Jibarito

The jibarito is a distinctive sandwich that substitutes bread with crispy, flattened green plantains. Inside, it typically features a delectable combination of meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a savory garlic-flavored mayonnaise. While the original jibarito was made with steak, variations with chicken and pork are also popular.

This flavorful creation was introduced to Chicago in 1996 by Juan "Peter" Figueroa at his Borinquen Restaurant. It quickly gained popularity in the Latin-American eateries of the Humboldt Park neighborhood. The name "jibarito" is a playful twist on "Jíbaro" a term meaning "little yokel."

Prior to the jibarito, there were other Latin American sandwiches made with fried plantains, such as the Colombian patacones and a sandwich from Plátano Loco in Aguada, Puerto Rico. The jibarito's renown spread beyond Puerto Rican restaurants, finding its way into Mexican, Cuban, and Argentinian establishments around Chicago, and even mainstream dining spots.

Its unique appeal did not go unnoticed. The Daily Meal featured the jibarito in an article titled "12 Life-Changing Sandwiches You've Never Heard Of" cementing its status as a must-try delicacy.