United States

Chicago

Hiroko Yamamura

Chicago's reputation as the birthplace of House is a well-established fact, further pushed and celebrated by ARC Music Festival, 

 with the core purpose of highlighting the city's robust musical imprint on global dance.

But that's not all it's known for: Chicago has long been a melting pot of cultures, home to large communities of different migrant population that each have left it's mark on the city’s culinary scene.

The city's varied food offerings are what producer Hiroko Yamamura taps into any time she welcomes visitors: "When friends come to DJ or perform in Chicago, there's always a limited amount of time to experience the great aspects of our multifaceted city, so I make sure my recommendations count."

Hiroko's known for her taste. She grew up in the Windy City on a steady diet of rave music, influenced by the legacy of

. By the 1990s, she had thrown herself into Chicago's bombastic dance scene, carving out a name with her forward-thinking brand of techno.

Between her high-energy sets and relentless tour schedule, you'll find her fuelling up at Chicago's food spots: "I've thrown together a list of my favourite places where you'll actually find me chowing down."

There's plenty of amazing Korean food in Chicago, but there's only one SSGS! Currently the last of the real coal girl, this Northside staple has been an essential of regular and late night dining for years.

It might not be your traditional Chicago slice, but the Newhaven style pie is my favourite, combining the best of the cities' styles. Make sure you eat it in the shop as the box will steam all your dreams away.

People often ask me for my top ramen in every city. For the home team, I always rely on Wasabi. Their Tonkotsu (NOT TONKATSU) broth is really well developed and complex compared to other fast soups around the city. Their product is consistent in every way and adds a unique flare, not trying to chase some Hakata Ramen ideals.

Maybe my favourite Beijing duck in the United States. An insanely casual restaurant with Michelin tier product, this is where we go to eat to celebrate.

My current go to sushi place is actually in a food court of a Chinese market. Absolutely unassuming in presentation, but lovely in freshness and unique offerings. 312 puts their money in what matters, the food.

Sun Wah BBQ

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