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We've compiled the best of the best in Wicker Park - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
The mood is easy-breezy but the food and beverage offerings are seriously good at this snug Ukrainian Village all-day café/bottle shop/grocery. Nibble on artisan charcuterie, low-intervention wine at hand, or feast on seasonally changing mains. While you digest, browse the shelves for tinned conserves and natural wines from the Loire and Beaujolais.
Here to shatter the myth that Chicago is strictly a meat-and-potatoes kinda town is this greenery-filled, boho space from chef Rodolfo Cuadros, who classifies his global fare as plant-based rather than vegan to communicate that diners of all stripes will find something to love. For the record, the menu's gluten free too, but when you're digging into elegantly plated turnip causa and savory jackfruit short rib, it's likely the food's big flavor alone that will consume your attention.
The secret's way out on this creative Filipino spot from culinary power couple Genie Kwon and Timothy Flores ever since it won a 2022 Michelin star and cameoed on essential foodie binge-watch The Bear. Brave the long (like, down the block and around the corner long) daytime queue to the counter for homey brunch dishes like chicken adobo, not to mention ham and raclette danish, among Kwon's other fantastic pastry offerings; at night, there's a major tone shift to an elegant tasting menu with a $275 price tag.
Division Street has long been a prowl of night owls but with the growing number of spas and boutiques in the area, not to mention the many work-from-home locals, this neighborhood needed a good breakfast and lunch spot. Milk & Honey exceeds expectations with hearty, healthful breakfasts and creative sandwiches at lunch—grab a seat on the sidewalk café in warm weather or in near the fireplace in cooler temperatures.
Everything is big and bold at this perennial neighborhood favorite, from the Asian flavors that infuse chef Edward Kim’s dishes to the colorful graffiti-esque art that adorns the exterior to the high-energy tunes that bop all night. The legendary house burger is only served until 7 pm (but it's an open secret that it's available all night to diners sitting at the bar). The fun vibe extends to the weekend brunch here too.
The bitterest Chicago gale is no match for the varenyky and other rib-sticking Ukrainian fare at this Chicago Avenue spot, named for the trident that features on the Ukrainian coat of arms. National pride comes through loud and clear here, from the traditional costumes and instruments on display to the menu prices, which sync up to notable years in Ukrainian history. A house specialty is over two dozen vodkas infused with everything from sour cherry to horseradish.
