze can be found at Richardson’s Adventure Farm. Families can trek through 28 acres of live corn, which is equivalent to nine to 10 miles of trail. Once the maze is completed, youngsters have a chance to participate in any of the farm’s corn maze games.

4.      Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo houses diverse plant life and ecosystems, in addition to furry animals. Every second Saturday, nature-loving groups are taken on a guided tour by a horticulturalist. Autumn visitors will be in for a visual treat, as they view the changing colors of maple and gingko tree leaves.

5.      Sunflower Farms

Fall is always a good season for pictures, and you can visit sunflower farms to take some nice and unique pictures. Usually sunflowers bloom as early as July and it can last until October, the prime season to visit a sunflower farm is August through September. Check out these sunflower farms around Chicago and plan a visit with your family or friends. The farms offer activities such as mazes and you can also cut sunflowers to take home!

Fall Events for Adults

1.      Farmers’ Markets

Ears of fresh corn, bins of yellow peppers, and appetizing baked goods are just a handful of the products Chicago visitors can find at the city’s fall farmers’ markets. Daley Plaza and the Maxwell Street Market are two local farmers’ markets favorites.

Maxwell Street Market holds its market outdoors on the first and third Sundays through December 2021. Visitors flock to the unique mix of handmade crafts. Musicians liven up the mornings and afternoons. Those who stop by will savor some of the best street foods in Chicago.

2.      Music Festivals

Music lovers will appreciate the Spring Awakening Music Festival, to be held in October, instead of June, this year. Expect a brilliant show featuring fully functioning pyrotechnics. The two-day festival is one that fans of club-friendly acts, like Galantis and Diplo, will not want to miss.

Another two-day festival is Open House Chicago, hosted by the Chicago Architecture Center. Guests are given behind-the-scenes access to multiple local sites that boast of architectural, cultural or historic significance. Last year, sites included Hyde Park Art Center, Aloft Loft, and Pui Tak Center.

Fall Events for Couples

1.      The Great Pumpkin Glow

The Lincoln Park Zoo holds its annual Adults Night Out: The Great Pumpkin Glow in October. Just before Halloween, during the eerie calm of the after hours, visitors have a unique chance to explore the zoo. Stroll through a haunted trail, take a pumpkin walk, and sip a seasonal cocktail.

2.      Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

Add visual splendor to date night by visiting the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit in Chicago. Art lovers are surrounded by 60,600 frames of video and 500,000 cubic feet of projections. The Exhibit offers date night packages, where couples have a unique vantage point of the exhibit from the Juliet balcony.

3.      Chicago River Cruise

Chicago is famed for its grand architecture, among other attractions. Hop onto Chicago’s First Lady and cruise down the Chicago River. During the boat ride, view the renowned architecture of buildings that line the waterway. The tour is guided by certified docents, and guests learn about 50 city buildings.

4.      Food Festivals

Chicago Gourmet will whet the appetites of guests. This annual food festival, hosted by the Illinois Restaurant Association, will be held during the month of September. Anticipate multi-course dinners hosted by local, esteemed chefs. Events include Grand Cru and Hamburger Hop.

This year’s autumn months promise a wealth of activities for all age groups. The fall season kicks off with apple picking in September, continues at full speed through the spooky night of Halloween, and ends with a warm, jovial start of the holiday season in November.

The abovementioned events are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exhilarating fall events in the city. Countless lesser-known and well-known events are held through the autumn season. One thing is clear: Chicago events keep company employees engaged throughout the fall months.

Work with a Commercial Mover

Upon deciding to relocate, whether to Chicago or another welcoming city, you’ll need a reputable commercial mover to ensure your office goods safely reach the final destination. Count on Chicago Office Movers to handle your corporate relocation with ease and professionalism.

We are an experienced office mover with licensed, trained, and background checked movers who are ready to load and unload your office goods with speed and care. Our trucks are climate-controlled and feature air-ride suspensions to protect your most fragile possessions.

The qualified moving crews at Chicago Office Movers have successfully moved prestigious local corporations and area universities. Our movers have transported precious artwork, sensitive IT systems, delicate antiques, bulky science lab equipment, and office furniture of all sizes and weights.

Companies rely on our comprehensive corporate relocation services. Our office relocations come with long- and short-term storage, professional planning assistance, and packing and unpacking services. You will also be able to track the movement of goods via our reliable tracking equipment.

Get a Free Estimate

Whether you plan to move locally, long-distance or internationally, choose Chicago Office Movers to handle the task. We’ve moved numerous satisfied customers and offer affordable, quality services that you can count on. Call our Chicago, Illinois, office to schedule your upcoming office move.

Call us today at 312-244-2246 for a free estimate.

Chicago is known for countless attractions, including its famous skyline, architecture, museums, and sports teams. The Windy City is also famous for its smorgasbord of culinary delights. Visitors and residents alike savor the appetizing dishes that give the city its reputation for great eats.

Home to more than 7,300 restaurants, Chicago also boasts of exceptionally rated ones. The city features seven AAA Diamond-rated restaurants, 26 Michelin-starred restaurants, 40 James Beard Award-winning restaurants and 54 Bib Gourmand winners. There’s a local restaurant for every budget, too.

