Garrett Popcorn Shops: Chicago Snack Chain Really Pops

Chicago may be world famous for its pizza, but its popcorn is quickly gaining in popularity, thanks to Garrett Popcorn Shops. A Chicago staple since 1949, Garrett Popcorn Shops has drawn a big local following, with ubiquitous long lines and legions of loyal customers. 

With six Chicago locations — including two at O'Hare International Airport — and now one in New York, Garrett’s remains true to its roots with the same recipes used since its first day in business 60 years ago. The chain offers a limited menu of just four flavors — plain, butter, caramel and cheese — but all are popped fresh and in full-view of hungry patrons. 

While each flavor is delicious on its own, the popcorn chain is definitely most famous for “The Garrett Mix,” a delectable sweet/salty combination of caramel and cheese popcorn that has attracted quite a list of celebrity fans. 

Chicago-based Oprah Winfrey has named Garrett popcorn as one of her annual “Favorite Things” not once, but twice. Actress Halle Berry makes sure to stop by a Garrett’s every time she’s in town. Even former-Chicagoan President Barack Obama is a fan; his campaign reportedly sent tins of Garrett’s popcorn to supporters as thank-you gifts.

Chicago locals and visitors can stop in to any Garrett’s shop for a small treat or big bag of the air-popped snack, but those far from the city can also partake, thanks to Garrett’s booming national delivery business. Customers can order one- to six-gallon tins in any combination of flavors, and even pick the tin design from a variety of Chicago, sports or holiday themes. 

As businesses offer more and more menu options, it’s comforting to go into Garrett’s and pick a favorite or two, like a throwback to a simpler and slower Chicago. It may sound like just a snack shop, but waiting in long lines for a piping-hot bag of popcorn, then walking the streets of downtown with cheese-stained fingers is as authentic as it gets. Like Chicago pizza, but much more portable.

For locations and their hours, click here.

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