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CNWC_Brochure_LR
Explore CHICAGO’S NOR T H W E S T COR R I DOR Gladstone Park Jefferson Park Portage Park Six Cor ners Old Ir ving Park Independence Park Avondale i dining i social Welcome Chicago’s Northwest Corridor is known as the land of single-family bungalows, cultural landmarks and hidden gems. These neighborhoods shine as a source of pride for all who know them, not just as a gateway to the city, but as home to the talented people who make Chicago work. Rich in cultural history dating back to the trade routes that became Milwaukee Avenue and later the Kennedy and Edens expressways, this area is known for its stable communities, and its Polish, German, Irish and Greek businesses that still celebrate old-world quality. Just minutes by Metra or CTA Blue Line to either downtown or the suburbs, residents have long enjoyed huge beautiful parks, award-winning theatre, easy shopping and vintage movie palaces. Festivals like the Taste of Polonia, 6 Corners BBQ Fest, Jeff Park Arts & Music Festival and Chicago Fringe Fest highlight the summer’s offerings. Whether you are visiting Chicago or call it home, turn the page to learn more about why families and residents know this area hosts Chicago’s best. 4914 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.725.1300 www.galestreet.com Heather Aitkin Photography© cocktails A C I T Y W I T H I N A C I T Y Gale Street Inn notables Gale Street Inn 4914 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-725-1300 6311 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.763.1181 www.pastadarte.com Located in downtown Jefferson Park, Gale Street is the “inn place” since 1963. A taste of pure Chicago for out-of-towners and locals alike. Their famous ribs, daily-made soups, fresh fish and quality steaks are sure to please. Recently renovated, Gale Street’s busy, wellstocked bar is great for enjoying an adult beverage, listening to jazz and hearing great Chicago stories. Pasta D’Arte 6311 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-763-1181 Step into old world Italy at Pasta D’Arte, Jefferson Park’s very own trattoria, where intimate conversation and simple, elegant cuisine converge with each season’s freshest ingredients. Savor every bite of scallopine to braciole, steak to their signature calamari. Chef Mark Giannini, owner of this Michelin-rated eatery also featured on Check, Please!, specializes in authentic homemade pastas, delectable sauces, and raw creativity. The Portage Restaurant and Bar 3938 N. Central Ave. 773-853-0779 This comfortable, upscale Portage Park eatery delivers perfectly crafted cocktails and classic yet inventive American cuisine using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Whether you relax on the lush outdoor patio or in their dining room, you’ll see why reviewers on Check, Please! loved the intimate dining experience. The Portage is one place you’ll want to keep as your own little secret. Sabatino’s 4441 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-283-8331 Romantically lit tables adorned with flowers has made Sabatino’s in Old Irving Park the perfect date destination for more than 35 years. This classic Italian-American restaurant entertains guests with strolling violinists Monday through Thursday and an old-time piano bar on the weekend. Open for lunch and dinner. Sabatino’s Bread & Wine more notables Bread & Wine Las Tablas 3732 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-866-5266 4920 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-202-0999 Bread & Wine delivers elevated, nostalgic Midwestern fare, focusing on farm-to-table, as an American restaurant, wine bar and market on Chicago’s Northwest Side. Serving both hearty and lighter fare, the menu was designed, in part, to highlight the neighborhood’s rich ethnic diversity. Visitors can enjoy an open kitchen and ample counter seating in the comfortable, inviting dining room. Chicago’s premier Colombian steakhouse since 1991! Las Tablas features adventurous South American cocktails, tapas-style appetizers, paella, homemade desserts, and dishes from Havana, Rio, Buenos Aires, Barcelona, and beyond. Choose from an eclectic mix of modern, bold, and seductive flavors from the whole Latin world. Soraya Campos has been entertaining guests at Las Tablas for more than 17 years. La Peña 4212 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-545-7022 The Castillo family is recreating the taste of Ecuador in Chicago! Recommended dishes include ceviche, pincho de pollo with chimichurri, and churrasco, a platter of relatively thin grilled steak, fried egg, avocado and rice. Mom’s Old Recipe Mexican Restaurant 5760 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-467-1009 Taste the family tradition at Mom’s Old Recipe, where delicious Mexican cooking is homemade using generations-old