Clearly, Chicago understands the nuances of creating fine cuisine. Upscale dining may not be affordable for everyone, so the city invites food lovers to its hundreds of accessible  and city-wide food trucks. Iconic Chicago dishes, such as the eight that follow, entice even the finickiest foodie.

1. Deep Dish Pizza

Who does not revel in a thick-crust tomato pie filled with melted mozzarella and an assortment of mouth-watering toppings? Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza is one celebrated food that visitors to the Windy City are advised to not pass up.

Pull out a slice from the tall, circular pan in which it is baked. Watch the mile-high cheese stretch as you load the decadent pizza pie onto the plate. Visitors can try a slice of this showstopper at multiple local restaurants. Several well-known Chicago restaurant chains serve deep dish pizza.

Chicago Classic Deep Dish is available at Giordano’s, one of many Chicago-based chains. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is another chain, with locations dotted throughout the city. Smaller chains that serve the notable pie include My Pi’s, Pequod’s, Labriola and Bartoli’s Pizzeria.

2. Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich

As a sandwich filled with slices of tender roast sirloin cooked to perfection and tossed into a thick Italian-style roll, the Chicago Italian beef sandwich draws hungry lunch crowds. Al’s Italian Beef serves up this well-known sandwich in any of three variations: dry, with extra gravy or dipped.

3. Chicago-style Hot Dog

Another lunch favorite is the Chicago-style hot dog—an all-beef frankfurter topped with relish, celery salt, peppers, tomatoes and onions. Served with a tangy pickle, this hotdog should be eaten with a squirt of mustard. Chicagoans know to hold the ketchup on the popular Chicago-style hot dog!

4. Popcorn

Those used to dry microwave popcorn can expect a sumptuous flavor sensation when they try the sweet or savory popcorn from Chicago’s own Garrett’s Popcorn. The popcorn coatings are so delicious that customer lines extend well beyond the front doors of this well-known popcorn shop.

Nuts on Clark is another favorite popcorn chain, having made its reputation with tasty gourmet cheese-flavored popcorn. Chicago Kernel offers spicy cheddar popcorn. Popcorn in Chicago is such a treat, that in 2003, the Illinois General Assembly designated popcorn as the state’s official snack.

5. Saganaki

Saganaki, the flaming cheese, is recognized by its Greek moniker. But the dish of delicately floured, fried cheese was invented in a Chicago restaurant called the Parthenon. The iconic fiery cheese is a Chicago favorite, with its splash of Brandy, a dancing flame and the chef’s accompanying cry, “Opa!”

6. Pulled Pork

Chicago has learned a good deal about barbecue, and the city’s many barbecue venues are a testament to the pit masters who have perfected the craft. Smoked meats waft through the air in Wicker Park’s Smoke Daddy restaurant. The eatery serves up a satisfying dish of slow-cooked pulled pork.

Earl’s BBQ is another restaurant in which diners can order pulled pork as a breakfast treat. Pulled pork fans can also head over to Honky Tonk BBQ, a restaurant with an escapist Wild West theme, where the pit master creates some of the city’s most delicious pulled pork.

7. Italian Ice

Summer in Chicago is never as sweet without Italian ice to complement a meal. The frozen dessert is simply a concoction of sugar, ice and juice or whole fruits. While Italian ice is available in a range of flavors, lemon is a favorite and better known as frozen Italian lemonade.

The cool dessert is offered by shops and restaurants throughout Chicago. Amy’s Candy Bar serves Italian ice as a scoop or in push-up form. Little Lulu’s Italian Ice creates its frozen treats with cane sugar. Scooter’s Frozen Custard adds frozen custard to the Italian ice, creating a tasty parfait.

8. Chocolate

Chicago has been in the business of producing fine chocolates for decades. In fact, Milton Hershey learned the art of making chocolate upon a visit to the city. Chocolate retailers abound by the dozens here, and each one tempts chocoholics with endless varieties.

The Magnificent Mile, famous for its shops, also boasts a booming chocolate market. Dylan’s Candy Bar entices visitors with 7,000 confection options. Nutella Café is located within the city. Bite down on butter toffee at The Fudge Pot, which has been a Chicago mainstay for over 50 years.

Moving to Chicago?

Chicago’s iconic foods satisfy the appetites of locals and visitors alike. When a company relocation to the Windy City is in the works, you’ll need a reliable corporate mover, like Chicago Office Movers, to accomplish the task with efficiency, affordability, and professionalism.

Chicago Office Movers’ crews are licensed and trained to handle a diverse range of office goods and equipment. We’ve carefully loaded and unloaded antiques, artwork, cubicles, IT systems, electronics and office furniture. Our teams also provide conveniences, like packing and unpacking services.

As the city’s most reputable commercial mover, Chicago Office Movers has helped countless businesses relocate. Among our satisfied customers are Lake Forest College and Alcatel Lucent. We’ve earned high ratings for our secure handling of materials and ability to work within various budgets.

Get a Free Estimate

When your company is ready to relocate and eager to benefit from all the foods and attractions that Chicago offers, choose Chicago Office Movers for a seamless move. Our dedicated crews will relocate your business locally, long distance or internationally.

Contact us today at 312-244-2246 for a free estimate.