India, March 18 -- It is often said that food is another form of travel. It functions as a gateway to other cultures and people: cluing us into who they are, where their roots lie, what shaped them, and what is shaping them still. It gives us a peek into their terroir, winds and climate; and it introduces us to traditions and techniques both new and ancient. While travelling, food is also often what anchors us to a new place by creating standout memories.

Nowhere is this more evident than in Illinois, where Michelin starred temples of gastronomy vie for your attention against the titans of Chicago's very own deep dish pizza, maestros of Chicago jazz and soul food, vegan virtuosos and local culinary traditions with roots that claw deep in...