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Choose Chicago Neighborhood Shots2 Aug 2019
neighborhood

West Ridge


Why we love it

Our West Ridge neighborhood is a true urban melting pot. There you’ll find an array of global cuisine, a vibrant mix of nationalities, and a strong sense of community. 

This culturally rich enclave has been shaped by generations of immigrants who have brought customs and traditions from all over the world. Don’t miss Devon Avenue, the neighborhood’s welcoming international marketplace featuring restaurants and shops that represent Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

Explore like a local

  • Experience rich culinary traditions from around the world at international markets like Patel Brothers or Desi Mart, where you can stock up on specialty ingredients.
  • Stroll around the duck-filled lagoon, historic fieldhouse, and Nature Play Space at Indian Boundary Park
  • Visit the Talman West Ridge Bungalow Historic District, where local architects experimented with form and style to create the unique, and now quintessential, Chicago bungalow.

Insider tips

Stroll through a historic green space: West Ridge is also known for its ample green space. Indian Boundary Park, a local favorite place to soak in the great outdoors, got its name from its location along the boundary line established in 1816 to mark the land of the Potawatomi tribe. Or head to Warren Park, a green oasis featuring fun activities for every season — like batting cages, a nine-hole golf course, racquetball, basketball, tennis courts, and an ice-skating rink.

Take a tour around the globe: West Ridge is a thriving and diverse blend of cultures. Residents from Jewish, Middle Eastern, and South Asian populations all make their home here and freely showcase some of the most interesting pieces of their respective cultures. The most well-known area is Devon Avenue, the heart of Chicago’s Indian and Pakistani communities. People flock here to experience its many authentic restaurants, traditional bakeries, kosher eateries, clothing shops, and international grocers.

Take a stroll down Devon Avenue, and stop into one or more of the many local businesses as you go. Feast on vegan Indian fusion at Arya Bhavan, Pakistani-Indian cuisine at Usmania Fine Dining, and Japanese and Chinese dishes at Hamachi Sushi. Sample authentic desserts (like luscious halva and baklava) at Tahoora Sweets and Bakery.

Shop for keepsakes: Admire the rich fabrics and colorful silk garments at India Sari Palace or Taj Sari Palace. Browse gold, silver, diamonds, and more at NP Jewelers or Malabar Gold and Diamonds.

Chicago Greeter: free guided tours

Taste, shop and explore the neighborhoods with a friendly local as your guide. Explore rich histories, diverse cultural traditions and hidden treasures. See sides of the city you may not have adventured out to on your own, and take away a truly authentic Chicago experience. Greeter visits are customized based on your choice of neighborhoods, language and interests.

Request a tour with a Chicago Greeter

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Explore West Ridge

Talman West Ridge Bungalow Historic District
Indian Boundary Park
Saint Henry’s Church
Warren Park

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