Take a Tour of Wicker Park & Bucktown
via Dove’s Luncheonette
Chicago has so many amazing neighborhoods and they all have their own special ambiance to offer to residents and visitors. We’re taking a tour around the city with experts in the area, and we’re kicking it off in Wicker Park and Bucktown! These two West side neighborhoods have exploded in the last few years and they’re now packed full with amazing restaurants, bars and cafes. But where should you visit first for an amazing meal or a delicious cocktail? We’re taking our picks from Nadiia Glavin, a realtor with Compass Real Estate! She’s worked throughout the area and is a regular at her favorite spots in both neighborhoods. Let’s take a tour…
Why do you love working and dining in Wicker Park?
It's the perfect neighborhood in terms of a hustling + fun atmosphere. The average price point in the neighborhood is very reasonable in comparison to most, especially given the fact that it has so much to offer. There’s no need to have a car here either! You can walk to most of the places and the Blue Line stop is so conveniently located by Milwaukee and Western. After all, it's a Chicago Landmark District with some of the most photographed Victorian homes and tree-lined streets! It’s such a pretty and easy place to live, work, eat, play 😊
What are your forever favorite spots in this neighborhood?
The Perch Kitchen + Tap {1932 West Division Street, Chicago}, Cafe Istanbul {2014 West Division Street, Chicago} and Paradise Park {1913 West North Avenue, Chicago} for dining in, but I also love to pick up to-go orders from Big Star {1531 North Damen Avenue, Chicago} and Foxtrot {multiple locations}. Plus Wicker Park has two of my favorite patisserie spots in Chicago: Lost Larson {2140 West Division Street, Chicago} and Alliance Bakery {1736 West Division Street, Chicago}.
How would you describe the neighborhood in five words?
Diverse, bustling, hipster-y, fun and appealing.
Where would you meet a new client to plan and get to know them better?
Dove's Luncheonette {1545 North Damen Avenue, Chicago} - It’s great every time!
Where would you plan the ultimate date night out?
I'd start the night with having dinner at Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink {1846 West Division Street, Chicago} with their super delicious food options (half chicken and short rib are my favs) and then have the best cocktails in the city at The Violet Hour {1520 North Damen Avenue, Chicago} speakeasy. Reservations are highly recommended for both, but they’re worth it!
Where would you go for the best view?
The Robey Hotel's {2018 West North Avenue, Chicago} rooftop bars - Cabana Club and The Up Room are both awesome. Of course!
via Lost Larson
What is your favorite place for a family meal?
I absolutely love The Perch Kitchen + Tap because they have their own brewery and the best rotisserie - It’s a perfect combo 😊 The ambience is cozy but still fun. I love the quality of food + their patio is dog friendly for my pup, Bruno!
Lastly, what’s one food you cannot live without?
Bacon wrapped dates haha!
Interview by Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor