Chicago’s Wicker Park/Bucktown Restaurant Guide
Locals flock to the Wicker Park/Bucktown neighbourhood because of its art, music and, most importantly, its food scene. Up and coming for a while, this neighbourhood is now bustling and thriving with shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars.
This constant sense of activity about 20 minutes outside of the city centre makes it a worthwhile destination for visitors to explore outside of the typical downtown tourist attractions.
We’ve rounded up some of the tastiest places to explore while you’re wandering in this Chicago neighbourhood.
Presidio
1749 N. Damen Ave., presidiochicago.com
Inspired by culinary philosophies and traditions of the San Francisco Bay Area, Presidio is the kind of restaurant you’ll want to come back to every time you visit Chicago. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner, brunch, craft cocktails, or just for the atmosphere — Presidio has an overall welcoming vibe that even has the locals coming back on the regular.
Juice Rx
1414 N. Wells St., drinkjuicerx.com
It’s all about balance, so swapping burgers for smoothie bowls can do the body good. But when you’re presented with a beautifully-decorated acai bowl from Juice RX, it doesn’t feel like a compromise. With a wide selection of cold-pressed juices, freshly cracked coconut, smoothies, and other healthy snacks, Juice RX is the perfect healthy alternative, especially after a run along the 606 Bloomingdale Trail, a former abandoned railway converted into a pathway for bikers and runners alike.
Oak Mill Bakery
5747 Harlem Ave., oakmillbakery.com
When you’re in the mood to indulge, pop into the classic Polish Oak Mill Bakery for fresh European-style baked goods. Be sure to order some paczki, a delightful Polish filled doughnut that has its own holiday in Chicago, Paczki Day – the Thursday before Fat Tuesday.
Big Star
1531 N. Damen Ave., bigstarchicago.com
Come for the tacos, stay for the best margaritas in the neighbourhood. Big Star is where you should start the night. Whether it’s for dinner or drinks, this funky hangout is known for its tasty tacos and lively music. Not to mention, it’s the patio to be at during the summer.
Café Robey
2018 W. North Ave., therobey.com/#robey
A newcomer to the neighborhood, this café is located right off the intersection that divides Wicker Park and Bucktown and is attached to the chic hotel, The Robey Chicago. During the day, pop into Café Robey to enjoy a sip and a quick bite. This naturally-lit café has the right atmosphere for relaxing with a latte in hand, while soaking in its stellar decor. During the evening, head up to the second-floor cocktail lounge for a perfect list of well-dressed cocktails and bourbons.
Le Bouchon
1958 N. Damen Ave., lebouchonofchicago.com
This quaint, bustling French bistro is a favourite among many in the neighbourhood. Loved by all, and dearly missed, the late restaurant owner, Chef Jean-Claude Polievey’s passion for French cuisine lives on with its classic dishes like the Foie Gras, Escargots and Steak Frites. Stop in for a little slice of Paris in Wicker Park.
