Things I Like - Chicago

This could be dangerous. Garrett popcorn has opened a location two blocks from the White house in the Merchandise Mart. I haven’t had these addicting popped kernels in years but they used to be a regular snack when I worked in the south Loop. It was hard to walk past the little doorway at Jackson & State without stopping in for a bag – they conveniently kept the door open so the amazing smell would hit you as you walked by. Evil, pure evil.

The other location that used to snag me was the Michigan Ave shop although only if the line out the door was less than 10 people deep. That shop closed last year, greatly reducing the pedestrian traffic jam on weekends, although it sounds like they are reopening in a different spot on the Mag Mile some time soon.

If you have never had this classic Chicago treat, you really should try it, even if you’re not a huge popcorn fan. The popcorn that fills the Garrett bags (and tins) bears no resemblance to the dry, tasteless and often stale stuff you get at the movie theater or even the stuff you may pop at home. Try the cheese and caramel mix but only if you have some serious self-control, one taste and you’ll want to take the 6 gallon tub home. And keep an eye out at O’Hare – they have shops in Terminals 1 and 3 to make your flight more enjoyable.

If you don't happen to live in Chicago and are feeling deprived, don't worry. You can order from the Garret Popcorn website.