recipes. Named one of the “Best Mexican Restaurants in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine, their south-of-the-border favorites will satisfy even Mom’s pickiest eaters. Grab a burrito grande, enchiladas de mole, and don’t forget the margarita. Shokran Authentic Moroccan Cuisine 4027 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-427-9130 Shokran Just steps from the Irving Park Blue Line stop, chef and owner Khalid Kamal presents authentic Moroccan cuisine and a unique culinary experience. With abundant and diversely fragrant Tagines, rich stews in traditional Berber clay pots, fluffy couscous plates, distinctive appetizers, salads and grill items, Shokran is truly a feast for your senses. Las Ta b las 4920 W. Irving Park Rd. 773.202.0999 www.lastablas.com Top BYOBs Smoque BBQ Hot Woks Cool Sushi 3800 N. Pulaski Rd. 773-545-7427 3930 N. Pulaski Rd. 773-282-1818 A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Smoque brings real hardwood smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken and homemade sides to Old Irving Park. This ultra-casual BYOB eatery has been featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and has earned the Michelin Guide’s coveted Bib Gourmand award for 3 consecutive years. Tucked away near the Kennedy Expressway, this Asian-fusion hot spot looks unassuming. But it delivers on its promise to maintain a traditional balance of favorite classics and merge elements from different regions. Come in and experience the flavor. Ruk Sushi & Thai 4431 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-286-1900 3800 N. Pulaski Ave. 773.545.RIBS Come experience the flavors of Japanese and Thai cuisine offered by Ruk Sushi & Thai. This Jefferson Park area hot spot has much to offer in the way of fresh, tasty lunch and dinner. Neighborhood favorites include, succulent sushi and maki, as well as zesty Thai specialties like Pad Thai and a variety of flavorful noodles and curry dishes. Cafe Marbella 5527 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-853-0128 Gladstone Park’s delightful tapas restaurant charms the Northwest Side with its blissful European ambiance. Cafe Marbella’s attentive waitstaff welcomes adventurous newcomers and seasoned guests alike for intimate conversation or group accommodations. Chef Virgilio will dazzle your taste buds with his exquisite Gambas al Ajillo, Gazpacho Andaluz, Tortilla Espanola and other favorites. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of wine! Cafe Marbella Tapas NOT ER H T O N A T S JU PRETTY SAUCE www.smoquebbq.com 5527 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.853.0128 www.cafemarbellatapas.com The Garage You came for the beer, Now stay for the food.... Best Watering Holes Fischman Liquors and Tavern 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-545-0123 Locals flock to the heart of Jeff Park for Fischman’s beer, burgers, and lively entertainment. Named among the “100 Best Bars in Chicago”, this craft beer emporium hosts biweekly “Tap This” events pairing featured drafts with eats from the city’s tastiest food trucks. Grab dinner curbside from their own Wagyu Wagon and take your favorite brews to go. Grayland Pub 3734 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-736-1010 A solitary brick building tucked away near the Grayland Metra on Milwaukee Avenue is Portage Park’s most authentic watering hole. Known by the locals as “Kennedy’s”, the Grayland Pub offers craft beer, Guinness pints, and ciders at such a steal it doesn’t need a name. “Come on in if you can find us,” owner Patrick Kennedy charges. The Garage 6154 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-647-1386 An industrial yet warm restaurant and bar, The Garage serves up mouthwatering sandwiches, an impressive 130 beer selection, and a kitchen that stays open late. Saunter in today and catch a game on the big screen, challenge your friends to darts, or enjoy Gladstone Park from the neighborhood’s only rooftop deck. Sutherland’s 5353 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-930-4790 Named after one of the founding fathers of Portage Park, E.B. Sutherland. In 1841, when Portage Park was established, Sutherland set up the first tavern along the West Plank Road, which is today’s Milwaukee Avenue. Rabbits Bar 4945 W. Foster Ave. 773-736-5766 Rabbits Get back to basics at Rabbits: neighborhood conversation, friendly atmosphere, amazing 1/2-lb. burgers, and 70+ beers to suit everyone’s tastes. Stop in after work for top-notch bar food, daily specials, and weekly trivia. It’s truly the place where neighbors meet. Voted best craft beer emporium by Chicago Magazine 4780 N. Milwaukee 773.545.0123 www.fischmanliquors.com Hops & Barley 4359 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-286-7415 Serving up craft beer, tempting cocktails, and mouthwatering food since 