Chicago: Where Your Dinner Costs More Than Your Rent (Almost)
So, you're planning a romantic dinner in Chicago, huh? Good luck with that. You're not just paying for the steak and lobster, you're also sponsoring the city's next fireworks display. Thanks, Chicago!
The Great Chicago Tax Heist
Let's talk about the elephant in the dining room: the restaurant tax. It's like Chicago is saying, "Hey, you wanna eat that delicious deep-dish pizza? Great! But first, let's add a little something extra for the city." And by "little something extra," they mean a hefty percentage that'll make your eyes bulge like a deep-dish pizza after a night out.
But why, Chicago, why? You might ask. Well, the city probably has a really good reason. Like funding those ridiculously tall buildings or maintaining Lake Michigan. Or maybe they're just big fans of making tourists cry. Who knows?
Breaking Down the Tax Monster
So, what exactly is this beast? Well, it's a percentage added to your food and drink bill. And it's not just one tax, oh no. It's a whole family of taxes. There's the city tax, the state tax, and then there's the "because-we-can" tax.
Pro Tip: If you're trying to impress a date, don't mention the tax. Just pretend you're a millionaire and casually drop a $100 bill.
How to Survive a Meal in Chicago
Okay, so you're not a millionaire. Don't panic. Here are a few tips to help you survive a meal without breaking the bank:
- Tip your waiter generously: This might seem counterintuitive, but a good tip can sometimes lead to better service and maybe even a free dessert.
- Order water instead of soda: Soda is basically liquid gold in Chicago.
- Share a meal: It's not just for couples. Splitting a dish can save you some serious cash.
- Avoid peak dining hours: Prices and crowds tend to be higher during dinnertime.
- Look for deals and discounts: Some restaurants offer discounts or happy hour specials.
How To Questions
How to calculate the total cost of a meal in Chicago?
- Add up the price of your food and drinks, then multiply by the tax rate (usually around 10-11%). This is the amount you'll add to your bill.
How to avoid sticker shock when the bill arrives?
- Do some mental math before ordering. Estimate the cost of your meal, including tax and tip.
How to find restaurants with lower tax rates?
- Unfortunately, tax rates are pretty standard across Chicago. However, you can look for restaurants outside the city limits for potentially lower taxes.
How to cope with the high cost of dining out in Chicago?
- Cook at home more often! It's cheaper and healthier.
How to enjoy Chicago without spending a fortune on food?
- Focus on free activities like visiting parks, museums, and enjoying the architecture. There's plenty to do without emptying your wallet.
