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There are few things I enjoy more than a good tune... unless we’re talking about a good special treat.
I’ve compiled a small showcase of some of my low-key favorite spots—places I almost want to keep to myself but want to get more business. These gems are where I go when I want to indulge, and each has a vibe worth experiencing. Included is a song I would listen to on the way to help create the vibe.
Ragadan (4409 N Broadway, Uptown)
I almost want to gatekeep this one, but a personal favorite of mine is Ragadan, a Jordanian-American restaurant in Uptown. This tiny spot is flipping up some of the best burgers in the city, with a Jordanian twist that makes them like no other. There’s not a single bad item on the menu, but if you’re heading there, don’t miss the Double Dan Burger, the Falafel Ka’ak, the Blueberry Halwa Milkshake, and, seriously, some of the crispiest fries I’ve ever had.
This place is cozy and casual, but the food is seriously next-level with tons of local art. I highly recommend grabbing some to go and heading towards Montrose Beach for a nice little picnic.
Tunes for the ride: "Jump The Turnstile" by Jordana, TV Girl.
Taqueria y Carnitas Don Valdez (3119 W Lawrence Ave, Albany Park)
For one of the best deals on Mexican food in the city, look no further than Taqueria y Carnitas Don Valdez. Tucked away in Albany Park, this humble taqueria specializes in carnitas, but everything on the menu is a hit. I don’t eat pork, but my friends love the carnitas. For me, it’s all about the carne asada and cecina tacos. The real kicker? On Tuesdays, they offer most tacos for $1. And if you’re into carnitas, Thursdays are $1 carnitas!
The family who runs this spot is the sweetest, and they work incredibly hard to serve up some of the best food in the neighborhood. I highly recommend grabbing some friends and seeing how many tacos is your limit. Make sure to try a horchata as well!
Tunes for the ride: "Belleza de Cantina" by Cardenales de Nuevo León.
Slyce of NY (4849 Oakton St, Skokie)
My favorite food city in the world in New York. Living in Chicago makes it hard to have those NY classics like pizzas and halal carts, but there is luckily one place doing it right. Located a bit up in the suburbs, Slyce of NY, is bringing New York to Chicagoland.
Slyce of NY, a bit up in Skokie, brings New York right to Chicagoland with perfect NY-style pizza and creative twists that keep things interesting. My go-to slice is the 53rd, which comes with halal-cart lamb, and the buffalo chicken slice with ranch drizzle
Halal cart combo over rice is one of my favorite foods, and no one has really done it right for me in Chicago until I tried Slyce.
Tunes for the ride: "Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys. Because it’s only right to channel that NYC energy while you’re having some halal cart.
I hope these spots fill all your cravings. Be sure to support these local businesses, tip generously, and enjoy your newly found special little treats!
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