Imagine a day filled with scoring incredible deals on designer brands, the satisfaction of crossing items off your shopping list, and the thrill of finding that perfect piece you’ve been searching for. Now, imagine fueling that shopping spree with delicious food that goes beyond the typical mall fare. At Chicago Premium Outlets, retail therapy isn’t the only thing on the menu. While this Aurora, Illinois, destination is renowned for its fantastic bargains, it’s also quietly becoming a destination for food lovers.
Forget the notion of settling for just another average food court meal. This guide will take you on a flavorful journey through the best food options available at and near Chicago Premium Outlets, demonstrating that your shopping day can be a complete sensory experience, tantalizing your taste buds as much as it excites your wallet. Whether you’re craving a quick bite to keep you energized, a sit-down meal to recharge, or a sweet treat to celebrate your successful shopping haul, Chicago Premium Outlets has something to satisfy every appetite.
Quick Bites and Casual Eats Inside the Outlets
The heart of the culinary experience within Chicago Premium Outlets lies in its bustling food court, a vibrant hub where shoppers gather to refuel and recharge before diving back into the world of retail. The aroma of various cuisines fills the air, creating an enticing atmosphere. You’ll find classic mall staples alongside more exciting options, providing a diverse range of choices to please everyone in your group.
The food court has many options that include Italian dishes. Whether you desire some pasta, or some other Italian dish, the food court will always deliver on the choices. If your crave leans more towards the Orient, there is also Chinese restaurants that have a plethora of choices. From noodles to various meats, there’s bound to be something that you would like. If you lean towards the Mexican side of things, there are usually a Mexican option that can satisfy your craving. Burritos, tacos, or something else; there are many options to choose from. If the other choices don’t suit your fancy, there are usually American classics that include burgers, fries, and other typical American cuisines that you can enjoy.
Beyond the food court, scattered throughout the outlet mall, you’ll discover convenient quick-service restaurants. These familiar establishments offer a faster and more streamlined dining experience for shoppers on the go.
One popular option is Subway, where you can customize a fresh and healthy sandwich or salad to your liking. Their menu features a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, and vegetables, allowing you to create a personalized meal that fits your dietary needs and preferences. The price points are generally affordable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.
And, of course, no shopping trip is complete without a visit to Starbucks. This coffee giant is a welcome sight for those in need of a caffeine boost or a refreshing beverage. Their menu includes a wide array of coffee drinks, teas, Frappuccinos, and pastries, providing the perfect pick-me-up to keep you energized throughout the day. They have seasonal drinks that rotate throughout the year that’ll get you into the holiday spirit.
For those moments when you need a quick burst of energy to power through the final stretch of your shopping, the outlet mall offers several convenient snack options. These vendors provide a variety of treats that are perfect for satisfying a mid-afternoon craving or keeping the little ones happy.
One of the most popular snack destinations is Auntie Anne’s, famous for its freshly baked pretzels. Their soft, chewy pretzels are available in a variety of flavors, including original, cinnamon sugar, and sweet almond. They also offer pretzel bites and dips, making it a great option for sharing or enjoying on your own.
You’ll also find other snack vendors offering items like ice cream, popcorn, and various sweets, providing a diverse range of choices to keep your energy levels up and your taste buds happy.
Restaurants Outside the Outlets Within Close Proximity
While the food options inside Chicago Premium Outlets are convenient and satisfying, sometimes you crave a more relaxed dining experience or a wider variety of culinary choices. Fortunately, the surrounding area boasts a plethora of restaurants, ranging from familiar chain establishments to unique local gems, ensuring that you can find the perfect meal to complement your shopping trip.
Many familiar chain restaurants surround the outlets for a consistent dining experience that you have come to know and enjoy. These restaurants offer a comfortable atmosphere, diverse menus, and reliable service, making them a great option for families or those seeking a familiar taste.
Red Lobster, for example, is a popular choice for seafood lovers. Their menu features a wide array of fresh seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, crab, and fish. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal after a long day of shopping.
Olive Garden is another popular chain restaurant that offers classic Italian-American cuisine. Their menu includes a variety of pasta dishes, soups, salads, and breadsticks, all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks option is a favorite among shoppers looking for a hearty and affordable meal.
Beyond the familiar chain restaurants, the area surrounding Chicago Premium Outlets is also home to a variety of unique, local restaurants that offer a taste of the region’s culinary scene. These hidden gems provide an opportunity to experience authentic flavors and support local businesses.
Consider exploring local diners or family-owned restaurants that specialize in regional cuisine. These establishments often offer a more intimate and personalized dining experience, with homemade dishes and friendly service.
Sweet Treats and Dessert Delights
No shopping trip is truly complete without indulging in a sweet treat to celebrate your successful finds or simply satisfy your sweet tooth. Chicago Premium Outlets and the surrounding area offer a variety of options for ice cream, frozen yogurt, bakeries, and coffee shops, ensuring that you can find the perfect dessert to end your day on a sweet note.
For those craving a cool and refreshing treat, you’ll find several options for ice cream and frozen yogurt. These establishments offer a variety of flavors and toppings, allowing you to create a personalized dessert that suits your taste.
Many places have a revolving list of flavors that constantly change and give shoppers a new experience to enjoy on a continual basis. They also offer the classics for those who love their tried and tested ice cream flavors. In addition, there are usually toppings that you can put on your ice cream to make the dessert one of a kind.
If you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, consider visiting one of the bakeries or specialty dessert shops near the outlet mall. These establishments offer a variety of cakes, pastries, cookies, and other sweet treats that are perfect for indulging in after a long day of shopping.
Nothing beats enjoying a well-crafted pastry and coffee on a shopping trip to give you energy. The smell of the pastries as you walk in will tempt you to get a few to give you the energy you need for your shopping trip.
For those who prefer a warm beverage and a sweet treat, several cafes and coffee shops offer a variety of pastries, cakes, and coffee drinks. These establishments provide a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, making them a great place to unwind and recharge before heading back out to the shops. Grab some coffee and a pastry for a burst of energy before going back for the last leg of the shopping trip.
Tips for Planning Your Food Experience
To make the most of your food experience at and near Chicago Premium Outlets, it’s important to plan ahead and consider a few key factors. With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure that you have a delicious and stress-free dining experience.
Consider the time of day and plan your meals accordingly. The food court and restaurants can get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid long lines and wait times, consider eating during off-peak hours, such as early lunch or late afternoon.
Check for deals and promotions. Many of the restaurants and food vendors at and near Chicago Premium Outlets offer discounts and special promotions. Before you head out for your meal, check their websites or social media pages for coupons or deals that you can use to save money.
Planning ahead is crucial to maximizing your time at Chicago Premium Outlets. With the plethora of choices, it’s important to know what you want to eat before you go and make sure you can locate the store or restaurant that can offer you your preference. With a good plan, you can enjoy the variety of shopping and food that the outlet provides.
Conclusion
Chicago Premium Outlets is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From quick bites in the food court to relaxed meals at nearby restaurants and delightful desserts, there’s a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate. The variety in food offered at the outlets allow people with different tastes to have a fun and enjoyable day.
So, the next time you plan a shopping trip to Chicago Premium Outlets, remember to factor in your dining experience. Explore the diverse food options, discover new favorites, and make your shopping day a truly unforgettable experience. Don’t settle for the average meal when there is a multitude of choices to choose from.
Let Chicago Premium Outlets be a place where fashion meets flavor, and where retail therapy is perfectly complemented by culinary delights. Make the most of your day and get the full experience of what Chicago Premium Outlets can offer.
