There’s nothing worse than a late night of drinking and finding yourself scrounging for any food you can find.  Come on, we’ve all been there.  I know I have certainly visited the Taco Bell drive-thru at 2 a.m. more times than I’d care to admit.  So on your wedding day, there’s no better way to treat your guests than to some late night snacks.  We’re rounding up the best of Chicago’s late night snacks for your wedding reception- the sweets, the savory, and the meats!

1. Garrett’s Popcorn

First on the list, a Chicago staple: Garrett’s popcorn. There is nothing more delicious than the Garrett mix: a perfect combination of cheesy goodness and sweet, sweet caramel. Garrett’s makes this a super easy late night snack option. Simply grab a few of their celebration buckets (priced at $144 each), Amazon a few popcorn scoops and goodie bags and BAM!- late night snack ready! Everybody will be thanking you, I promise.

2. Portillo’s Hot Dogs

Second on the list, Portillo’s hot dogs! A Chicago-style dog with all the fixings: poppyseed bun, yellow mustard, green relish, fresh chopped onions, tomato wedge, pickle spear, spicy sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt- don’t you dare go near the ketchup! (just kidding! I disgracefully do it, too! haha!) Portillo’s offers catering and wedding packages! They bring in individually wrapped dogs and all the toppings you’ll need, which makes this the easiest set-up ever for your guests!

3. Big Star

Third on the list, all the taco hype you need- Big Star. If you’ve been to the Wicker Park neighborhood, no doubt you’ve seen the massive line that runs down Damen. Big Star’s Carne Asada and Pollo tacos are classics. But the Al Pastor, topped with pineapple, MOUTHWATERING. Big Star offers catering for events and even a Taco Truck for all those outdoor celebrations! Big Star has both meat, fish, and vegetarian options to satisfy all of your guests. Let’s face it- you can never go wrong with late night tacos!

4. Joe Donut

Number four on the list is Joe Donut. Beginning at 3 am, Joe Donut begins baking their donuts fresh (and from scratch!) every day! Originating in the Northern Suburbs, Joe Donut has a wide variety of tasty, unique donuts- from a Fruity Pebbles and Lucky Charms cereal covered donut, a Snickers Old Fashion, and a Pistachio Old Fashion, you can’t beat these tasty treats! Joe Donut offers mini donuts and donut wall kits which are perfect for your late night treat!

5. Lou Malnati’s Pizza

Saving my best for last: Lou Malnati’s, melt-in-your-mouth, butter-crusted, deep dish pizza. Did I sell you yet? Chicago is certainly known for their deep dish pizza. Lou Malnati’s originated in Lincolnwood, a close suburb just outside of the city in 1971. Fun fact: you can only get Lou Malnati’s in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Arizona. So if that isn’t enough to get ya married in Chicago, I don’t know what is! Lou Malnati’s is a classic: topping their pizza with fresh chunks of tomato, a layer of cheese, and a secret family recipe crust that simply cannot be beat!

And there ya have it folks, the best of the best late night snacks in Chicago- according to yours truly, of course! These are my absolute favorites (find out my other favorite things here!). Regardless of my opinions though, and in all of my experience, I have yet to hear a person complain about a late night snack! So do yourself the favor, refuel your wedding guests, and keep the party going!

Straight to the core,

Kate