Updated Mar 16, 2026 - Culture

Survey says: What makes Chicago, Chicago? You tell us

Justin Kaufmann

Animated illustration of a game show board. Slots rotate to reveal the words HOT DOGS, KENWOOD, '90s BULLS, GREEN MILL, and BLUE LINE STOPS, before three rectangles with Xs in them appear and fade. — Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios

We are unveiling a new regular feature that draws from the Axios reader hive mind.

The big picture: To create the ultimate guide to authentic Chicago, we're rolling out a series of questions about our city, its culture, its food, and other local quirks.

The answers will be used in a live game show where we quiz contestants on their Chicago street cred.

Methodology: We want your authentic answers. Not what you think the right answer might be. We'll take the answers and turn the percentages into points.

State of play: Think "Family Feud" lightning round meets Chicago bar trivia.

This week, we explore our political culture!

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Survey says: What makes Chicago, Chicago? You tell us

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