Chicago's Devon Avenue

Chicago Off the Beaten Path

Walk down Chicago's Devon Avenue for the most ethnically diverse shopping tour in the city and possibly the country. Devon Avenue runs east to west through Roger's Park, a northern neighborhood of Chicago.

Devon Avenue was once a well established Jewish shopping district but has since grown and changed into a haven for several of the city's diverse populations. In the stretch of a few blocks you have the choice of some of the best Indian, Pakistani, kosher, Ethiopian, Middle Eastern, Mexican and Russian restaurants and shops.

The most rewarding way to enjoy a shopping trip down Devon Avenue is to stop and talk to the people you pass and interact with. Ask a small shopkeeper how long they have had their place and I guarantee you will get the answer. Be prepared to listen to a personal story of immigration to Chicago and all the struggles and blessings that came along with it.

To get to Devon Avenue using the CTA take the red line from downtown and exit at the Loyola Station. Head south (turn right) on Sheridan from the station and walk two blocks to Devon. Where the Loyola University Campus begins on Devon and Sheridan is where Devon Avenue begins on the eastern end. You will need to walk west or catch the #155 bus the few blocks down Devon to the heart of the shopping district.

Where To Go

Popular with the local college population Blue Elephant,1235 W. Devon Avenue, serves traditionally Thai dishes with a twist. The selection of noodle dishes accommodates meat lovers and vegetarians. My favorite parts of the menu though are the seafood dishes which are always great and have just the right amount of spice. The restaurant is BYOB, like so many other restaurants in Chicago and they have a $6 lunch special that is always worth it.

For vegetarian Indian Cuisine try Udupi Palace, 2543 W. Devon, here the food is fresh and the service is excellent. If you are not very familiar with Indain cuisine I recommend beginning here as the servers are always helpful and good at making recommendations to first time diners. During the busiest times, weekends and evenings, you will probably have to wait for a table.