Food Fight: Best giardinieras you can find in Chicago
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Delicious Tuscan Garden Hot Giardiniera from Aldi. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios
Chicago has produced many great culinary innovations, but perhaps none as versatile as our signature oily pickled veggies that boost the flavor of sammies, salads, pizza and more.
- We rounded up some of our favorite versions you can find in the city, and recommendations from readers.
Aldi's Tuscan Garden Giardiniera
Available at Aldi stores
Monica's pick: I tried a lot of jar-dinn-EAR for this story and learned that one local company makes a dozen private label versions, including my favorite: The Tuscan Garden giardiniera from Aldi. ($3.95)
- With just the right amount of heat, salt and pickle, it makes my scrambled eggs sing, but I do wish they'd use olive oil instead of soybean oil.
J.P. Graziano Mild Giardiniera
901 W Randolph St. — West Loop; Also available online
Justin's pick: I consider giardiniera one of the four major food groups, but my stomach sometimes disagrees. I've found the mild version at J.P. Graziano Grocery in the West Loop does the trick, even though hot is better.
- A 16-ounce jar will run you $7.25, and you can get them at the Randolph Street location and online.
Ditka's Hot Giardiniera
Available at most grocery stores and online
Carrie's pick: Did Monica's or Justin's giardiniera lead the Bears to a Superbowl? That's what I thought. "Giard" is a staple in my house, and we find any excuse to eat it. I suggest with pita chips and hummus.
- The key to giard is for the oil to not be too goopy. Ditka's Hot Chicago Style has the right texture and an appropriate heat level. Sold most places but you should get it at the Jewel's. ($5.99)
Frankie's Deli
17W626 Butterfield Rd. — Oakbrook Terrace
Reader Tom B. says this is an all-around outstanding deli, but their "giard" is the best there is. So crunchy and a great variety of veggies.
- Tom has a warning, though: "The hot is hot."
Marconi Hot Giardiniera
Available at most grocery stores and online
Andrew W. calls it "the one true Chicago favorite."
Fontano's Subs
Multiple locations — Little Italy, South Loop, Beverly and Hinsdale
John R. likes that Fontano's has olives in it.
- "I get it at their sandwich shop on Michigan Avenue, just north of Van Buren. I put it on eggs in the morning and pretty much any savory sandwich at home."
Bari Foods
1120 W. Grand Ave. — West Town
Lynda B. says if you like spicy, Bari Foods' super-hot is the hottest you’ll find anywhere.
Honorable mentions
That Pickle Guy: Monica H. says while the name may be deceiving, That Pickle Guy's giardiniera has game! It's gone from a cult farmer’s market find to more widely available at places like Whole Foods.
Orlando Extra Hot: If Kevin D. isn't near Aldi, he gets this brand at Morse Market in Rogers Park and says "it's perfect."