2005, Hops & Barley is Portage Park’s favorite stop for watching a game with the gang or engaging in intimate conversation on their sidewalk patio. This neighborhood mainstay features a full dinner menu, a private party room, and an acoustic open mic every Sunday. Windsor Tap 4530 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-736-3400 This cozy Jefferson Park spot features a dark wood interior, open-air seating during the warmer months, and six TVs usually tuned to Chicago sports. Hops Rex Tavern 4933 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-202-9444 Rex Tavern welcomes friendly dogs and travelers alike into the heart of Jefferson Park for craft beer and their delicious selection of cocktails and wine. Mere steps from the transit station, this comfortable, easily accessible bar opens daily at 4 p.m. and offers flat-screen TVs, free wi-fi, and happy hour group rates. Open for Bears games. & Barley 773.286.7415 Galvin’s Public House 5901 W. Lawrence Ave. 773-205-0570 Huffington Post didn’t rate Galvin’s as the “2nd Most Authentic Irish Pub in the Country” for nothing. Stroll inside the Jefferson Park drinkery to cozy up beside their stone hearth with a pint. Enjoy classic Irish fare such as their delectable shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, or bangers and mash. Open daily 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. McNamara’s 4328 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-725-1800 Serving Old Irving Park for over 17 years, McNamara’s provides delicious Irish/American food cooked on their wood burning grill in a family-friendly environment. Enjoy live music every Saturday night, catch your favorite sports team on one of their nine flat-screen TVs, or grab a bite on their sidewalk cafe. Visit www.mcnamaras.com for daily specials. Fifth Providence Three Counties Pub Vaughan’s Pub & Grill If a tour of Ireland is one of your dreams get a preview by touring some of the Northwest Side’s best Irish pubs. Kenji Kerins Photography© 4359 N. Milwaukee Ave. Galvin’s Public House Rex Tavern McNamara’s Replica Chicago The Bungalow Cafe Smakosz Restaurant 6247 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-774-4700 5619 W. Lawrence Ave. 773-205-1771 Are you looking for rosemary chicken skewers or a portobello mushroom and jack cheese sandwich on the Northwest Side? Check out The Bungalow Cafe’s extensive menu of favorites with a local touch of excellence. Step inside and enjoy the homey, cozy ambiance while you indulge in generous portions of goulash, pierogis, potato pancakes and other traditional fare. There haven’t been too many menu changes at this place since it opened in 1999, and most find that’s a good thing. Amitabul Hidden Replica Chicago 4425 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-696-1992 An eco-friendly mom and pop shop meets artisan paradise! Lyn and Jeremy Hooley’s screen printing store features one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone from your boss to your kid to your favorite roller derby skater. They also offer full-range printing services and an extensive selection of handmade local art that you’d only expect to find at Chicago’s hippest street festivals. Superdawg 6363 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-763-0660 If you live in Chicago, you know about Superdawg. The iconic Mr. and Mrs. Superdawg hot dog figures on the roof signal to everyone, “You’ve found the right place.” Its drive-up carhop service take you back to the simple times when a hot dog and fries in your car with your favorite song on the radio was all it took to be happy. gems Lake Effect Brewing Co. Known for their full-favored dishes, Korean cuisine, and joyful atmosphere, Amitabul’s meat-free menu is sure to satisfy any herbivore’s hunger. Warm your hands and ward off illness with their infamous Dr. K’s Cure All Noodle Soup, and don’t forget to try their Jade Maki or the spicy Yin and Yan. Amitabul makes eating vegan simple...and delicious. 4727 W. Montrose Ave. 312-919-4473 Specializing in high-quality crafted ales in small batches, Lake Effect opened in 2012. Their unique beers can now be found in restaurants, bars, and packaged stores on the Northwest Side and around the Chicagoland area. Tours are offered every Saturday at 2:30 p.m. To reserve space, visit lakeeffectbrewing.com/tours. Fantasy Costume 4065 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-777-0222 City Newsstand & Cafe The #1 costume store in Chicago — one city block long and over one millionitems in stock! Halloween is just the beginning, with historic, classic, Mardi Gras and fantasy costumes leading our collection. Theatrical makeup and a room full of wigs will finish the look you desire. Rentals are available for parties or productions. 