No matter if you’re a rock ‘n’ roll, pop, hip hop, or metal fan, Lollapalooza is one of the biggest American music festivals in the world that everyone can find something to love. Taking place in Chicago’s Grant Park August 3 through 6, the 2023 lineup was absolutely astounding. From Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish, to rising indie bands Friday Pilots Club and MICHELLE, all the way to my hardcore favorites Knocked Loose. It’s fair to say I am jealous of everyone who got to experience this fest. Even as a major music nerd, I am also a food nerd. Trust me when I say that this music festival went above and beyond on great snack and meal options from local vendors. If you’re feeling any sense of festival FOMO, this list won’t ease your pain. Here is the most delicious-looking food at Lollapalooza that listeners used to fuel their fest. Plus, many of these restaurants are open even after festival weekend, so add them to your restaurant bucket list.
Birria Tacos From Tacotlan
The Infatuation in Chicago said they waited 40 minutes to grab carne asada tacos, carne asada fries, and beef birria from the Tacotlan tent, a popular Mexican restaurant in Chicago. They swear it’s worth the wait in the longest line at the fest and that the $20 price tag. I mean, hey, I know this restaurant poured their heart into the consomé.
Budlong Chicken Sandwich
If you’re getting food at Lollapalooza, of course, you need to try the local hot chicken from Budlong. TikTok user @chifoodiebecs gave this giant chicken sandwich a 10/10, and I can’t wait to visit the windy city soon just to grab one for myself.
The Bacon Bar
TikTok user @elpotato12 described this tent as a “hidden gem” and sampled their “phenomenal” bacon chocolate chip cookie. Frankly, we all deserve a little treat after standing in the sun all day at Lollapalooza, IMHO.
Hot Cheeto Cheeseburger
Chicago natives and frequent visitors are obsessed with Prime Tacos and will always tell you to get the world-famous, legendary Hot Cheeto burger, coated in “Flamin’ Hot” dust. I want my whole face to be red right now, please.
Normita’s Conchas
If you stopped for food at Lollapalooza in their Dessert Island row, you definitely saw the tent for Normita’s Conchas. For those unfamiliar, conchas are traditional Mexican sweet rolls with very iconic and crunchy seashell design details on the top. This Chicago-based pop-up bakery is a favorite of locals and wowed festival-goers, too.