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Roadtrip Reviews: Portillos!

On Wednesday, I went to Portillo’s to review some of their best food items on the menu!

Hallie Skudlarek and Ikram Yusuf • November 5, 2025

Ikram and I take a photo before we left Portillo’s, after we ate our delicious meal! (Hallie Skudlarek)

Ikram and I took a trip to Portillo’s, a Chicago based restaurant, to review some of their food. Portillo’s is located in Maple Grove in the Arbor Lakes area. You will be able to see it, as it is a large building. For food, Ikram and I both had a hot dog and french fries and Ikram had a vanilla shake! My total was around 12 dollars, which I think is pretty reasonable.

The first thing you see when you walk up to Portillo’s is a large brick building with some paintings on it. Portillo’s has a drive thru and walk in also. The outside has historic pictures plastered on it to show the true background of the business.

Portillo’s from a side view has cool writing and paintings. (Hallie Skudlarek)

The front doors of Portillo’s with the green roof and cool-toned brick contrast well together.(Hallie Skudlarek)

At a farther away view of Portillo’s, you can see all of the intricate details.(Hallie Skudlarek)

From this photo, you can truly see the American vibe show throughout this restaurant. (Hallie Skudlarek)

As you walked up to the register there is a large photo of a woman advertising the company.(Hallie Skudlarek)

This was a mini stand that was right next to the register, where you could buy souvenirs. (Hallie Skudlarek)

When you walk into Portillo’s you will see many different colored lights along with banners and pictures. There are so many different vibrant colors that really create a very welcoming vibe. This restaurant is based on the 1950’s and 1960’s American diner theme.

Portillo’s has a plethora of food items to choose from. Ikram and I decided to both get a normal hot dog with fries, but there are so many other options for people with different tastes. They have pastas, burgers, a variety of hot dogs, shakes, fries, chicken sandwiches, salads, and cake. You are able to customize your hot dogs or your burgers to have your desired toppings also.

This is the Portillo’s menu and it has many options for all types of people.(Hallie Skudlarek)

Here is a close up of our meals. The french fries were super crunchy and the hot dog was very fresh.(Hallie Skudlarek)

As you can see, Ikram and I both really enjoyed our meals and rated the experience a 10/10. The food is so reasonably priced, the service is good, and the vibes are overall very traditional and different from what you would see today!

What is your favorite part of your job? – Hallie

“

Definitely the different encounters.”

— Portillo's worker

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About the Contributors

Hallie Skudlarek, Senior Journalist

Grade: Senior Favorite Drink: Strawberry Acai Refresher w/ light ice, No berries, Extra strawberry puree + extra base Favorite Color: Mint green Favorite Song: “Shot For Me” Favorite Scent: Drake candle

Ikram Yusuf, Senior Journalist

Grade: Senior Favorite Food: Mac n Cheese Coffee Shop: Starbucks Favorite Season: Fall Dream Getaway: Maui

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Roadtrip Reviews: Portillos!