4018 N. Cicero Ave. 773-545 7377 Six Corners boasts the largest newsstand in the Midwest, offering more than 50 newspapers and 5,000 magazines. Opened in 1988, City Newsstand recently added a full espresso bar serving Uncommon Grounds coffee, as well as homemade cookies and truffles. Lake Effect Brewing Co. Local Goods Chicago 5354 W. Devon Ave. 708-669-7520 Hats Plus You won’t want to miss Local Goods Chicago, Edgebrook’s destination gift shop for locally made gifts and food. The shop pulls in talent from over 100 artisans across Chicago, including art from Pilsen, coffee from Bridgeport, ceramics from Ravenswood, jewelry from Lincoln Square, chocolates from Logan Square, and so much more. 4706 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-286-5577 If you want a hat for your grandpa like he’s always worn, or a beret for your daughter who is becoming an artist, you’ll find it here. Every size, every style. Bowlers, stingy brims, and fedoras are only the beginning. Central Kitchen & Tap 4800 N. Central Ave. 773-853-0150 Delightful Pastries A counter-service, family tavern offering gourmet sandwiches, high-quality entrées, and fresh appetizers. There are video games for the kids and a full bar with pool tables and a big screen TV in their 8 Ball Lounge. Serving food until 2 a.m. on Thursday and Friday and 3 a.m. on Saturday, it’s the perfect neighborhood eatery. 5927 W. Lawrence Ave. 773-545-7215 Kenji Kerins Photography© Central Kitchen & Tap 6207 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-774-0276 This bakery has been prepping sweet treats made with local, all-natural ingredients since 1998. European pastries are the focus, including tortes, paczki (Polish doughnuts), marzipan beignets, Viennese almond crescents and Linzer cookies. Savory options include lamb pie and the ever-popular pierogi. Hats Plus O’Hare Foster Ave. The CTA Blue Line train will get you to the heart of the Northwest Corridor in 18 minutes from O’Hare or downtown, with stops at Jefferson Park, Mayfair (Montrose) and Irving Park. CTA buses run on every major East/West street. Jefferson Park Transit Station Bicycles are welcome on the buses, trains and on our streets. We have a growing network of bike lanes and bike paths. Soon we will partner with the city’s bike share program. Lawrence Ave. Metra trains provide another easy way to visit from Rockford or Wisconsin, with stops at Jefferson Park and Mayfair (Montrose), so you won’t miss a thing that the Northwest Corridor has to offer. Montrose Ave. . Irving Park Rd. Explore the corridor Chicago Our community is located just 18 minutes from O’Hare and downtown Chicago! Summer Fests Jeff Park Arts & Music Fest End of July www.jefffest.org This festival occupies one of the city’s premier regional parks. The historic Jefferson Memorial Park rocks with a wide range of food trucks, a farmers’ market, and local artisans. Families and fest-goers can push their strollers on wide sidewalks or spread a blanket on the lawn to listen to live music on two stages. Kids’ area games, a juried art show, a drum circle, and pop-up performances of all kinds conjure the magic of summertime. 6 Corners BBQ Fest Father’s Day weekend www.6cornersbbqfest.com This saucy fest returns for a fourth year with a mix of everything that’s great about the neighborhood. When you walk through this street fest on Milwaukee Avenue, you’re as likely to come across impromptu theatrics from the local theater troupe as you are to see professional wrestlers battling it out in the ring. The fest celebrates Father’s Day with family-friendly activities, a range of BBQ styles, an amateur BBQ cook-off, and local chefs showing off their recipes. Irish American Heritage Festival Irish American Heritage Center 4626 N. Knox Ave. 773-282-7035 www.irish-american.org Honoring Irish culture with three days of music, dance and family fun, spread across five stages at the Irish American Heritage Center. Enjoy authentic Irish and Irish-American food, handmade wares from local artists, engaging activities and entertainment for the whole family. Chicago’s Fringe Fest August 28 - September 7, 2014 www.chicagofringe.org Chicago Fringe presents “theatre in the raw,” now with 100% more Jefferson Park! This annual festival gathers performing artists of all stripes from around the world to challenge the common theatre-goer. Nearly 200 unjuried, boundary-pushing performances will entertain you over two weekends in five venues, right in the heart of Jeff Park. Come Fringe with us! Taste of Polonia www.TopChicago.org Celebrating a rich history of Polish culture in Chicago, Taste of Polonia is the largest Polish festival in the country. Thousands gather in and around the Copernicus Center every Labor Day weekend for live entertainment, non-stop music across five stages, cold imports, and authentic Polish food. Children enjoy the annual carnival and their very own game area. Na zdrowie! Fringe Fest Jeff Fest BBQ Fest Irish Fest Taste of Polonia National Veterans Art Museum 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. 