Does O'Hare International (ORD) Have Beef Tallow Options?

Walking through O'Hare International Airport (ORD), you're bombarded with the familiar aroma of fast food, often signaling an impending encounter with seed oils. While beef tallow was once a staple in American cooking, its presence in modern airports is as rare as a quiet terminal during holiday travel. Yet, the quest for tallow-cooked options at O'Hare isn't entirely hopeless. Let's explore the landscape of dining options at Chicago's bustling airport and see if there's room for traditional fats amidst the sea of seed oils.

Quick Answer: Does ORD Have Beef Tallow Options?

If you're hoping to find beef tallow options at O'Hare International (ORD), prepare for a challenge. While the airport certainly boasts a variety of dining establishments, dedicated tallow-cooked foods are as elusive as a last-minute upgrade to first class. The prevailing use of seed oils—such as canola, soybean, and sunflower oil—dominates the airport's culinary scene, driven by cost considerations and outdated health myths. But don't despair just yet. There are still ways to navigate your way around seed oils while grabbing a bite at ORD.

Where to Find Tallow-Cooked Food at ORD

Dedicated beef tallow cooking may be rare, but savvy travelers can still make informed choices. Rick Bayless's Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern are standout establishments that focus on quality ingredients. Tortas Frontera, present in multiple terminals, is known for its commitment to fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine, though not explicitly cooked in tallow. Publican Tavern, on the other hand, highlights whole animal cooking and charcuterie, providing an avenue for traditional fat enthusiasts.

While these options don't necessarily guarantee tallow cooking, they offer a break from the ubiquitous seed oils. Check out our guide to seed oil free food at ORD for more tips.

Why Airports Are Stuck on Seed Oils

Airports, including O'Hare International, have long been entrenched in the use of seed oils for several reasons. Cost-efficiency is a primary driver, as seed oils are cheaper and more readily available than traditional animal fats. Additionally, outdated health myths—perpetuated since McDonald's infamous switch from beef tallow to vegetable oil in 1990—have ingrained these oils into mainstream cooking. Despite growing evidence of the health benefits of traditional fats, such as beef tallow, airports remain slow to change.

Best Bets for Traditional Fats at ORD

While tallow-cooked food may be scarce, there are practical alternatives for those seeking traditional fats at ORD. At McDonald's, opt for round eggs cooked in butter and enjoy burger patties sans bun to sidestep seed oils. Starbucks offers egg bites prepared with butter, and plain coffee or espresso is always a safe bet. When seeking something more filling, the charcuterie offerings at Publican Tavern could align with your dietary preferences.

For more guidance, check our article on how to avoid seed oils at restaurants.

How ORD Compares to Other Major Airports

Compared to other major airports, O'Hare's dining scene is relatively diverse, but still largely dominated by seed oils. Some airports have started to embrace the return to traditional fats, with chains like Buffalo Wild Wings incorporating tallow for certain items. However, this shift is gradual, and ORD remains a challenging landscape for those seeking tallow-cooked foods. It's a reminder that while the movement towards healthier, traditional fats is growing, it's not yet the norm.

The Bottom Line

Navigating the culinary maze at O'Hare International Airport can be tricky if you're on the lookout for beef tallow options. While dedicated tallow-cooked dishes are rare, informed choices can lead you to healthier meals that minimize seed oil consumption. Whether you're indulging in a fresh torta from Rick Bayless's kitchen or savoring Publican Tavern's charcuterie, there are still paths to enjoy a cleaner meal at ORD.

For those committed to avoiding seed oils and embracing traditional fats, the battle between beef tallow and vegetable oil remains a vital one. Equip yourself with the Seed Oil Scout app to make informed dining decisions on the go. Download it now and take control of your airport dining experience. 🫡