Just southwest of the Loop, the Near West Side packs in more Chicago food history per block than anywhere else in the city. Taylor Street's Italian beef, the Maxwell Street Polish and Pilsen's carnitas all started here or made their name here.
Little Italy (Taylor Street)
- Al's #1 Italian Beef: the original location, still roasting beef on site. Order it hot and dipped. How to order →
- Carm's Beef and Italian Ice: a short walk from Al's, and a great place for an Italian ice even if you skip the beef.
- Conte di Savoia: Taylor Street's last old-guard Italian grocery. Get the sub special.
- Fontano's Subs: a no-frills counter serving a big Italian sub at UIC-area prices.
The Maxwell Street stands
- Jim's Original and Express Grill: side-by-side rivals, and both claim to be the original. Get a Polish with grilled onions and mustard at each, then pick a side.
Pilsen
- Carnitas Uruapan: Michoacán-style carnitas since 1975. Order by the pound with chicharrón.
- Carnitas Don Pedro: pork fried in huge vats right in front of you.
- Rosca: sourdough bagels with Mexican flavors.
- Ca Phe Da: bright, sunny daytime pho and Vietnamese egg coffee.
A little further west
In Little Village, La Chaparrita is a corner grocery with a legendary taco griddle in back. More tacos →
Thinking about living close to downtown on the West Side? Browse apartment buildings on the Near West Side →