312-326-0270 NVAM is dedicated to inspiring greater understanding of the war’s real impact through the collection, preservation and exhibition of art inspired by combat and created by veterans. Current exhibits include “The Things They Carried”, “Tenacity and Truth: People, Places and Memories”, and “Esprit de Corps”, an exhibition highlighting the spirit of creative resilience. Artorium 5719 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-286-8684 The Gift Theatre Company 4802 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-283 7071 Led by Jeff Park native Michael Patrick Thornton (ABC’s Private Practice), The Gift has pioneered theatre on the Northwest Side for nearly a decade. Known for daringly emotional performances, they are one of Chicago’s most respected ensembles. And at just 40 seats, they promise great stories onstage with honesty and simplicity — an experience you can only get at The Gift. Filament Theatre 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.270.1660 Six Corner’s newest creative force leads audiences through lovingly crafted performances on the streets, in the parks, and in their artistic home. No space is big enough to contain all the energy and joy of this juggling, singing, dancing, stilt-walking troupe whose soaring vision is sure to activate the imaginations of young and old alike! If you are looking for art lessons for yourself or your children, this is the place to go! A family-run studio headed by Master Sculptor Stefan Niedorezo, one can study drawing, painting, sculpting, weaving and computer design, all in one beautiful, comfortable space. Open to ages 5 and up. SiLO Art Space 5110 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-710-9909 A center for raw, urban culture, SiLO Art Space mentors young and developing visual artists citywide. This family-run gallery and artisan gift shop features both seasoned and emerging artists through exhibitions, workshops, and educational events on Chicago’s Northwest Side, as well as custom art framing and wood crafting through UneeK DesiGN. Inside Out Art Studio 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. Suite 302 773-697-5012 Nationally known mask makers, Jeff and Donna Semmerling host an open studio and performance space with their retail showroom. Drop in to view or buy beautifully crafted leather masks, or learn how to make your own in art camps and classes. Urban Folk Circuit www.urbanfolkcircuit.com JEFFERSON PARK www.chicagofringe.org Chicago’s only year-round craft fair, the Urban Folk Circuit promotes local handmakers by transforming bars and music venues into a hip, modern arts and crafts market each month. Showcasing handmade goods from a selection of over 475 independent artisans, marketgoers can enjoy crafts, drafts, and live acoustic music. Markets are hosted by Fischman’s at 4776 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free admission. All ages. Public Art and Murals www.ward45.org The Northwest Corridor leads the way in public murals, boasting local artists who showcase their talents on the streets. Nearly 20 murals by local and national artists dot our landscape, with more in the making. Bicycle tours during the summer highlight the growth and diversity of this spectacular art form, supported entirely by local businesses and private donations. Six Corners’ newest sculpture, “Portage”, marks the beginning of a new age of commitment to the arts on the Northwest Side. Visionary Theatre Vibrant Neighborhood Verdant Earth 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. www.filamenttheatre.org “Intimate, Inventive and Inviting” - Chicago Tribune “It’s hard not to be charmed by the energy of Filament” - Time Out Chicago Eric Craig Photography© Culture The Portage restaurant and bar The Copernicus Center 5216 W. Lawrence Ave. 773-777-8898 This lavish 1,700-seat theater is built in the old tradition of golden porticoes and stars on the ceiling. The center serves the metropolitan Chicago area as a major civic, cultural, educational, recreational and entertainment resource. The Patio Theater 6008 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-685-4291 The Patio Theater is a movie palace of the bygone era, lovingly restored in the grand tradition, with one giant screen under a simulated blue sky, flickering stars and moving clouds. Come and see your favorite movies at popular prices! Portage Theater 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-736-4050 Named one of Chicago’s Best new restaurants by Chicago Magazine. 3 9 3 8 N . C e n t r a l Av e . 