Chicago Eats

If there’s anywhere in the world for a foodie to vacation, it’s Chicago. Many American tourists know the city as, home of the Chicago stuffed pizza, or hotdogs. But how unfortunate! Sure, the American Dog and Pizzeria Uno, or Gino’s East and Giordano’s are staples in the city’s history too. But given our Monday tour of Chicago’s colorful community, why wouldn’t you take advantage of the diverse cuisine? Especially the restaurants that line the Indian and Pakistani community on Devon Avenue, or the ethnic delights of Chinatown, Little Italy or Greek Town?
If you have time and don’t mind venturing northwest of downtown, we strongly recommend visiting Devon Avenue, where Indian and Pakistani restaurants serve accommodating dishes and delicious curries for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, at inexpensive prices. While in the area, you’ll also want to hit the international grocery stores, delis and boutiques selling sari-wraps, fabrics, shoes, rugs and jewelry.

First time Chi-town visitors are also encouraged to check out the novelty of the villages, Chinatown, Little Italy and Greek Town. Chinatown includes Cantonese dining, BBQ, and bakeries featuring shortbread and fortune cookies, also at an economical price. After lunch, you can buy an imitation Prada purse, nunchakus, or a folex at one of the shops in the area.

In Little Italy, (the original area on Taylor Street), privately-owned meat markets sell fresh prosciutto and formaggio, with traditional trattorias dotting the area. Francesca's is perfect for lunch, but for dinner, head to Rosebud where Frank Sinatra once ate. You can also find Rosebud on Rush (in downtown Chicago) or the steakhouse with the same name on Walton. Additionally,if in Chicago’s Loop, you’ll want to make reservations at the Italian Village. An establishment began by an Italian immigrant in 1927, the village offers three authentic Italian restaurants: The Village, La Cantina, and Vivere.

Since the turn of the century, Greek Town on Halsted has been home to Greek Hellenic Culture (modernly home to the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center). Summer festivals like the Annual “Taste of Greece” sample some of the community’s best food, with traditional Greek music and belly dancers, however featured restaurants are opened year-round and can be found at the following link. We really love the bakery/cafe, Artopolis!

Finally, if interested in the hip and chic Chicago restaurants of the moment, visit Chicago’s Fete Select, where the "newest and hottest restaurants around the globe are featured.” Currently, the founder, DC Crenshaw suggests dining at Bin 36, Japonais, Prosecco, Sushi Wabi, Quartino, and newcomer, Asian-inspired, Sunda.