In the diverse landscape of Chicago’s neighborhoods, West Ridge stands out as a food haven that offers a rich blend of flavors from across the globe. Nestled on the city’s far north side, this area often known as Chicago’s “Little India” is a melting pot where South Asian and Middle Eastern influences, among others, come together.
At the heart of West Ridge lies Devon Avenue, a culinary corridor that invites food enthusiasts to explore its delicious and diverse offerings. Here’s a local guide to where to eat on and near Devon Avenue in Chicago’s West Ridge neighborhood.
Where to eat in West Ridge
Breakfast
Start your day at Pak Sweets for a quick and tasty breakfast filled with traditional South Asian flavors. Freshly made parathas, flaky and warm, are paired perfectly with a side of spicy chole (chickpea curry).
Ghareeb Nawaz is another great option, famous for their rich Indian and Pakistani dishes. For breakfast, try their aloo samosa (potato-stuffed pastry) or keema samosa (minced meat-stuffed pastry), accompanied by a mango lassi. If you’re hungry for more, the biryanis and kebabs are also popular.
Lunch spots
For lunch, head to Sabri Nihari, a celebrated restaurant that has been serving the community for decades. The wide-ranging menu provides an authentic taste of Pakistani cuisine, from charcoal-grilled meats to simmering curries. Don’t miss out on their signature dish, a rich and flavorful slow-cooked beef stew.
For those who prefer vegetarian cuisine, Udupi Palace offers a wide range of South Indian dishes and an entirely plant-based menu. Their dosas (rice and lentil crepes), idlis (steamed rice and lentil patties), and thalis (platter samples) are all great choices for a hearty and flavorful meat-free lunch.
Afternoon treats
Tahoora Sweets & Bakery is an iconic West Ridge spot known for traditional South Asian sweets and freshly baked goods. Whether you crave something sugary or savory, this bakery offers a vast selection of treats like baklava and halwa that are perfect for a mid-afternoon snack.
Another excellent choice for a sweet treat is Sukhadia’s Sweets and Snacks, offering a wide variety of Indian delights. Assorted sweets boxes offer classic favorites like kaju katli, a smooth, thin fudge made with cashews and sugar, and motichoor ladoo, which is made from tiny fried chickpea flour droplets soaked in sugar syrup, flavored with cardamom, and often garnished with nuts.
Further down Devon Avenue is TBaar, a delightful spot for bubble tea enthusiasts. Specializing in a variety of bubble teas, smoothies, and fruit teas, TBaar’s drinks are made with fresh ingredients and come in an array of flavors, from classic milk teas to exotic fruit blends.
Dinner destinations
For dinner, Uru-Swati has everything from dosas and samosas to rich curries and thalis. The menu, which features dishes from North and South India, is entirely vegetarian, making it a popular spot for those seeking delicious and wholesome plant-based meals.
Another excellent dinner spot is Hema’s Kitchen, known for homestyle Indian cooking. The chicken korma is a best-selling dish that features tender pieces of chicken cooked in curry cashew sauce and served with saffron basmati rice.
For a taste of authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, Hyderabad House offers a variety of biryanis, kebabs, and curries. The rich, aromatic flavors make it a must-visit for dinner on Devon Avenue.
More things to do in West Ridge
West Ridge is not just about food; it’s also home to beautiful parks such as Warren Park, which offers ample green space for picnics, sports, and leisurely strolls. It’s a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring Devon Avenue.
West Ridge also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the annual India Independence Day Parade. This year’s parade will take place on August 10. The parade route runs on Devon Avenue from Western to California Avenues.
How to get to West Ridge
Devon Avenue in West Ridge is easily accessible by Chicago public transportation. From downtown, visitors can take the CTA Red Line to the Loyola stop and then transfer to the 155 Devon bus, which travels directly along Devon Avenue. Several CTA bus routes, including the 36 Broadway and the 151 Sheridan, also service the area.
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