773-853-0779 www.theportagechicago.com This classic landmarked building, with its elaborate terra cotta arch, should be the star of the many movies it has shown through the years. The 1,200 seat auditorium was beautifully restored by a movie company that used it for a vintage location, and it is a well-loved anchor of the community. Irish American Heritage Center 4626 N. Knox Ave. 773-282-7035 Just off the Eden’s expressway, the IAHC celebrates Irish culture on the Northwest Side. The halls and stairwells are lovingly decorated with intricate Celtic and original designs connecting libraries, galleries, banquet rooms, a gift shop and the The Fifth Province Pub. The IAHC hosts nearly a dozen festivals and events throughout the year. Kurdish Cultural Center Islamic Cultural Center Hellenic American Cultural Center Jefferson Masonic Lodge Free Wifi Coffee & Pastries oon S g n i m Co 4 0 3 2 N . M i l w au k e e Kidz Corner LIKE US 773.510.4072 ww w .josisfrozeny ogur t.com Pink: PMS 1777 Brown: PMS 476 Blue: PMS 325 Blue (cup) PMS 304 4212 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.545.7022 www.lapenachicago.com 4431 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.286.1900 www.ruksushi.com 5501 W. IRVING PARK Rd. 773.627.1549 www.portagegrounds.com Portage Grounds 5501 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-627-1549 Stroll into Portage Park’s newest coffee house for direct trade, locally roasted coffee, locally baked pastries, and Rishi teas. Portage Grounds is a family-owned community space where neighbors work, relax, and socialize. Gather ‘round their cozy fireplace or kick back on the spacious outdoor patio. The modern and welcoming space offers free wi-fi and a multipurpose conference room. Josi's Frozen Yogurt Cafe 4032 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-510-4072 Opening in Spring 2014! Indulge your sweet tooth at Six Corners’ newest treat shop. Josi’s Frozen Yogurt Cafe serves up the freshest, creamiest desserts boasting smooth flavors and irresistible toppings. Pop in for a piping hot cup of coffee or bring the kids by for an afternoon outing. Josi’s offers a decadence that will delight the whole family! 4018 N. Cicero Ave. 773-545 7377 Is there anything better than a hot cup o’ Joe and a good read? Come relax with the freshest Uncommon Grounds coffee or espresso from their full bar and delicious homemade cookies and truffles. Then choose from more than 50 newspapers and 5,000 magazines, or enjoy acoustic performances in the café. Open seven days a week 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. Kenji Kerins Photography© Cafes City Newsstand & Cafe Berrista Coffee 4219 W. Irving Park Rd. Opening in Spring 2014! Chef Homaro Cantu serves his healthimproving magic beans to cafe-goers in Old Irving Park where he lives. A renowned advocate of the "miracle berry," a rare West African fruit found to turn bitter foods sweet, Cantu offers treats with minimal sugars, hoping to transform his customers' taste buds. Enjoy delicious sandwiches, carbonated fruits and delectable desserts alongside your morning pickme-up. 4018 N. CICERO AVE. 773.545.7377 Leadbelly Leadbelly 5739 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-283-7880 Travel through rock ‘n’ roll history with Leadbelly, Portage Park’s most energetic eatery, boasting gourmet burgers named after the renowned singer’s greatest hits. House-ground chuck, smoked pork belly, homemade buns and daily hand-cut fries are perfectly paired with craft beer or hand-spun shakes, traditional or seasonally spiked. Their signature butter cookie drizzled with chocolate and pecans accompanies every burger! Hot Dog Central 3944 N. Central Ave. 773-647-1591 The way to a local’s heart is through his stomach: Chicago-style hot dogs, Polish, burgers, and beef. A new addition to Portage Park, this family favorite offers friendly service and Daily Meal Deals with prices that are a blast from the past. All sandwiches and hot dogs include fries. Ketchup is optional! local 4242 N. Central Ave. 773-736-5828 Chicago is known for doing things its own way, and pizza is no exception. Suparossa takes America’s favorite meal and serves it up Chicago-style: a tall, crispy, golden crust, fresh mozzarella, hearty sausage, spinach, and other favorite toppings overflowing with delicious tomato sauce. Offering a century of family tradition, Suparossa is the neighborhood’s “Italian kitchen for friends.” The Alps 3637 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-267-5112 favorites 3944 N. Central Ave. 773-647-1591 Suparossa Restaurant and Pizzeria N Look for a classic, affordable menu of breakfast and lunch favorites such as pancakes, waffles, crepes, blintzes, omelets, skillets, burgers, hot and cold sandwiches, and homemade soups. HOT DOG CENTRAL AVE 3944 North Central Avenue favorites LOCAL GOODS CHICAGO Handcrafted neighborhood art boutique Unique gifts from 100+ Chicago artisans Specialty coffee, tea, soups, and treats made locally 5354 W. Devon Ave. 708.669.7520 www.localgoodschicago.com