Your Guide to Chicago's Northcenter, Lincoln Square and Ravenswood Manor.
Author Archive
Glenn’s Diner Serves Up Fresh Fish and Cold Cereal
Visit Glenn’s Diner for some of the freshest seafood in town, but call ahead for a reservation on the weekends.
Delicias Brianna Restaurant: Guatemalan and Salvadoran Treats in a Cozy Spot
If this restaurant had cheeks I would pinch them and squeal, “You’re so adorable!” That was my first thought when I walked into the newly redecorated space that until recently was inhabited by Buen Sabor. But a restaurant can’t survive on good looks alone, especially considering this off-the-beaten-path location. I’m happy to report that Delicias [...]
El Típico Mexican Restaurant
The word “típico” is defined two ways in Spanish: (1) typical, as in characteristic and (2) quaint; picturesque and full of local color. The recently re-opened El Típico Mexican restaurant at 1905 W. Foster Ave. meets both definitions. The menu is typical of other Mexican-American restaurants with an emphasis on enchiladas, fajitas, and combination platters [...]
Chalkboard Restaurant
As Chalkboard restaurant, 4343 N. Lincoln Ave., approaches its fifth anniversary, I would like to thank Chef Gil Langlois for staying the course and continuing to offer refined comfort food that allows the flavors of high-quality meat, seafood and vegetables to shine French preparations with a Southern comfort twist I’m not a fan of the [...]
Rockwell’s Neighborhood Grill
Rockwell’s Neighborhood Grill (4632 N. Rockwell Ave.) manages to meet a variety of dining needs while quietly humming along as a neighborhood watering hole. Need a place you can take your parents that has flavorful food, but not too spicy? Tired of trying in vain to find vegetarian options at a burger bar? Want to [...]
Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe
Everyone has an opinion about pizza. I’m from Wisconsin, so my opinion about pizza is that it is a good thing no matter what form it takes. Most other people have stronger opinions about the shape of the pieces, what’s on top, how the dough is made, and how it’s baked. Those of you searching [...]
Aroy Thai
I used to be that person who always orders the same thing because I like a safe bet. But now that I live in the 60625 zip code, I decided I needed to take more culinary risks. My mid-year resolution was rewarded at Aroy Thai restaurant, 4654 N. Damen Ave., where they serve up typical-but-tasty [...]
Eat n Drink Asian Cuisine
Pan-Asian cuisine focused on Chinese and Korean food. Where else can you get hot dog stir fry?
Bagel on Damen
So many bagel options, so little time. Take a break under the El tracks and contemplate all the combinations.
Taqueria Santa Rita
Santa Rita, 2752 W. Lawrence Ave., scores highly on each category of the Taqueria Rating System. Food is tasty and served quickly by friendly waitstaff. The place is clean and obvious care was taken with the decor. The menu includes a range of fillings and potential vessels for said fillings. It is BYOB and there [...]
Tank Sushi
Tank, 4514 N. Lincoln Ave., the self-proclaimed “neighborhood sushi” spot of Lincoln Square has a lot to offer, which becomes a drawback if you fill up on their signature dish first. By focusing on the sushi you run the risk of missing out on an endangered cuisine here: the rest of the Japanese food spectrum. [...]
The Vegetarian Guide to Ribfest
There are some people in this world who do not relish the thought of gnawing on land animals dripping with sauce. We are drawn to Ribfest to listen to the bands, check out the vendors, and meet up with friends. But we don’t have to go hungry. Here is a quick overview of some of [...]
Seen at the Fest: Katz Family Outing
Northcenter residents Steve and Pam Katz look forward to Ribfest every year. “We come here for the food and because we know we will see our neighbors and friends here,” said Pam. Their two-year old twins, Gillian and Hudson, have attended three years in a row (when you count being babies on-the-way). Despite the cool, misty [...]
Dorado Restaurant
Dorado Restaurant (tucked away at 2301 W. Foster Ave.) is often referred to as a “hidden gem” by its fans who appreciate Chef Luis Perez’s unique take on fusion cuisine. The chef claims the cuisine is a blend of Mexican and French influences, but I found that Mediterranean flavors stood out during a recent visit [...]
